KAMPALA – Buyanja East County Member of Parliament Dr. Emely Kugonza has called for stronger trade partnerships, improved capacity building and deeper international cooperation to accelerate Uganda’s development.
Kugonza made the remarks during a meeting at Parliament in Kampala attended by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey and her delegation. Botchwey visited Parliament for a courtesy meeting accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Abubakhar Jeje Odongo.
During the meeting, Kugonza highlighted the importance of capacity building and parliamentary democracy, noting that stronger institutions and cooperation among countries could contribute to Uganda’s development.
He also emphasised the need for Uganda to expand trade with other countries, saying the country has a lot to offer and should take advantage of opportunities to trade freely with international partners.
Kugonza further pointed to the Green Parliament as an emerging area of interest, highlighting the importance of exploring new approaches to parliamentary engagement and development.
The discussions also focused on strengthening cooperation between Uganda and the Commonwealth, including building a more open and accountable Parliament and improving the capacity of legislators to address issues affecting their countries.
Opportunities for Ugandan MPs to learn from other Commonwealth legislatures, adopt digital systems and improve parliamentary processes were also highlighted as ways of strengthening institutional performance.
Other issues discussed included promoting trade among Commonwealth member states, supporting refugee-hosting countries such as Uganda, contributing to regional peace and conflict resolution, and expanding scholarship opportunities for Ugandan students.
The meeting highlighted opportunities for Uganda and the Commonwealth to deepen cooperation in trade, education, parliamentary development and regional affairs, with stronger partnerships expected to support economic growth and institutional development.
