Kadaga calls for protection of Ugandan businesses in South Sudan

8 October 2026, 2:48 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of East African Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, has reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional integration while calling for the protection of the safety, dignity and economic interests of Ugandans living and doing business in neighbouring countries.

Kadaga was addressing the media in Kampala yesterday over concerns about allegations involving Ugandans along the Uganda-Kenya border and reports of challenges facing Ugandan businesses in South Sudan.

She said Uganda respects the sovereignty of its neighbouring countries but will not remain silent when its citizens face threats, intimidation or unfair treatment.

“Good neighbourliness must never mean silence where the safety, dignity and lawful economic interests of Ugandan citizens are threatened,” Kadaga said.

She called for dialogue, respect for the rule of law, protection of legitimate businesses and stronger cooperation among East African Community member states to promote peace, trade and regional prosperity.

Kadaga also cautioned Ugandans living along the Uganda-Kenya border against travelling to Kenya to participate in the country’s 2027 general elections, saying they should not risk taking part in the electoral process of another country.

Meanwhile, the leadership of Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA) has urged the government to intervene in the challenges facing Ugandan businessmen in South Sudan.

The traders say Ugandans are being treated unfairly despite South Sudan and Kenya being members of the East African Community, which promotes regional trade and the free movement of people and goods.

KACITA also noted that Ugandan businesses have contributed to the development of South Sudan through trade and investment.

The concerns come amid recent remarks by Kenyan President William Ruto on foreign nationals engaging in small-scale businesses in Kenya.