President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni today welcomed former Tanzanian First Lady Anna Mkapa at State House, Entebbe, in a meeting that underscored the long-standing friendship between Uganda and Tanzania.
The courtesy call, held at State House Entebbe, brought together leaders who have each played significant roles in shaping the political and social trajectory of the East African region.
The meeting was also attended by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Museveni, adding further significance to the engagement, particularly in light of ongoing regional cooperation in education and social development.
President Museveni warmly welcomed Mrs. Mkapa and commended the enduring friendship between the two countries.
He noted that Uganda and Tanzania continue to enjoy strong bilateral relations built on mutual respect and collaboration in key sectors including education, trade, regional security, and development.
The discussions reflected the deep and cordial relations between the leadership and people of Uganda and Tanzania, rooted in a shared history that dates back decades.
Uganda and Tanzania’s ties were notably strengthened during the late 1970s when Tanzanian forces, under the leadership of former President Benjamin Mkapa’s predecessor, supported Uganda’s liberation struggle, forging bonds that have continued through successive administrations.
Over the years, the two nations have collaborated closely within the framework of the East African Community, working together to promote regional integration, cross-border trade, infrastructure development, and peace-building initiatives.
President Museveni has consistently emphasized regional unity as a pillar for economic transformation, and Uganda’s partnership with Tanzania remains central to that vision.
Mrs. Mkapa expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation between the two nations.
She acknowledged the strong historical bond between Uganda and Tanzania and emphasised the need to sustain partnerships that promote regional integration and social development.
Her visit comes at a time when East African states are deepening cooperation in areas such as education reform, youth empowerment, and women’s leadership, sectors in which both Uganda and Tanzania have made notable strides.
Observers note that engagements of this nature not only reinforce diplomatic ties but also strengthen people-to-people connections that underpin regional stability.
The Entebbe meeting ultimately served as a reaffirmation of the shared commitment by Uganda and Tanzania to maintain strong bilateral relations and to continue working together for the prosperity and unity of the East African region.
