Uganda to begin importing petroleum via Mombasa

Summary:

• Kenya and Uganda have agreed to facilitate Uganda’s import of petroleum through the Mombasa port and extend the crude oil pipeline to Kampala. They also aim to boost trade ties by eliminating barriers and extending railway infrastructure. Uganda’s support for Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission Chair was also appreciated by Kenya.

NAIROBI, KENYA (Examiner) – Kenya and Uganda have reached a significant agreement, opening the door for the landlocked Uganda to import petroleum products via the Mombasa port.

Following bilateral discussions at the Nairobi State House on Thursday, President William Ruto and his Ugandan counterpart confirmed the accord. They announced plans to jointly extend the crude oil pipeline from Eldoret to Kampala, aiming to enhance trade relations between the two countries.

During the joint press briefing, President Ruto disclosed the mutual initiative to extend the crude oil pipeline, emphasizing its potential benefits for both nations. Additionally, the leaders witnessed the signing of various bilateral agreements aimed at bolstering relations.

They also highlighted plans to extend the Standard Gauge Railway from Naivasha to Malaba, Kampala, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Furthermore, both nations committed to removing trade barriers at border points to facilitate smoother flow of goods.

Kenya also expressed appreciation for Uganda’s support of Raila Odinga’s candidacy for the African Union Commission Chair.