Government officials from Rwanda and Uganda have convened in Kampala for the 12th session of the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC), a key bilateral platform aimed at strengthening cooperation across strategic sectors. The meeting, which opened on Monday, April 20, began with a Senior Officials’ session bringing together delegations from both countries. The Rwanda’s delegation is headed by Teta Gisa, Director General for Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs while the Ugandan side was led by Ambassador Richard Kabonero, Head of Regional Economic Cooperation in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. ALSO READ: Train network vital to Rwanda-Uganda trade – official The session sets the stage for a series of engagements expected to review progress made since the 11th JPC held in Kigali in 2023, and to outline new areas of collaboration. Officials from the two countries reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation in key sectors including defense and security, trade, infrastructure development, migration, education, and human capital development. According to the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions are also focusing on enhancing trade and investment under the East African Community framework. Both sides agreed on the need to address persistent trade facilitation challenges, while promoting exchanges in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, construction, and tourism. ALSO READ: Rwandans, Ugandans eagerly wait for outcomes of joint meeting The meeting will further explore new joint development projects and assess implementation of previous commitments, signaling continued efforts to translate diplomatic engagements into tangible economic outcomes. The latest session builds on momentum from recent years. Previous meetings, including the 11th session held in Kigali, emphasized removing non-tariff barriers, facilitating cross-border movement, and restoring business confidence between the two countries. The JPC serves as a structured platform for resolving bilateral issues and promoting cooperation.
