Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, Uganda’s Minister of ICT and National Guidance, has urged the public to avoid speculation regarding the recent attack on Uganda House, a property owned and used by the Uganda High Commission in Nairobi.
The incident occurred on Tuesday when sections of Uganda House on Kenyatta Avenue were vandalized and set ablaze by a group of rioters. The commercial building, spanning six levels, accommodates several tenants, with the embassy occupying one floor.
Located on Riverside Drive, a prestigious area in Nairobi’s city center, Uganda’s chancery is part of the larger complex affected by the vandalism.
Minister Baryomunsi emphasized that Kampala authorities have formally communicated with the Kenyan government to ascertain the reasons behind the attack.
“We expect the Kenyan government to conduct a thorough investigation and provide us with detailed information,” stated Minister Baryomunsi during an appearance on a local television station on Thursday.
He alluded to the historical ties between Uganda and Kenya, suggesting that perceptions of close relations between President Yoweri Museveni and Kenyan leaders, including President Ruto, might have influenced the attack on Uganda House.
“The forthcoming report from Kenya will clarify the motive behind the attack and guide Uganda’s response to prevent future incidents,” added Minister Baryomunsi.
In a statement issued on June 26, Vincent Waiswa, Principal Secretary of Ugandan Foreign Affairs, clarified that at the time of the incident, Uganda House was undergoing renovations and was primarily occupied by commercial tenants on the ground floor.
The statement further explained that the six-floor building had recently undergone refurbishment and was scheduled to reopen on June 28, 2024.
“In the midst of protests in Kenya on June 25, 2024, demonstrators abandoned peaceful means and resorted to property destruction, targeting the newly renovated Uganda House on Kenyatta Avenue in Nairobi’s Central Business District,” the statement read.
According to the Principal Secretary, only the ground floor was in use by commercial tenants, while upper floors, including the third floor previously housing the Consular Office, had been vacated for renovation purposes.
The statement also confirmed that there were no serious injuries reported, and none of the Diplomatic or Consular staff were present in the building when the fire broke out.
“While we regret the damage caused to the property, we commend the swift response of the Nairobi Fire Department in extinguishing the fire,” expressed the Principal Secretary.
He reassured that despite the unfortunate incident, Uganda’s diplomatic relations with Kenya remain strong and unaffected.
