Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni sought to reassure Ugandans after the termination of the country from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) by the US President, Joe Biden. Alongside Central African Republic, Gabon, and Niger, Uganda was removed from the Agoa trade deal on grounds of not meeting the specified requirements.
In a televised address from his home, President Museveni emphasized that such trade restrictions and pressures have “no meaning” as Uganda is a nation of “wealth creators.” He urged unity among Ugandans to withstand economic pressures and highlighted the importance of fighting corruption, addressing common problems, and concentrating on regional integration.
President Museveni criticized those who link up with foreign interests, stating that foreign pressure has no meaning. He emphasized that Uganda can still trade with countries that respect them. The termination from Agoa followed sanctions against Uganda, including travel restrictions and threats of aid cuts, after the adoption of the Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2023, which the US labeled as retrogressive.
The termination locks Ugandan-made products out of preferential treatment on the US market, impacting East Africa’s investments. President Museveni’s assurance comes amid efforts to counter international pressure over human rights violations.
