A book on Uganda's 50-year foreign policy

Jun 27, 2014

The foreign affairs ministry releases a book detailing the intricate paths of Uganda’s foreign policy since independence.

By Andante Okanya

KAMPALA - The foreign affairs ministry has released a book detailing the intricate paths of Uganda’s foreign policy for half-a-century since independence.

The book, titled Uganda and The World: Half a Century of Foreign Policy 1962-2012, was launched at Sheraton Hotel Kampala.

true
The book was unveiled by State minister for foreign affairs Henry Okello Oryem. PHOTO/Eddie Ssejjoba

It was prepared by renowned Ugandan author Dr. Arthur Gakwandi in partnership with the foreign affairs ministry and support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

Ugandan State minister for foreign affairs Henry Okello Oryem presided over the function, also attended by high profile public figures, various diplomats and representatives of the diplomatic corp.

Oryem noted that the book provides a detailed historical narrative of Uganda’s diplomacy and the players who have steered the course over the years.

He reiterated President Yoweri Museveni’s stance on the doctrine of African solutions to African problems, saying government would relentlessly pursue it.

“Government of Uganda is committed to the doctrine of a regional-led peace process, and President Museveni is a strong advocate of the doctrine of African solutions to African problems,” he said.

true
Princess Elizabeth Bagaya talks to Prof. Arthur Shatto Gakwandi (centre) who authored the book. PHOTO/Eddie Ssejjoba

Prior, Uganda’s foreign policy was dictated by the Foreign and Commonwealth office in London.

The 90-page book published by Fountain Publishers weaves through the early years of the Milton Obote I government after independence on October 9, 1962. The native administration had to start from scratch.

It highlights the turbulent era of Uganda’s diplomatic international relations during the Idi Amin regime from 1971 to 1979.

The work also outlines the foreign policy pursued by President Museveni from 1986, and examines the essence of Uganda’s presence in maintaining regional peace and stability.

Also at the launch ceremony, another book titled Uganda in the UN Security Council January 2009-December 2010 was unveiled.

This one highlights Uganda’s decisive approach in peace building, and sustainable development in post-conflict situations.

true
Another book was also unveiled at the function. PHOTO/Eddie Ssejjoba

The ministry also launched its revamped website, with the permanent secretary Amb. James Mugume stating that it will depict the ministry’s current outlook of a corporate image with easily accessible information.

Mugume noted that the website will improve real-time communication between Uganda’s foreign missions and the headquarters.

(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({});