NAM conference: China sends expert to train drivers

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Chinese Ambassador to Uganda Zhang Lizhong says Chinese engineers have arrived in the country to train Ugandan drivers to keep the 140 vehicles donated by his country in good shape.

"The Chinese experts who arrived in Uganda yesterday (Wednesday)] are working with the Ugandan engineers to train the drivers and maintain the 140 Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) granted by China for the upcoming two summits," Lizhong said via his X, formerly Twitter, handle.

Last year in December, China donated vehicles to Uganda to transport delegates for the upcoming 19th Non- Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) summit and Group of 77 (G77)+China that will take place in Kampala late this month.

(Courtesy)

The summits are expected to enhance solidarity, achieve development and further the influence of Uganda in international affairs globally.

Uganda's foreign affairs ministry permanent secretary Vincent Bagiire said Uganda was expecting delegates from 120 countries for the NAM summit and 134 countries for the South summit.

"We would like to thank China for giving us these vehicles. China and Uganda have worked on various infrastructure projects. The expansion of our airport (Entebbe International Airport) by a Chinese company will be completed very soon," Bagiire said.

About the SUVs

According to works ministry permanent secretary Waiswa Bageya, the Maxus D90 vehicles are known for their advanced engineering and are set to play a critical role in the transportation of Very Important Persons (VIPs) during the summit and other state functions that are bound to take place.

The cars have a powerful two-litre turbocharged engine and a six-speed automatic transmission for robust performance. Advanced safety elements like adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking ensure secure travel for all VIPs.

Bageya added that the cars have a spacious interior and a state-of-the-art system, which promise a premium experience, plus a touch screen and charging system amongst other features that showcase its sophistication.

Conference facility inspected

Last week, head of Public Service Lucy Nakyobe, inspected the state of readiness of the new Munyonyo Convention Centre that is set to host the 19th Summit of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Heads of State and Government from January 15-20, 2024.  

Nakyobe is serving as the chief executive officer of the organising committee. NAM is a forum of 120 member states.

Uganda Media Centre executive director Ofwono Opondo said Nakyobe last Thursday made a briefing to government officials about the readiness of the new Munyonyo Convention Centre.

Present were chief of protocol at the foreign affairs ministry Charles Sentongo, information ministry permanent secretary Dr Amina Zawedde and internal affairs ministry permanent secretary Lt. Gen. Joseph Musanyufu.