Russian ambassador to Uganda Vladlen Semivolos presented his credentials to President Yoweri Museveni at State House Entebbe on December 6, 2021. The President welcomed him and wished him a fruitful stay in Uganda.  Umaru Kashaka spoke to Semivolos on this and other related issues. 

How did you feel when you were appointed ambassador to Uganda?

I felt honoured when I was informed of the decision of my President Vladimir Putin to appoint me as an ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Republic of Uganda. 

Since gaining its independence, Uganda has been one of our closest and trustworthy friends as well as privileged partners in Sub-Saharan Africa. 

We are proud to provide your country with necessary assistance when you needed it—from the days when you were fighting for your sovereignty until now. You can rely on our support in the years to come.

What were some of your initial impressions about Uganda and how have you found it?

As a diplomat, I was previously engaged in Asia affairs. This is my first posting to Africa. Before coming here, I studied a number of books on the history of Uganda, its customs, culture and colourful tourist destinations. 

My impression is that while successfully moving ahead under the strong and wise leadership of President Museveni in creating a vibrant society with an advanced modern economy you still uphold your unique traditions and way of life. 

Our countries have a noticeable similarity here. I am pleased to note that in the last few years the dynamics of our relations have been very impressive. 

Political relations have been at the forefront, with the Presidents of our states leading regular constructive dialogue.

What do you like most about Uganda?

At first glance, it is the friendly people, nature and climate. Uganda is blessed with such a mild and comfortable climate. No wonder Uganda is named the Pearl of Africa. Maybe when we meet next time, I will be able to say more.

How can you describe the nature of the relations between Russia and Uganda?

Russia and Uganda enjoy warm and friendly relations based on a strong foundation of mutual understanding, respect, equality, non-interference in internal affairs of each other, non-use of unilateral sanctions, non-politicization of the issue of human rights and commitment to expanding further mutually beneficial cooperation. 

As you are well aware, Russia adheres to the principle that unites us—“African solutions to African problems”. We feel proud that over the years our ties have transformed into a multifaceted and close partnership. 

Russia and Uganda actively interact at the international and regional for they share common perspectives on a variety of acute global issues. 

Our efforts are focused on expanding the scope of cooperation, promoting mutually beneficial projects in areas of common interest, and contributing to growing friendship between the people of our countries. There is a necessity to convert our strong political relations into formidable economic partnership. 

This goal is in line with the objective proclaimed by President Putin at the Russia-Africa Summit in Sochi—to double trade turnover between Russia and Africa by 2025.

What important lessons can Uganda learn from Russia?

Over the years, Uganda became a self-sufficient country playing an important stabilizing role in the Sub-Saharan region, doing much to promote peace, security and economic integration, especially in East Africa. 

We respect its independent foreign and internal policies aimed at achieving vital goals of national development. I anticipate that we would continue our exchange of experience in various fields, which is mutually enriching. 

What programmes are you currently funding here?

The Russian Federation does not have any ongoing bilateral development programs or projects in Uganda. Over the last few years, our country made several donations to support Uganda through the UN organizations. 

In 2019, we donated 53 Russian-made KAMAZ trucks to the World Food Program to expand its operations in regional logistics hub in Uganda. In 2020, we provided $3m to the Food and Agriculture Organization to boost the fight against desert locusts here.

What is your message to the Ugandan government and your nationals here?

My message is that Russia highly values cordial and brotherly relations with Uganda. It is a unique country with distinctive culture and traditions, magnificent nature and environment. 

Ugandans are friendly, welcoming and remarkable people. They are the most welcome guests in my country. 

I am confident that under our leaders’ wise guidance, Russia-Ugandan ties will continue to further deepen and flourish, serving as a model of excellent interstate relations, friendship and partnership.