Egyptian, Somalia presidents to attend jubilee fete

By Moses Mulondo

The newly elected presidents of Egypt (Mohamed Morsi) and Somalia (Hassan Mohamud) are among the 15 heads of state who have confirmed attendance of Uganda's golden jubilee. 

The information and guidance minister Karooro Okurut informed journalists on Tuesday in Kampala that six other state leaders have confirmed they would send delegations to represent their countries.

Karooro, who is also the Bushenyi woman MP and the NRM spokesperson, revealed that over 10 international organizations including the United Nations, World Bank, the Commonwealth, European Union, African Development Bank, Aga Khan Development Network and East African Community- among others will grace the occasion.

The 15 countries whose heads of state will come to Uganda include Rwanda, Tanzania, Burundi, Kenya, Somalia, Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Egypt, Somalia, Congo Brazzaville, Central African Republic, Malawi, Gambia, and Benin.

Countries whose leaders will send delegations include China, United Kingdom (UK), South Africa, USA, Nigeria, and Sudan.

Leading the United Kingdom delegation, the Duke of Kent, Prince Edward born on October 9, will celebrate his 77th birthday in Uganda.

The press is today scheduled to have a guided tour of the reconstructed Kololo Independence grounds, venue for the main celebrations.

The first VIP to arrive is expected in the country on Friday (October 5) and a state banquet for all the special dignitaries will be held on Monday (October 8) at Entebbe State house.  

Some of the heads of state will join President Yoweri Museveni on October 8th at commissioning of  Bujagali power dam near Jinja.