Uganda, Japan Deepen Ties Ahead of Ticad Ix As Minister Oryem Meets Ambassador Sasayama
KAMPALA — Uganda and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to mutual cooperation and strategic development following a high-level meeting between the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs), Henry Okello Oryem, and the Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, Sasayama Takuya, held on July 24, 2025, at the Ministry headquarters in Kampala.
The diplomatic engagement comes in the run-up to the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IX), scheduled to take place from August 20 to 22, 2025, in Yokohama, Japan.
The two leaders discussed Uganda's preparations for the summit and broader bilateral priorities, including infrastructure development and international collaboration.
Ambassador Sasayama congratulated Hon. Oryem on his recent electoral victory in the NRM primaries and reiterated Japan's commitment to advancing cooperation with Uganda through bilateral frameworks and multilateral forums such as TICAD.
He also formally requested Uganda's official delegation list, highlighting the importance of early planning and active participation in the summit's various high-level sessions.
A key focus of the discussion was the Lock II phase of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-supported road construction project.
In response to the Ambassador's inquiry, Hon. Oryem emphasized Uganda's consistent commitment to the project, describing it as a "national priority."
He noted that Uganda's economy is on the cusp of major transformation, with oil production set to begin within two years, which is expected to significantly raise GDP and spur demand for improved road infrastructure.
"With increased vehicle use and rising living standards on the horizon, we must proceed with the Lock II phase to meet the infrastructure needs of the future," said Oryem.
Ambassador Sasayama also invited Oryem to attend the ongoing Osaka Expo and participate in Japan's National Day celebrations on October 8, 2025, further reinforcing cultural and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
He praised Uganda's recent performance at the Green Expo, where the country ranked among the top three globally, trailing only China and Lesotho.
The recognition underscores Uganda's growing profile in environmental innovation and sustainability.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming the importance of TICAD IX as a platform for deepening Africa-Japan relations, with Uganda committed to leveraging the summit for economic diplomacy, investment promotion, and regional development.
Uganda's participation in TICAD forums has historically focused on infrastructure, health, education, and private sector development, all areas that align closely with Japan's support through JICA and other bilateral frameworks.
As preparations for TICAD IX intensify, Uganda is expected to highlight its oil and gas prospects, infrastructure ambitions, and the role of sustainable development in shaping the country's future.
The Yokohama summit will mark another milestone in Uganda-Japan relations, which continue to strengthen through sustained dialogue, shared interests, and forward-looking cooperation.