- Samoa 2024 CHOGM: President Museveni Calls on Commonwealth to Leverage 2.5 Billion People to Tackle Global Challenges
President Yoweri Museveni has urged the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) to harness the potential of the Commonwealth’s 2.5 billion people to address pressing global issues. His call to action, delivered by Vice President Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo at the opening ceremony of CHOGM 2024 in Apia, Samoa, highlights poverty alleviation, wealth creation, environmental sustainability, health, and pandemic preparedness as key areas for collective action.
“We should use this vast convergence of thinking, practices, and strategy to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges,” Museveni emphasized.
Reflecting on Uganda’s own progress in health and nutrition, President Museveni noted Uganda’s growth in milk consumption per capita from 18 liters annually in 1986 to 60 liters today, although still below the World Health Organization’s recommended 210 liters per person per year. “There’s untapped potential here,” he said, pointing to similar opportunities in sectors like protein, steel, textiles, and energy. He encouraged delegates to think innovatively about utilizing the Commonwealth’s purchasing power to boost global consumption and equitable access to resources.
In his message, Museveni commended the positive impact of UK funding for infrastructure projects in Uganda, including the Hoima International Airport and value-addition initiatives. He also highlighted the substantial role of private investors from India in building factories and commercial ventures that create jobs and contribute to Uganda’s economy. However, he noted that current efforts are only “scratching the surface” of potential.
Museveni’s reflections extended back to his first meeting with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace in 1987, where he underscored the Commonwealth’s unique quality as an organization without language barriers. He emphasized the shared principles among Commonwealth members, such as “one person, one vote” and the separation of powers between the executive, judiciary, and legislature, which he said should be leveraged for a stronger future.
Vice President Alupo, representing Uganda, expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Naomi and the people of Samoa for their warm hospitality. She acknowledged the relevance of this year’s CHOGM theme, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Commonwealth,” and affirmed its significance in addressing today’s challenges while opening doors for collective growth.
Alupo is joined by Minister Okello Oryem, Uganda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Nimisha Madhvani, and Ambassadors Dorothy Hyuha and John L. Mugerwa. King Charles III graced the opening ceremony, underscoring the unity and resilience of the Commonwealth in the face of global challenges.
