By Patriot Corps
Apia, Samoa – CHOGM 2024: Uganda’s Vice President and Katakwi Woman MP, Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, engaged in high-level talks with Samoa’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, on the sidelines of the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa.
During their discussions, Alupo emphasized the untapped potential for stronger bilateral relations, particularly in key sectors like agriculture, agro-processing, tourism, and investment. “We must foster exchange visits, share our experiences, and identify areas ripe for collaboration,” Alupo remarked.
Speaking on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni, Alupo congratulated Prime Minister Naomi and the people of Samoa for successfully hosting CHOGM in the stunning city of Apia. She lauded Samoa’s warm hospitality extended to the Ugandan delegation.
Alupo highlighted the significance of the CHOGM theme, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming Our Commonwealth,” as fitting for the global challenges and opportunities the world faces today. She expressed her eagerness for the upcoming discussions in the executive sessions, which aim to build resilient economies, address climate change, bolster democratic institutions, and improve livelihoods.
Prime Minister Mata’afa echoed Alupo’s sentiments, assuring her that Samoa is eager to partner with Uganda in key areas like technology, agriculture, and tourism.
As CHOGM unfolds, the spotlight will shift to the grand opening on October 25th, where His Majesty King Charles III, as Head of the Commonwealth, will preside over the ceremony. Prime Minister Mata’afa and outgoing Commonwealth Secretary-General Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland are also set to deliver addresses.
Key discussions during the summit will focus on evaluating the progress made since the last CHOGM in Rwanda and identifying priorities like building resilient economies, combating climate change, and improving livelihoods. Leaders are also expected to select a new Commonwealth Secretary-General from a field of candidates representing Lesotho, Ghana, and The Gambia.
Ahead of the formal sessions, the Commonwealth has been bustling with activity, with 5,000 delegates from 56 member countries participating in various forums. Women, Youth, Business, and People’s Forums have spotlighted issues ranging from trade and investment to women’s empowerment and youth innovation.
Earlier today, Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom addressed the Women’s Forum, advocating for the rights and empowerment of women and girls in the Commonwealth. Alupo, leading Uganda’s delegation, attended the high-level meeting, reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to advancing women’s rights.
Uganda’s robust delegation also includes Minister Okello Oryem, Ambassador Dorothy Hyuha, Uganda’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Nimisha Madhvani, and Ambassador John L. Mugerwa. The Vice President is expected to deliver President Museveni’s message to the Heads of Government, with key outcomes including the adoption of a Communique, a Commonwealth Ocean Declaration, and a Declaration on Reparatory Justice.
As the curtains rise on this pivotal gathering, Uganda’s presence is set to play a vital role in shaping the Commonwealth’s path toward resilience, recovery, and prosperity.
