Japan, Uganda pledge boost to trade relations

By Michael Odeng 

KAMPALA - The state minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of International Affairs, Henry Okello Oryem, has expressed optimism about Uganda’s cordial relationship with Japan, predicting that trade will increase.

 He made the remarks during the birthday celebration of Emperor Naruhito, who turned 65 years old this month. The ambassador hosted the celebration with his wife Mariko Sasayama, at their residence in the upscale capital suburb of Nakasero.

 “Although Uganda currently runs a trade deficit with Japan, the strong bonds between the two nations are expected to foster continued trade and reduce the shortfall,” Oryem said.

Okello noted that over the years, Japan has significantly contributed to Uganda’s development in key sectors such as infrastructure development, healthcare, education, agriculture, and industrialisation.

Xavier Sticker, the ambassador of France to Uganda shares a light moment with Henry Okello Oryem Okello, the state minister for Foreign Affairs during the birthday of the Emperor of Japan at the Japanese residence in Nakasero. (Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)

He observed that the trade between the two nations has seen tremendous growth, particularly in Uganda’s export of coffee, tea, spices, and mate, which reached an all-time high of $21.6m (sh79b) in 2024, representing a 22.7% year-on-year growth from 2023.

 In 2023, Uganda’s imports from Japan totalled approximately $450m (sh1.6 trillion).

According to Oryem, a notable example of their collaboration is the New Nile Bridge in Jinja, developed through a joint effort between the Ugandan and Japanese governments.

The project was funded by Japan’s government, with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) playing a key role in the construction.

The bridge was officially opened in 2020 and has improved transportation and connectivity in the region, easing traffic between the Eastern and Central parts of Uganda.

Likewise, Oryem said the Kampala Flyover Project has significantly improved urban mobility around the Clock Tower-Shoprite-Nsambya area.

“We are confident that phase two of the project will transform the Kitgum House-Garden City junctions, reducing traffic congestion in the Central Business district,” he said.

Sasayama Takuya, the Japanese Ambassador to Uganda remarked during the birthday celebrations of the Emperor at his residence in Nakasero, Kampala. (Credit: Simon Peter Tumwine)

Japanese ambassador to Uganda Takuya Sasayama reassured that it is committed to building the new Karuma bridge, akin to the magnificent Jinja bridge.

“We decided last week to enhance our support, to build a new bridge similar to the one in Jinja district. However, this bridge will cross the Victoria Albertine Nile and extend downstream, saving time and improving connectivity,” he stated.

The ambassador commended Uganda’s efforts in maintaining regional stability. With the 2026 elections approaching, he emphasised the importance of a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful electoral process. 

The event reached its climax as Oryem and Sasayama shared a toast with glasses of wine. 

The floor was then opened for guests to mingle and enjoy a cocktail hour, complete with drinks, snacks, and lively conversation, before departing at their leisure.