President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of Uganda arrived in Nairobi on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, for a one-day official visit aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation between Uganda and Kenya. His visit marks another chapter in the longstanding partnership between the two East African nations, focusing on diplomacy, trade, infrastructure, and regional security.
President Museveni’s Arrival and Official Reception
Upon landing in Nairobi, President Museveni was warmly received by his host, President William Ruto, at State House. The welcoming ceremony featured full diplomatic honors, including a red carpet reception and military salute, underscoring the significance of the visit.Museveni’s protocol at the reception drew attention, as he refrained from shaking hands with officials—offering respectful nods and waves instead—citing personal health precautions, a gesture he has consistently maintained since the COVID-19 era. He shook hands only with President Ruto, while other dignitaries such as Deputy President Kindiki, Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja were acknowledged without physical contact.
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Core Agenda: Strategic Discussions Shaping Uganda–Kenya Relations
Economic Integration & Infrastructure
The leaders are expected to discuss cooperation on major infrastructure plans, notably the Mombasa‑Nairobi‑Kampala‑Kigali motorway and the standard gauge railway project, aimed at enhancing Uganda’s access to Kenya’s Port of Mombasa and boosting regional trade .
Regional Security & Cross-Border Cooperation
Security collaboration—especially around the Karamoja–Sebei–Turkana corridor—remains a priority. Issues include pastoralist conflicts and migration. Museveni and Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, recently held talks to reduce tensions, and this visit is expected to reinforce those efforts .
This state visit underscores the enduring partnership between Uganda and Kenya, both founding members of the East African Community (EAC). Dialogue on anti‑corruption, youth and women’s economic empowerment, and closer EAC integration is integral to the broader regional agenda