Efforts to find a lasting political solution to the conflict in Sudan and restore regional stability dominated discussions between Uganda and the United Nations, with emphasis placed on dialogue, inclusive governance and addressing the underlying causes of instability.
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday held talks with the United Nations Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for Sudan, H.E. Pekka Haavisto, at State House Entebbe, where they reviewed the humanitarian situation in Sudan and ongoing efforts to support a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The discussions focused on strengthening engagement among the warring parties, promoting regional cooperation and supporting initiatives aimed at achieving sustainable and inclusive peace in Sudan.
President Museveni said lasting peace in Sudan requires addressing ideological and political challenges that have continued to fuel conflict, arguing that dialogue, democratic processes and inclusive governance provide the best path to resolving disputes.
He cautioned against attempts to impose a single identity on diverse societies, saying such approaches have contributed to recurring political crises in multinational states. “There is an ideological crisis. We have been telling them for years that they should respect the identities of their people. If people do not agree, why don’t they go for elections? Using force to settle political differences is a wrong idea,” Museveni said.
The President also reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to hosting people fleeing conflict, describing the country’s refugee policy as rooted in humanitarian values and historical ties among communities in the region.
“These refugees are our people. They are contributing and building Uganda. They come with knowledge, so we don’t mind. They can come because this is their country,” he said, noting that Uganda currently hosts more than two million refugees, including those from Sudan, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Haavisto commended Uganda’s refugee policy, saying the country’s continued support for displaced populations is recognised by the international community.
“I want to thank Your Excellency for hosting so many Sudanese refugees. Everyone recognises that effort and the United Nations is very grateful that Uganda has kept its doors open to refugees,” Haavisto said.
He said the United Nations continues to engage parties involved in the Sudan conflict through dialogue, with discussions focusing on humanitarian access, release of detainees and support for young people affected by the war.
Haavisto added that Museveni’s engagement with different sides in the Sudan conflict gives him a unique opportunity to contribute to ongoing peace initiatives. The UN envoy expressed hope that continued dialogue, supported by regional and international partners, would help create conditions for a lasting political settlement and stability in Sudan-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
