By Lt Gen James Mugira, Managing Director of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), has praised Uganda’s military-technical cooperation with Russia, describing it as both historically significant and strategically important.
Speaking during a session of the Russia–Uganda Intergovernmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation held at the NEC Headquarters, Lt Gen Mugira emphasized that the partnership marks a major advancement in bilateral ties. “Russia has long stood by African nations, offering vital support during the fight against colonialism,” he noted.
This latest meeting builds on earlier sessions convened in Moscow in July 2022 and June 2024, reflecting the steady development of collaborative efforts between Uganda and Russia.
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Lt Gen Mugira acknowledged Russia’s consistent role in strengthening military capacity across Africa, which he said has empowered nations to uphold their sovereignty and national security.
He also called for enhanced cooperation in defense manufacturing, urging Russia to back Uganda’s efforts toward domestic production. “We ask our trusted allies to join us in building local capabilities to produce essential military equipment and services,” he appealed.
Touching on historical challenges, Lt Gen Mugira criticized the colonial-era economic structures that reduced Africa to merely supplying raw materials. He argued that a fair and balanced partnership must include support for African industrialization and self-reliance. “True independence can only be achieved when we attain economic and technological self-sufficiency,” he stated.
The Russian delegation, led by Mr Anatoli Punchuk, expressed gratitude for Uganda’s dedication to deepening bilateral relations. “You can rest assured, this partnership has only become stronger,” Mr Punchuk affirmed.
He applauded Uganda’s progress in maintaining peace and driving development, noting the expanding cooperation across various sectors, including politics, business, and the economy. “Between 2024 and 2025, we’ve seen active exchanges between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces and Russian defense firms to further enhance military-technical collaboration,” he said.
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The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials such as NEC Luwero Industries General Manager Maj Gen Sabiiti Muzeyi, UPDF Deputy Air Force Commander Maj Gen David Isimbwa, Artillery Division Commander Maj Gen Daniel Kakono, Russian Ambassador to Uganda H.E. Vladlen Semivolos, along with embassy representatives and senior UPDF officers.
