US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has praised President Yoweri Museveni for Uganda’s role in maintaining peace and stability in East Africa. During a recent phone conversation, Rubio highlighted Uganda’s contributions to regional security and peacekeeping, while discussing opportunities to strengthen cooperation in migration, trade, and commercial ties between the two nations.
The call comes as the US seeks to expand international collaboration under its immigration framework, encouraging countries to assist with the management of migrants and asylum-seekers. Uganda has agreed to accept deportees from other African countries under strict conditions, including the exclusion of individuals with criminal records and unaccompanied minors, according to Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Vincent Bagiire.
This arrangement, based on the “safe third country” provision in US immigration law, allows asylum-seekers to be rerouted to countries deemed capable of fairly assessing their claims for humanitarian protection. While the number of deportees Uganda may accept is not yet finalized, the agreement emphasizes a temporary, conditional approach, with ongoing discussions to determine practical implementation.
Rubio’s acknowledgment of Uganda underscores the country’s growing international role as a model of stability and responsible governance in a region often challenged by conflict and displacement. Beyond migration, the US and Uganda are exploring ways to enhance trade and economic collaboration, reflecting a broader partnership that balances humanitarian responsibility with regional development.
As Uganda navigates these complex international responsibilities, the country continues to demonstrate leadership that strengthens its diplomatic ties while ensuring the safety and rights of all involved. The dialogue between Washington and Kampala signals a strategic commitment to cooperation and shared stability in East Africa.