Uganda and China have built a partnership spanning more than six decades, covering sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and education. In an interview with China Africa Talk, Uganda’s Ambassador to China, Oliver Wonekha, explained how the relationship has evolved and where new opportunities lie.
Reflecting on the history of the partnership, Wonekha noted that ties between the two countries began almost immediately after Uganda gained independence in 1962.
“It is true that just eight days after Uganda gained independence in 1962, China established diplomatic relations with us. Since then, the relationship has continued to grow from strength to strength. China has been a strategic partner in areas such as peace and security, as well as development, especially infrastructure. Our cooperation also extends to education and health. Over the past 64 years, this has truly been a relationship built on friendship and partnership.”
She said recent policy directions announced during China’s major political meetings—commonly known as the “Two Sessions”—present fresh opportunities for collaboration. Having attended the event, she emphasised its global significance.
“Yes, I attended both the opening and closing ceremonies of the National People’s Congress. It is a highly significant annual event. The policies, legislation, and strategies announced are not only relevant to China but also beneficial to the global community, especially Africa, and Uganda in particular. These initiatives emphasize engagement with the world, which presents important opportunities for countries like ours.”
Wonekha pointed to green energy and digital technology as key areas where Uganda hopes to deepen cooperation with China.
“These areas are highly relevant to Uganda. China is very advanced in green energy, solar, wind, and hydropower, and we are eager to learn from and collaborate in these fields. In terms of digitalization, we look to China’s progress and hope to share in achieving similar goals. Artificial intelligence is also an area where we see strong potential for cooperation.”
On trade, she welcomed China’s expanded zero-tariff policy for African exports, describing it as a major boost for Uganda’s economy.
“This is a significant development. We were already benefiting from 98% tariff-free access, and now it has increased to 100%. This creates substantial opportunities for Uganda to export more products to China. To fully benefit, we must focus on value addition and industrialization. With stronger collaboration, we can export finished goods and take full advantage of this policy.”
Coffee remains central to Uganda’s export sector, and Wonekha said there is growing interest in the Chinese market.
“Coffee is a vital export for Uganda. At one point, it contributed up to 95% of our foreign exchange earnings. While our economy has since diversified, coffee remains extremely important.”
She added that Uganda is promoting its coffee more aggressively in China:
“We recently launched a coffee promotion campaign in China, including a Uganda-China coffee tour that brought together traders, shop owners, and investors. We hope Chinese partners will not only consume Ugandan coffee but also engage across the entire value chain, from farming to processing, packaging, and marketing. With China’s expertise, we can significantly enhance the value of our products. Agricultural industrialization is a priority for Uganda. We aim to move beyond exporting raw beans and instead produce finished products. Partnerships with China will be key to achieving this goal.”
Tourism is another area with strong growth potential, especially as China and Africa mark a year dedicated to people-to-people exchanges. Wonekha highlighted Uganda’s unique attractions and ongoing cooperation with Chinese firms.
“The potential is enormous. Uganda is known as the ‘Pearl of Africa,’ and we are eager to welcome more Chinese tourists. Beyond mountain gorillas, Uganda is home to elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and even tree-climbing lions. We also have Lake Victoria, the second-largest freshwater lake in the world, and the source of the River Nile.”
She also pointed to infrastructure projects supported by Chinese companies:
“In addition, the Nile is not only a tourist attraction but also a source of hydropower developed in cooperation with Chinese companies such as Sinohydro. Visitors can also see firsthand the impact of Uganda-China cooperation. Culturally, Uganda is incredibly diverse, with over 60 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions in food, dance, and dress. I warmly invite our Chinese friends to come and experience this richness for themselves.”
Wonekha praised cultural ambassadors like Rose Adikin for strengthening ties between the two countries.
“Rose is an excellent example. She serves as a cultural bridge, showcasing both China and Uganda to a wide audience. Her work highlights the power of people-to-people exchanges. Beyond that, we also have many students studying in China through scholarships, as well as exchanges between government institutions and the private sector. These interactions are vital and continue to grow.”
Sharing her personal experience since taking up the role in 2022, she described China’s development as striking and full of lessons for Uganda.
“China’s development is truly remarkable. Its infrastructure, green energy initiatives, and overall modernization are impressive. What stands out most is China’s willingness to collaborate with countries like Uganda and support our development journey.”
Looking ahead, Wonekha said her focus is to align Uganda’s development goals with China’s strengths.
“Uganda’s Vision 2040 focuses on agricultural industrialization, tourism, mineral value addition, and science and technology. These are areas where China excels, and I aim to strengthen cooperation in them. We are already seeing increased investment, including Chinese-run industrial parks in Uganda engaged in manufacturing, textiles, and electronics. I also hope to attract more Chinese tourists to Uganda.”
