President Yoweri Museveni has appointed Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, former Prime Minister, as Special Envoy to lead fundraising efforts for the construction of the Afro Arab Youth Council (AAYC) headquarters in Nakawuka.
Strategic Appointment to Boost Fundraising
The appointment was announced during a high-level meeting at State House, Entebbe. AAYC Secretary General Hon. Dr. Abbas Agaba led a delegation that updated the president on the council’s progress and future plans.
Dr. Agaba thanked President Museveni for his continued support, including his efforts to mobilize funds for the headquarters project. He also requested the president to send a follow-up letter to Zimbabwe and Arab League countries to strengthen the fundraising initiative.
Additionally, he proposed assigning a special envoy to travel with the AAYC delegation. The president approved this request and entrusted the role to Dr. Rugunda.
Preparations for the AAYC anniversary celebrations are also in motion. Minister of Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi has been assigned to oversee the event.
Initially scheduled for March, the celebrations have been postponed to May 25 to accommodate Ramadan and allow wider participation from member states.
Dr. Agaba also revealed plans for a general assembly to restructure the council’s leadership and reinforce its strategic vision.
Push for Regional Stability
The meeting also focused on regional security concerns, particularly in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Dr. Agaba commended Museveni’s diplomatic efforts and urged him to remain active in peace-building initiatives.
President Museveni pointed to ideological divisions as the root cause of Sudan’s crisis. He criticized the decision to turn Khartoum into a battlefield, warning that it only worsens the conflict.
Regarding the DRC, he emphasized that the ongoing instability stems from a lack of dialogue among leaders. He urged all parties to seek peaceful solutions.
Dr. Agaba requested the president’s intervention in an offtake agreement for Accend Pharma Limited, a move aimed at strengthening Uganda’s pharmaceutical sector.
President Museveni assured the delegation that he would follow up on the issue. He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting AAYC initiatives that drive socio-economic development.
The president reiterated Uganda’s dedication to building stronger ties between African and Arab youth. He emphasized the importance of sustainable development, regional cooperation, and youth empowerment.
