On September 15, 2026, President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda celebrated his 82nd birthday, an occasion he used to reflect on the future of Africa and the country's fuel import deal. In a statement, Museveni expressed gratitude to the 8 million well-wishers who sent congratulations on his birthday. He credited their good wishes and God's blessings for granting him and his wife an additional 18 years to reach the ages of 100 and 96, respectively.
Museveni emphasized the need for Africa to work towards three historical missions to avoid future calamity: achieving prosperity through the integration of the African common market, ensuring strategic security through continental political integration, and fostering brotherhood among the four linguistic groups of Africans. He cited the East African Federation as an example of successful integration and urged Africans to prioritize these goals.
The President also touched on Uganda's fuel import arrangements, revealing that a tip-off from Kenyan politician Jirongo in 2019 alerted him to the high prices Uganda was paying middlemen for petroleum products. This led to changes in the country's fuel procurement arrangements, resulting in a new agreement with Vitol, a global refiner and bulk supplier, in August 2023.
Under the new agreement, Uganda secured significant reductions in fuel prices: diesel dropped from $118 to $83 per metric tonne, petrol from $97.5 to $61.5, and aviation fuel from $114.25 to $79.25. Museveni thanked Kenyan President Ruto for his support in facilitating the new arrangement, which allows Uganda to pump fuel through the Kenyan oil pipeline with a 20.15% share.
The changes in fuel procurement have been beneficial for Uganda, with the new prices significantly lower than the previous ones. The agreement with Vitol has also enhanced Uganda's energy security and reduced the country's reliance on middlemen. Museveni expressed his appreciation for the Kenyan government's cooperation in this matter.
In addition to reflecting on Africa's future and the fuel import deal, Museveni used his birthday statement to address other national issues. He highlighted the importance of wealth creation and the need for Ugandans to focus on economic development. The President also emphasized the role of the youth in driving the country's economic transformation.
As Uganda continues to implement its development agenda, Museveni's reflections on Africa's future and the fuel import deal provide valuable insights into the country's priorities and strategic direction. The President's commitment to regional integration, energy security, and economic development underscores the government's efforts to drive growth and prosperity in Uganda.
Key points
- President Museveni celebrated his 82nd birthday on September 15, 2026.
- Museveni reflected on Africa's future and Uganda's fuel import deal in his birthday statement.
- The new fuel import agreement with Vitol has resulted in significant price reductions for Uganda.
