Kenya Rejects Claims It Plans War on Uganda, Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Trade and Peace
Nairobi/Kampala
Kenya’s government has firmly denied growing speculation of military conflict with Uganda, dismissing talk of Uganda “overrunning” its territory as unfounded and inflammatory. The reassurance came from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, who addressed the Kenyan National Assembly on November 19, 2025, amid rising regional tensions.
Mudavadi argued that Kenya’s historical commitment to regional integration remains intact, emphasizing Nairobi’s support for treaty-based free movement within the East African Community (EAC). He said Kenya will continue ensuring access to the Indian Ocean for landlocked neighbors, including Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan, calling this core to the country’s trade philosophy and international obligations.
“This country has always provided safe passage and free passage for goods from landlocked countries … and we are not about to change that,” Mudavadi said, adding that Kenya does not seek provocative statements but wants to grow regional bonds through cooperation.
The comments come after remarks by President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda, who insisted that Uganda deserves guaranteed access to the Indian Ocean — a stance that raised eyebrows among some Kenyan legislators.
Why It Matters:
The statement eases fears of a serious diplomatic or security crisis between two of EAC’s biggest economies.
It reflects Kenya’s commitment to maintaining a balance between sovereignty and regional integration.
Ensures that trade routes, especially for landlocked countries like Uganda, remain a priority — a major concern for regional connectivity.
What to Watch For:
Whether there are further diplomatic engagements (bilateral talks) to reaffirm trade and transport agreements.
Any infrastructure or trade initiatives that strengthen Kenya-Uganda ties (ports, road / rail corridors).
Domestic political reactions in both countries, especially as regional integration debates heat up.
