Government has decided not to purchase new vehicles for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit in January 2024 due to financial constraints.
Instead, existing vehicles from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies will be mobilized.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs/Regional, John Mulimba reported to plenary on Thursday that 1,543 vehicles out of 215,92 inspected are in good condition, and the government is set to purchase 30 more. He said China and India have donated vehicles to facilitate the movement of over 3,000 visitors. Accommodation preparations include grading hotels, with 59 hotels visited so far.
The 19th NAM Summit, divided into three segments, is expected to contribute to Uganda’s positive image globally.
Hosting such events, including the Commonwealth Speakers and Presiding Officers Conference, reflects Uganda’s international confidence.
The Cabinet approved a budget of 3.594 Billion Shillings for the Summits.
NAM, founded in 1961, has 120 Member States, 18 Observer countries, and 10 Observer Organizations. After the Summits, Uganda will chair NAM for three years and the Group of 77 and China for 2024. NAM operates without a formal structure, constitution, or permanent secretariat, coordinating activities through Permanent Representatives and Missions in various locations.