South Africa – The Vice President (Rtd) Major Jessica Alupo arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa on Wednesday to represent president Yoweri Museveni at the highly anticipated 15th BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) Summit.
The summit is scheduled to take place from 23rd to 24th August 2023 at the prestigious Sandton Convention Center.
Accompanied by a distinguished entourage, Vice President Alupo’s team includes Peter Abaine, the Spouse of the Vice President, Vicent Musubire, Deputy Principal Private Secretary to the Vice President, and Gen. Charles Otema, the Commander of UPDF Reserve Forces.
The Vice President was warmly received at O.R Tambo International Airport by Mashego-Dlamini, the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa.
Among the dignitaries present to welcome her were Amb. Mbulelo Bungane, the Director of East Africa Community Affairs at DIRCO (Department of International Relations and Cooperation) of South Africa, and Amb. Paul Amoru, the High Commissioner of Uganda in Pretoria. Additionally, Uganda High Commission officials Nathan Mugisha and Dennis Kalikola were also present to extend their assistance.
“The 15th BRICS Summit holds great significance for Uganda, and Vice President Alupo is honored to represent President Museveni on this prestigious platform. This gathering of global leaders provides an invaluable opportunity to engage in productive discussions on various matters of mutual interest, notably focusing on economics, trade, and sustainable development,” reads a statement by Uganda High Commission in Pretoria.
It adds, “The Vice President Alupo’s participation in the Summit underscores Uganda’s commitment to fostering closer ties and pursuing collaborative partnerships at the regional and global level. Her aim is to actively contribute to initiatives that promote inclusive growth, innovation, and the overall well-being of our people.”
During her stay in South Africa, Vice President Alupo will engage in bilateral meetings with leaders from other member states of the BRICS alliance.
These interactions will explore further prospects and avenues for enhanced collaboration in sectors of mutual interest, such as trade, investment, agriculture, infrastructure development, energy, and technology.
The Vice President’s presence at the 15th BRICS Summit marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s diplomatic efforts and emphasizes the Mission’s dedication to advancing the nation’s economic and socio-cultural aspirations.
