India Contributes Equipment for NAM Summit

India Contributes Equipment for NAM Summit in a noteworthy demonstration of solidarity with Uganda. The External Affairs Minister of India, during his official visit in April 2023, expressed a commitment to assist Uganda by providing 10 tractors and 5 ambulances. The Indian government has now generously contributed equipment valued at $1,059,177, approximately Shs4 billion, to facilitate the upcoming Non-Alignment Movement (NAM) and G-77 and China summit.

The donation comprises a variety of items, including 10 executive buses valued at $551,925.33 (about Shs2 billion), 10 Mahindra brand tractors totaling $137,531 (about Shs516m), five ambulances amounting to $252,800 (about Shs948 million), and flags worth $116,921 (about Shs438 million).

The formal handover ceremony took place at the Ministry headquarters in Kampala, where the Indian High Commissioner, Sing Rawat, presented the equipment to the Foreign Affairs Minister, Mr Jeje Odongo. His Excellency Rawat highlighted the background of the generous donation, emphasizing that it was a continuation of the commitment made during the Foreign Office Consultation between India and Uganda in November 2022.

What You Need To Know

During that consultation, the Indian government had initially offered support, including the provision of 10 executive buses, NAM member states’ flags, and training for Ugandan diplomats in preparation for the NAM Summit scheduled for January 15-22, 2024. As a special gesture during the External Affairs Minister’s visit in April 2023, India extended additional support with 10 tractors and five ambulances.

Rawat provided details about the executive buses, noting that they were manufactured by Eicher Motors India, a leading company in buses and heavy vehicles. The buses, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, will play a crucial role in transporting delegates during the NAM summit. Currently, four buses have arrived in Kampala, with the next batch of six en route from Kenya.

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Expression of Gratitude

Acknowledging India’s pivotal role as one of the founding members of NAM, Mr. Odongo expressed gratitude for the timely fulfillment of the commitment, emphasizing the significant support the donation provides to both the Ugandan government and the Ministry in fulfilling their responsibilities.

In appreciation of India’s dedication to the conference, Mr. Odongo presented a certificate of appreciation to High Commissioner Sing Rawat. It is anticipated that India’s External Affairs Minister will lead the NAM delegation, further solidifying the cooperative ties between the two nations.