Uganda expects a Japanese military attaché to help identify areas for security cooperation under Tokyo’s Official Security Assistance framework, although no new military aid package was announced.
Uganda and Japan are exploring expanded defence cooperation under Tokyo’s Official Security Assistance (OSA) framework, with Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka saying the expected arrival of a Japanese military attaché could help identify areas of mutual interest.
“We are looking forward to having a military attaché here. As soon as he comes, we shall engage him and understand how we can benefit and work together under the Official Security Assistance (OSA) arrangement,” Kiwanuka said.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Japan’s Ambassador to Uganda, Takuya Sasayama, at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs headquarters in Mbuya on October 13.
According to the ministry, discussions covered bilateral defence relations, regional peace and stabilisation efforts, and infrastructure development.
Japan’s OSA framework provides security-related assistance to partner countries, including support intended to strengthen their security and deterrence capabilities. The programme is distinct from Japan’s traditional development assistance, which focuses on areas such as infrastructure and social services.
Sasayama said Japan’s engagement under the framework had initially involved Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. He said the anticipated arrival of a military attaché could strengthen engagement with Uganda’s defence establishment and help advance cooperation between the two countries.
However, the officials did not announce a specific military assistance package, equipment donation or new agreement following the meeting.
Kiwanuka thanked Japan for its longstanding relations with Uganda and its support for infrastructure development, citing projects including the Kampala traffic management system, the Jinja Bridge and flyover developments.
He also acknowledged Japan’s support for infrastructure at the Defence Forces Rehabilitation and Vocational Centre in Mubende, which provides rehabilitation and welfare support to military veterans and their families.
The minister said caring for former service personnel was an important way of recognising their contribution to the country.
“It is very easy to forget a person whom you think is no longer as useful as before, but it is very important to thank them and appreciate what they have done,” he said.
Kiwanuka added that those supporting the centre understood the sacrifices made by soldiers during their service.
Sasayama also highlighted ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, including the proposed construction of Karuma Bridge and flyover developments, which he said were expected to commence before the end of 2026.
The discussions come as Uganda and Japan prepare to mark 65 years of diplomatic relations in 2027. Japan established diplomatic relations with Uganda following the country’s independence in 1962.
Sasayama said the anniversary offered an opportunity to deepen cooperation.
“Next year will mark our 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and national independence. I am looking forward to working more closely together than before,” he said.
The anticipated military attaché’s arrival could provide a channel for further discussions on security cooperation, but any resulting assistance or defence commitments remain to be announced.