Uganda’s President has played down the significance of the United States’ decision to exclude his country from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) due to human rights concerns.
Agoa had allowed Uganda to export goods to the US duty-free for years, but President Joe Biden recently announced the exclusion of Uganda (as well as Gabon, Niger, and the Central African Republic) from the trade agreement starting in January.
The US government had previously considered removing Uganda from Agoa and imposing sanctions following the passage of a contentious anti-homosexuality law in the country.
This law, which includes a death penalty for certain same-sex acts, has faced widespread international criticism.
Uganda’s President, Yoweri Museveni, took to social media to reassure the public, stating that they shouldn’t be overly concerned about the decision.
He added, “As far as Uganda is concerned, we have the capacity to achieve our growth and transformation targets, even if some of the actors do not support us.”
His son-in-law and senior aide, Odrek Rwabwogo, had earlier warned about the potential adverse effects on Ugandan farmers and small business owners due to the expulsion.
Mr. Rwabwogo also expressed Uganda’s willingness to engage in discussions with the US on the matter.