Comments by the Uganda High Commissioner to the UK

Professor George B. Kirya

(KM98) 17^TH JULY, 1998

Mr Chairman, Hon Minister, Hon Members of Parliament’ Distinguished ladies and gentlemen’

Let me begin by thanking the organisers for inviting me and for giving me this opportunity to address this gathering.

I offer special welcome to all those who have come from near and far, outside the United Kingdom.

I personally take today's meeting, as being special as it is the first time, as High Commissioner in Great Britain that I have attended such a meeting. I very warmly welcome the opportunity and let me hope that this is a beginning, which reflects a new and healthy relationship between the mission here in London and all Ugandans in Great Britain. The Uganda Mission belongs to all of us, so when there are important issues to be considered like this meeting, we should all try to work together, since such issues affect us all, as our destiny is one.

I have no doubt that we have all come here for one purpose only, and that is to address the situation in Northern Uganda, particularly the Acholiland. I hope that we are all committed to be as constructive as possible.

We all agree that the suffering in the north has gone on for too long. It might be helpful to remind us of the past, and it might also help to identify some of the causes of the situation in the north. It is however, desirable that we do not spend time apportioning blame, or looking for scapegoats. I hope that during the next two days, we will analyse the issues in the north carefully and come up with suggestions for solutions to the problems.

Uganda has had many years of turmoil, and it is high time that the fighting, these atrocities stopped. I would, therefore, like to appeal to anyone who may have influence on those who are bent towards creating the havoc in some parts of the country, particularly the north, to stop it.

One of the problems that affect very well intentioned organisations like Kacoke Madit, is the lack of a system of following up decisions or recommendations made in meetings. This is why I would suggest that Kacoke Madit should consider forming a system both in Uganda and in the Diaspora, which will follow up the proposals.

Uganda in general, and the north in particular, has had enough of violence. Violence which is directed towards civilians, violence which has caused loss of so many lives, where property has been destroyed, where people, particularly children, have been affected morally and psychologically, and where people have been left disabled through maiming and torture. I hope that during the two days of Kacoke Madit, will send a clear message to those who still believe in violence in our country to stop.

Because of insecurity, it has been very difficult to develop the north, much as the government has taken efforts and measures to do so. My appeal, particularly to those who are living in the Diaspora, is to join hands with the government and look for investors who can go to the north and invest there.

I wish the second Kacoke Madit very useful deliberations. Those of you who have travelled long distances to come and attend Kacoke Madit, I wish you safe journey back home.