Saudi announces Shs 14.5bn safe water package for Uganda

By Abdul-Wahid Kakande
At the commemoration of Saudi Arabia’s 94th national day last week, the Middle East-based kingdom announced a donation of $4 million (more than Shs 14.5 billion) to ensure access to safe and clean water to Ugandan communities.
The announcement was contained in a speech by the Saudi ambassador to Uganda, Mohammed Bin Khalil Faroudah, to guests that graced the celebrations at Sheraton Kampala Hotel on September 24. Faroudah said, the money will go towards the drilling of water wells across the country as well as establish five model vocational training Institutes in Uganda to empower the youth and facilitate their seamless integration into the job market.
“Significant efforts are being made to establish five vocational training institutes within Uganda with the primary objective of empowering Ugandan youth by equipping them with essential skills and facilitating their seamless integration into the labor market,” Faroudah said. In regard to bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Uganda, Faroudah said it is deeply rooted in history and founded on the principle of mutual respect.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting Uganda’s endeavors in achieving political stability and fostering economic development. This commitment is further exemplified by the Kingdom’s dedication to promoting education in Uganda through the provision of scholarships to Ugandan students, enabling them to pursue higher education in Saudi universities across various specialized fields,” Faroudah noted.
Faroudah said the 94 years of Saudi Arabia symbolises its remarkable journey which began as an inspiration for human progress and culminated intheunificationoftheKingdomunderthevisionary leadership of our founding King Abdul-Aziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud (may God rest his soul).
“On September 23, 1932, Saudi Arabia embarked on a notable journey of progress and development. Since then, the nation has consistently strived for excellence, achieving significant advancements across various sectors. These include the development of infrastructure, the enhancement of the education sector and the improvement of healthcare services,” Faroudah noted.

When the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz reigned to power with the involvement of his Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Faroudah said the Kingdom commenced the driven initiative of Vision 2030 under the care of the Crown Prince.
“This comprehensive strategy aims to diversify the economy, reduce reliance on oil, enhance the quality of life, and foster the development of various economic and social sectors,” he said.
Faroudah said through diligent efforts, Saudi Arabia has attained many achievements in the global digital landscape including securing the prestigious 3rd position globally and the top spot regionally in the digital government maturity index in addition to achieving the 4th position globally in terms of digital regulation readiness.
He said the implementation of strategic economic reforms and efficient spending practices resulted in theKingdomrankinginthetop-threeof23indicators.
Faroudah said Saudi Arabia has also achieved the second position in growth of international tourists, welcoming one hundred and six million visitors during the year.
In his speech delivered by Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, the Kampala and metropolitan affairs minister, President Yoweri Museveni saluted the Royal Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the leadership of his majesty King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud for its humanitarian efforts, diplomatic leadership and commitment to global peace and security.
“Saudi Arabia’s influence stretches beyond its borders, its humanitarian efforts, diplomatic leadership and commitment to global peace and security are testament to the nation’s profound sense of responsibility on the international stage,” Museveni noted.
Museveni remarked that the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932 was a landmark
event that did not only represent the founding of the nation but also the inception and vision that has continued to inspire future generations.
As Saudi Arabia advances on its ambitious vision 2030, Museveni said the world observes with admiration its efforts to diversify the economy, empower youth and lead in sustainability and innovation.

He said Uganda is prepared to enhance her collaboration with Saudi Arabia especially in the sectors such as sustainable energy, agriculture, technology as we join forces to create a future that is inclusive, resilient and prosperous.
Commenting on the Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030, Museveni said it is transforming Saudi Arabia into a global hub of innovation, investment and tourism while maintaining its leadership role within the Arab and Islamic world.
Museveni noted that Saudi Arabia’s vision 2030 is a bold and ambitious roadmap that has not only diversified the Kingdom’s economy but has also opened new doors in education, technology, culture and sustainable development.
“We celebrate the remarkable progress and transformation that the kingdom has undergone thanks to its forward looking leadership under the guidance of his majesty King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz and his royal highness the crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman,” Museveni said.
Museveni also hailed Saudi Arabia for its rich cultural heritage, strong values and deep rooted traditions which he said form the cornerstone of it.
“Saudi Arabia has embraced an era of development and mobilisation deeply rooted to its history and traditions. The recent strides made towards regional stability and strengthening global partnership showcase Saudi Arabia’s will as a bridge between culture and nations,” he said.
Museveni recognised the enduring friendship and collaboration between Uganda and Saud Arabia, which he said is built on mutual respect and shared commitment for the prosperity among the people.
“Our relationship grounded in common values and interest has thrived in various areas including cultural exchange and diplomacy. I am confident that our partnership will keep strengthening, promoting development, peace and shared prosperity for both our nations.,” Museveni said.
The Sheraton hotel in Kampala was on Tuesday filled with joy as the Ugandan Muslim community and Ugandan government officials joined the Saudi Arabia citizens in Uganda to commemorate 94 years since the unification of Saudi Arabia in 1932.