On Friday, August 2, the Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho, also known as Gen. Salim Saleh, welcomed the Transitional President of Gabon, H.E. Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, in Gulu District, Uganda. The visit underscored the commitment of both nations to enhancing socio-economic development through mutual cooperation.
During the meeting, President Nguema, accompanied by the First Lady of Gabon, Mrs. Zita Oligui Nguema, expressed a strong interest in reducing Gabon’s dependence on food imports by leveraging Uganda’s agricultural development expertise.
“I wanted to personally visit H.E. Museveni to discuss collaborative efforts. I am also pleased to be in Gulu, Gen. Saleh’s hometown, where the impactful agricultural initiatives have significantly improved the country’s image,” said President Nguema.
The Gabonese President highlighted the country’s focus on diversifying its economy, reducing unemployment through agricultural development, and fostering youth entrepreneurship. He emphasized the necessity of regional, continental, and international collaboration for economic growth and stability.
Additionally, President Nguema outlined plans for economic transformation in Gabon, including agricultural sector revitalization, training for senior civil servants, and free education for children. He also stressed the critical role of military efficiency in national development, drawing parallels with Uganda’s Operation Wealth Creation initiative.
“Despite our progress, we face challenges in agriculture and energy. I recognize that investing in power can alleviate poverty. Currently, 35% of our youth are unemployed. While infrastructure development can create jobs, focusing on agriculture can provide immediate employment and sustenance,” President Nguema stated.
Gen. Salim Saleh reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and shared the successes of Operation Wealth Creation in helping Ugandans transition to a money economy. The Vice Prime Minister of Gabon, Mr. Alexandre Barro Chambrier, also reiterated Gabon’s commitment to economic diversification and the importance of cooperation with Uganda. He highlighted Gabon’s rich natural resources, including high-quality manganese, and the country’s interest in partnerships for agricultural, mining, and industrial development.
“Gabon is the leading producer of high-value manganese and other critical minerals. We align with President Museveni’s vision, aiming for economic transformation and processing our raw materials. We seek strategic partnerships and open collaboration,” said Mr. Chambrier.
Ambassador Phillip Idro, Special Advisor for Operation Wealth Creation, welcomed President Nguema and emphasized the strong partnership between the two nations. He highlighted Uganda’s socio-economic transformation, driven by Operation Wealth Creation’s efforts in mobilizing communities for commercial activities and modernizing agriculture.
Operation Wealth Creation, launched by the President of Uganda in July 2013, aims to facilitate national socio-economic transformation by raising household incomes and promoting wealth creation. It focuses on converting subsistence farmers into commercial farmers through the distribution of agricultural inputs, animal breeding materials, and other support measures.
Also present at the meeting were Uganda’s Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Hon. Jacob Oboth-Oboth; Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Judith Nabakooba; National Resistance Movement Secretary General, Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong; Gabon’s Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Jonathan Ignoumba; and Gabonese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Régis Ndiaye.