Why Did Ruto Respond to Museveni’s Indian Ocean Remarks?
President William Ruto moved quickly to calm rising concerns over Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s recent comments about access to the Kenyan coastline, accusing sections of the media of amplifying “propaganda” and misrepresenting the context. Speaking in Tororo, Uganda, during the groundbreaking ceremony for the Devki Mega Steel Plant, Ruto said journalists had “distorted” Museveni’s statement, which had triggered strong public criticism in Kenya.
“Journalists tried to create an impression that Uganda had said something to the effect that they need to access the sea by all means,” Ruto said. He reassured citizens that “Uganda and Kenya are brotherly countries,” firmly countering any suggestion that Museveni’s statement signaled a threat to Kenya’s territorial integrity.
Museveni’s comments on November 11 had stirred debate after he referenced Uganda’s landlocked position and spoke of potential future conflicts within the East African Community to secure access to the Indian Ocean. “Because where is my ocean? I am entitled to that ocean. In future, we are going to have wars,” Museveni said. The remarks were widely interpreted as being directed at Kenya, prompting diplomatic pressure and public backlash.
Ruto, however, dismissed the possibility of friction between Nairobi and Kampala. He emphasized that Uganda’s access to the sea through Kenyan territory remains secure and uncontested. “We do not have time for negative engagement,” he said. He urged those fueling speculation to step aside, adding, “Uganda is assured of access to the sea through Kenya. For those who want to engage in negative talk, please give us a break. We have time for progress, not negativity.”
How Does Ruto Plan To Strengthen Kenya-Uganda Economic Cooperation?
During his Uganda visit, Ruto also highlighted new opportunities for regional investment cooperation. He revisited his broader agenda for privatization and extended an invitation to Uganda to consider co-investing in key sectors. He specifically pointed to the Kenya Pipeline Company, describing it as a “regional facility” that could support deeper economic ties.
“The Government of Kenya will be divesting up to 65 percent, and Uganda is prepared to co-invest with us,” he noted. The move signals Nairobi’s interest in positioning regional partners at the center of strategic infrastructure and energy development.
Ruto concluded by urging both countries to prioritize job creation, expand investment opportunities, and strengthen regional integration. His message framed Kenya and Uganda as partners focused on shared economic progress rather than rivals navigating geopolitical disputes.
By Lucky Anyanje