Rédaction Africa Links 24 with STEPHEN OTAGE
Published on 2024-02-01 08:29:46
The French Embassy has confirmed that they will continue to fund several development projects in Uganda, despite the controversy surrounding the passing of the Anti-Homosexuality Act. According to French Ambassador Yves Mercier, the EU’s position on Uganda’s anti-homosexuality legislation does not affect France’s commitment to providing development assistance to the country.
In an interview at his residence in Kampala, Ambassador Mercier stated that France’s commitment to partnering with Ugandans in need of development assistance remains unwavering. He emphasized that the EU’s position on the anti-homosexuality law will not impact their decision to support development projects in Uganda. He also expressed hope that the law will take its course and that they will see what decisions will be taken.
Despite the fallout over the Anti-Homosexuality Act, the French Development Agency (AFD) is set to inject Euros 800 million (approximately Shs3.2 trillion) into 17 ongoing and new projects in Uganda. These projects will focus on areas such as water and sanitation, energy, transport, urban development, and the promotion of the private sector.
Some of the key projects that will receive funding include the Kampala Lake Victoria Water and Sanitation Project, the South-West Water and Sanitation Project, and the Isingiro Water and Sanitation Infrastructure Project. Additionally, France will be providing financial assistance for the construction of the Masaka-Mbarara transmission line, rural electrification in Western Uganda, and feasibility studies for mini-hydropower plants in West Nile.
In the transport sector, France will be financing the construction of the Kampala-Jinja Expressway and injecting funds into the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area Urban Development Programme. They will also be supporting the Convention for Mayors for Sub-Saharan Africa and providing technical assistance to facilitate access to clean energy and wetlands protection.
The French ambassador further detailed that the partnership with Kampala Capital City Authority and the City of Strasbourg will focus on promoting green spaces, urban agriculture, and will have a budget of 1.5 million euros.
Overall, the French Embassy’s commitment to funding essential projects in Uganda remains steadfast, despite the controversy over the Anti-Homosexuality Act. It is evident that their contributions will continue to support critical development initiatives in Uganda, benefiting various sectors including water and sanitation, energy, transport, and urban development.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
