The Kenyan government has moved to calm tensions after Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni made remarks hinting at possible conflict with Kenya over access to the Indian Ocean.
Museveni, while addressing supporters on Sunday, November 8, claimed that Uganda’s lack of direct access to the sea could one day spark war if the country continued facing hurdles in using the Port of Mombasa.
“Some countries have no access to the sea, not only for economic purposes but also for defence. You are stuck. How do I export my products?” the Ugandan leader posed, adding that Uganda was “entitled to the Indian Ocean” for its trade and security needs.
He went on to suggest that the matter could become a flashpoint in the future, remarking: “We have had endless discussions with Kenya about the railway and the pipeline. But that ocean belongs to me… I am entitled to that ocean. In the future, we are going to have wars.”
However, Nairobi has since dismissed the comments, saying Museveni’s words were taken out of context and not meant as a literal threat.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, while addressing journalists on Wednesday, November 12, said the veteran leader’s remarks were “metaphorical” and should not be interpreted as a declaration of hostility.
“President Museveni was speaking metaphorically rather than suggesting that there was anything done in the manner he described,” Sing’Oei clarified.
He added that Museveni fully understood the international boundaries and territorial laws that define Kenya’s borders. “I believe he has a great understanding of the nature of our territory,” the PS said.
Even so, diplomatic analysts warn that Museveni’s statement could strain relations between the two neighbours if not handled carefully.
Kenya and Uganda have long shared a good relations, rooted in decades of economic, political, and security cooperation.
The two countries are key trade partners and are currently collaborating on major infrastructure projects, including the Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) and the planned expressway linking Kisumu to Uganda.
Despite the latest remarks, both governments have expressed confidence that their partnership remains strong and grounded in mutual respect and regional integration
