Ruto Responds to Museveni’s Indian Ocean Remarks During Uganda Visit
President William Ruto has finally addressed the growing debate about Kenya’s relationship with Uganda, following widespread reports claiming that Kampala was preparing for war to secure access to the Indian Ocean.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony of the Devki Steel Factory in Osukuru, Tororo District, Uganda, President Ruto dismissed the alarming claims.
He criticised sections of the media for allegedly blowing the issue out of proportion and creating unnecessary tension between the two neighbouring countries.
Ruto noted that some journalists had attempted to portray Uganda as threatening to force its way to the ocean at any cost. He reassured citizens from both countries that such claims were baseless and misleading.
“I am aware that some people in the media attempted to suggest that Uganda had said it would seek sea access by any means,” Ruto stated. “But let me reassure everyone — Uganda and Kenya remain brothers and sisters.”
Earlier in November, reports circulated widely suggesting that President Yoweri Museveni had hinted at waging war against East African nations with coastlines in order to gain direct access to the Indian Ocean.
The same reports also claimed that Uganda intended to establish a navy, but such plans were impossible for a landlocked nation without a coastline. This triggered speculation about growing tension between Kenya and Uganda.
However, on Sunday, November 23, President Ruto made it clear that no conflict was brewing. He emphasised that the relationship between the two countries was strong, stable, and guided by long-standing cooperation rather than any form of hostility.
He explained that Uganda already had full freedom to use Kenya’s coastline and that both governments were actively discussing deeper infrastructure partnerships to support regional trade.
“Uganda is fully guaranteed access to the sea through Kenya,” Ruto said. “That is exactly why we are expanding the oil pipeline, improving the major road networks, and extending the railway. Kenya and Uganda are family, and we do not engage in negative or harmful confrontations.”
Museveni later clarified that his earlier comments about accessing the Kenyan and Tanzanian coasts were not a call for conflict.
Instead, he explained that his remarks were meant to push for a stronger East African political federation — one that would unite member states not only economically, but also politically and militarily. Such a federation, according to Museveni, would deepen integration beyond the current customs union.
During the same Sunday event, President Ruto also confirmed that Kenya and Uganda would soon become joint shareholders in the Kenya Pipeline Company once the ongoing privatisation process is completed. This move, he said, symbolises the strong bond and shared vision between the two nations.
The overall message from both leaders was clear: Kenya and Uganda enjoy a solid, friendly, and cooperative relationship that cannot be shaken by rumours or exaggerated reports.
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