Why Moses Kuria Met 5 Ugandan MPs at the Border
On Sunday, Ugandan Members of Parliament convened alongside Public Service Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria along the Busia border that divides the two nations.
Governor of Busia, Paul Otuoma, extended an invitation to the CS to lead three marathon competitions that sought to promote unity among the communities residing on the other side of the border.
Kuria defined the trip as a professional visit to the nation that was additionally planned to enhance public health consciousness via athletic engagements.
“The race, not only brings together the residents of Busia in a unity of purpose but also promotes the need for health awareness and general wellness through sports.” the CS stated.
“The 3 part race, divided into 5km, 10km, and 15km, leading to Uganda, is a notable testament of the close ties we continue to foster with our neighbors across borders.”
Mary Emase, a member of parliament for Teso South, and MSME Principal Secretary Susan Mangeni were among the numerous dignitaries who joined Kuria.
In addition to them were the five Ugandan members of parliament and members of the Busia County Assembly (MCAs).
The CS expressed gratitude to the Ugandan President for endorsing the candidature of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the Africa Union Commission, as he welcomed the delegation.
“I am happy to be here for the cross-border marathon. Apart from Marathon, advocated for unity between Kenya and Uganda. I welcome you in the spirit of the East African Community,” he stated.
“Send our greetings to Museveni and let us carry on with our trade agreements. At the African Union Commission, we have a candidate and we thank Museveni for supporting him.”
The Busia Border Marathon, which has been held annually in the border county since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, will resume in April 2023 after a hiatus.
The race offers numerous additional health benefits, as stated by the event coordinator. These include but are not limited to blood donation, cancer screening, diabetes monitoring, and blood pressure testing.
“This marathon will give a platform for the residents of Busia to come out in large numbers and participate in the race,” the event’s coordinator Sarah Martha told the press in 2023.
“We will be having awards for winners of various categories for both men and women in 10 and 15-kilometer races.”
A week after Kenya and Uganda struck an agreement permitting the neighbouring country to continue importing oil through the Port of Mombasa, the current race takes place.
In the past, Uganda endeavoured to negotiate oil import agreements with neighbouring countries in an effort to oust oil cartels operating in Kenya from their discriminatory trade practices and exorbitant prices.
It is anticipated that the initial shipment will occur in May of this year.
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Why Moses Kuria Met 5 Ugandan MPs at the Border