Uganda is set to host the Ministerial Mid-Term Review Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) from October 13 to 16, 2025, at the Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala. This conference marks a critical midpoint in Uganda’s current leadership as chair of NAM, a role it assumed in 2024 and will hold through 2027. The event will bring together foreign ministers and high-level representatives from approximately 120 NAM member states, observer countries, and international organizations.
Purpose and Theme
The key purpose of this mid-term review is to assess progress made since the 19th NAM Summit held in Uganda in January 2024, where close to 90 member states, including 30 heads of state, convened. The theme for the review is “Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence,” highlighting an emphasis on enhancing cooperation among developing countries to address persistent global challenges and foster sustainable growth.
Key Goals and Agenda
The Ministerial Mid-Term Review will focus on:
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Evaluating implementation of key resolutions from the 19th Summit.
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Discussing peace and security challenges, including the Palestinian issue and humanitarian crises such as Gaza.
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Advocating for reforms in global governance institutions, including the United Nations, to ensure equitable representation, especially for Africa.
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Encouraging cooperation on sustainable development goals (SDGs), trade, industrialization, technology transfer, and job creation.
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Preparing strategic objectives leading to the 20th NAM Summit scheduled for 2027 in Uzbekistan.
Uganda’s Role and Preparations
Uganda’s Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Waiswa Bagiire, underscored comprehensive preparations, including security and logistics, to accommodate delegates effectively. Hosting this mid-term conference strengthens Uganda’s growing diplomatic prominence in the Global South and emphasizes its commitment to advancing collective interests of developing nations.
NAM Overview and Significance
NAM, established in 1961, consists of approximately 120 countries advocating for independence from major power blocs and promoting equitable global governance and development. It is the second-largest international grouping after the United Nations.
Below is a comparative table summarizing Uganda’s NAM leadership timeline and significant upcoming milestones:
| Event | Date | Venue | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uganda Assumes NAM Chair | January 2024 | Kampala | Uganda begins 4-year NAM chairmanship (2024–27) |
| 19th NAM Summit | January 2024 | Kampala | Major summit with 90+ member states present |
| Ministerial Mid-Term Review | October 13-16, 2025 | Speke Resort Munyonyo | Assess progress and guide next NAM actions |
| 20th NAM Summit | 2027 (tentative) | Uzbekistan | Next major summit for NAM |
Global Context and Impact
In conclusion, hosting the NAM Ministerial Mid-Term Review is not only a diplomatic milestone for Uganda but reaffirms the country’s vital role in shaping the discourse on development, peace, and justice for developing nations worldwide.
This event represents a significant step toward renewing and fortifying the Non-Aligned Movement’s vision for equitable global cooperation in a rapidly changing world order.