Uganda has been chosen to host the OACPS-Europen Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly in November 2027.

This decision was reached by a joint OACPS-EU Parliamentary Assembly, which concluded its session on Friday, November 13, 2026, in Brussels, Belgium.

The meeting focused on constructive discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation between Africa and the European Union.

While presenting his submission, Paul Omara, the Member of Parliament for Otuke County, appealed to the European Union emphasizing that peace and development are not rivals.

He noted that investing in Africa’s stability and prosperity is directly linked to Europe’s own security. He explained that the lack of this understanding has affected many young people, and therefore both Europe and Africa need each other.

He added that Uganda has demonstrated what is possible in terms of economic transformation, which is now advancing, and the country is now at the stage of low middle-income status.

MP Omara, speaking on behalf of Uganda on financing for development, stated that Uganda stands with the people of Europe.

“We understand the responsibility Europe carries in facing war on its own continent, which, as we are told, is the reason for declining aid from the EU,” he told the Assembly.

Peace and development are not rivals, he said. “Investing in Africa’s stability and prosperity is also an investment in Europe’s own security. It is a fact that aid to least developed countries fell by 25.8% in 2025 and is declining even further. That is why I wish to speak about something larger than aid: partnership.”

Europe and Africa need each other. Europe seeks secure supplies of the critical raw materials that power its green and digital transition, and in the years ahead, reliable sources of food.

Africa has these resources, a young population and growing markets. But to turn our resources into industries, jobs and value at home, we need capital, know-how and technology transfer. Neither side can succeed alone, former banker and economist, Omara, noted.

Uganda shows what is possible. “Our socio-economic transformation is advancing, and we are on the threshold of middle-income status. Trade with the European Union is already substantial, and it is a base on which we can build.

“That is why we advocate trade instead of aid. We do not come as petitioners. We come as partners, on equal footing, with mutual respect.”

In practice, MP Omara says this means three things. First, invest in processing and value addition in Africa, so that minerals and food are transformed where they are produced, not only extracted.

Second, keep European markets open and accessible, so that Ugandan businesses can reach European consumers. Third, provide long-term, affordable financing and technology partnerships. “Where support is still needed, let it build our capacity to trade and to stand on our own feet.”

The discussions reaffirmed the importance of unity, collective action, and stronger partnerships among African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries in advancing shared interests, particularly in trade, investment, and sustainable development.

Omara said the conference focused on translating the ideas discussed into practical outcomes for the people. This includes promoting local processing of critical raw materials, mobilizing investment, facilitating technology and skills transfer, addressing climate challenges without depending on debt, and strengthening peace and respect for international law.

The sessions were co-chaired by Ugandan Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, President of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly, and Francisco Assis, Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation to the OACPS-EU JPA.

High-profile attendees included European Parliament President Roberta Metsola, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, and Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness.

Parliamentarians from Europe, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific regions gathered in Brussels, Belgium, have highlighted the critical need to strengthen multilateralism in an era of global strain.

This call was made at the opening session of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States – European Union (OACPS-EU) Joint Parliamentary Assembly.

The Deputy Speaker and Co-President of the OACPS-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, Thomas Tayebwa, emphasized that future international cooperation must move beyond rhetoric and be rooted in true equality, mutual respect, and shared solidarity.

Tayebwa outlined clear economic and environmental priorities for the joint delegations, including pushing for tangible economic and climate solutions and demanding a restructured economic partnership designed to deliver concrete local benefits to member states.

“The OACPS would like to see an economic partnership that delivers tangible benefits, including investment, local value addition, skills development, and decent employment in our countries,” Tayebwa said.