ANTANANARIVO, Madagascar — Uganda’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, has represented President Yoweri Museveni at celebrations marking the 66th anniversary of Madagascar’s return to independence, reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
The national celebrations were held on Friday at Barea Stadium in Antananarivo, bringing together senior government officials, diplomats and international guests to commemorate Madagascar’s independence from French colonial rule on June 26, 1960.
Mr Kasolo attended the ceremony on behalf of President Museveni following his appointment as Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs after Ambassador Adonia Ayebare was named substantive minister, pending his assumption of office.
In a statement issued after the celebrations, Mr Kasolo said Uganda values its longstanding friendship with Madagascar and remains committed to enhancing cooperation between the two countries.
“I had the honour of representing H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at the celebration marking the 66th Anniversary of the Republic of Madagascar’s Return to Independence,” he said.
He noted that the occasion reflected the strong diplomatic ties between Uganda and Madagascar and reaffirmed the two countries’ shared commitment to regional integration, peace and sustainable development.
“The occasion reaffirmed the enduring bonds of friendship and cooperation between Uganda and Madagascar, while underscoring our shared commitment to regional integration, peace and sustainable development across Africa,” Mr Kasolo said.
The Acting Foreign Affairs minister also conveyed President Museveni’s congratulations to the people and government of Madagascar on the country’s national day.
“I extend warm congratulations to the Government and the people of Madagascar on this significant national milestone and wish them continued peace, unity and prosperity,” he said.
Madagascar celebrates Independence Day annually on June 26 to commemorate its liberation from French colonial rule in 1960 after more than six decades of colonial administration. The occasion is traditionally marked by military parades, cultural performances and official state ceremonies.
Uganda and Madagascar maintain cordial diplomatic relations through regional and continental frameworks, including the African Union and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
The two countries have also continued to support initiatives aimed at promoting intra-African trade, regional peace, climate resilience and sustainable economic development under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Uganda has in recent years reiterated its commitment to strengthening diplomatic engagement with African partners as part of broader efforts to deepen regional integration and expand economic cooperation across the continent.