MP Balaba Calls for Economic Returns from Uganda's Diplomacy

Rubanda West MP Bruce Balaba has called on Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee to enhance its oversight of the country’s diplomatic missions, emphasizing the need for foreign policy to yield measurable economic advantages and better support for Ugandans living overseas.

Balaba stressed that parliamentary scrutiny should move beyond procedural checks to substantive assessment. He wants the committee to evaluate diplomatic engagements by the investments attracted, export markets secured, and commercial partnerships forged, rather than solely by the activities undertaken by missions abroad.

During the committee’s orientation retreat, Balaba highlighted that the effectiveness of the induction would depend on how well the members translate their gained knowledge into legislation and policy decisions that ultimately improve citizens’ livelihoods. He urged particular attention to treaties and international agreements, ensuring that institutions have the capacity to fulfill commitments while safeguarding national interests.

Addressing economic diplomacy, the MP questioned the effectiveness of Uganda’s diplomatic presence in generating tangible economic value. He advocated for a clear framework to guide decisions on establishing or closing diplomatic missions, considering their contribution to national development and aligning with the government’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.

Balaba proposed clear performance indicators for diplomatic engagements to enable Parliament to assess their economic return. This would involve a greater focus on measurable outcomes when scrutinizing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ performance and budget. He also called for increased committee member involvement in the budget process to foster ownership and understanding of resource allocation.

Furthermore, the MP urged the committee to prioritize the welfare of Ugandans abroad, particularly migrant workers, ensuring their rights are protected and they have access to timely assistance. He also expressed concern over the slow progress in finalizing Uganda’s National Foreign Policy framework, encouraging sustained pressure to address this gap.

“Let’s focus on results and make the Foreign Affairs sector relevant in everyday life of our people,” Balaba concluded, encouraging lawmakers to use their orientation to strengthen scrutiny of the ministry’s policies, budgets, and consular responsibilities.

Read more here: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/379564/balaba-urges-mps-to-demand-economic-returns-from-ugandas-diplomacy