By Aggrey Baba
[When the tree stands tall, the branches reach out far]. This African proverb captures the essence of Thomas Tayebwa’s recent rise to the presidency of the Organistion of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) Parliamentary Assembly.
A man whose journey from humble beginnings in Uganda to global leadership is both inspiring and indicative of the potential that lies in committed leadership, Tayebwa’s election marks a new chapter in Uganda’s engagement with the world.
Born in 1980 in Mitooma District, Uganda, Tayebwa’s life story is one of perseverance and determination. Raised in Bitereko Village, his path to political prominence has not been without its challenges.
From his early education at Kigarama Primary School to completing his law degree at Makerere University, Tayebwa’s academic background has played a key role in shaping his leadership style.
He first ventured into politics in 2016, representing Ruhinda North County in Uganda’s Parliament. His election to the role of Deputy Speaker of Parliament in 2022 further cemented his reputation as a trusted leader within Uganda’s political landscape.
In his new role as President of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly, Tayebwa will lead discussions on critical matters such as economic cooperation, sustainable development, and trade relations across 79 member states spanning three continents.
This is a responsibility that brings Tayebwa to the forefront of international diplomacy, where his leadership will have a direct impact on shaping the future of Uganda’s foreign relations and economic strategies.
Tayebwa’s election as co-president of the OACPS-European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly places him in a key position for negotiating political and trade agreements between the Global South and the European Union.
With this new role, Uganda has secured a seat at the table for important global discussions, and the new president has vowed to use his platform to raise the Ugandan flag high.
In a heartfelt message shared on X (formerly Twitter), Tayebwa expressed gratitude to Uganda’s leadership, especially to Rt. Hon. Speaker Anita Among and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for their support in helping him reach this milestone. “I promise to raise our flag high,” Tayebwa said.
A central focus for Tayebwa’s tenure will be the implementation of the Samoa Agreement, a partnership deal signed by OACPS member states in November 2023. The agreement aims to address pressing issues like human rights, democracy, peace, climate change, and migration.
Tayebwa’s leadership will focus on promoting trade between ACP countries and the European Union, with special emphasis on removing non-tariff barriers and ensuring sustainable economic growth.
Beyond his role in the OACPS, Tayebwa’s involvement in global affairs also extends to his work within the East African Community (EAC). In 2024, he was elected as East Africa’s representative to the OACPS, European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly, further solidifying his role as a key figure in shaping the future of Africa’s relationships with Europe.
Tayebwa’s election is seen as a significant achievement not only for Uganda but also for the broader African and Global South community.
His rise to the presidency of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly underscores Uganda’s growing influence on the international stage, reflecting the country’s increasing role in fostering collaboration and unity among developing nations.
State Minister for Industry David Bahati has hailed Tayebwa’s appointment as a clear indication of the trust placed in Uganda’s leadership, calling it an opportunity to promote investment, tourism, and economic cooperation.
Tayebwa’s leadership, rooted in Uganda’s democratic principles, presents a unique opportunity for the country to foster stronger ties across the globe.
As Noeline Basemera, the Kibaale District Woman MP, put it, “This is a call for us as a country to maintain the trust placed in us due to our democratic principles and the guidance of our beloved President M7.”
Thomas Tayebwa’s journey from a rural village in Uganda to leading an international assembly is a reflection of the opportunities that arise when nations come together for mutual growth.
With his eye on promoting peace, trade, and development, Tayebwa’s leadership is set to open doors for Uganda, East Africa, and the Global South, demonstrating the power of collaboration in shaping a brighter future for all. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
