Speaker of Parliament Anita Among revealed that Parliament has carried out renovation works inside the Very Important Persons (VIP) rooms at Mulago National Hospital, so as to boost the hospital’s capacity to handle any emergencies that may befall any delegate attending the Commonwealth Speakers’ Conference slated for 3rd -6th January 2024 in Munyonyo.
The Speaker made the remarks today while addressing journalists at Parliament, where she was updating the public on Uganda’s preparedness to host the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding officers of Commonwealth, further revealing that 42 Speakers have confirmed attendance.
This conference will bring together Speakers and Presiding Officers of National Parliaments of all Independent Sovereign States of the Commonwealth, with current membership consisting of 74 Speakers and Presiding Officers from 52 Commonwealth Countries.
The official opening Ceremony is expected to take place on Thursday, 4th January 2024, and will be officiated by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“Parliament has been able to do some small renovations and equip some VIP rooms in Mulago hospital, waiting for their visitors. We have invested, we have put some money in Mulago Hospital and we will make sure that Mulago hospital is ready to receive our visitors in case one falls sick. It is also a collaboration between Parliament and the National referral hospital,” said Among.
Among also noted that unlike some sentiments in the public that such conferences are a waste of taxpayers’ money, this will not be the case because the Speakers’ conference will be an avenue to promote Uganda’s tourism and the Speakers are going to come with some delegations of business people with plans to invest in Uganda.
The Speaker also called on the media to offer positive coverage for Uganda going forward, because it is the only country they have, and she also urged KCCA to increase their efforts in beautifying the city ahead of the arrival of the visitors.
“Uganda is a very secure country, there will be Police surveillance, SFC, and other security organs will ensure that our people are secure enough and enjoy their stay in Uganda. We urge KCCA to do their work faster so that our visitors. Let us continue working for the good of our country. You and I make this country beautiful, love your home and your home is Uganda. Speak well about your home,” said Among.
She added that the conference is especially important in deepening parliamentary diplomacy and augmenting Uganda’s role in Commonwealth parliamentary collaborations, as well as presenting opportunities to share experiences, expertise and knowledge on best practices. Delegates, accompanying persons and other officials expected to grace the conference will present opportunities to create business and entrepreneurial linkages to cement trade relations with Uganda.
“CSPOC in general, enhances globalization which brings up opportunities for cooperation especially in areas of economics, public affairs, security and general parliamentary diplomacy. When the CSPOC is beamed around the world, especially in the Commonwealth countries, it will create a trickle down effect in terms of visitors coming to Uganda,” Among noted.
“I am delighted to reaffirm our strong commitment and readiness to host this conference, and I call upon you all, to embrace the opportunity, and also provide a conducive and welcoming environment for this esteemed gathering,” Among applauded.
Mulago Hospital renovated ahead of Commonwealth Speakers’ Conference
