In a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, Uganda is seeking not only allies, but also a seat at the table where global decisions are made. Speaking to Sputnik Africa, Vice President Jessica Alupo laid out Uganda’s vision for deepened cooperation with the BRICS bloc as a pathway to economic transformation, political relevance, and global influence.
“Uganda being a member of BRICS means that our global attitude and having a voice in such an arena is going to expose our achievements, is going to expose our interests, our challenges,” Alupo said.
Her statement reflects a bold pivot away from the traditional Western-dominated global financial systems towards multilateralism with a focus on equity and mutual respect.
Alupo emphasized that BRICS presents a viable alternative to the rigid financial structures that many African countries find themselves trapped in — systems often shaped by unfavorable terms, heavy borrowing, and delayed infrastructure outcomes.
“BRICS is discussing the policies of financial payment globally. And that will give Africa and Uganda an alternative, which can offer them opportunities to do trade in a customized way. In a way that is discussed, in a way that is applicable, in [a] way that is domesticated and acceptable to the status of their economies,” she said.
This alignment with BRICS is not merely symbolic. Alupo underscores concrete examples of existing partnerships, particularly with Russia. From mobile laboratories donated to fight outbreaks like Mpox and Ebola, to burgeoning coffee exports and technology transfer, Uganda’s cooperation with Russia has yielded tangible dividends.
“We have done already very well in the areas of health… those laboratories have helped as a country in the health area,” she said, showcasing how such partnerships can directly impact public welfare.
But it’s not only about what Uganda can gain — it’s also about what Uganda can offer. With its youthful population, untapped markets, and growing infrastructure needs, Uganda positions itself as a strategic partner for investment and industrialization. Alupo envisions the BRICS platform as one that can unleash this potential:
“Normally, when a block like that is formed, there are areas of cooperation where tariffs and trade barriers are slashed off… that gives a very big opportunity for our country to transit from the economic level where we are to where we would like to go,” the VP stated.
Her remarks are not without critique of the current global order. She points to the inefficiency and inequity in the way Africa is treated in global finance and media. Her praise of Sputnik as being “objective” and respectful of national sovereignty is an unmistakable contrast to Western outlets often accused of bias or interference.