In a strategic move gearing up for the upcoming Non-Aligned Movement (Nam) and G77+China summits in January 2024, Uganda’s government has announced plans to withdraw official vehicles from its officials, including ministers and permanent secretaries.

The decision, set to take effect from December 18, may disrupt the traditional Christmas travel plans of many state officials who usually head to their rural homes using government cars.

Vincent Bagiire, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, revealed that the country requires a substantial fleet of 1,200 vehicles to transport delegates to and from the summit venues at Speke Resort Munyonyo, located outside the capital Kampala. The targeted vehicles include those assigned to ministers, permanent secretaries, directors, and other entitled officers.

Bagiire did not provide details on how ministers and state officials will carry out their official duties once the vehicles are withdrawn. The decision, however, reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring the success of the 19th Nam summit from January 15 to 20 and the G77+China summit from January 21 to 23.

Delegates from 120 countries are expected to attend the Nam summit, with an additional 134 countries represented during the G77+China conference. The move to recall official vehicles emphasizes the logistical challenges associated with hosting these high-profile international events.

As Uganda prepares to take center stage in diplomatic discussions, the decision to withdraw official vehicles underscores the prioritization of resources for the success of the summits, despite potential inconveniences for state officials during the holiday season.