Addis Ababa: The African Union Commission has offered warm congratulations to two distinguished African leaders, recognising their significant contributions to diplomacy and agricultural development.

H.E. Moses Vilakati, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE), expressed his admiration for H.E. Mrs. Rhoda Peace Tumusiime, former Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture at the African Union Commission, on receiving the Presidential Award for Outstanding Women in Uganda.

“This prestigious recognition is a well-deserved tribute to her exceptional leadership and commitment to sustainable development,” he declared. He lauded Mrs Tumusiime’s “transformative contributions” to gender empowerment, poverty eradication, and agricultural advancement across Africa, noting that her legacy “continues to inspire future generations.”

The Commissioner deemed the award from the Ugandan government a “fitting celebration of her impact.”

Simultaneously, Commissioner Vilakati extended profound respect and appreciation to H.E. Amb. Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko on her appointment as the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the Republic of Angola to Italy.

“This appointment is a testament to her exceptional diplomatic expertise and unwavering dedication to advancing Africa’s interests globally,” Commissioner Vilakati stated. He highlighted Amb. Sacko’s “pioneering contributions” to sustainable development, gender empowerment, and the empowerment of smallholder farmers, noting their profound impact on Africa’s agri-food systems and circular economy.

Commissioner Vilakati conveyed his confidence that Amb. Sacko would excel in her new role, further strengthening ties between Angola, Italy, and the African continent.

In his statements, Commissioner Vilakati conveyed his best wishes for continued success to both leaders, expressing anticipation for their ongoing contributions to the advancement of the African continent. He emphasized the importance of their respective roles in shaping Africa’s future.