Orange Democratic Movement leader Raila Odinga was on Tuesday given a thunderous reception in Kampala while attending Public Private Partnership conference.
In the company of President Yoweri Museveni, guests stood in honour of the two leaders as the made entry, as Odinga made brief stopovers along the hall to greet some of them.
Mr Odinga was the chief guest in the conference, in his capacity as African Union High Representative for Infrastructural Development, a post he assumed last year.
In his speech, which was equally given a standing ovation, Raila asked African governments to embrace cross border trade, arguing that it's the only way to improve the economy.
Also, he asked governments to invest in infrastructure and energy, adding that the two sectors are critical in realisation of development agenda.
"There is optimism in the continent’s future and new thinking on how to finance the opening up of Africa and all its regions to business, travel and trade.
"Our countries increasingly recognize the importance of infrastructure to their economic growth and are actively exploring solutions to fund the required development. For PPPs to take root and work, governments must take the lead and create necessary conditions and enabling environments," he said.
On his way out, Raila and Museveni, formerly sworn political enemies, addressed a number of people who had gathered outside. It was the first time Museveni and Raila were sharing podium in public event.
For years, the two leaders have been at loggerheads. Since 2007, Museveni has often supported Mwai Kibaki or Uhuru Kenyatta, snubbing Mr Odinga.