Uganda hails US partnership ahead of Freedom 250 celebrations

The government of Uganda has praised its long-standing and cordial relationship with the United States as Washington prepares to mark 250 years of independence under the Freedom 250 campaign.

On July 4, 2026, the US will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone being marked globally through the Freedom 250. The American Edge campaign, which celebrates America’s legacy and its enduring partnerships, including with Uganda.

Speaking at the launch, state minister for Foreign Affairs Okello Oryem lauded the US for its sustained support to Uganda across critical sectors, particularly health and humanitarian response.

“Since Uganda’s independence, the American government has played a significant role, especially in the health sector and emergency interventions, including during the AIDS crisis,” Oryem said.

He added that US support has been instrumental in addressing major public health challenges such as Ebola and hepatitis, as well as supporting Uganda’s large refugee population.

“We thank the American government for helping make Uganda healthier. Their support on Ebola, hepatitis, and refugee management has been critical. With over two million refugees in Uganda, the financial and technical assistance from the US has helped avert what would otherwise be a major crisis,” he noted.

Oryem also highlighted the strong security cooperation between the two countries, noting that the United States has played a key role in building the capacity of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

“The US continues to support our security through training and collaboration. This has strengthened our ability to respond to regional threats, including deployments in Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan,” he said.

He further acknowledged the role of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), which has supported thousands of Ugandans across various sectors over the years, including humanitarian interventions during the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in northern Uganda.

Reflecting on the broader diplomatic ties, Oryem said occasional disagreements between the two nations are natural but do not undermine the strength of the relationship.

“Even partners disagree, but that does not weaken the relationship. We remain proud of our partnership with the United States,” he said.

He also commended US Ambassador to Uganda William W. Popp for his active engagement since assuming office.

“Ambassador Popp has been very engaging with the government, maintaining strong diplomatic relations and access at the highest levels,” Oryem added.

In his remarks, Popp pointed out to the depth of cooperation between the two countries, citing his extensive travels across Uganda from Gulu to Mbarara, Mbale to Kasese, and Kampala to rural communities.

“Everywhere I have gone, I have seen The American Edge in action, whether in research laboratories at Makerere and Mbarara universities or among entrepreneurs who studied in the United States and returned to build businesses that create jobs and drive innovation,” Popp said.

He described the American Edge as a blend of technology, education, innovation, and opportunity that continues to benefit Ugandans through partnerships in research, business, and academia.

Popp noted historical milestones such as the Fulbright Program, noting that Ugandan scholar William Senteza Kajubi was among the early beneficiaries, helping shape education reforms in the country.

On health, he pointed to joint efforts in combating disease outbreaks, including the Ebola response in 2025, where US and Ugandan experts worked together to contain the outbreak in under 90 days.

“That collaboration saved lives in Uganda and beyond. It is a clear example of what true partnership looks like,” he said.

The ambassador further revealed that in December 2025, Uganda and the United States signed a five year $2.3 billion health MoU aimed at strengthening health systems and improving outcomes.

He also cited investments in education and cultural exchange, including the opening of a state of the art American Center in Kampala in January 2026, designed to promote learning, innovation, and collaboration.

Looking ahead, Popp welcomed Uganda’s preparations to co host the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), noting the role of sports in strengthening ties between nations.

“Freedom 250 is not just about American history. It is about shared values of freedom, innovation, and opportunity. It celebrates what we have achieved together and what we can accomplish in the future,” he said.

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