Kampala, Uganda – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) marked its 62nd anniversary, reaffirming its commitment to promoting democracy, free markets, and the rule of law.
Ambassador William Popp, the US ambassador to Uganda emphasized USAID’s enduring vision to support those committed to freedom. “We’re dedicated to supporting those committed to freedom,” Popp said.
USAID’s focus on local partnerships and self-reliance was highlighted with the announcement of an innovation prize to commercialize agricultural research, launching in 2025. This competition aims to bridge the gap between research and market implementation, enhancing economic opportunities and household incomes.
The agency’s longstanding partnerships with Ugandan universities and government bodies, such as the National Agricultural Research Organization, have driven cutting-edge agricultural innovations. Other initiatives include Prosper Africa, Power Africa, and a groundbreaking engagement with Opportunity Bank to support refugee businesses and Ugandan host communities with up to $9 million in lending.
USAID Mission Director Daniele Nyirandutiye reflected on the deep-rooted collaboration that began shortly after Uganda gained independence in 1962. She highlighted USAID’s early efforts in building the capacity of the new nation’s leadership and supporting critical sectors such as agriculture and education.
“From the construction of girls’ schools like Mount St. Mary’s College Namagunga and Tororo Girls School to the establishment of the Uganda Management Institute, our investments have laid a strong foundation for Uganda’s development,” Nyirandutiye noted.
Nyirandutiye emphasized USAID’s role in crises, particularly in northern Uganda, which endured prolonged conflict. “We worked with local governments to rebuild schools, health centers, and essential infrastructure, while also supporting reconciliation efforts through collaboration with civil society,” she said.
In the health sector, USAID’s partnership with the Palliative Care Association of Uganda has significantly impacted HIV/AIDS care. “Our early funding helped the association expand access to medication and end-of-life care, benefiting countless patients across over 300 health facilities today,” Nyirandutiye explained.
Highlighting USAID Uganda’s leadership in localizing its projects, Nyirandutiye noted that more than 60 percent of USAID activities are now led by local organizations. “This localization underscores our belief that sustainable development is best achieved through partnerships that harness local expertise and knowledge,” she stated.
Nyirandutiye also stressed the importance of evolving partnerships, particularly with the private sector and financial institutions, to address challenges such as access to financing for small and medium enterprises.
“Our commitment to fostering economic growth and self-reliance in Uganda extends to innovative collaborations with private enterprises and financial institutions,” she said. “These partnerships aim to unlock new opportunities for investment and development.”
Nyirandutiye called for continued and deeper collaboration among all stakeholders. “As we celebrate our partnership, let us reflect on how we can further connect our ideas, resources, and expertise to tackle the challenges we face and unlock new opportunities for growth and prosperity,” she urged.
