Vice President Jessica Alupo on Tuesday formally bid farewell to outgoing United States Ambassador William Popp, marking the end of his diplomatic tour in Uganda amid efforts by Kampala and Washington to maintain strong bilateral ties despite recent tensions.
During a meeting at her office in Kampala, the two leaders reflected on the historical relationship between Uganda and the United States, praising steady progress in bilateral cooperation over the years.
Alupo commended Popp for his role in strengthening collaboration between the two countries during his tenure.
A key highlight of the discussions was the recently finalised 2026-2030 health cooperation framework valued at $2.3 billion.
Alupo said the agreement showed Uganda’s gradual march toward self-reliance, noting that the government had committed more than $500 million toward domestic health financing.
Beyond healthcare, the vice president reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and security and praised continued security cooperation between the United States and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), which she said remains important for stability in East and Central Africa.
Alupo also highlighted Uganda’s push toward economic transformation, industrialisation and private sector growth, describing the country as an important regional partner for Washington.
She, in turn, described the United States as a major strategic, humanitarian and health partner for Uganda.
Ambassador Popp thanked Ugandan officials for the cooperation and support he received during his time in Kampala since 2023.
‘I take pride and special privilege to have served in this country, and I honor your support in various fields that have benefited both Uganda and the United States,’ Popp said.
Popp’s departure comes at a sensitive moment following a period of diplomatic recalibration between Kampala and Washington over governance, security and human rights concerns.
The finalisation of the $2.3 billion health framework is expected to secure funding for HIV/AIDS, malaria and maternal health programmes, helping maintain critical humanitarian and development support between the two countries.
Uganda and the United States have maintained diplomatic relations for more than 60 years, with cooperation spanning health, security, trade, humanitarian assistance and regional peacekeeping efforts.