The United States Agency for International Development(USAID) has recommitted itself to continue shaping lives in Uganda as it has done for the past 62 years.
Speaking during celebration to mark 62 years of operation in Uganda at a function held at Sheraton Hotel Kampala, USAID Mission Director Daniele Nyirandutiye said partnering with the Ugandan government, they have helped build foundational institutions critical to long-term development.
“From girls’ schools focused on empowering young women to research facilities supporting the agriculture sector to training centers that empowered the country’s future leaders,” Nyirandutiye said.
She explained that from supporting the building of the Uganda Management Institute, collaborating with higher learning institutions like Makarere University, and helping establish the National Agricultural Research Organization, their investments have laid the groundwork for Uganda’s journey toward self-sustaining growth.
“ Today, many of these institutions no longer receive direct support from us. Yet, they thrive and continue to play a vital role in the country today. And, we, at USAID, continue to believe in them and champion the good work they do.”
“ We have also been with Uganda in times of crisis. A colleague of mine recounted how growing up during the conflict in the North, the food assistance and more specifically, the vegetable oil tin was a symbol of hope and better things to come. In northern Uganda, which experienced years of conflict, we collaborated with local governments to begin the reconstruction process, helping rebuild critical infrastructure like schools, health centers, and government offices and working with civil society to begin the process of reconciliation.”
Health sector
The USAID Mission director said they have also had a hand in the improvement of Uganda’s health sector by partnering with government, local leaders and organisations to address some of the country’s most profound health challenges.
“ One such organization is the Palliative Care Association of Uganda. USAID was one of its early funders in an effort to expand access to medication for HIV/AIDS patients and provide end-of-life USAID.GOV 4 care. While our support helped the organization grow, it was the association that did the important work of advocating for incorporating palliative care into HIV/AIDS care and treatment. Today, the organization provides services in over 300 health facilities and has secured funding from other donors.”
She said USAID will continue supporting Uganda on its journey to growth and development.
The US Ambassador to Uganda, William Popp underscored the role that USAID has played in supporting the health, education, economic prosperity, and democratic growth of the country.
“Together with Ugandan partners, USAID is helping to build a stronger, self-reliant Uganda that will ultimately be able to focus its attention on growing investment and trade while health, education, and environmental sustainability are supported by a strong, democratic, and accountable system,” Popp said.
“ This future will be driven by local voices, by people like you in this room who are dedicated to a brighter future for Uganda. And the United States is proud to be working with you.”
