Israel at 77: Celebrating the Enduring Friendship and Resilience Between Israel and Uganda

Uganda and Israel recently celebrated Israel’s 77th Independence Day with a grand ceremony hosted at the Israeli Embassy in Kampala, highlighting a warm and enduring friendship between the two nations.

Beyond the customary cocktails and courtesies, this year’s event underscored a deeper narrative—one of resilient partnership shaped by decades of shared history and mutual support.

Under the clear Kampala sky, diplomats, government officials, religious leaders, and civil society representatives gathered to honor a relationship that has withstood political upheavals and ideological changes over the years.

Amid rising geopolitical tensions and internal security challenges in the region, the occasion served as a powerful reaffirmation of solidarity, shared values, and a common vision for the future.

“Uganda has been a friend to Israel since time immemorial,” said His Excellency Michael Lotem, Ambassador of the State of Israel to Uganda.

“From religious tourism to educational exchanges and agricultural collaborations, our ties go beyond diplomacy. They are rooted in a shared history, shared struggle, and shared hope.”

Ambassador Lotem noted that the bilateral relationship has grown from simple aid programs to strategic partnerships, particularly in areas such as smart agriculture, medical innovation, and counterterrorism cooperation.

“There is much Uganda can teach us, just as we continue to support areas where Israel has unique expertise,” he added.

The event also acknowledged the sobering realities faced by both nations amid ongoing security concerns. Ms. Ishta Muganga, the Honorary Consul of Israel to Uganda, reflected on the significance of this milestone:

“The 77th year of Israel’s independence is marked by profound challenges and resilience,” she said, highlighting the geopolitical pressures both countries continue to navigate, including regional tensions, economic difficulties, and the persistent quest for stability.

Representing the Ugandan government, Ambassador Elly Kamahungye Kafeero of the Directorate for Regional, International, and Economic Affairs expressed solidarity:

“We are not just friends; we are strategic partners with a shared destiny. Uganda has always supported Israel’s right to exist, prosper, and defend itself. We also cherish the opportunities our partnership has created in innovation, water management, and interfaith dialogue.”

Ambassador Kafeero further emphasized Uganda’s ongoing role in regional peacemaking and the critical importance of partnerships like the one with Israel in enhancing regional resilience.

Through rockets and riots, droughts and diplomatic disputes, the Israel-Uganda relationship has remained steadfast.

It has endured the shadow of Idi Amin, survived ideological shifts, and blossomed into a vibrant partnership built on mutual respect and cooperation.

Looking ahead, the connection between the two nations is poised to deepen—not only in trade and technology but in the shared pursuit of peace, security, and development.

In an increasingly fragmented world, this enduring friendship stands as more than just a cause for celebration—it is a model for international partnership.