U.S. Envoy Popp to Leave Uganda

Vice President Jessica Alupo on Tuesday bid farewell to outgoing United States Ambassador to Uganda, William Popp, bringing to a close nearly three years of diplomatic engagement that saw Washington and Kampala deepen cooperation in health, security, trade and regional stability.

Ambassador Popp, a career American diplomat, officially assumed duty in Uganda in September 2023 after presenting his credentials to President Yoweri Museveni, succeeding former envoy Natalie Brown.

Before his posting to Kampala, he served as U.S. Ambassador to Guatemala and also held senior diplomatic assignments in Brazil and Kenya.

During the farewell meeting held at the Vice President’s Office in Kampala, Alupo and Popp reflected on the historical ties between Uganda and the United States and acknowledged the progress made during his tenure.

Alupo congratulated the envoy upon completing his tour of duty and commended his “role in maintaining warm relations and strategic cooperation between the two countries despite occasional diplomatic tensions in the region.”

She particularly highlighted the successful conclusion of the 2026–2030 Uganda-U.S. health cooperation framework valued at USD 2.3 billion, describing it as one of the major achievements registered during Ambassador Popp’s tenure.

The Vice President said Uganda’s commitment to contribute more than USD 500 million towards domestic health financing demonstrated the country’s growing emphasis on sustainability and self-reliance in healthcare delivery.

She also reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to regional peace and security and appreciated continued cooperation between the United States and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, particularly in regional security operations and counterterrorism efforts in East and Central Africa.

Alupo noted that Uganda remains a key regional ally for the United States, especially in peacekeeping, refugee management and regional stability.

“Uganda remains an important regional partner for the United States in East and Central Africa, while the United States continues to be a major strategic, humanitarian and health partner for Uganda,” she said.

During Popp’s tenure, the United States maintained strong involvement in Uganda’s health sector, technology partnerships, education programmes and governance initiatives. The envoy also actively engaged Ugandan universities, civil society organisations, private sector players and digital innovation initiatives.

Popp thanked the Ugandan government and people for the support and hospitality accorded to him throughout his stay in the country.

“I take pride and special privilege to have served in this country, and I honour your support in various fields that have benefited both Uganda and the United States,” he said.

The United States remains one of Uganda’s largest development and humanitarian partners, particularly through investments in health, education, food security and security cooperation.

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