President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni bid farewell to the outgoing British High Commissioner to Uganda, Her Excellency Kate Airey, at State House, Entebbe on August 7, 2024.
The meeting underscored the enduring relationship between Uganda and the United Kingdom, highlighting the strong diplomatic ties and mutual respect cultivated over the years.
President Museveni expressed his gratitude to H.E. Airey for her resilience and the positive impact she had on Uganda-UK relations.
He emphasised the necessity for the UK to establish a permanent source of information about Africa to enhance mutual understanding and strengthen bilateral relationships.
“There is a lack of knowledge among many European agencies about Africa in terms of its culture and how we do things,” the President noted.
H.E. Airey reciprocated the sentiments, thanking President Museveni for his support during her tenure.
“You were phenomenal, especially during the difficult time of the terrorism attack at Queen Elizabeth National Park. You stood by us and advised us accordingly,” she said.
Reflecting on her four years in Uganda, H.E. Airey praised the country’s unique natural beauty and its remarkable biodiversity.
“There is something special about Uganda, its greenery is biologically unique and incredibly beautiful,” she remarked.
H.E. Kate added: “Your Excellency, I have been here for four years, and it has been an incredible journey. Uganda will always be closer to my heart.”
She committed to continuing efforts to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Uganda.
H.E. Airey also expressed her desire to send a government delegation to the UK to further bilateral discussions and mutual understanding with the new UK government.
She concluded by expressing pride in her legacy in Uganda and her determination to continue supporting the partnership between the two countries.