KAMPALA — Uganda and the United States have held high-level talks aimed at expanding commercial diplomacy and strengthening economic cooperation.
The discussions brought together Uganda’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs (International Cooperation), Henry Oryem Okello, and a United States delegation led by Sarah Troutman, accompanied by William W. Popp.
The meeting focused on investment promotion, trade expansion, and strengthening private sector partnerships between the two countries.
Investment Climate and Commercial Opportunities
Minister Oryem said Uganda is positioning itself as a leading investment destination in East and Central Africa, citing political stability and an investor-friendly regulatory environment.
He highlighted Uganda’s liberal profit repatriation policy, noting that investors are allowed to repatriate 100 percent of profits, while the Ugandan shilling remains relatively stable and freely convertible.
The Minister also emphasised opportunities emerging from Uganda’s oil and gas sector, with first oil production expected soon. He said investment prospects extend beyond extraction to refinery development, engineering services, logistics, and supporting industries.
Uganda invited greater participation from American companies, particularly in energy technology and industrial development.
Strategic Sectors for Cooperation
The two sides also discussed investment opportunities in: critical minerals, infrastructure development, aviation, railway transport, telecommunications and digital connectivity.
The planned expansion of Uganda Airlines and regional transport networks linking East and Central African markets were highlighted as priority development projects.
Tourism was also identified as a promising sector, with Uganda promoting its wildlife, favourable climate, and agricultural potential to attract more American visitors and hospitality investors.
U.S. Commitment to Commercial Engagement
Ms Troutman said commercial diplomacy is becoming a growing priority in U.S. foreign policy toward Africa.
She noted that American companies are known for high operational standards, transparency, and technology transfer that support sustainable development and employment creation.
The U.S. delegation pledged to raise awareness among American businesses about Uganda’s investment opportunities and strengthen follow-up engagement through the U.S. Embassy’s commercial team in Kampala.
Regional Stability and Development
Although the meeting focused on economic cooperation, both sides acknowledged the importance of regional stability.
Minister Oryem outlined security challenges affecting parts of East and Central Africa, including areas of the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Sudan, and Somalia, noting that instability and illicit mineral exploitation continue to affect development.
Uganda reaffirmed its role in regional peace efforts and its open-door refugee policy.
The meeting concluded with commitments to deepen trade ties, expand private sector engagement, and translate diplomatic dialogue into tangible investment outcomes. Both countries expressed readiness to strengthen their partnership for mutual economic growth.