Uganda received more than $971 million (UGX 3.6 trillion) in the Fiscal year 2017 as assistance to the her people from the United States.
While launching the 2017 Fiscal year report to Ugandan people, H.E Deborah Malac the U.S Ambassador to Uganda said that Uganda remains one of the biggest recipients of U.S. bilateral aid in the world.
“This assistance helps ensure all Ugandans can access education and economic opportunities, and take full part in the civic and political life of their country. We believe this is the future that all Ugandans – regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or political beliefs – deserve” the Ambassador noted.
She added that the United States is proud to continue its longstanding strong partnership with Uganda to create a brighter future for all Ugandans, and for both countries, and that the report is meant to explain to Ugandans what the U.S. government does in Uganda, why they do it, and how it improves the lives of Ugandans.
“Over the last year, the work of our Mission has led me to all corners of Uganda. I traveled to Karamoja, Iganga, Tororo, Kasese, Mbarara, Kalangala, West Nile, and other spots, which gave me the chance to meet many Ugandans.
I was impressed by their creativity, passion, and commitment to making a positive difference. Most of all, I was inspired by the talent and energy of the country’s youth. I believe that Uganda will have tremendous success in the future if we can work together to empower its youth and provide them with opportunities” H.E Malac told the press at the American Embassy in Kampala this morning.
Last year, Uganda received over $500 million (UGX 1.9 trillion) on improving her health sector. U.S. programs are training health professionals; helping Uganda fight HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other diseases; reducing maternal and child mortality; and strengthening health systems to better handle drug purchasing, storage, and distribution.
“We are working to improve agricultural production, protect the environment and wildlife, and provide young Ugandan entrepreneurs with the skills they need to succeed. Our Mission encourages U.S. companies to invest in Uganda and helps Ugandan companies access American markets. When our commercial ties expand, we get stronger together” She added.
According to Amb. Malac, the U.S continues to partner with Uganda to promote peace and stability in the country and the region. America is currently training Ugandan soldiers to contribute to peacekeeping operations in the region, and helping the country build its capacity to detect and control infectious disease outbreaks, as this is also essential for ensuring security.
On the issue of refugees, Amb. Malac said that Uganda has experienced a huge influx of refugees, and the U.S is working with her and international partners to provide them with food assistance, healthcare, shelter, water infrastructure, sanitation, access to education and livelihoods, as well as support for the local communities who are hosting them.
They U.S. is also engaging the UN and office of the Prime Minister in Uganda to ensure thatinfividuals who misused refugee funds are investigated thoroughly.
She also said that prosperity and stability depend on effective, democratic governance that provides citizens a say in how they are governed, reason U.S. programs in Uganda promote the rule of law and respect for human rights, support the media, and empower Ugandan civil society to fight corruption and hold elected officials accountable.
“U.S. Mission Uganda remains dedicated to partnering with Uganda to create the future that its youth deserve – a future of health, prosperity, security, democracy, and strong education. I look forward to another great year ahead making progress toward achieving these goals. Together, we will succeed” she concluded.
