The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has held discussions with the Acting United States Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Mikael (Mika) Cleverley, on strengthening defence cooperation and bilateral relations between Uganda and the United States.
The meeting, held on Tuesday in Fort Portal, was H.E. Cleverley’s first official engagement with Uganda’s military leadership since assuming office last month. The discussions centred on enhancing collaboration in areas of mutual interest, including defence and regional security.
During the meeting, Gen. Kainerugaba commended the United States for its longstanding partnership with Uganda, particularly in military training, counter-terrorism, healthcare, and regional security initiatives. He also acknowledged the positive impact of U.S.-supported programmes in education, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
The CDF, however, raised concerns over the continued travel advisories issued by the U.S. government, saying they have adversely affected Uganda’s tourism sector, which remains a key contributor to the country’s economy and a source of livelihood for many citizens. He reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all visitors.
In response, Acting Ambassador Cleverley thanked Gen. Kainerugaba for hosting him and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to deepening the longstanding relationship between the two countries. He expressed his intention to build on the existing cooperation and further strengthen bilateral ties.
H.E. Cleverley recently assumed leadership of the U.S. Embassy in Kampala following the departure of Ambassador William W. Popp.
The meeting was also attended by the Commander Land Forces, Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga; the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Maj. Gen. Richard Otto; and veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda.
