(Entebbe) – President Yoweri Museveni formally welcomed seven newly appointed ambassadors, affirming Uganda’s commitment to strong diplomatic and economic partnerships with their respective countries. The credentials ceremony took place on Thursday, November 14, at State House in Entebbe, where the president underscored Uganda’s dedication to fostering productive relationships based on mutual interests and cooperation.
The newly appointed envoys include Lisa Chesney MBE from the United Kingdom, Leonard Zulu as the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Uganda, Dr. Madou Diallo from Mali, Firas Khouri from Jordan, Gentiana Serbu from Romania, Katarina Zuffa Leligdonova from Slovakia, and Tone Tinnes from Norway. Each ambassador expressed commitment to furthering collaboration in areas that align with Uganda’s development goals.
In his remarks, President Museveni emphasized Uganda’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties with each country, noting that such diplomatic exchanges are vital for addressing both regional and global challenges. He highlighted the importance of cooperation across sectors, particularly in trade, security, and humanitarian initiatives. According to a release from the Presidential Press Unit, the arrival of these ambassadors marks a step toward deeper collaboration, signaling Uganda’s active engagement with the international community.
Among the dignitaries present was Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Okello Henry Oryem, who welcomed the ambassadors on behalf of the government and expressed optimism about the positive impact these partnerships will bring to Uganda.
Table 1: New Ambassadors to Uganda (November 14, 2023)
Ambassador Country Title Lisa Chesney, MBE United Kingdom High Commissioner Leonard Zulu United Nations Resident Coordinator Dr. Madou Diallo Mali Ambassador Firas Khouri Jordan Ambassador Gentiana Serbu Romania Ambassador Katarina Zuffa Leligdonova Slovakia Ambassador Tone Tinnes Norway Ambassador
Following the presentation of credentials, each ambassador participated in brief meetings with President Museveni, discussing opportunities for partnership and ways to enhance mutual goals. The British High Commissioner, Lisa Chesney, was accompanied by a delegation from the United Kingdom, which presented key areas of interest that align with Uganda’s economic and security priorities.
Romanian Ambassador Gentiana Serbu and Jordanian Ambassador Firas Khouri each presented ceremonial gifts to President Museveni, symbolizing goodwill and respect. The Romanian delegation was joined by Honorary Consul Godwin Murungyi, who also engaged with officials on strengthening Romania-Uganda relations. Slovak Ambassador Katarina Zuffa Leligdonova and Norwegian Ambassador Tone Tinnes also took the opportunity to discuss collaboration with Uganda on international development projects.
