Gen Kainerugaba Hosts Acting U.S. Amb., Raises Concerns Over Travel Advisories

FORT PORTAL — The Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has received the new Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Mission in Uganda, H.E. Mikael “Mika” Cleverley, for talks aimed at strengthening bilateral and defence cooperation.

The meeting, held this afternoon in Fort Portal, marked H.E. Cleverley’s first official engagement with Uganda’s military leadership since assuming his role last month.

General Kainerugaba welcomed the new U.S. envoy and commended the United States for its long-standing partnership with Uganda, particularly in military training, counter-terrorism, health, and regional security.

He also appreciated the support extended to Ugandans through various U.S.-backed programmes in education, agriculture, and infrastructure development.

During the talks, Gen. Kainerugaba raised concern over the continued travel advisories issued by the U.S. government, noting that they negatively affect Uganda’s tourism sector, a key pillar of the national economy and a major source of livelihood for many Ugandans.

He reiterated Uganda’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all visitors to the country.

On his part, H.E. Cleverley thanked the CDF for hosting him and pledged Washington’s commitment to strengthening and deepening relations with Uganda.

He acknowledged the importance of the Uganda–U.S. partnership and expressed his desire to build on the existing foundation of cooperation between the two countries.

H.E. Cleverley recently assumed leadership of the U.S. Embassy in Kampala following the departure of Ambassador William W. Popp.

The meeting was attended by the Commander Land Forces, Lieutenant General Kayanja Muhanga; the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, Major General Richard Otto; and veteran journalist Mr. Andrew Mwenda.