Odongo, Oryem and Mulimba Exit After Steering Major Foreign Affairs Reforms

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) on Friday held a farewell luncheon for its outgoing political leadership, with senior management led by Permanent Secretary Vincent Waiswa Bagiire honoring Jeje Odongo, Henry Okello Oryem, and John Mulimba for their service to the ministry.

Outgoing Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeje Odongo has urged the incoming leadership to embrace teamwork and unity to ensure Uganda’s diplomatic agenda remains on course.

Speaking during a farewell luncheon organized by the Ministry’s senior management, Odongo thanked ministry officials for their dedication and close cooperation throughout his tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Jeje Odongo (L) with Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune

He praised staff for their commitment to advancing Uganda’s interests abroad and called on the incoming ministers to work closely together to effectively implement the ministry’s objectives.

“I urge the incoming ministers to work together and with the technical team to ensure the successful execution of the ministry’s mandate,” he said.

Former State Minister for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs) Henry Okello Oryem, who served in the ministry for more than two decades, reflected on his long journey in government, thanking God for the opportunity to serve Uganda since 2005.

Henry Okello Oryem

Oryem credited the ministry’s leadership and staff for their guidance and cooperation over the years, saying the experience had deepened his understanding of international diplomacy and strengthened Uganda’s engagement with the world. He wished the new leadership success as they take forward the country’s foreign policy agenda.

Former State Minister for Foreign Affairs (Regional Affairs) John Mulimba expressed gratitude to senior management and colleagues for their teamwork, guidance and support during his tenure. He particularly commended ministry staff for helping protect and uphold the institution’s reputation and urged them to extend the same support to the incoming ministers.

Representing the new political leadership, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Haruna Kasolo Kyeyune thanked Yoweri Museveni for entrusting him with the responsibility of serving in the foreign affairs sector.

John Mulimba and Haruna Kasolo

Kasolo paid tribute to the outgoing ministers for championing and safeguarding Uganda’s interests across the globe, pledging to work closely with the ministry’s senior management to ensure a seamless transition and continuity of operations.

“My office will remain open to you,” Kasolo told the outgoing ministers, wishing them success in their future endeavors.

The farewell event, was attended by Ambasaadors Richard Kabonero and John LeonardMugerwa and head of Public Diplomacy Ms Margaret Kafeero among other guests.

Th event celebrated the legacy of the outgoing ministers, who oversaw major milestones including the ministry’s shift toward economic diplomacy, digital transformation initiatives, and Uganda’s successful hosting of high-profile international events.