The United States Embassy in Uganda marked the 250th anniversary of American independence with a National Day celebration in Kampala on September 24, highlighting the longstanding relationship between the United States and Uganda.

U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Mikael Cleverley said the anniversary was an opportunity to reflect on the courage, resilience, innovation and determination that have shaped the United States and its partnerships around the world.

“We celebrate today those remarkable people who laid the foundation for our country. Their acts were followed by other great acts of courage, vision, and determination. We celebrate a nation of doers, of tryers, of adventurers—people who defied the odds,” Cleverley said.

He said these values also influence the way the United States approaches its partnerships with Uganda, describing them as the “American Edge.”

“Whether innovation, philanthropy, pragmatism, transparency, industry, creativity, or something else—these are elements, added advantages, that also imbue our partnerships,” he said.

The embassy said U.S.-Uganda cooperation has continued to expand across health, humanitarian assistance, trade, investment, technology and cultural exchange.

Health remains a major area of cooperation, supported by a $2.3 billion U.S.-Uganda Health Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding.

Under the agreement, the United States has committed up to $1.7 billion, while Uganda is expected to provide more than $570 million in additional domestic health spending.

The memorandum supports government-led programmes targeting HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria and pandemic diseases, while also strengthening Uganda’s health systems and emergency preparedness.

According to the embassy, the agreement builds on more than two decades of health cooperation between the two countries, during which they have helped respond to more than 600 disease outbreaks.

The United States also remains Uganda’s largest contributor of humanitarian assistance. The embassy said the U.S. government is adopting new delivery mechanisms aimed at providing emergency lifesaving support while improving efficiency, accountability and impact.

In trade and investment, the embassy said American companies, technology and innovation are contributing to Uganda’s economic ambitions.

On September 1, SpaceX’s Starlink launched its low-Earth-orbit satellite internet service in Uganda after receiving a five-year provisional licence from the government.

The service is expected to expand access to high-speed internet, particularly in areas underserved by traditional telecommunications infrastructure.

On June 10, Uganda Airlines and Boeing signed a $2.37 billion agreement for 10 aircraft. The embassy described the deal as the largest single commercial agreement in the history of the U.S.-Uganda bilateral relationship.

The embassy said it is also working with American companies to explore investment opportunities in agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral development, science and technology.

It said projects under discussion are valued at hundreds of millions of dollars and align with Uganda’s development priorities.

The opening of the Kampala Marriott Hotel and Executive Apartments in Nsambya was also cited as an example of growing investment in Uganda’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Beyond trade and investment, the embassy said people-to-people connections remain an important part of the relationship.

The relationship has been shaped by more than a century of educational exchanges, scientific research, entrepreneurship, cultural programmes, humanitarian work and personal ties.

Formal exchanges between the two countries date back to 1909, when former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt visited Uganda as part of a scientific expedition.

According to the embassy, more than 6,000 Ugandans who have participated in U.S. exchange programmes are now contributing to the country’s economic, social and civic development.

The American Center, which opened in January, also welcomes thousands of Ugandans each year for learning, networking and cultural exchange.

Sports diplomacy is another emerging area of engagement. The embassy said Uganda’s Ghetto Kids performed alongside Shakira at the FIFA World Cup final during the past summer, showcasing Ugandan talent to a global audience.

With Uganda preparing to co-host the Africa Cup of Nations next year, the embassy said sports and cultural exchanges between the two countries are expected to grow.

The embassy said the “Freedom 250” commemoration was not only a celebration of America’s history but also an opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to building the future with partners such as Uganda.

It said the United States would continue working with Uganda to deepen bilateral ties, promote shared prosperity, strengthen health and security, expand opportunities and bring the two peoples closer together.