American Center Kampala opens, ambassador Popp says to deepen US-Uganda ties

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The US Embassy in Uganda has officially opened the new American Centre in Kampala city, unveiling a modern public diplomacy space designed to deepen people-to-people ties, expand access to education opportunities and support youth innovation.

The facility was commissioned by US Ambassador to Uganda William Popp during a ceremony attended by diplomats, educators, students, alumni of US exchange programmes and community leaders, marking a significant upgrade of one of the embassy’s most visible outreach platforms in Uganda.

The centre located on Ggaba Road (across from Tirupati Mall) on the 1st Floor of Embassy Plaza is a one-stop resource centre and collaborative programming space meant to foster a connection between Ugandans and Americans on areas of mutual interest.

It regularly hosts a variety of programmes, including panel discussions, trainings, expert presentations, movie screenings and discussions. 

"Membership and all services are free of charge to the public; however, visitors must present a valid photo ID to access the facility," the embassy says.

It adds that the centre offers virtual and in-person programmes covering professional development, cultural programmes, entrepreneurship and information on studying in the US.

Ambassador Popp said the opening of the centre coincides with preparations to mark 250 years of US independence in 2026, describing the milestone as both a moment of reflection and a forward-looking commitment to partnership.

He said the American Centre embodies core American values of liberty, opportunity, and free exchange of ideas, while serving as a hub where Ugandans can access information on studying in the US, join English language programmes, and engage with American advances in science, technology, arts, and entrepreneurship.

The envoy revealed that over 8,000 patrons used the Centre last year, with over 500 graduates completing the Workforce Accelerator programme and 300 senior professionals graduating from the Foreign Policy Executive Programme.

He also highlighted the role of Ugandans who have benefitted from US exchange programmes, including alumni who designed the Centre’s murals and interior space, saying the facility reflects a shared investment in education, youth leadership, and long-term US–Uganda cooperation.

Below is the statement:

Distinguished guests, colleagues, friends, and partners,

It is an honor to host you today as we open the doors to the new American Center Kampala. On behalf of the United States Embassy to Uganda, I warmly welcome each of you. Thank you to all our Ugandan partners, educators, students, and community leaders for joining us on this important day.

As we open this Center, we also celebrate an important milestone in American history—the 250th anniversary of U.S. Independence, which we will officially recognize on July 4, 2026. The United States was founded on principles of liberty, opportunity, and self-governance that have shaped the United States and inspired generations around the world.

America250 is not just a reflection on the past—it’s a launchpad for the future.  Under President Trump’s vision, we are forging new partnerships, championing innovation, and building cooperation that will carry us forward for the next 250 years. This Center embodies America’s founding ideals.  It is a space for connection, learning, and opportunity.

As we mark America250, we reaffirm our shared commitment to education, innovation, and mutual understanding. Here, young people can access information about studying in the United States, participate in English language programs, and explore the latest in American excellence in science, technology, and the arts.

Over 8,000 patrons used the center last year and we now have over 500 graduates from our Workforce Accelerator and 300 graduates from our Foreign Policy Executive Program. This is a space where ideas are exchanged freely, and where the next generation of leaders can find inspiration and support.

It is also where we showcase the talents and experience of Ugandans who have traveled on U.S. government exchange programs. In fact, we have many of our alumni here with us today. Please raise your hands!

Additionally, the amazing murals you see in the center and the design of the space itself was all done by U.S. exchange alumni. Please join me in recognizing the work of Mandela Washington Fellows Emmanuel Ssekkito and Humphrey Nabimanya.

As we celebrate this opening and America’s 250 years of independence, I invite everyone to make the American Center their own. Whether you are a student, a teacher, an entrepreneur, or a lifelong learner, this space is for you.

We look forward to welcoming you, hearing your stories, and working together to build a brighter future—one rooted in the values of freedom and opportunity that unite our nations.

Today’s opening would not have been possible without the dedication of many people. I want to thank Ryan Eargle from our Office of Overseas Building Operations, our Embassy American Center team—Lana Surface, Francis Ekki, and Lydia Nanteza—and our Kibo Group partners, who worked hand-in-hand with the Embassy to manage the Center. Could the American Center team please raise their hands? Thank you for all your work.

The Center would not have been possible without your contributions. As everyone explores the Center today, I encourage you to connect with these individuals to learn more about our available programs and resources.

Let us continue to invest in the power of education, the promise of youth, and the strength of our partnership. As we celebrate America250, let us also celebrate the enduring friendship between the United States and Uganda, and our shared commitment to a future defined by education, opportunity, and innovation.

With that, I now declare the American Center officially opened! Please enjoy exploring the Center and thank you for your support!