New Irish envoy to Uganda pledges to strengthen ties

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Ireland’s Ambassador to Uganda, Mags Gaynor, has officially begun her tenure after presenting copies of her credentials to Uganda’s foreign affairs minister, General Jeje Odongo.

The presentation, held at the Ministry of Internal Affairs offices in Kampala today, August 13, was marked by warm exchanges that underscored the long-standing ties between the two nations. General Odongo welcomed Ms Gaynor and expressed confidence that her appointment would further strengthen the Uganda–Ireland partnership, which has flourished for more than three decades.

Ireland’s Ambassador to Uganda, Mags Gaynor (Right) presented copies of credentials to Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs General Jeje Odongo. (Courtesy)

"Ireland’s Ambassador designate, Mags Gaynor, presented copies of credentials to Uganda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, General Jeje Odongo, today at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Uganda. They warmly welcomed our new ambassador, & both spoke highly of the enduring friendship between Uganda & Ireland," the Irish Embassy official X account posted.

Gaynor succeeds Kevin Colgan, who served as Ireland’s Ambassador to Uganda from 2021 to 2025. During his tenure, the two countries deepened collaboration in education, health, humanitarian support, technology, and capacity building. She has been the Deputy Head of Mission and Cooperation at the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania.

Since establishing diplomatic relations 31 years ago, Uganda and Ireland have worked together to address pressing social and economic challenges. Ireland’s development assistance has been particularly impactful in education, with a strong focus on improving access, quality, and equity, especially in the Karamoja region and refugee centres.

In the health sector, Ireland has supported initiatives to strengthen maternal and child health services, combat HIV/AIDS, and improve access to essential healthcare in rural areas. Humanitarian assistance from Ireland has also been instrumental in responding to refugee crises and supporting vulnerable communities, particularly in northern Uganda and the Karamoja region.

The partnership has expanded into technology and innovation, promoting digital skills and supporting projects that enhance service delivery. Capacity-building initiatives, especially for educators and public servants, have helped foster leadership and institutional resilience, with teachers making a difference, spearheaded by Vision Group.

Gaynor’s arrival is expected to bring renewed energy to bilateral relations, with plans to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, and climate action, alongside the traditional areas of development cooperation.