Uganda honors ministry of Foreign Affairs retiring diplomats

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The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has held a colourful ceremony at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in honour of ambassadors and senior officials whose decades of service have shaped Uganda’s diplomatic presence across the globe.

Some of the retiring staff described the event as an occasion blended with gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to the values that underpin the country’s Foreign Service.

In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, paid tribute to the retirees, describing their careers as “a testament to disciplined service in one of the most complex portfolios of government".

MOFA Permanent Secretary, Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa. (Courtesy)

Noting that the Ministry’s work spans consular protection, conflict resolution, market exploration, investment promotion, tourism development, and delicate negotiations conducted in the national interest, the PS added, “We gather here to recognise the substance of duty quietly rendered, consistently delivered, and nationally transformative.”

He thanked retiring staff, including ambassadors Paul Mukumbya and Elly Kamahungye, plus Ms Juliet Namiiro Mugerwa, for what he called their “distinguished contribution to Uganda’s Foreign Service and to the dignity of our flag abroad.”

Highlighting specific achievements, the PS commended Kamahungye for “his unwavering pursuit of objectives and exemplary representation of the Ministry.”

(Courtesy)

Guests having a light moment at the function. (Courtesy)

Relatedly, he described Mukumbya’s tenure in Mombasa as “a strategic chapter that reimagined opportunity, leveraging port access, partnerships, and regional goodwill to elevate Uganda’s tourism footprint.

"The growth in Kenyan and international tourist flows reflects the power of focused economic and commercial diplomacy,” he added, referring to Mukumbya's achievements.

Mr Bagiire also underscored the importance of sound administration. He acknowledged the MOFA Accounts Department for its stewardship, emphasising that “accurate record-keeping and timely accountability are as vital to diplomacy as negotiation itself.” Calling for a culture of respect within the institution, he urged officers to remember, “how we treat one another becomes the enduring memory of our service. Dignity and kindness are not accessories to leadership; they are its foundation.”

Permanent Secretary, Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa with Amb. Elly Kamahungye. (Courtesy)

In his remarks, Amb. Kamahungye, who expressed gratitude to his colleagues, pointed out the Permanent Secretary and colleagues for their patience and teamwork.

Reflecting on his service over the years, he pointed out that the launch of Economic and Commercial Diplomacy codified in the ECD Strategy Handbook was “a moment of affirmation for years of determined effort.” 

Amb. Paul Mukumbya described the ceremony as a meaningful departure from tradition. “For many years, officers would quietly melt away at retirement,” he said. “Today’s gesture affirms that service is remembered.” Recalling his 31-year career, he emphasised the importance of building cohesive mission teams: “When there are conflicts at the workplace, the first casualty is work; a healthy environment produces results.” He credited collaborative partnerships, including those with the private sector, for strengthening Uganda’s tourism diplomacy and thanked the Government for the privilege of serving in conversations shaping global outcomes.

Permanent Secretary, Mr Bagiire Vincent Waiswa with Amb. Paul Mukumbya. (Courtesy)

Other retirees reflected on resilience, fairness, and gratitude for community support throughout their service.

Several people who addressed the gathering included families, colleagues and friends, who listed achievements of the officers’ journeys.

Also recognised in absentia were Ambassadors. Margaret Kedisi, Patrick Guma Muganda, Ms Aisa Bogere, and Ms Catherine Natabo.

Several staff members described the event as a bridge between generations of diplomats.