Ambassador Sticker Commits to Continued Investment in Uganda’s Future, Hon. Amama Mbabazi Applauds Bilateral Ties
In a celebration marked by diplomacy, unity, and strategic vision, the French Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Xavier Sticker, hosted a memorable Bastille Day 2025 reception at his residence in Nakasero. The event drew high-profile dignitaries, business leaders, diplomats, and cultural stakeholders, and spotlighted the flourishing bilateral relationship between France and Uganda.
Ambassador Sticker, delivering his final Bastille Day address in Kampala before the end of his diplomatic term, underscored the growing strength of economic, social, and humanitarian cooperation between the two nations.
“Our business community continues to spearhead the partnership between Uganda and France,” he noted. “More than 70 French and Ugandan companies are now members of the French Chamber of Commerce in Uganda, offering vital support and services to new investors.”
The Ambassador revealed that over the past three years, more than Shs8 trillion (approx. €2 billion) has been invested by French companies in Uganda, with a further Shs 12 trillion (approx. €3 billion) committed for the next three years. Sectors of interest include energy, agriculture, urban development, water supply, and technology innovation.
He further emphasized the need for a stable and peaceful political environment, especially ahead of Uganda’s 2026 general elections. “Investment requires not only a favorable regulatory framework but also a predictable, peaceful, and secure social atmosphere,” he said.
Key Development Milestones in 2025
France, through the French Development Agency (AFD), has made impactful contributions in key sectors:
- Water supply for over 1 million residents in northern Kampala (in partnership with National Water & Sewerage Corporation),
- Road rehabilitation and urban drainage development in Greater Kampala (alongside the World Bank),
- Rural electrification benefiting tens of thousands of households (with support from the European Union),
- Financing for Ugandan agribusinesses and small-scale farmers through local banks,
- Support for green-tech startups, further positioning Uganda as a hub for sustainable innovation.
These investments are not only economic—they are human-centered, focused on creating jobs, improving livelihoods, and empowering underserved communities across Uganda.
Hon. Amama Mbabazi: “France is a Trusted Partner in Our Development Journey”
The event’s Guest of Honour, Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi, former Prime Minister of Uganda, lauded France’s contributions to Uganda’s socio-economic progress.
“Bastille Day stands as an enduring symbol of liberty, equality, and fraternity—principles that align closely with Uganda’s own pursuit of freedom, dignity, and national sovereignty,” said Mbabazi.
He emphasized France’s central role in Uganda’s oil and gas sector, pointing to a bold commitment by French companies to invest over £3.8 billion (UGX 18 trillion) in the coming years.
“This pledge is a resounding endorsement of Uganda’s investment potential and a vote of confidence in our future,” he added.
Mbabazi further acknowledged France’s role in enhancing Uganda’s relationship with the European Union, a partnership that continues to deliver development results across healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Advancing Human Rights, Gender Equality, and Refugee Support
Beyond economics, Ambassador Sticker praised the strong partnerships France has forged with Ugandan civil society, promoting gender equity, human rights, and language education through new initiatives in French teaching.
He highlighted ongoing support for refugees and food security efforts in Nakivale and Karamoja, reflecting France’s commitment to humanitarian solidarity.
“Our partnerships are flourishing because they are rooted in mutual respect and teamwork,” he said. “They go beyond diplomacy; they are a reflection of shared humanity.”
A Farewell with Gratitude and Hope
Marking his final Bastille Day celebration in Uganda, Ambassador Sticker expressed deep gratitude to the Ugandan people and institutions.
“These ties are unbreakable. At the end of this evening, I won’t say farewell—just goodbye, and many thanks for your warm welcome to the Pearl of Africa.”
He also extended appreciation to the “French team” in Kampala—including staff from the Embassy, AFD, French School, and Alliance Française—for their tireless efforts in strengthening Franco-Ugandan relations.
France’s engagement in Uganda—rooted in Bastille Day values of freedom, equality, and fraternity—is not symbolic. It is real, measurable, and empowering. It demonstrates what diplomacy looks like when it listens to people, invests in local needs, and respects national identity.
As Uganda looks to 2026 and beyond, the foundation laid during Ambassador Sticker’s tenure is strong. It is now up to both nations—through government, business, civil society, and young people—to build on this foundation and elevate the partnership to even greater heights.
