The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has acknowledged the remarkable accomplishments of its diplomatic missions during the ongoing ambassadors’ conference in Jinja. This event serves as a platform to celebrate excellence in diplomatic service and showcase the exceptional efforts of various teams, reaffirming Uganda’s dedication to effective foreign policy and international engagement.
The awards presented at the conference were divided into two categories: Foreign Service Performance Awards and Foreign Service Innovation Awards.
The Uganda Consulate in Mombasa, under the leadership of Ambassador Paul Mukumbya, received recognition as the best performing Mission.
Their strategic utilization of the East African Coast location to enhance tourism between Uganda and Kenya, along with creating networking opportunities for businesses, was highlighted as a key factor in their success.
The Uganda High Commission in Pretoria was honored with the Missions Innovative Award for their innovative approach to diplomacy.
Ambassador Paul Amoru and his team were praised for effectively utilizing Diaspora networks to expand their commercial diplomacy footprint.
Their production of a comprehensive newsletter showcasing their activities and initiatives was a testament to their commitment to advancing Uganda’s foreign policy objectives.
The Abu Dhabi Mission, led by Ambassador Zaake W. Kibedi, achieved the title of first runner-up for best performing mission, while the Permanent Mission of Uganda to the United Nations in Geneva, headed by Ambassador Marcel R. Tibaleka, secured the second runner-up position.
These accolades underscore the collective commitment of all missions in promoting Uganda’s interests globally and elevating its international presence.
Fostering a culture of excellence in diplomacy
Chairperson of the rewards and sanctions committee, Amb. Julius Kivuna, announced the awards, emphasizing the Ministry’s acknowledgment of the hard work and dedication exhibited by its diplomatic corps.
The awards aim to cultivate a culture of results across all missions, encouraging performance excellence, eliminating complacency, and fostering a spirit of continuous improvement among staff and teams at the mission level.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Permanent Secretary Bagiire highlighted the significance of the awards in not only celebrating the achievements of Uganda’s diplomatic teams but also in reinforcing the Ministry’s broader mandate to advance the nation’s foreign policy objectives and enhance its global influence.
The awards serve as a reminder of the pivotal role diplomacy plays in promoting national interests, strengthening relationships, and safeguarding the welfare of Ugandans domestically and internationally.
The selection process for the awards involved the circulation of a standard reporting tool to all missions. This tool outlined clear parameters for evaluation, including set targets, innovative execution approaches, excellence measurements, mission management, quality of reporting, and the submission of evidence of success.
As Uganda navigates complex international relations, the dedication and innovation demonstrated by its diplomatic missions are deemed crucial in achieving strategic objectives and enhancing the nation’s global standing.
