The U.S. Embassy in Uganda is seeking volunteers to join its American Liaison Network (ALN) as Citizen Liaison Volunteers (CLVs). The initiative aims to strengthen communication between the embassy and U.S. citizens living in Uganda.
According to the embassy, CLVs—previously known as wardens—are private citizens who assist the embassy in supporting Americans in need. "Citizen Liaison Volunteers are formerly known as wardens. Wardens/CLVs are private citizens who help the Embassy support U.S. citizens in need. CLVs can assist travelers in distress, help us track down missing U.S. citizens, and, in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency, help us locate other U.S. citizens so we can help get them to safety. Most often, CLVs are called on to be our ‘eyes and ears’ in the community, providing valuable feedback on what life is like for U.S. citizens living in Uganda. CLVs are usually U.S. citizens who are longer-term residents of Uganda. Please note that this is a voluntary position that does not imply financial reimbursement."
The embassy emphasizes the importance of having CLVs outside Kampala, particularly in smaller cities and rural areas where it may be harder to reach Americans during emergencies.
"A CLV partners with the Embassy to address security, safety, and health issues affecting U.S. citizens overseas. CLVs are assigned to one of several zones throughout Uganda. The Embassy is looking for CLVs from a variety of professional backgrounds, who can bring a range of skills, knowledge, and contacts to the position. They have strong ties to the expatriate community in their zone, and they are familiar with local contacts and resources that would be useful in emergency situations," according to the statement.
CLVs serve on a voluntary basis without pay and must sign an agreement outlining their responsibilities.
The embassy notes that "CLVs are not U.S. Embassy official representatives, employees, spokespersons, consular officers, or consular agents." Their main role is serving as links between the embassy and American residents or visitors.
Duties for volunteers may include helping relay information about local resources available for Americans; reporting gaps or risks related to crises or security; sharing information from the embassy with other Americans; encouraging enrollment in programs such as STEP; maintaining contact networks; and assisting during emergencies if directed by officials.
The statement clarifies: "You are not a representative of the U.S. government.
You are not compensated for performing this role.
You are not a government employee, a spokesperson, a consular officer, or consular agent.
You must refer all media or legal inquiries to the Embassy.
You must also refer to the Embassy all general requests to explain policies, procedures, or services beyond what is publicly available.
You must safeguard the privacy of personal information that is provided to you in the course of your duties."
Those interested in volunteering can contact KampalaUSCitizen@state.gov with their details for further instructions.