The United States has reiterated its commitment to supporting border security and migration management efforts in the Lake Victoria region. Speaking at a handover ceremony at Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp highlighted ongoing cooperation between the United States, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) aimed at addressing challenges related to transborder migration and organized crime.
Ambassador Popp emphasized the significance of Lake Victoria as a resource for over 40 million people in the region, noting its importance for trade, transportation, fishing, and tourism. He also acknowledged the vulnerabilities associated with such an important area: “Lake Victoria is a lifeline for over 40 million people in the region, serving as a vital resource for trade, transportation, fishing, and tourism. However, its importance also makes it vulnerable to exploitation by criminal networks engaged in smuggling and human trafficking. These activities undermine the safety, security, and prosperity of communities that depend on the lake, as well as all our nations.”
The event marked the handover of vehicles and equipment from the United States to Ugandan authorities through IOM’s program. Ambassador Popp stated: “Recognizing the need for a coordinated counter response, the United States is proud to support this effort. Transnational organized crime is a global challenge, and criminals exploit vulnerabilities wherever they exist. That is why President Trump and the United States government remains steadfast in its commitment to combating cross-border criminal activity and illegal migration.”
He added that strengthening relationships among regional border authorities and fostering connections with local communities are essential steps toward closing security gaps around Lake Victoria: “In addition to today’s important handover of vehicles and equipment to the Government of Uganda, the relationships this initiative has strengthen will be key to counter illegal cross-border activity. The people-to-people connections that have been developed, the strengthening of ties between regional border authorities, and their engagement with local communities on the lake who are cooperating to close those vulnerabilities, will make Lake Victoria communities and our nations more secure. These activities, utilizing the equipment donated by the United States today, will continue into 2026 and will lay the foundation for strengthened cooperation well into the future.”
Ambassador Popp concluded by recognizing IOM’s role in managing these resources responsibly alongside Ugandan authorities: “On behalf of the United States of America, it is an honor to work with IOM in its responsible management of this program and our American taxpayer resources, and with the Ugandan Ministry of Internal Affairs. Together, we are building a safer and more prosperous future. Thank you very much.”