U.S. Ambassador William W. Popp addressed members of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) in Kampala during a Thanksgiving event, focusing on the theme of giving back and highlighting the contributions of American companies to Ugandan communities.
Ambassador Popp began by expressing his appreciation for the impact he has observed from U.S. businesses operating in Uganda over the past year. He cited an example from July’s U.S. Independence Day celebration, where American companies partnered with the embassy to mentor and support more than 1,000 students at St. Peter’s Nsambya Secondary School, located near the embassy.
He noted that “through ATC’s particular generosity and community engagement, they built a new computer lab and a basketball court at St. Peter’s. The court was even inaugurated with a game between the students and U.S. embassy staff—I will not say who won the game, but youth definitely was an advantage!”
Ambassador Popp acknowledged several companies for their involvement in these initiatives: “I’d like to recognize American Tower, Crown Beverages, Nile Breweries/ InBev, Sheraton, Wave, Simplifi, Marsh, and Willis Towers Watson for their zeal and sincere partnership in that initiative. Special thanks to American Tower, who went above and beyond to really make an impact for the better at St. Peters.”
He emphasized that such outreach efforts are part of a broader pattern among AmCham members: “Again, this great example is just one of many that I have seen from U.S. companies and AmCham members over my two-plus years in Uganda.”
Reflecting on AmCham’s focus for this year’s Thanksgiving celebration, he said: “So to me it is particularly apt this Thanksgiving to focus on giving back as AmCham’s theme for the celebration this year.”
Ambassador Popp also discussed how American firms abroad demonstrate values such as accountability and corporate social responsibility: “Our firms and private citizens represent and advance essential values of accountability, transparency, and corporate social responsibility in all corners of the globe. In that way, all of you serve as ambassadors in your own right...”
He assured attendees of ongoing support from the embassy: “I can assure you that the U.S. Embassy in Uganda is with you in these efforts... I want to emphasize that the U.S.-Uganda relationship continues strongly intact and we continue to be the single largest bilateral contributor and partner of Uganda.”
The ambassador highlighted recent diplomatic priorities focused on private sector-led growth: “In particular, we have focused our diplomatic efforts on promoting private sector-led growth... Balanced trade is our goal.” He referenced remarks made by Jonathan Pratt at the UN General Assembly: “‘The United States stands ready to work with governments and companies to ensure these resources fuel not only U.S. and global markets but Africa’s own growth and prosperity.’ We want our relationship to be centered on mutual respect and mutual prosperity.”
He reaffirmed America’s role as Uganda's largest bilateral assistance partner while supporting increased trade ties: “We also support the full spectrum of American firms to increase their exports and help innovative Ugandan and African firms expand their investments to the United States... Just this year, we had a record number of Ugandan companies attend the SelectUSA Summit in Washington DC where they connected with U.S. companies...”
Looking ahead toward America’s 250th Independence Day anniversary in 2026, Ambassador Popp announced plans for a new campaign: “To help highlight this spirit, we will launch a new Shared Prosperity campaign leading up to our 250th birthday celebration...that will showcase positive impact that American investment [has].”
He invited business leaders present to engage further with embassy officials about participating in this initiative.
Concluding his remarks with reflections on Thanksgiving traditions both historical and personal—including references to farming heritage—he stated: “This year I am grateful to be here celebrating...with all of you...We will continue to highlight positive transformations you facilitate in Uganda...” He closed by congratulating AmCham organizers for hosting the event.