The United States government has reinstated all HIV/AIDS support to Uganda’s Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) following a tweet by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Gen Kainerugaba shared the update after receiving confirmation from Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, Uganda’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
“I have learnt from Ambassador @adoniaayebare that the US government has restored all HIV/AIDS support to the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) after my tweet some days ago,” Kainerugaba said.
He expressed gratitude to former US President Donald Trump for the decision, saying, “I thank President @realDonaldTrump and his government for being on the right side of history and for helping our people!”
Kainerugaba also acknowledged the efforts of US Ambassador to Uganda, William Popp, whom he met recently.
“I also thank @USAmbUganda William Popp for his fantastic work in restoring this support. Finally, I appreciate Ambassador @adoniaayebare for co-ordinating this effort,” he added.
The meeting between Kainerugaba and Ambassador Popp took place at the Special Forces Headquarters in Entebbe in February. During their discussions, Kainerugaba praised the strong and long-standing partnership between Uganda and the United States.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1962, Uganda and the United States have collaborated across various sectors, including diplomacy, security, economy, health, and culture,” he said.
He described the relationship as being built on “mutual respect, cooperation, and a shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and development.”
The army chief also highlighted the deep cultural and historical ties between the two nations. “Beyond diplomatic relations, the similarities between our peoples are deeply rooted in culture and shared heritage. With over 40 million Black people in the United States, the country remains a natural ally of Uganda and Africa,” he said.
Kainerugaba commended the United States for its continued support in Uganda’s development efforts, acknowledging the significant impact of American cooperation on the country and its people.