At the 2025 Annual Ambassadors Conference held at Gulu University, General Salim Saleh, Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), emphasized the urgent need for tighter collaboration between Uganda’s diplomats and key government ministries. He warned that without unified action, the nation could miss vital opportunities in international trade and economic diplomacy.
Delivering a keynote address, Gen. Saleh called for Uganda’s foreign relations to be guided by a cohesive national strategy that closely aligns with the country’s economic goals. “To move forward on the global stage, we must better understand our international partners and ensure seamless coordination between our diplomats and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs,” he said.
Highlighting Uganda’s recent gains in diversifying its exports—particularly in gold, tourism, and remittances—Saleh noted these sectors as examples of how non-traditional exports can significantly strengthen the economy. However, he pointed out that agriculture, a key pillar of Uganda’s economy, remains largely underutilized in terms of export potential.
“There is still untapped value in our agricultural sector,” he remarked. “If we are serious about economic transformation, we must create targeted strategies that empower our farmers and improve their access to global markets.”
Saleh also challenged Uganda’s diplomatic missions abroad to move beyond protocol-focused roles and become active drivers of trade, investment, and market development for Ugandan goods and services. He stressed the importance of integrating the work of foreign missions with the priorities of domestic institutions.
“Our embassies must operate with the national interest at heart, not in isolation,” he stated. “We need better planning, shared goals, and stronger coordination between the Foreign Service and other key ministries.”
The week-long conference, held under the theme “Strengthening the Foreign Service’s Contribution to National Development,” brought together senior diplomats to assess their impact, share best practices, and ensure their activities are fully aligned with Uganda’s broader development objectives.