Kampala, Uganda — The U.S. Embassy in Uganda officially reopened the newly renovated American Center Kampala, marking a major milestone at the start of 2026 as the United States celebrated 250 years of independence.
Speaking at the launch, Amb. William. W. Popp described the reopening as both a moment of reflection and a launch toward the future. “America250 is not just a reflection on the past, it’s a launchpad for the future,” Amb. Popp said. “The American Center is a space for connection, learning, and opportunity.”
The renovated American Center represents a significant investment in strengthening people-to-people ties between the United States and Uganda. While the former Center served as a vibrant and welcoming hub, its limited space prompted the need for expansion and modernisation. The new facility is brighter, larger, and more flexible, designed to better support education, innovation, technology, cultural exchange, and collaboration.
Amb. Popp emphasised that the Center is dedicated to sharing ideas, experiences, and opportunities, while promoting access to information, freedom of expression, learning, and mutual understanding values that unite both nations. As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, he noted that the milestone is not only about honoring history, but also about investing in future generations.
Under U.S. leadership, the ambassador reaffirmed America’s commitment to forging new partnerships, championing innovation, and strengthening cooperation with Uganda. The American Center provides opportunities for people from all backgrounds, especially young people, to study, connect, and explore pathways such as studying in the United States, participating in English-language programs, and engaging with American excellence in science, technology, entrepreneurship, and the creative industries.
Highlighting the Center’s impact, Amb. Popp noted that more than 8,000 Ugandans visited the previous American Center in the past year, with over 500 graduates completing programs including the Workforce Accelerator and the Foreign Policy Executive Program. He described the Center as a hub where emerging leaders can find inspiration, build networks, and contribute to their communities.
The Ambassador also recognised U.S. exchange alumni, including Mandela Washington Fellows and Hubert H. Humphrey Fellows, whose murals and artwork enhance the Center’s spaces and reflect the enduring connection between the United States and Uganda. He expressed appreciation to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations, the Public Diplomacy team, American Center staff, alumni and community partners whose dedication made the reopening possible.
The American Center Kampala is open Monday through Saturday and offers free Wi-Fi, a library, EducationUSA advising, study-in-the-U.S. resources, reading and printing services, and a welcoming environment for learning and collaboration.
As the ribbon was cut to officially inaugurate the new American Center Kampala, Ambassador Popp welcomed guests to a new era defined by connection, opportunity, and shared commitment celebrating America’s 250 years while building partnerships for the future.
