Even before Uganda gained independence in 1962, she already had established diplomatic relations with Germany. A German consulate was already present in Uganda, serving the interests of German citizens and businesses in the country. Upon independence, the German consulate was upgraded to an embassy, symbolizing the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries. Shortly after independence, Uganda reverted and also opened an embassy in Berlin, Germany to foster bilateral relations
The embassy of Uganda that serves as the sole diplomatic representation of Uganda in Germany and all her countries of accreditation was opened in 1962, shortly after Uganda’s independence.
Germany hosts over 159 embassies. The Federation Republic of Germany manages over 277 diplomatic missions abroad, including embassies, consulate-generals, consulates, and multilateral missions around the world.
The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Berlin, Germany is responsible for promoting and strengthening the friendly relations between Uganda and Germany, as well as several countries and organizations to which the country is accredited. The embassy has a bilateral consular jurisdiction of Austria, Bulgaria, Czechia, Holy See, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Ukraine.
On the other hand, the embassy is multilaterally accredited to The Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization, or CTBTO Preparatory Commission, The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), The United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) and The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).
The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Berlin, Germany is responsible for promoting and strengthening the friendly relations between Uganda and Germany, as well as several other countries to which it is accredited.
Vision:
To promote Uganda’s national interests in the Mission’s areas of accreditation.
Operational Aspects and Embassy Staff
The embassy is located at Address: Axel-Springer-Strasse 54a, 10117 Berlin, Germany. And can be contacted through Tel: +49 (0) 30 – 20 60 990, Fax: +49 (0) 30 – 20 60 99 10
The embassy operates from Monday to Friday, with general office hours from 9:00 am to 12:45 pm and 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
Diplomatic Staff
H.E. Stephen Mubiru, who was appointed in 2022.
Goal:
The goal of the Embassy is to undertake activities that further overall Uganda’s foreign policy objectives, to promote and strengthen the good relations between Uganda and the Federal Republic of Germany as well as Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Hungary, The Vatican, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Romania, that are represented on the non-residential basis and with the United Nations Agencies in Bonn, Hamburg, and Vienna.
The Embassy’s main focus is the promotion of commercial diplomacy (trade, inward investment, tourism, and country image through supporting trade missions and establishing and facilitating contacts between business entities) in line with Uganda’s Vision 2040 development plan. The Embassy, in this regard, works hand-in-hand with Uganda’s Honorary Consuls in the various countries under its accreditation to strengthen ties and facilitate trade, investment, and goodwill between the two sides.
Another important duty of the Embassy is to provide information, consular services, and assistance to Ugandans in the Diaspora and encourage them to actively participate in developing Uganda.
Consular Services and Diaspora Engagement
The Uganda Mission in Germany provides essential consular services to Ugandans within its jurisdiction, including passport renewals, visa processing, and legal assistance. It is committed to the welfare of Ugandan nationals abroad, offering support in emergencies and helping them understand and comply with local regulations.
The mission also engages with the Ugandan diaspora through community activities, cultural events, and outreach programs, helping maintain a connection between Ugandans in Europe and their homeland.
These activities promote cultural exchange and strengthen the sense of community among Ugandans living abroad.
Mission Statement:
The primary role of the Uganda Embassy in Berlin is to foster and enhance diplomatic relations between Uganda and the countries it is accredited to, as well as to promote cultural, economic, and political cooperation. The embassy works to build strong bilateral relationships, enhance trade and investment opportunities, support Ugandan citizens abroad, and encourage cultural exchange.
Countries the Uganda Embassy in Berlin is accredited to:
- 1 Austria
- 2 Czech Republic
- 3 Poland
- 4 Hungary
- 5 The Vatican
- 6 Slovakia
- 7 Bulgaria
- 8 Romania
This means that while the embassy is physically located in Berlin, it is responsible for handling diplomatic relations and Ugandan interests in these countries as well.
Accreditation to United Nations Agencies and Other International Bodies
The Uganda Embassy in Berlin is also accredited to several United Nations agencies and international bodies, which are primarily located in Germany and Austria. This allows Uganda to participate in discussions, programs, and initiatives run by these organizations. Below is a breakdown of these agencies and their functions:
United Nations Volunteers Office (UNV) in Bonn:
This office coordinates and promotes volunteer work globally. It supports peace and development by advocating for volunteerism and mobilizing volunteers. The Uganda Embassy’s role here would involve coordinating Ugandan volunteers and participating in global volunteerism discussions and initiatives.
Bio-Diversity Secretariat in Bonn:
This secretariat focuses on the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), aiming to promote sustainable development and the conservation of biological diversity worldwide. The Uganda Embassy liaises with this body to support Uganda’s biodiversity efforts and ensure compliance with international biodiversity agreements.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna:
The IAEA promotes the peaceful use of nuclear energy and prevents the spread of nuclear weapons. The Uganda Embassy engages with the IAEA to support Uganda’s peaceful nuclear initiatives, ensuring safety and compliance with international nuclear standards.
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in Bonn:
This body addresses global climate change issues. The Uganda Embassy works with the UNFCCC to negotiate climate policies, access funding for climate adaptation and mitigation, and ensure Uganda meets its climate commitments.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Bonn:
The UNCCD focuses on sustainable land management and combating desertification. The embassy’s role here includes participating in discussions and initiatives to address land degradation and promote sustainable land use in Uganda.
United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna:
UNIDO promotes industrial development for poverty reduction, inclusive globalization, and environmental sustainability. The Uganda Embassy collaborates with UNIDO to support Uganda’s industrialization efforts and access resources for industrial development.
Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO):
This organization monitors nuclear test ban compliance through its International Monitoring System. The Uganda Embassy engages with the CTBTO to support global nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation efforts.
International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) in Hamburg:
ITLOS adjudicates disputes arising out of the interpretation and application of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. The Uganda Embassy engages with ITLOS to protect Uganda’s maritime interests and support international maritime law.
United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA):
UNOOSA promotes international cooperation in the peaceful use of outer space. The Uganda Embassy participates in discussions and initiatives regarding space exploration, satellite technology, and space law.
United Nations Office for Drug and Crime (UNODC):
UNODC deals with issues related to drug control, crime prevention, and criminal justice. The Uganda Embassy works with UNODC to combat drug trafficking, organized crime, and corruption.
United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL):
UNCITRAL is the core legal body of the United Nations system in the field of international trade law, with a mandate to further the progressive harmonization and modernization of international trade law. The Uganda Embassy engages with UNCITRAL to support Uganda’s participation in international trade and legal frameworks.
The bilateral relationship
- The bilateral relationship has been marked by significant economic cooperation, with Germany being one of Uganda’s key trading partners. In 2021, bilateral trade reached approximately 231 million euros, with Uganda exporting agricultural products such as coffee, gold, and fish to Germany while importing industrial goods in return. Germany has also been a major donor of development aid to Uganda, focusing on areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, and civil society development. This aid is facilitated through various programs and partnerships, reinforcing the commitment of both nations to work together for mutual benefit
- Diplomatic relations between the two countries began with the appointment of Heinz Wersdörfer as the first ambassador from the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) to Uganda. Over the years, the embassy has played a crucial role in fostering positive bilateral relations between Uganda and Germany
- In 2021, bilateral trade reached approximately 231 million euros, with Uganda exporting agricultural products to Germany, while importing industrial goods in return. Germany has also been a major donor of development aid to Uganda, focusing on areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, civil society development, and humanitarian aid for refugees. These efforts have strengthened the positive relationship between the two countries.