The U.S. Exchange Alumni Network Uganda (USEA) met with U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary Sarah Troutman to discuss Uganda bilateral trade partnerships.
The engagement provided a platform for alumni to demonstrate how the knowledge, networks, and leadership skills gained through U.S. exchange programs are being applied to support entrepreneurship, innovation, and private sector growth in Uganda. Discussions centered on expanding trade linkages, facilitating partnerships between U.S. and Ugandan businesses, and positioning alumni as trusted connectors within both markets.
“We look forward to exploring opportunities for strengthening U.S.–Uganda bilateral trade and commercial partnerships for Ugandan businesses to thrive. Our exchange experiences equipped us with global exposure, ethical leadership principles, and practical business insight.
We are ready to serve as bridges connecting U.S. companies to credible, investment-ready opportunities in Uganda.” —Owomugisha Blessing Immaculate, President of USEA
DAS Troutman commended the alumni for translating their exchange experiences into measurable impact and reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to advancing commercial diplomacy and sustainable economic cooperation.
“Uganda stands at a pivotal moment of economic transformation. As exchange alumni, we carry not only international experience but a deep commitment to our country’s growth. By strengthening partnerships with U.S. businesses, we are contributing to job creation, innovation, and a more competitive Ugandan economy.” —Owomugisha Blessing Immaculate, President of USEA,
Adding to the discussion, Nesta Katende, a technology entrepreneur and exchange alumnus, emphasized the role of emerging technologies in driving inclusive growth.
“Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept; it is a present-day tool for economic acceleration. By integrating AI into local enterprises, investing in capacity building, and expanding access to affordable finance, we can unlock value addition across key sectors”
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to leveraging alumni networks to deepen economic collaboration, strengthen people-to-people ties, and promote inclusive trade growth between Uganda and the United States.
The U.S. Exchange Alumni Association Network- Uganda (USEA) is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that brings together Ugandans who have participated in U.S. government-funded exchange programs such as YALI, the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Fulbright, IVLP,
TechWomen, and others. With a nationwide membership of over 6,000 alumni, USEA leverages its members’ global exposure, skills, and leadership to champion inclusive and sustainable development at the grassroots level. Our programming focuses on civic engagement, education, youth skilling, women’s empowerment, digital inclusion, public health, and entrepreneurship, with a core commitment to community transformation and active citizenship.