Saudi Arabia's New Ambassador to Uganda Arrives with Extensive Diplomatic Experience

H.E. Ambassador Mohammed Bin Khalil Faloudah, the newly appointed ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Uganda, arrived in the country on April 24, 2024. Amb. Rashid Yahya Ssemuddu, representing the Ugandan government, welcomed Ambassador Faloudah at Entebbe International Airport.

Ambassador Faloudah brings a wealth of diplomatic experience to his new role, having previously served as a deputy ambassador to Myanmar, Finland, and the United States, as well as a Consulate General to the U.S. His arrival indicates the strengthening of bilateral ties between Uganda and Saudi Arabia, two countries with a long history of trade and religious pilgrimage dating back to pre-colonial times.

Why this matters: The appointment of Ambassador Faloudah highlights the importance of the relationship between Uganda and Saudi Arabia. The two countries have a shared history and strong economic ties, with Saudi Arabia investing close to $100 million in Uganda's development projects across various sectors.

Saudi Arabia has made significant investments in Uganda's agriculture, education, healthcare, and energy sectors, totaling nearly $100 million. Uganda has also benefited from Saudi Arabia's contributions to the Islamic Development Bank and the Saudi Fund for Development, which have funded projects in infrastructure, healthcare, and energy.

In 2014, Uganda and Saudi Arabia signed a bilateral labor agreement, resulting in over 150,000 Ugandans finding employment in the Gulf country. This agreement has provided valuable opportunities for Ugandan workers and contributed to the economic growth of both nations.

The arrival of Ambassador Faloudah marks a new chapter in the diplomatic relations between Uganda and Saudi Arabia. With his extensive experience and the strong foundation of cooperation between the two countries, Ambassador Faloudah is well-positioned to further strengthen the bilateral ties and promote mutual interests in various sectors.

Key Takeaways

• Saudi Arabia's new ambassador to Uganda, Mohammed Bin Khalil Faloudah, arrived on April 24, 2024.
• Faloudah brings extensive diplomatic experience, having served in Myanmar, Finland, and the U.S.
• Saudi Arabia has invested nearly $100 million in Uganda's development projects across various sectors.
• Uganda and Saudi Arabia signed a bilateral labor agreement in 2014, resulting in 150,000 Ugandan workers.
• Faloudah's appointment marks a new chapter in Uganda-Saudi Arabia diplomatic relations.