Parliament Bids Farewell to Swedish Ambassador, Praises Bilateral Ties

Ugandan legislators on Thursday, August 13, 2026, expressed gratitude to H.E. Maria Hakanson, the departing Ambassador of Sweden to Uganda, for her dedicated service and the robust relationship cultivated between the two nations.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa highlighted Ambassador Hakanson’s strong advocacy for Uganda’s health sector, particularly in promoting equitable access to healthcare, including sexual and reproductive health rights. This support, he noted, has led to improved health outcomes for women, children, and youth, enhancing overall health resilience and social security.

Beyond health, Tayebwa recognized Sweden’s partnership in advancing political and human rights, as well as the law and justice sectors. He also underscored the crucial role Sweden has played in higher education, citing the 10 Ugandan students who departed for Sweden on full scholarships that week, and the training provided to Ugandan professors.

“If it had not been for Sida Sarek and Norad, I think our university education sector would not have made the progress they have now,” Tayebwa stated.

Several other Members of Parliament echoed these sentiments. Hon. Isaac Modoi praised Sweden and other Nordic countries for their support during Uganda’s decentralization process, which involved training administrative officers in ethical conduct and resource management. Hon. Betty Naluyima shared her personal experience benefiting from Sweden’s International Center for Local Democracy (ICLD) training, which equipped her with governance skills she now uses to train other local leaders across East Africa.

Government Chief Whip Hon. Jane Ruth Aceng commended Sweden’s contributions to the health and education sectors, pointing to improved maternal health and reduced child mortality. She also mentioned the development of an immunization data collection app by Karolinska University with significant input from Ugandan students.

State Minister for Trade, Industry and Cooperatives (Cooperatives) Hon. Tom Alero and Terego District Woman Representative Hon. Rose Obigah appreciated Sweden’s welcoming nature and opportunities for non-citizens, sharing personal positive experiences of living and working in Sweden. They thanked Sweden for hosting many Ugandans.

Ambassador Hakanson is set to begin her next tour of duty in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.