The Norwegian government officially closed its embassy in Kampala, Uganda, on Friday, with diplomats lowering the flag for the last time.

This closure was part of a broader effort announced late last year to reorganize Norway’s diplomatic presence in Africa.

Despite the closure, Norway signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Political Consultations with the Ugandan government to maintain strong diplomatic ties.

This MoU ensures regular communication and cooperation on political matters between Oslo and Kampala, facilitating dialogue and coordination on mutual interests despite the absence of a physical diplomatic presence.

Previously, the Norwegian Embassy in Kampala also represented Norway in Rwanda and Burundi.

These East African Community countries will now be covered by the Norwegian mission in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Bilateral trade between Uganda and Norway has been growing steadily, with Uganda’s main exports to Norway including coffee, tobacco, and textiles. In 2022, bilateral trade was valued at approximately $15 million.