UK Diplomatic Shift: Lisa Chesney MBE Takes Over as High Commissioner to Uganda
The UK government has announced the appointment of Lisa Chesney MBE as the new High Commissioner to Uganda, succeeding Kate Airey OBE. Ms. Chesney will take up her new role in October 2024, following Ms. Airey’s transfer to another diplomatic service appointment.
Kate Airey OBE’s tenure in Uganda will be notably remembered for the recent sanctions imposed on Speaker Anite Among and two former ministers, Mary Goretti Kitutu and Agnes Nandutu. These sanctions were related to alleged corruption involving the theft of iron sheets meant for vulnerable Karamojong. Speaker Among denied the allegations, claiming they were politically motivated and linked to the Anti-Homosexuality Act passed under her watch. President Museveni also called for a probe into the allegations after the UK insisted that Among owned a house in London.
In a statement, the UK foreign secretary confirmed Ms. Chesney’s appointment, noting, “Ms. Lisa Chesney MBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Uganda in succession to Ms. Kate Airey OBE who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Ms. Chesney will take up her appointment in October 2024.”
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Chesney said, “I’m proud to be appointed as the next British High Commissioner. When Kate Airey finally moves on, I know she will leave a great legacy. Very much looking forward to join the excellent British High Commission in Uganda team in October!”
Ms. Chesney brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has been serving as the British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone since August 2021. Previously, she led the UK’s Counter-Extremism Unit and served in the Home Office as Gold Command for the Crime, Policing, and Fire Group’s response to and recovery from COVID-19. Her career has focused on security and defense, with significant roles in the FCO and the Counter-Terrorism Department.
Ms. Chesney studied at St Andrews University and the Institute of Management Development and was awarded an MBE in the New Year’s Honours list in 2014. Her extensive experience in diplomatic service and commitment to security and defense issues make her a valuable addition to the British High Commission in Uganda.
