Ambassador Frederieke Quispel: Netherlands and Uganda Building a Future Beyond Aid

By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D. (Hon.) updated at 1859 EAT on Tuesday 11th November 2025

Dutch envoy highlights trade, agriculture, and human rights as key pillars of a growing partnership with Uganda.

A Renewed Partnership Beyond Aid

Netherlands Ambassador H.E Frederieke Quispel: Courtesy photo

As she marks her first year in Uganda, Ambassador Frederieke Quispel of the Kingdom of the Netherlands continues to nurture the growing ties between Kampala and The Hague.

Since assuming office in July 2024, she has championed a new era of cooperation — one defined by trade, investment, and sustainable partnerships rather than traditional aid.

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“The Netherlands enjoys an important, strong, and cordial bilateral relationship with Uganda,” Ambassador Quispel said.

“Our focus has gradually moved from aid to trade and investment, and we now work together in several key sectors that drive growth and opportunity.”

Focus on Food Security and Trade

A central pillar of Dutch cooperation with Uganda lies in Food Security.

The Netherlands supports Uganda in making its agricultural sector more competitive and commercial, boosting productivity through:

Improved agro-inputs and processing Market access and infrastructure Skills development and agricultural policy reform Land tenure and access to finance Renewable energy and regional trade promotion.

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These initiatives are designed to help Uganda’s farmers and agribusinesses thrive in both local and export markets.

Strengthening Governance and the Rule of Law

The Netherlands also works closely with Ugandan partners in the area of Security and Rule of Law.

This includes collaboration with both state and non-state actors to advance:

Human rights and media freedom Accountability and anti-corruption efforts Justice reform, peace, and reconciliation Transitional justice and land justice

“Our partnership is about more than economics — it’s about shared values of democracy, fairness, and human dignity,” Ambassador Quispel noted.

Supporting Youth, Climate Action, and Health

Beyond governance, the Netherlands is investing in Climate Change adaptation, Private Sector Development, and Youth Employment — all aimed at creating jobs, attracting investment, and boosting innovation.

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A key focus remains Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), which supports Uganda’s demographic dividend strategy and strengthens essential health systems. The COVID-19 pandemic, Ambassador Quispel noted, underscored the importance of resilient healthcare.

“Promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment is at the heart of all our interventions,” she emphasized.

Consular Services and Business Opportunities

The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kampala provides a wide range of consular services for Ugandans seeking to study, travel, or do business in the Netherlands.

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Comprehensive information is available at www.netherlandsandyou.nl, which also offers details on trade and investment opportunities.

Looking Ahead

Ambassador Quispel expressed optimism about the future of Uganda–Netherlands relations, reaffirming her commitment to a partnership built on mutual respect, innovation, and shared prosperity.

“We want to see our partnership continue to grow and thrive,” she said.

“Together, we can build a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future for all Ugandans. It is our pleasure to assist and engage with you.”

Courtesy content

The Embassy can also be reached on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) via @NLinUganda.

Career Background of Ambassador Frederieke Quispel

2024–Present: Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to Uganda (based in Kampala)

2020–2024: Head of the Human Rights and Political and Legal Affairs Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, The Hague

2016–2020: Deputy Ambassador to Ottawa, Canada

2002–2016: Joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving in:

Burundi as First Secretary Rwanda as Second Secretary Sub-Saharan Africa Directorate, Personnel Department, and Consular Affairs Directorate

Education

2001: Master of Arts in Contemporary History, University of Amsterdam (UvA)

1994: VWO, Twents Carmel Lyceum, Oldenzaal

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