PROFILE: Who is Lisa Chesney, the new UK envoy to Uganda

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office has announced the appointment of Lisa Chesney MBE as the new British High Commissioner to the Republic of Uganda. Ms. Chesney will succeed Kate Airey OBE, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

Chesney brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having served in various capacities in the Foreign Office, Home Office, and other organizations. Her most recent posting was as British High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, a position she held from 2021 to present.

Prior to her appointment as High Commissioner, Ms. Chesney served in various roles, including Head of the Counter-Extremism Unit at the Home Office from 2018 to 2020, and Deputy Head of the Security Policy Department at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office from 2015 to 2018. She also served as Deputy Head of Mission in Mogadishu from 2013 to 2014, and Head of Politics and Strategic Communications at the Provincial Reconstruction Team in Lashkar Gah from 2012 to 2013.

Ms. Chesney has also completed a Higher Command and Staff Course at the Defence Academy of the United Kingdom in 2015, and has received full-time language training in Pashto in 2012.

In addition to her diplomatic experience, Ms. Chesney has also worked in the private sector, serving as European Category Director at Coats Plc from 2005 to 2008, and as Sales and Marketing Manager from 1995 to 2005.

Ms. Chesney’s appointment will take effect in October 2024. Her extensive background in diplomacy, security policy, and counter-extremism is expected to serve her well in her new role as the UK’s representative in Uganda.

The change in leadership is part of the routine rotation of diplomatic personnel, and Ms. Chesney’s appointment is seen as a sign of the UK’s continued commitment to strengthening its relations with Uganda.