Uganda’s Secretary to the Treasury, Ramathan Ggoobi, has urged Ugandans living in France to become ambassadors for trade, tourism, and investment in their home country. Speaking at a special gathering at the newly renovated Uganda Embassy in Paris, Ggoobi emphasized the importance of the diaspora’s role in driving economic growth beyond remittances.
“We need the partnership of Uganda’s diaspora to implement the fourth National Development Plan and achieve Vision 2040,” Ggoobi stated, encouraging attendees to promote Uganda’s agricultural exports, tourism, and investment opportunities.
Accompanied by officials from Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Uganda Revenue Authority, and Uganda Investment Authority, Ggoobi highlighted the government’s focus on key sectors, including Agriculture, Tourism, Mineral Development, and Science and Technology Transfer.
The event, hosted by Uganda’s Ambassador to France, Doreen Ruth Amule, saw lively engagement from members of the Ugandan community working in various sectors, from sports to technology. Discussions included incentives for diaspora investors, tax benefits, and plans for a Diaspora Bond in partnership with the Bank of Uganda.
As part of his four-day visit, Ggoobi also met with representatives from French and Spanish firms, including Airbus and Satlantis, to explore business and financing opportunities for Uganda.
The visit aligns with Uganda’s broader strategy of strengthening economic diplomacy through embassies, with the Ministry of Finance allocating UGX 60 billion to revamp diplomatic missions and enhance trade, investment, and tourism efforts.