Uganda has hosted its first-ever Diaspora Convention in Tanzania, aimed at strengthening socio-economic ties and engaging Ugandans living abroad in national development efforts.
Organized by the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam in collaboration with the Association of the Ugandan Community in Tanzania (AUCT), the convention was held under the theme “Harnessing the Diaspora Potential for Socio-economic Transformation: Strengthening Uganda-Tanzania Ties.”
The event, held at Johari Rotana Hotel in Dar es Salaam, brought together members of the Ugandan diaspora, senior Ugandan government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners. Discussions centered on investment, national identity registration, dual citizenship, and other diaspora-related services.
Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, Chief of Protocol at Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, officiated the opening on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Bagiire Vincent Waiswa. He underscored the government’s prioritization of diaspora engagement and highlighted the role of the Ministry and Uganda Missions abroad in responding to diaspora needs.
“Ugandans abroad are a critical component of the country’s transformation agenda under Vision 2040, which targets mechanization of agriculture, industrialization, and human capital development,” Ssentongo said.
Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, Col (Rtd) Fred Mwesigye, called for structured diaspora engagement, emphasizing the need for partnerships that drive economic growth and regional integration.
“This convention offers a historic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation. Together, we can transform diaspora potential into tangible impact,” Mwesigye said.
The convention featured key presentations from Ugandan government officials, including Dr. Hilary Musoke Kisanja, Senior Presidential Advisor on Agribusiness; Ms. Judith Kasozi Namaganda, Senior Immigration Officer; Mr. Andrew Apedel from NIRA; and Mrs. Rita Nabateregga Mugula of the Uganda Investment Authority. Topics covered included diaspora policies, immigration procedures, investment opportunities, and the new NIRA system, which now offers ID registration and renewal services at the mission in Dar es Salaam.
In a panel titled “Unlocking Wealth Back Home,” representatives from NSSF, Post Bank, Housing Finance Bank, and Centenary Bank outlined financial services for the diaspora, including affordable mortgages, digital banking, and investment instruments.
The event will culminate on May 24 with a Diaspora Awareness Run and a networking gala, reinforcing Uganda’s commitment to extend services and safeguard the rights of its citizens abroad.
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