Dar es Salaam — The Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam, in partnership with the Association of the Ugandan Community in Tanzania (AUCT), successfully held the inaugural Uganda Diaspora Convention under the theme: “Harnessing the Diaspora Potential for Socio-economic Transformation: Strengthening Uganda-Tanzania Ties.”
The landmark event, held at Johari Rotana Hotel, brought together Ugandans residing in Tanzania, senior Ugandan government officials, private sector leaders, and development partners for a dynamic exchange on investment, development, and policy engagement aimed at building stronger economic and social linkages between Uganda and its diaspora.
Strengthening National Ties and Global Presence
The convention was officially opened by Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who represented the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bagiire Vincent Waiswa. In his remarks, Amb. Ssentongo thanked the participants for embracing the inaugural initiative and emphasised the Government of Uganda’s commitment to engaging its diaspora as a key pillar of national development.
“The diaspora is not just a community abroad—it is an essential component of Uganda’s global presence and economic future,” he noted, highlighting efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Uganda’s Missions abroad to meet the evolving needs of Ugandans living overseas.
Amb. Ssentongo further linked the event’s objectives to Vision 2040, emphasising the government’s focus on overcoming developmental bottlenecks through agriculture mechanisation, improved infrastructure, human capital investment, natural resource utilisation, and industrialisation.
Call for Structured Diaspora Engagement
Delivering the keynote address, H.E. Col (Rtd) Fred Mwesigye, Uganda’s High Commissioner to Tanzania, called for the formalisation of diaspora engagement and the establishment of actionable partnerships to drive regional growth.
“This convention is a historic milestone. It opens a platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration. Together, we can convert diaspora potential into measurable impact,” he said.
He reaffirmed the High Commission’s commitment to protecting diaspora rights, listening to their concerns, and advocating for improved service delivery abroad.
Key Presentations and New Services
The convention featured in-depth presentations from high-level officials on diaspora-related policies and services: Dr. Hilary Musoke Kisanja, Senior Presidential Advisor on Agri-Business, presented on government support structures for diaspora engagement in agriculture and investment, while Ms. Judith Kasozi Namaganda, Senior Immigration Officer (MoIA), addressed issues of dual citizenship, travel documentation, and legal frameworks.
Mr. Apedel Andrew, Senior Registration Officer (NIRA), introduced services for National ID registration, renewal, and replacement for Ugandans abroad, while Mrs. Rita Nabateregga Mugula, Senior Investment Executive (UIA), outlined investment sectors, diaspora incentives, and available opportunities in Uganda.
In a major development, the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam became the first foreign mission to roll out NIRA’s enhanced system for diaspora National ID services, bringing essential documentation closer to Ugandans abroad.
Financial Inclusion and Investment Opportunities
A special panel discussion titled “Unlocking Wealth Back Home” featured representatives from leading financial institutions—NSSF, Post Bank, Housing Finance Bank, and Centenary Bank.
Panellists shared tailored financial products for the diaspora, including Diaspora-friendly mortgage and real estate packages, Treasury bond investments, Digital banking platforms and Savings and pension management options.
Showcasing Diaspora Success and Policy Integration
The convention also featured inspiring success stories from Ugandan entrepreneurs operating in Tanzania and provided a platform to unpack current government policies on dual citizenship, immigration, and national identity registration.
High Commissioner Mwesigye closed the day’s proceedings by reaffirming Uganda’s unwavering commitment to expanding diaspora services and deepening collaboration between missions and government ministries, departments, and agencies.
What’s Next?
The convention continues on May 24 with a Diaspora Awareness Run, followed by a Networking Gala. These activities aim to raise awareness of diaspora rights and foster closer ties between the Ugandan government and its citizens abroad.
