Dar es Salaam, Tanzania — From sunrise runs to electric dance floors, the Uganda High Commission in Dar es Salaam delivered a landmark weekend that celebrated community, diplomacy, and the enduring spirit of Ugandans abroad.
The historic 1st Uganda Diaspora Convention, held under the theme “Harnessing the Diaspora Potential for Socio-economic Transformation: Strengthening Uganda-Tanzania Ties,” concluded with two unforgettable events — a vibrant Networking Gala at Bravo Coco Beach and a sunrise half-marathon that united more than 300 participants.
A Night to Remember: Beats, Bonds, and Home Away From Home
The Networking Gala lit up Bravo Coco Beach with exhilarating performances and heartfelt camaraderie. With DJ Sese spinning crowd favourites and Swangz Avenue star Azawi igniting the stage with hits like “Repeat It” and “Slow Dancing,” Ugandans in Tanzania and across the region came together to celebrate heritage and foster stronger networks.
“The energy tonight is powerful — this is more than just a gala. It’s a homecoming,” said one participant, draped in the Ugandan flag.
Dar Wakes Up to Diplomacy in Motion
Earlier on May 24 at 5 AM, the normally quiet streets of upscale Oyster Bay buzzed with excitement as hundreds gathered at the Uganda High Commission Chancery for the Ugandan Diaspora Run, a half-marathon organized in partnership with the Association of Ugandan Community in Tanzania (AUCT), The Runners Club Tanzania, and the Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon.
With routes of 15km, 10km, 5km, and 2km, the run showcased Ugandan unity and health consciousness, while also shining a spotlight on sports as a tool for public diplomacy and tourism.
Winners Earn Tickets to Uganda’s Premier Marathon
Winners Musa Ramadhan Rajabu (15km) and Regan Allen Massawe (10km) were each awarded round-trip tickets courtesy of Uganda Airlines to participate in the 4th Tusker Lite Rwenzori Marathon, set for August 23, 2025, in Kasese, Uganda.
“This marathon is not just a run — it’s a pathway to global platforms,” said Julius Sekajja, Rwenzori Marathon representative. “Your race times are recognised by World Athletics and can help you qualify for the Olympics.”
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Through Sport
Uganda Airlines Country Manager Lucy Ismail and High Commissioner Amb. Col (Rtd) Fred Mwesigye awarded the tickets and reaffirmed the power of sports in diplomacy.
“This run is a major milestone in our partnerships with the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Tourism, and Sports,” said Amb. Mwesigye. “We are proud to use such platforms to engage our diaspora, build community, and promote Uganda’s potential.”
He also praised NIRA (National Identification and Registration Authority) for offering weekend services at the venue, bringing essential services closer to Ugandans living abroad.
A Legacy of Connection
Organised with support from White Cap Crisp, Tanzania Women’s Run (TWR), and other stakeholders, the run marked a powerful close to the convention’s activities. The Networking Gala that followed reinforced the High Commission’s commitment to connecting with and celebrating the diaspora.
From physical endurance to cultural expression, the Uganda Diaspora Convention in Dar proved that diplomacy can dance, run, and unite.
As Amb. Mwesigye declared at the gala: “We are here to serve, to connect, and to grow together as Ugandans—wherever we are in the world.”
