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President Yoweri Museveni says unity and collective efforts are key for national development. He has, therefore urged Ugandans to unite and actively contribute to the development of their nation and continent.

The Minister of State for Finance, Henry Musasizi, reading President Yoweri Museveni’s speech whom he represented at the 2nd Convention of Ugandans in South Africa (COUSA) in Pretoria, South Africa.

President Museveni encouraged Ugandans living in these countries to promote Uganda’s tourism potential, highlighting the country’s stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures and incredible wildlife.

He appreciated the governments and people of South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Eswatini, and Lesotho for welcoming Ugandans and providing them with a home away from home.

“I also commend our High Commission in Pretoria for their good work in supporting and mobilizing Ugandans and promoting trade and investment within the region. Their hard work and dedication have played a crucial role in organizing this significant gathering and providing vital services to Ugandans,” he said.

“I am pleased to note that our High Commission in Pretoria has fostered strong community ties and opened many opportunities for trade and investment between Uganda and Southern Africa.”

The president urged Ugandans to be patriotic and to love their motherland, advising them to shun sectarianism.

“Loving Uganda also means that you must believe in social-economic transformation. You must be progressive and work to transform Uganda into a modern country. Love the African heritage like languages, culture and even your colour: Love East Africa and all Africans. Protect the environment. And, finally, love yourself by avoiding reckless living,” he said.

Boosting Uganda’s economy

Under the theme: Celebrating Ugandan Excellence and Development Solutions, the convention intends to bring all Ugandan professionals in these countries together to promote trade, investment, tourism and enhance remittances to Uganda to boost economic development. COUSA was first convened in 2023.

State House Diaspora Unit head Mohammed Bagonza, who is also a senior presidential advisor, emphasised the importance of unity and collective efforts towards national development.

The head of the State House Diaspora Unit, Mohammed Bagonza, making his remarks during the 2nd Convention of Ugandans in South Africa (COUSA) in Pretoria, South Africa.

He also highlighted the Government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for investment, citing favorable policies, free land, tax holidays and affordable labour.

He noted that the diaspora unit was established to engage, support and connect Ugandans in the diaspora with minimal bureaucracy.

“We shall be the one-stop centre to enable you to gain policy information and investment opportunities, ensure legal support and work to leverage your creativity, connections and innovation for national development,” Bagonza said.

He also announced the procurement of the diaspora data management system and the public engagement and feedback mechanism to enhance communication and services.

The Uganda diaspora has been fundamental in the development of the country. Official government data indicates that over four million Ugandans are living abroad. While not all these people are actively maintaining links with Uganda, a significant proportion are active in supporting the development of the country.

According to the Bank of Uganda, the country experienced significant growth in diaspora remittances in 2023, reflecting a 13.4% increase to $1.4b (about shillings 5.184 trillion), up from $1.25b (about sh4.629 trillion). These remittances contribute to Uganda’s economy by enhancing household incomes and supporting various sectors, including education and healthcare.

Several notable figures attended the convention, including Vincent Bagiire, the permanent secretary of the foreign affairs ministry; Paul Amoru, the Ugandan Ambassador to South Africa; Phillip Kakuru, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Trade; Henry Wabyona, the Deputy Head of the State House Diaspora Unit; Hamida Kibirige, the Head of ICT at State House; and Moses Kibombo, the Chairman of COUSA.