Uganda’s Minister in Charge of the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, has urged Ugandans living abroad to increase investments in their home country and use their international networks to support economic transformation.
Babalanda made the call while addressing Ugandans at the UG@64 Australasian Independence Gala Dinner and Cultural Expo held at Collingwood Town Hall in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
The event, organised by Ugandans living in the Australasian region, was part of activities marking Uganda’s 64th Independence Anniversary under the theme, “Embracing Our Sovereignty with Hope and Visionary Leadership.”
In her address, Babalanda conveyed greetings from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Janet Kataaha Museveni, who also serves as Minister of Education and Sports.
She commended the organisers for bringing together Ugandans and friends of the country from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Uganda and other regions, describing the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen relationships and develop partnerships that could benefit Uganda.
Babalanda said the diaspora remained an important partner in the country’s development, noting that its contribution extended beyond financial remittances to include professional expertise, entrepreneurship, knowledge transfer and international connections.
She encouraged Ugandans abroad to establish stronger business partnerships, facilitate technology transfer and connect local entrepreneurs to international markets.
“The responsibility of building Uganda extends beyond its geographical borders,” Babalanda emphasised, urging diaspora members to take a more active role in investing in the country.
She argued that their understanding of Uganda, combined with international experience, access to capital and professional networks, placed them in a strong position to stimulate entrepreneurship, create employment and unlock economic opportunities.
The minister also called on Ugandans abroad to act as ambassadors by promoting the country’s tourism attractions, cultural heritage, hospitality and investment opportunities.
On Uganda’s international image, Babalanda cautioned against allowing isolated negative incidents reported in the media to overshadow the country’s broader achievements and potential.
However, she maintained that promoting Uganda’s image should not involve concealing challenges or discouraging constructive criticism.
She said patriotism required citizens to acknowledge the country’s weaknesses, participate in finding solutions and ensure its strengths received adequate recognition.
Babalanda highlighted Uganda’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, fertile soils, natural resources and entrepreneurial potential as key assets that could attract investment and support economic growth.
She also recalled former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s description of Uganda as the “Pearl of Africa,” urging the diaspora to help showcase the country’s potential to the international community.