Kampala, (UG):- The Office of the President in conjunction with the Eritrean community in Uganda, has organised the 2nd Eritrean Diaspora Investment Conference, aimed at appreciating and boosting business and investment by the Eritreans in Uganda.
In a preparatory meeting with Eritrean entrepreneurs, held at his office in Kampala, the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, revealed that the event scheduled for December 21, 2024, at Palace Play Park, Kampala, will be graced by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, and Ambassador of Eritrea to Uganda, H.E. Mohammed Sulieman Ahmed.
Building on the huge success of the maiden conference, the 2nd edition themed: “Unity Through Diversity”, will bring together members of the Eritrean community; aiming to consolidate achievements and commitments from various government agencies, ministries, and departments, including an Eritrean-Uganda centre.
The Eritrean community has demonstrated remarkable investment potential in businesses, contributing over $3 billion to Uganda’s economy. With a population exceeding 240,000, of which 25% are business entrepreneurs and innovators, Eritreans have firmly embraced Uganda as their second home. Their growing investments reflect a deep trust in Uganda’s inclusive and progressive policies.
“I have interacted with different Eritrean Nationals and have come to appreciate their business acumen. I appreciate and recognize the contribution of the Eritrean community in Uganda, which is now their second home,” said Walusimbi.
He added that the event, coupled with the Beles Bubu Family Fusion Festival reflects His Excellency President Museveni’s call for a Pan-Africanism spirit, which strengthens a sense of brotherhood among Africans.
On her part, Kisanet Tedros, C.E.O and Founder, Beles Bubu, an edutainment powerhouse dedicated to cultural preservation, language education, and empowerment across Africa, highlighted that the festival aims to unite children and families from diverse backgrounds, promoting unity through cultural celebration and empowerment.
“The festival will showcase stories of women entrepreneurs from eight African countries, illustrating how supporting women uplifts society. The event will feature engaging activities for children, panel discussions, traditional dance performances, and a variety of cultural cuisines. Join us in building a future that celebrates unity in diversity,” she assured.
Kisanet also described the Pearl of Africa (Uganda), as their second home appreciating the President for opening borders, offering continued peace, and allowing them to easily integrate within the community.
“I would like in a special way to appreciate His Excellency President Museveni, for opening borders to allow us in Uganda. I thank Ambassador Walusimbi, for receiving and showing us the way to bring together all our brothers and sisters under one roof so that we can continue to significantly improve Uganda,” Kisanet stressed.
Eritrean investor, Kidane Ghebrehawariat Habteselassie, reckoned that the conference will open a new chapter to fostering unity and bridging the information gap between the government and members of the Eritrean community.
He reached President Museveni’s call to promote common interests above identities, highlighting some of the positive contributions made by Eritreans, including direct foreign investment remittances through monetary injections and promoting tourism.
In his remarks, Sandeep Bugatha, General Manager of Palace Play Park, called upon potential Eritrean investors, and members of the general public to attend, thanking whoever is behind this event and all the partners that have supported the cause.
“This will be another massive opportunity for our community. As Palace Play Park, we’re more than ready to host the conference & festival concurrently due to our spacious facility. From panel discussions on fostering unity through diversity, and interactive games to cultural activities. Come and join us,” he noted.
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