Refugee marathon to promote unity, business growth among diaspora communities in Uganda

Kampala, Uganda: The Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, has revealed that the Ugandan government is actively engaging diaspora communities from neighbouring countries to foster collaboration, integration, and socio-economic development.

Speaking during a high-level meeting with Ethiopian community leaders and business owners in Kampala, ahead of the 2nd edition of the Refugee Marathon, Mr Walusimbi said President Yoweri Museveni’s government recognises the critical role of regional diaspora in Uganda’s transformation agenda.

“I welcome you to Uganda, and your business acumen is admirable. President Museveni’s office not only focuses on the Ugandan diaspora, but also individuals who are not citizens but have made their homes in Uganda,” Mr Walusimbi said.

The Ambassador emphasized that the government is creating a unified platform where diaspora members from countries such as Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, Rwanda, and Tanzania can share skills, resources, and innovations to drive Uganda’s development.

Walusimbi noted that the Refugee Marathon, scheduled for next month with First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Affairs, Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, as the chief guest, will attract over 20,000 attendees and serve as a symbol of unity and inclusion.

“The marathon is an inclusive initiative that values contributions and fosters a sense of community and belonging for all diaspora communities,” he said.

Ethiopian community leader Mohammed Suleyman applauded the government for its hospitality, describing Uganda as a “home away from home.” He said the warmth of Ugandans and the country’s conducive environment had enabled many Ethiopians to thrive in Kampala through business and social ventures.

“The marathon is not just a run, it’s a platform for co-creating programs that support business development, social integration, and economic empowerment,” Suleyman said.

He noted that the Ethiopian community had closely collaborated with the Ugandan government during the COVID-19 pandemic and supported 87 Ugandans in Khartoum during the recent Sudan conflict.

Suleyman urged the government to expand such inclusive initiatives to refugee settlements and border areas, including Kyaka II, Rwamwanja, Oruchinga, Nakivale, Kyangwali, Kiryandongo, Rhino Camp, Imvepi, Bidibidi, Palorinya, Adjumani, Palabek, and Kisoro.

“We should use every opportunity to address critical issues affecting diaspora and refugee communities in Uganda. These initiatives should reach all corners of the country,” he said.

The meeting, a preparatory dialogue ahead of the marathon, was also attended by key diaspora figures, including Fikru Abebe (AIRD), Gisilla Amenu (GTB Limited), Alemayehu Tabor (former UN staff), and Amma Yirga from the Ethiopian community.

Organisers believe the marathon will catalyze partnerships between government agencies, refugee-led organizations, business associations, and educational institutions to tailor responses to the refugee community’s unique needs.