Cape Town, South Africa: The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretary General, Rt Hon Richard Todwong, has called on Ugandans living abroad to channel their resources into investment opportunities back home, citing Uganda’s peace and stability as key drivers for profitable ventures.
Todwong made the remarks over the weekend while representing President Museveni at NRM South Africa victory celebrations and the launch of the Uganda Diaspora SACCO in Cape Town.
Addressing members of the Ugandan diaspora, Mr Todwong emphasized that the country’s security and macroeconomic stability offer a conducive environment for investment. “I advise you to take the many opportunities at home and invest back home. The peace and security we have in Uganda can make you invest and make good returns,” he said.
The SG noted that the government is prioritising household-level economic transformation, particularly targeting subsistence farmers and vulnerable groups.
“We want all subsistence farmers to join the money economy and all vulnerable groups to become productive,” Todwong added.
The NRM government, he said, is implementing strategies aimed at transitioning communities from subsistence living to income-generating activities.
Diaspora SACCOs key to mobilisation
Todwong encouraged Ugandans abroad to organise themselves into Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), describing them as critical vehicles for accessing government support. “They should form SACCOs through which government can channel its contributions,” he said.
He also stressed that Uganda’s governance framework is inclusive, noting that economic success is not tied to political affiliation. “You don’t need to be a member of NRM to succeed in Uganda. Our policies are open to all Ugandans,” he added.
Henry Wabyona, Deputy Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, underscored the growing importance of Ugandans abroad in national development. “Through remittances, investment, knowledge transfer, and international networks, you continue to make a significant contribution to our economy,” he said.
Wabyona revealed that Ugandans in the diaspora remit approximately $1.6 billion annually, supporting families, businesses, and broader economic growth.
He described the newly launched Uganda Diaspora SACCO as a strategic platform for mobilising savings and promoting collective investment.
The event was attended by Uganda’s Ambassador to South Africa, Paul Amoru, alongside other senior government and party officials, including Eng. Jonard Asiimwe, the NRM Vice Chairperson for Western Region.
The Cape Town engagement reflects NRM’s growing policy focus on integrating the diaspora into Uganda’s socio-economic transformation agenda.
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