Kampala, Uganda – Foreign Service Officer Ambassador Dickson Ogwang Okul has commended the United Returnees Organization (URO) for its pivotal role in harnessing the skills and resources of former Ugandan diaspora now back home and contributing to the national economy.
Ambassador Ogwang made the remarks during a productive meeting with URO leadership, including President Ms. Lydia Mwesigwa and Mr. Ben Asiimwe, held at RADO Consultancy Firm. The discussions centered on strengthening collaboration between URO, the Diaspora Services Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and RADO to maximize the impact of returnees on Uganda's development agenda.
"Returning Ugandans bring invaluable experience, networks, and capital that are critical to achieving our national objective of tenfold growth," Ambassador Ogwang stated. "This meeting was about creating structured pathways to ensure their contributions are effectively harnessed for the benefit of all Ugandans."
The URO, representing a growing community of former diaspora members, is increasingly recognized as a vital force in Uganda's economic landscape, contributing to sectors ranging from technology and finance to agriculture and manufacturing. Recent evacuations from countries like South Africa have further underscored the importance of reintegrating returning citizens into the local economy.
During the meeting, Ambassador Ogwang was also presented with a copy of his recently launched book, "Uganda Since 1986: The Socio-economic transformation journey of Uganda Since 1986 - Through the Eyes of a Foreign Service Officer," which documents the nation's recovery and progress under the leadership of H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM Government. The book has been praised for its firsthand account of policy decisions and diplomatic efforts that have shaped modern Uganda.
"Our diplomatic missions are not just administrative outposts; they are tools for economic diplomacy and investment promotion," Ambassador Ogwang emphasized, echoing themes from his book that align with his vision for the Diaspora Services Department to drive commercial diplomacy.
The meeting concluded with both parties expressing optimism about future collaboration, reinforcing a shared commitment to building a stronger Uganda through the active engagement of its global citizens.
