The 2nd Eritrean Diaspora Investment Conference and Festival, set for December 21, 2024, in Kampala, Uganda, promises to be a monumental event aimed at enhancing Eritrean investments and fostering community integration. Organized by the Office of the President in collaboration with the Eritrean community in Uganda, this conference will celebrate the significant contributions Eritrean nationals have made to Uganda’s economy while promoting unity and collaboration across cultures.

A Groundbreaking Event in Uganda: The Eritrean Diaspora Conference

In a meeting held earlier this month, Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi, announced that the second Eritrean Diaspora Investment Conference will take place at Palace Play Park in Kampala. The event, which will feature prominent dignitaries such as Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja and Eritrean Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Mohammed Sulieman Ahmed, builds on the success of the inaugural conference held in 2023.

This year’s conference, themed “Unity Through Diversity,” focuses on strengthening the relationship between the Eritrean community and Uganda. The aim is to consolidate previous achievements, enhance cooperation between government agencies, and establish an Eritrean-Ugandan center that will support further economic integration and cultural exchange.

Celebrating the Eritrean Community’s Impact on Uganda’s Economy

Eritrean nationals in Uganda have proven to be key contributors to the local economy, with over $3 billion in investments made in various sectors. The Eritrean community, which numbers over 240,000 people, includes more than 25% business owners, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Their contributions are a testament to Uganda’s welcoming policies, which have created a favorable environment for investment and growth.

Ambassador Abbey Walusimbi commended the entrepreneurial spirit of the Eritrean community, stating, “I have interacted with different Eritrean nationals and come to appreciate their business acumen. I recognize their remarkable contribution to Uganda’s economy, making it their second home.”

The upcoming conference also underscores President Museveni’s commitment to Pan-Africanism, a vision that encourages solidarity and unity among African nations. This spirit of togetherness will be exemplified not only through the investment discussions but also through the Beles Bubu Family Fusion Festival, an integral part of the event.

Beles Bubu Family Fusion Festival: A Celebration of Unity and Empowerment

Kisanet Tedros, CEO and Founder of Beles Bubu, an edutainment organization focused on cultural preservation and empowerment across Africa, shared the vision for the festival. The festival will feature a range of activities designed to promote unity and celebrate African diversity. It will highlight the success stories of women entrepreneurs from eight African countries, showcasing how empowering women can uplift entire communities.

The festival will also include panel discussions, traditional dance performances, cultural cuisine, and activities for children and families. “We aim to bring together diverse communities through cultural celebration, creating an inclusive environment where we can all learn from each other,” Kisanet said.

She also expressed gratitude for Uganda’s welcoming atmosphere, saying, “We appreciate President Museveni for opening Uganda’s borders to us and fostering an environment of peace and integration. Uganda has become our second home, and we are excited to contribute to its growth and development.”

Eritrean Investors Share Their Vision for Growth and Unity

Eritrean investor Kidane Ghebrehawariat Habteselassie emphasized the importance of the conference in bridging the information gap between the Eritrean community and Uganda’s government. He echoed President Museveni’s call for prioritizing common interests over individual identities, stating that the Eritrean community’s investments not only contribute to Uganda’s economic development but also promote tourism and foreign direct investment.

By creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the conference aims to further strengthen the ties between Eritrean investors and the Ugandan government, ensuring a shared vision for prosperity.

Palace Play Park Hosts a Vibrant Conference and Festival

Sandeep Bugatha, General Manager of Palace Play Park, which will host the event, expressed excitement about the upcoming conference and festival. He highlighted the venue’s spaciousness, which makes it ideal for such a large-scale event. “This will be a fantastic opportunity for the Eritrean community and the wider public. With panel discussions on unity, diversity, and cultural integration, interactive games, and cultural activities, the event promises to be an engaging and memorable experience,” Bugatha said.

Over 300 Top Eritrean Investors to Attend the Conference

This year’s conference will bring together over 300 leading Eritrean investors, government officials, academics, women, children, and families. The event will showcase the Eritrean community’s significant contributions to Uganda while emphasizing the importance of unity and cultural integration. The 2nd Eritrean Diaspora Investment Conference and Festival will undoubtedly provide a platform for meaningful dialogue, cross-cultural exchange, and future business opportunities between the two nations.

As Uganda continues to welcome and support the Eritrean community, the conference highlights the transformative power of unity, investment, and cultural celebration in building a brighter future for all.