Uganda hosts colourful Africa Day celebration at Sheraton Hotel

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OPINION

By Annabel Oyera

Uganda proudly hosted this year’s Africa Day celebration on May 25, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala. The event brought together ambassadors, diplomats, and high-level guests from across the African continent to celebrate unity, reflect on the past, and recommit to Africa’s shared future. Under the theme “Justice for African for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations.

Africa Day, held annually on May 25, marks the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963, now known as the African Union (AU). It is a day to honour Africa’s journey through history and to look forward to building a stronger, more united, and prosperous continent.

The celebration was attended by various dignitaries, including representatives from embassies in Uganda, who shared powerful messages of unity and hope. The Dean and Rwandan High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Rutabana Joseph, delivered a special message on behalf of the AU Chairperson, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Yossouf.

In the Chairperson’s message, he reminded all Africans of the importance of Africa Day, calling it “a moment of remembrance and togetherness.” He spoke about the injustices committed during slavery and colonialism and how true justice is still yet to be fully achieved.

However, he encouraged Africans not to dwell in defeat but to stay strong in the face of challenges. “Africa is not defeated by past wars or struggles. It is slowly but surely building itself. As the old saying goes, Rome was not built in a day,” he said. He added that Africa’s natural resources, from land, water, and minerals to sunshine, are more than enough to help build the peaceful and prosperous Africa that all Africans dream of.

The Chairperson also praised the role of African youth and women in development, saying they are increasingly taking part in shaping their futures. He noted that African governments are now investing in infrastructure and adopting practical policies to improve lives and support economic growth.

Guest speaker Ambassador Charles Ssentongo added his voice to the message of progress and unity. In his remarks, he said, “I hear your results, and some people ask me, ‘What are you doing?’ I say we are building a continent that works for everyone.” He encouraged everyone to recognise and celebrate the achievements of African leaders, stressing that Africa belongs to all Africans.

“Whatever we do as a country, we do it with Africa in mind. We are committed to the African Union and to improving the lives of our people. We may still have challenges ahead, but we are proud of the progress being made,” he added.

Additionally, some diplomats from various African countries shared their reflections and comments on the importance of the day. Dr Akrem Alfakhal, Political Counsellor at the Libyan Embassy, expressed joy at joining the celebration, saying, “It is our pleasure to celebrate together in this great event. Libya and Uganda have enjoyed a strong relationship for many years. Today is our day, let’s celebrate it as Africans.”

Among the key organisers of the event was H.E. Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, the Ethiopian Ambassador to Uganda, and in a short talk with her, she emphasised the importance of the day. She noted that “Africa Day is a great day to remember, and it should always be celebrated. It reflects our unity and togetherness as Africans.” Her remarks highlighted the spirit of solidarity that defined the celebration and the shared responsibility to keep the dream of a united Africa alive.

Mr Temesghen from the Eritrean Embassy said, “Africa Day is meaningful for us all. It is one way of bringing Africans together. As an Eritrean, I believe we must think and act as Africans.” And Mrs Raissa Mugisha from the Burundi Embassy also shared her thoughts, saying, “This day means a lot to us. It promotes diplomacy and cooperation among African countries.”

Ambassador John Shana Shaga, Head of Mission at the Nigerian High Commission, described Africa Day as an important annual event that must always be honoured. “It brings Africans together and reminds us to be proud of our identity. This day should be commemorated just like any other big national day,” he said.

The Africa Day celebration in Kampala was not only colourful and joyful but also deeply meaningful. It reminded everyone of Africa’s shared history, the strength of its people, and the bright future that lies ahead. Uganda, once again, demonstrated its strong commitment to African unity and development, standing together with fellow nations under the vision of “The Africa We Want.”