Uganda, India reaffirm strong ties at 77th Republic Day celebrations

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The Indian community in Uganda celebrated India’s 77th Republic Day at a dinner hosted at the Sheraton Hotel Kampala, highlighting decades of strong diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.

The event, held on January 28, 2026, was officiated by the state minister for Foreign Affairs (International Affairs), Henry Oryem Okello, and India’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Upender Singh Rawat.

Minister Oryem used humour and personal reflections to underscore the long-standing relationship between Ugandans and Indians, describing Indians as a global presence that has shaped his own life.

“Indians are like Coca-Cola. Everywhere you go in the world, every two minutes, you will find an Indian,” Oryem said, drawing laughter from the audience. “I grew up with Indians. They taught me many good things, like cricket, hockey, even how to eat spicy food.”

Oryem said Uganda values India not only as a historical ally but also as a key development partner, noting that the two countries share more than 60 years of diplomatic relations rooted in shared historical experiences.

“Uganda and Africa attained independence after World War II through the experience of our parents and fathers who fought alongside Indian soldiers in Burma,” he said.

“India showed us that independence could be achieved, and that inspired our own struggle.”

The minister highlighted India’s role as one of Uganda’s most significant economic partners, with investments spanning manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, steel production, energy, agribusiness and information technology.

“In the last five years, Indian investment projects in Uganda have added a combined value of approximately US$465 billion to the economy and created about 15,000 jobs,” Oryem said.

“This is a significant contribution to our national growth.”

He added that trade between the two countries currently stands at about US$1.3 billion, with Uganda exporting coffee, oilseeds and minerals to India, while importing pharmaceuticals and manufactured goods.

Looking ahead, Oryem said Uganda sees strong potential for deeper cooperation in pharmaceutical manufacturing and healthcare, particularly in the local production of medicines, vaccines and medical supplies.

“A lot has been done, but more can be accomplished through technology transfer, skills development and joint ventures,” he said.

Oryem also acknowledged the Indian community’s contribution to Uganda’s social and economic life, emphasising that Ugandans of Indian origin should feel fully at home.

“This is their home,” he said. “Ugandans of Indian origin are part of us.”

India reaffirms shared values, expanding cooperation

In his address, High Commissioner Upender Singh Rawat said India’s Republic Day marks not only a constitutional milestone but also the country’s commitment to democratic values, equality and development.

“Years ago, the people of India gave themselves a constitution that affirmed dignity, justice, liberty and equality for all,” Rawat said.

“These ideals continue to guide India’s engagement with the world, including our relations with Uganda.”

Rawat said the Uganda–India partnership has grown broader and deeper over the decades, covering political cooperation, trade and investment, defence collaboration, education and cultural exchange.

“Development cooperation and capacity building lie at the heart of our relationship,” he said.

He highlighted India’s support for human resource development through training programmes and scholarships, noting that hundreds of Ugandans benefit annually from technical and professional courses in India.

“Hundreds of Ugandans also travel to India every year for medical treatment because of the advanced healthcare services available there,” Rawat said.

The High Commissioner praised the Indian diaspora in Uganda for its long-standing contribution to commerce, healthcare, education and philanthropy, saying the community has been “woven into the social and economic fabric of this country for over a century.”

At the multilateral level, Rawat said India and Uganda share a common voice in championing the interests of the Global South, equitable development and reforms of global governance institutions.

“As we celebrate this Republic Day, we reaffirm a partnership grounded in trust, shared aspirations and people-centric development,” he said.

The evening concluded with cultural performances and festivities, celebrating India’s unity, diversity and enduring friendship with Uganda.