Ugandans abroad called to pool resources for sustainable development projects

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Ugandans living in Australia are pushing for a strategic shift from remittance-driven support to structured investment back home.

The call emerged during the Easter interstate games held in Canberra, where community leaders, officials and professionals converged, according to Uganda’s High Commissioner to Australia.

Dorothy Hyuha Samali said the time had come to formalise diaspora participation in the economy through coordinated investment vehicles.

She urged Ugandans in Australia to form pooled investment groups capable of raising between $50,000 and $100,000 for deployment in sectors such as agriculture, real estate, and manufacturing.

“This is about moving from consumption to wealth creation,” she said, noting that fragmented individual contributions often fail to generate lasting impact.

The push reflects a growing recognition within government that the diaspora should be treated not merely as a source of remittances, but as a strategic development partner.

During the event, participants noted that the diaspora remains an underutilised economic force capable of driving long-term growth.

According to statistics from the Bank of Uganda, Ugandans abroad send home more than $1 billion annually, with much of it spent on immediate household needs such as education and healthcare.

However, stakeholders argued that without channeling part of these flows into productive ventures, the diaspora’s full economic potential will remain untapped.

It was noted during the event in Canberra that structured diaspora investment could help bridge financing gaps in key sectors while reducing reliance on external borrowing and aid.

Building networks

The events by Ugandans in Australia are increasingly being viewed as platforms for building networks, strengthening identity, and enhancing Uganda’s visibility within the country's multicultural landscape.

Chiaka Chioma Barry, an attendee described the gathering as a strong platform for social cohesion.

“It reflects how diaspora communities can strengthen internal unity while also contributing meaningfully to the societies in which they reside,” he said.

Gladys Kamali emphasised the importance of such initiatives in promoting unity, noting that such organised gatherings play a critical role in sustaining community bonds.

“These are not incidental outcomes, but the result of deliberate effort and leadership,” she said.

Community leaders added that this form of engagement—often described as soft power—can complement formal economic contributions by positioning Ugandans as organised and influential actors abroad.

Youth and sustainability

Attention also turned to the sustainability of diaspora engagement, particularly among younger Ugandan Australians.

Organisers emphasised the need to involve second-generation migrants, arguing that long-term investment and engagement will depend on their continued connection to Uganda.

Hyuha noted that women and young professionals are already playing an increasingly prominent role in leadership and organisation within diaspora communities.