Ugandans in Qatar urged to stay united, focused
The convention, held under the theme “Doubling Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Uganda”, brought together Ugandan migrant workers, professionals, community leaders and government representatives to assess progress and strengthen collaboration between Uganda and its citizens in Qatar.
Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs and Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, Mohammed Bagonza, giving his speech during the 2nd Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
__________________
The Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs and head of the State House Diaspora Unit, Mohammed Bagonza, has urged Ugandans abroad to embrace unity, responsible citizenship and deeper involvement in national development.
He made the call while delivering a keynote address as guest of honour at the 2nd Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention in Doha on November 29, 2025.
The convention, held under the theme “Doubling Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Uganda,” brought together Ugandan migrant workers, professionals, community leaders, and government representatives. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
The convention, held under the theme “Doubling Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Uganda”, brought together Ugandan migrant workers, professionals, community leaders and government representatives to assess progress and strengthen collaboration between Uganda and its citizens in Qatar.
Opening the event, Ambassador Mohammed Baswari Kezaala, Uganda’s deputy head of mission in Qatar, applauded the Ugandan community for their contribution to development in both countries.
He encouraged them to uphold discipline, unity and patriotism, and noted that the Mission remains committed to improving service delivery and safeguarding the welfare of Ugandans in the Gulf.
Ambassador Mohammed Baswari Kezaala, Uganda’s Deputy Head of Mission in Qatar, making his remarks during the 2nd Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
“We appreciate your hard work and resilience. You represent our country, and we urge you to continue conducting yourselves with dignity and honour,” he said.
In his address, Bagonza emphasised the government’s recognition of the diaspora as a key pillar in Uganda’s development.
The convention, held under the theme “Doubling Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Uganda,” brought together Ugandan migrant workers, professionals, community leaders, and government representatives. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
He highlighted the significant contribution of Ugandans abroad through remittances, skills transfer, business linkages and international networks.
Bagonza urged them to remain peaceful, avoid divisive politics and support the stability that has underpinned Uganda’s economic progress.
Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs and Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, Mohammed Bagonza, giving his speech during the 2nd Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
He reaffirmed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s commitment to improving diaspora welfare and noted that the establishment of the State House Diaspora Unit marked a new phase in structured engagement.
“Our mandate is to make every Ugandan abroad visible, engaged and empowered,” he said, adding that the government continues to work with missions, ministries and development partners to address diaspora concerns and expand opportunities.
The President of the Ugandan Community in Qatar (UGACOQ), Saul Rayan Aliguma, welcomed the delegation and thanked the Government of Uganda for its renewed engagement.
The President of the Ugandan Community in Qatar (UGACOQ), Saul Rayan Aliguma, welcomed the delegation and thanked the Government of Uganda for renewed engagement with the community. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
Aliguma commended Ambassador Kezaala for improving access to consular services and strengthening trust with migrant workers.
He encouraged Ugandans to work hard, remain united and maintain good conduct to protect opportunities in the host country.
The convention, held under the theme “Doubling Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Uganda,” brought together Ugandan migrant workers, professionals, community leaders, and government representatives. (Credit: Uganda High Commission Qatar)
Also present were Victoria Nabiteeko, the International Organisation for Migration programme officer, and Desree Barlow, the special presidential assistant.
The convention concluded with renewed commitments to deepen cooperation between the Government of Uganda, the Uganda Mission in Qatar and the Ugandan community.