VP Ssekandi rallies Ugandans in diaspora on unity

By Vision Reporter

Vice President Edward Ssekandi has advised Ugandans in the diaspora to remain united under their organization, the Uganda North America Association (UNAA) in order to push their agenda forward.

Speaking at 27th UNAA Convention dinner at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in New Orleans, US on Sunday Ssekandi revealed that there has been talk that there were cracks developing in the Uganda diaspora community in the US; and urged them to remain united.

“If there are any cracks developing amongst you, we shall assist you in repairing those cracks so that you continue your journey to greater heights,” he said.

The Vice President also called on the Ugandans in the diaspora to invest in the many business opportunities available now especially in the oil industry which has increased Uganda’s prominence on the global economic map.

“The oil sector and related industries shall transform Uganda. Government therefore, invites you all to get involved in the socio-economic transformation,” Ssekandi said.

He also thanked the diaspora community for the remittances back home which are now at estimated at US$ 1 billion per year.
Uganda’s Ambassador to Washington DC, Oliver Wonekha also called on the Ugandans to remain united adding that for the past two years, UNAA has continued to grow stronger.

The  UNAA president, Brian Kwesiga, called on the Uganda government to work on the promise made to Ugandans in the diaspora, of enabling Ugandans living abroad to vote in the general elections.

“In 2013 in Dallas, we were promised that we would take part in the next general elections. However, it seems we shall not be able to vote in the 2016 elections. We hope this happens in 2021,” he urged.

The Convention culminated with the election of a new president Monday Atigo who will serve a term of two years.