The Minister of State for Labour, Employment and Industrial relations, Esther Anyakun has assured investors of a peaceful and favorable environment in Uganda that guarantees investment and boosts business growth.
This was during the 2nd Eritrea Diaspora Investment Conference and Cultural Exchange Festival, organised by Office of the President at Palace Play Park, Kampala.
Spearheaded by the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Amb. Abbey Walusimbi, the event was organized under the theme; “Uniting Communities, Preserving Culture and Inspiring Economic growth”.
The event drew hundreds of Ugandan & Eritrean nationals, including government officials, business leaders, and development partners to deliberate on strategies for promoting investment and meaningful cultural connections.
The Minister said that in an era of policies preventing people from seeking safety in other countries, Uganda has maintained an open-door policy to refugees and asylum seekers.
“Greetings from the home of all Ugandans, the Ministry of Gender, Labour & Social Development. I welcome you to Uganda as investors. Uganda is an open door country,” Anyakun welcomed the gathering.
She added that Uganda and Eritrea enjoy a cordial relationship which portrays Uganda’s belief in Pan Africanism.
“A spirit of brotherhood and community prevails among us the Ugandans. We wish well for everyone, many Eritreans have been accepted into Ugandan communities, hence living freely and have taken up business investment,” Anyakun noted.
She appealed to Ugandans to emulate Eritreans that have been so innovative and created employment opportunities to their nationals and many Ugandan youths.
“Many Eritreans have started businesses in the country in real estate, hospitality, health, fashion and entertainment sectors. They are catalysts of development and I call upon Ugandans to emulate them,” Anyakun noted.
The Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, Amb. Abbey Walusimbi, commended the Eritrean business community for its significant contribution to Uganda’s economy, which has strengthened bilateral ties.
“I appreciate you for honouring our invitation to further seal the relationship between Uganda and Eritrea. Your business acumen is admirable, we recognise your immense contributions to our economy,” Walusimbi said.
He also assured the Eritrean business community that the Ugandan President, His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, continues to provide an attractive environment for investments, and stability to ensure the safety of their business entities.
“President Museveni continues to put in place mechanisms to ensure your businesses are safe. Don’t shy away from government Ministries, Departments and Agencies for any support,” Amb. Walusimbi said.
Christine Alupo, Currency department head at Bank of Uganda, asserted that Diaspora is very critical strategic asset, because every nation enjoys remittances which contribute to advancement of the economy.
“The Eritrean community has featured in the socio-economic transformation agenda of Uganda. Their businesses are critical to the stability of Uganda’s economic growth,” she noted.
She appreciated the Eritreans in Uganda for being a key resource, encouraging them to take advantage of the available investment opportunities that spell out human capital development.
Kidane Ghebrehawariat Habteselassie, an Eritrean business mogul, emphasised the need to foster cultural exchanges.
“Let’s build a good culture around us. I think God has called us here to get something positive about our brothers and sisters,” he emphasized.
He thanked Ugandans for being hospitable, welcoming and accepting them to live in the community.
“Ugandans have showed us the true meaning of hospitality and brotherhood. When I opened my cafe, people were coming to thank me. Your success means our success. We now consider Uganda as our second home,” He said.
Jabel Male from Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration Control of Uganda, stated that the issue of Diaspora is of utmost interest to many, explaining that such an event further pushes for unity between Ugandans and the Eritrean community to ensure harmonious living with each other.
“You must have a good mindset ready to receive and accept others. Migrants must be ready to dissolve in the culture found here,” he said.
He also urged Eritreans in Uganda to ensure that their presence is legalized, by acquiring the appropriate documentation.
“Ensure your entry is regularized. Register yourself using the regular methods because it helps us to plan,” Male said.
Bamwine from State House Anti Corruption Unit, called for collective action in the fight against the pressing issue of corruption.
“Wherever you are report corruption, coordinate with other ministries, departments & agencies. Take responsibility in the fight to ensure that cases of land fraud are resolved because its affecting investment,” Bamwine said.
Lisa Stark Hughes, a development partner in Uganda noted that Uganda is the best investment destination given its policies and economic stability.
“The Ugandan shillings is the only currency which holds a healthy value against the dollar, hence Uganda is an investment destination that everyone should think of. I urge you to keep your culture and connection.”
Caroline Kamabare Kembabazi, Private Secretary to President, reaffirmed that the President continues to ensure peace and stability.
“Encourage your fellows to come and invest. I appeal to you our dear brothers and sisters to multiply the wealth.”
The successful event which attracted over 300 strategic attendees, took stock of investments made by the Eritrean Diaspora.
