All is set for the second edition of the Eritrean Diaspora Investment Conference organized by the Office of the President in conjunction with the Eritrean community in Uganda.
The conference aims at building on the success of the inaugural conference held last year in March which attracted over 400 investors of Eritrean origin from different countries.
During a preparatory meeting with Eritrean entrepreneurs held at the Office the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs it was revealed that the event will take place on Saturday December 21, 2024, at Palace Play Park in Kampala.
The Senior Presidential Advisor, Amb. Abbey Walusimbi revealed that the conference will be graced by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabanja, and Ambassador of Eritrea to Uganda, H.E. Mohammed Sulieman Ahmed.
The conference will be held under the theme: “Unity Through Diversity”, bringing together members of the Eritrean community; aimed at consolidating achievements and commitments from various government agencies, ministries, and departments, including an Eritrean-Uganda centre.
Notably, the Eritrean community has demonstrated remarkable investment potential in businesses, contributing over $3billion to Uganda’s economy.
With a population exceeding 240,000, of which 25% are business entrepreneurs and innovators, Eritreans have firmly embraced Uganda as their second home. Their growing investments reflect a deep trust in Uganda’s inclusive and progressive policies.
“I have interacted with different Eritrean Nationals and have come to appreciate their business acumen. I appreciate and recognize the contribution of the Eritrean community in Uganda, which is now their second home,” said Walusimbi.
He added that, the event, coupled with Beles Bubu Family Fusion Festival reflects His Excellency President Museveni’s call of Pan-Africanism spirit, which strengthens a sense of brotherhood among Africans.
On her part, Kisanet Tedros C.E.O and Founder, Beles Bubu, an edutainment powerhouse dedicated to cultural preservation, langauge education, and empowerment across Africa, highlighted that the festival aims to unite children and families from diverse backgrounds, promoting unity through cultural celebration and empowerment.
“The festival will showcase stories of women entrepreneurs from eight African countries, illustrating how supporting women uplifts society. The event will feature engaging activities for children, panel discussions, traditional dance performances, and a variety of cultural cuisines. Join us in building a future that celebrates unity in diversity,” she assured.
Kisanet also described the Pearl of Africa (Uganda), as their second home appreciating the President for opening borders, offering continued peace, and allowing them to easily integrate within the community.
“I would like in a special way to appreciate His Excellency President Museveni, for opening borders to allow us in Uganda. I thank Ambassador Walusimbi, for receiving and showing us the way to bring together all our brothers and sisters under one roof so that we can continue to significantly improve Uganda,” Kisanet stressed.
One of the Eritrean community leaders, Kidane Ghebrehawariat Habteselassie, reckoned that the conference will open a new chapter to fostering unity, and bridging the information gap between government and members of the Eritrean community.
He reoched President Museveni’s call to promote common interests above identities, highlighting some of the positive contributions made by Eritreans, including direct foreign investment remittances through monetary injections and promoting tourism.
In his remarks, Sandeep Bugatha, General Manager Palace Play Park, called upon potential Eritrean investors, and members of the general public to attend, thanking whoever is behind this event and all the partners that have supported the cause.
“This will be another massive opportunity to our community. As Palace Play Park, we’re more than ready to host the conference & festival concurrently due to our spacious facility. From panel discussions on fostering unity through diversity, interactive games to cultural activities. Come and join us,” he noted.
This year’s conference will convene over 300 top Eritrean investors, government officials, alongside academic professionals, women, children, and families, in a vibrant festival celebrating the community’s contributions to Uganda while fostering unity and integration with other communities.
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