UGANDA RALLIES DIASPORA IN CHINA AS STRATEGIC PARTNERS FOR ATMS AND TENFOLD GROWTH
Beijing, 3rd October 2026 – The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Beijing and the Consulate General in Guangzhou convened the Uganda Diaspora Day Forum on 3 October 2026 at the Shangri-La Hotel, Beijing, as part of activities to commemorate the 64th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Uganda.
The Forum convened Ugandans residing across the People's Republic of China, including students, entrepreneurs, businesspersons and professionals. It was graced by senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, with participation of Ministries, Departments and Agencies and private sector stakeholders from Kampala via virtual link.
In her opening statement, H.E. Oliver Wonekha, Ambassador of the Republic of Uganda to the People's Republic of China, underscored the diaspora as an indispensable partner in advancing the Tenfold Growth Strategy and the ATMS transformation agenda – Agro-based Industrialization, Tourism Development, Mineral Development including Oil and Gas, and Science, Technology and Innovation. The Ambassador urged all Ugandans in China to register with the Embassy in Beijing and the Consulate General in Guangzhou, seek timely consular guidance, and adhere to the laws and regulations of the host country. She further informed that Government is considering expanding its consular presence to other major cities.
Mr. Martin Muniera, Interim President of the Ugandan Community in the People's Republic of China, expressed appreciation to the Missions for deepening engagement and noted concern that misinformation regarding overseas opportunities continues to render compatriots vulnerable to exploitation.
The Forum featured comprehensive policy and technical briefings:
- Amb. Evans Aryabaha, Head of Consular Services, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, outlined the scope of consular services and reaffirmed Government commitment to the protection and welfare of Ugandans abroad, encouraging regular engagement through official channels.
- Dr. Josephine Ekwang, Commissioner for Inspection and Compliance, Ministry of Internal Affairs, presented the National Immigration Policy 2025 and its implementation framework, highlighting reforms to strengthen migration governance and enhance diaspora contribution to national development.
- Ms. Rita Mugula, Assistant Director, Uganda Investment Authority, highlighted investment opportunities and incentives under the ATMS framework and facilitation measures in priority sectors.
- Mr. Benedict Kaweesi, Customs Department, Uganda Revenue Authority, briefed on taxation and customs procedures, outlining incentives and exemptions available to diaspora investors and measures to enhance transparency in trade facilitation.
- Ms. Lillian Kefeeza Mutebi, Old Mutual, presented diaspora-tailored financial solutions for wealth creation and long-term financial planning.
- Mr. Martin Sseguya, Chief Manager Personal Banking, Centenary Bank, detailed diaspora banking products accessible remotely, underscoring the importance of formal, secure and cost-effective channels.
While delivering closing remarks, Amb. Maj. Gen. Geoffrey Muheesi, Deputy Head of Mission in Beijing, expressed appreciation for the diaspora's active participation. He underscored the shared responsibility to uphold the laws of the host country and to project a positive image of Uganda, and advised vigilance, mutual support and avoidance of activities inconsistent with immigration and other regulations. He encouraged the diaspora to draw inspiration from China's disciplined and focused transformation.
The engagement provided a structured platform for aligning diaspora capacities in China with domestic investment pipelines, technology sourcing and skills transfer under the ATMS framework, with follow-up through the Embassy, the Consulate General and designated focal points in participating MDAs and private sector institutions. Outcomes of the Forum will inform continued programming towards the Tenfold Growth Strategy and the target of a USD 500 billion economy by 240.
END
