Uganda’s efforts to formulate a comprehensive National Diaspora Policy have entered their final stages, with Ambassador Dickson Ogwang intensifying stakeholder consultations ahead of the policy’s expected submission to Cabinet next month.
On Tuesday, Ambassador Ogwang met leaders of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) at the organisation’s headquarters in Naguru-Kampala as part of broader consultations aimed at ensuring that the proposed policy reflects the aspirations of Ugandans living abroad and aligns with the country’s emerging leadership agenda.
The meeting comes at a time when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is racing to finalize the long-awaited policy framework under the guidance of the Permanent Secretary, Vincent Waiswa Bagiire. Government targets presenting the National Diaspora Policy to Cabinet by August 17, 2026.
During the engagement, Ambassador Ogwang held discussions with PLU Secretary General Fadil Twaha and Commissioner for External Affairs Steven Rutasharara, alongside other members of the PLU leadership team.
Speaking after the meeting, Ambassador Ogwang emphasized that consultations with key stakeholders are critical in shaping a policy that responds to contemporary national priorities and the growing contribution of Ugandans in the diaspora.
“Our target remains firm—to present a comprehensive and forward-looking Diaspora Policy before Cabinet for consideration by August 17, 2026,” he said.
He noted that the policy seeks to strengthen the relationship between Uganda and its diaspora communities by creating frameworks that promote their participation in national development, investment, skills transfer, and governance processes.
The consultation with PLU is seen as part of government’s strategy to engage both traditional and emerging institutions that influence national discourse, particularly those that resonate with the country’s youthful population.
PLU leaders welcomed the engagement and pledged to contribute ideas that will ensure the policy captures the interests of Ugandans living and working abroad while supporting Uganda’s socio-economic transformation agenda.
The National Diaspora Policy is expected to provide a clear roadmap for harnessing the potential of millions of Ugandans abroad, whose remittances and investments continue to play an important role in the country’s economy.
Officials say the policy will also address issues relating to diaspora engagement, citizenship matters, investment opportunities, and mechanisms for strengthening ties between Ugandans overseas and government institutions.
With just weeks remaining before the Cabinet deadline, consultations with stakeholders are expected to continue as government seeks to build consensus on one of the country’s most anticipated policy frameworks for diaspora affairs.
The policy’s completion marks a significant step towards institutionalising Uganda’s engagement with its citizens abroad and ensuring their contribution is fully integrated into the nation’s development agenda.
