The Embassy of the Republic of Uganda in Doha successfully hosted the 2025 Uganda–Qatar Diaspora Convention on November 28, drawing hundreds of Ugandan migrant workers, diaspora leaders, government officials, and private-sector partners for a full day of engagement and empowerment.
The Convention followed a three-day capacity-building programme for Embassy staff and community leaders, aimed at strengthening approaches to diaspora management.
As part of this programme, Embassy officials conducted outreach visits to Ugandans in various accommodation facilities, listening to concerns and assessing welfare needs.
One such engagement at Mowasalat (Karwa) brought together over 110 Ugandans and helped shape the discussions at the Convention.
Muhammad Bagonza, senior presidential advisor on diaspora affairs and head of the Diaspora Unit in State House, led the Convention alongside Ms Desree Barlow, presidential assistant and head of the research in the Office of the President.
Addressing participants, Mr Bagonza highlighted that Ugandan diaspora remittances now exceed Shs6.5 trillion annually, with Ugandans in Gulf countries contributing approximately 38–40% of the total.
He briefed the community on progress toward a new Diaspora Law, the Diaspora App, and plans for a Government Call Centre, as well as preparations for deploying a mobile biometric kit and eventually a passport machine in Qatar.
“The Government is committed to addressing concerns about Interpol fees, communication charges, money-transfer costs, and driving-permit alignment,” he said.
Ambassador Mohammed Baswari Kezaala, deputy head of Mission, praised Ugandans in Qatar for their discipline, unity, and patriotism, noting their positive reputation among Qatari employers.
He also highlighted the growth of the Embassy’s cultural expo and acknowledged the strong support Ugandans showed for the Uganda FIFA U-17 football team.
“Our mission remains committed to safeguarding the welfare and rights of all Ugandans in Qatar,” he said.
Mr. Aliguma Saul Rayan, Chairman of the Uganda Community in Qatar (UGACOQ), encouraged the diaspora to remain united, register with community structures, and collaborate with the Embassy.
Community concerns raised included mobile-money fraud, recruitment-agency overcharging, financial literacy gaps, high Interpol fees, driving-permit challenges, telecom charges, diaspora voting clarity, and stronger banking linkages between Uganda and Qatar.
Officials reassured participants that diaspora voting is provided for under Ugandan law and will be implemented.
The Convention also featured a dedicated cancer-awareness session coordinated by Mr Benson Akampumuza, chairman of Peninsula, held at Wings Sports Club in Lusail City.
A performance by the Twegatte Cultural Troupe added a vibrant cultural element, reflecting the strength and diversity of the Ugandan community in Qatar.
The Embassy praised the event for its organisation and relevance, reaffirming its commitment to sustained engagement, improved service delivery, and strengthened support systems for Ugandans living and working in Qatar.