Uganda@62

The Uganda Mission hosted more than 200 guests on 6th November 2024 in celebration of Ugandan's 62nd Independence Anniversary. The event took place at the WIPO building comprising Ambassadors, UN delegations and a host of other International Organisations staff. The Uganda diaspora were involved in the preparations of the traditional Ugandan recipes and in the traditional dances.

It is an opportunity for Ugandan's to meet as one, celebrate our cultures and, achievements thus far. Members from Zurich, Berne and other cantons of Switzerland shall be in attendance. Traditional foods shall be served, cultural dances and other activities are planned for during the occasion.

Hon Odongo Jeje, Minister of Foreign Affairs had a consequential meeting with some members of the Diaspora, June 13th at the Mission. A range of issues were discussed, among them, Trade, Investment and diaspora role in national development.

Hon Ruth Aceng, Minister of Health met with a section of Diaspora at the Mission, 25^th May 2024 on the side lines of the WHA. Discussions focused mainly on health-related matters, including how to strengthen the health capacity and services back at home, adhering to health standards in training and operations, internships and postings in the international job market etc.

WEBINAR ON EXPORT/IMPORT TO SWITZERLAND (EU): Due to growing need by members of the diaspora to engage in importation of products (Food & Non-Food items) to Switzerland, in additional to challenges faced in documentation, processes etc, the Mission is planning to host a webinar dedicated exclusively to provide information in this very important area. An array of stakeholders shall be invited to share technical information plus current/previous importers sharing their own experiences in the export/import of goods. Consultations in preparation are underway and dates and timelines shall be communicated soon.

DIASPORA SERVICES: Creation of Ministry Zonal Offices on land maters: The Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in coordination with the Diaspora Desk at the Statehouse, has set up “Ministry Zonal Offices” (MZOs) with the purpose of providing direct services to the Diaspora through zonal decentralized structures in different parts of the country. The MZOs handles inquiries and provides such other services related to land matters, previously available only at the Ministry of Lands Headquarters.

A toll-free line 080010004; a public portal www.nlis.go.ug; a website www.mlhud.go.ug  shall serve as additional access platforms.

ANNUAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY: The members of the Association of Ugandans Living in Switzerland over the weekend of 8th July held their first Annual General Assembly (AGA) in five years since the advent of COVID-19. No activities took place in more than two years as the epidemic ravaged the world resulting in restrictions to gatherings. The AGA witnessed the election of a new executive committee of 11 strong ladies and gentlemen that shall steer & lead the Association for the next two years. New offices of mobilization, culture & entertainment and IT will for the first time be part of the executive. Prior executive committees had only four members:  The President & Vice President, Treasurer and the General Secretary. The event attracted more than 50 members of the diaspora enjoying BBQ with lots of food and drink to serve.