Speaking at the inaugural Uganda–UK–Ireland Diaspora Convention in London on Saturday, Mr Bagonza presented on Uganda's National Diaspora Policy and Diaspora Skills Mapping Initiative during a plenary session held under the theme, "From Belonging to Building – Engaging Uganda's Diaspora and Youth in Shaping the Nation's Future."
He noted that while diaspora remittances reached approximately US$2.5 billion (about Shs9.25 trillion) in 2025, the true value of the diaspora extends far beyond financial contributions.
"The diaspora is not merely a source of financial capital; it is a reservoir of human capital, carrying the skills, experience, technology, professional networks, and global perspectives that Uganda needs to compete and thrive in the 21st century," he said.

Mr Bagonza highlighted the ongoing development of Uganda's National Diaspora Policy, explaining that the policy seeks to provide a structured framework for diaspora engagement, investment, and participation in national development.

He also shared progress on the Diaspora Skills Mapping Initiative, which has already been conducted in South Africa, the United Kingdom, Canada, and the United States. The initiative aims to identify the expertise and professional capabilities within the Ugandan diaspora and connect them to development opportunities back home.

He further revealed that engagements are underway with the Office of the Head of Public Service to explore mechanisms for integrating diaspora skills into Government systems.

Mr Bagonza urged Ugandans abroad to actively participate in the policy formulation process and skills mapping exercise, noting that their expertise will be critical in supporting Uganda's ambition to grow its economy tenfold from US$50 billion to US$500 billion by 2040. #UgandaDiaspora #UgandaUKConvention