The proposals were presented by Senior Presidential Advisor on Agribusiness and Value-Addition Development Dr Hillary Emmanuel Musoke during an induction workshop for Members of Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Dr Musoke delivered the presentation on behalf of Mohammed Bagonza, Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs and Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, who is abroad on national duty.

Under the theme “Harnessing the Diaspora for National Development and Strengthening Consular Services for Ugandans Abroad,” the presentation highlighted the importance of matching diaspora engagement with practical government support.

Uganda received US$2.5 billion in remittances in 2025, equivalent to approximately 3.8% of GDP, according to Bank of Uganda figures. These transfers help families meet education, healthcare and other household needs.

The presentation emphasised that diaspora contributions extend beyond remittances. Ugandans abroad can finance enterprises, connect local producers with international buyers, promote tourism and share expertise through research, mentorship and technology transfer.

These contributions, he emphasised, can support Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy from US$50b to US$500b by 2040.

However, difficulties accessing documents and consular services, uncertainty about investment processes, entry barriers and limited follow-up can discourage participation.

The Unit called for the finalisation of the diaspora policy and consideration of a dedicated diaspora body with a clear coordinating mandate. Responsibilities would need to be clearly defined among the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, diplomatic missions, the State House Diaspora Unit and other relevant agencies.

On funding, the presentation argued that diaspora engagement deserves more predictable public support, drawing attention to the dedicated institutions, budgets and programmes supporting coffee, tourism and mineral development. A dedicated diaspora budget would support adequate staffing, sustained engagement and reliable service delivery.

Other recommendations included reducing remittance costs, developing trusted investment and savings channels, and strengthening citizen protection, repatriation and reintegration support.