Kampala, Uganda – September 2025 | Uganda is strengthening its relationship with citizens living abroad by launching a new nationwide initiative to register all Ugandans in the diaspora. This move aims to increase diaspora participation in national elections and integrate the global Ugandan community into government planning and development efforts.

The Ugandan diaspora, estimated at over four million, represents a significant segment of the nation’s population. Their contributions through remittances, investment, advocacy, and innovation have long played a vital role in the country’s development. Now, the government is taking steps to ensure that diaspora voices are formally recognized and fully included in the democratic process.

Why Registration Matters

The diaspora registration campaign is designed to create a comprehensive database of Ugandans living abroad. The goal is to improve planning, enhance engagement, and prepare for future inclusion in Uganda’s electoral processes.

Accurate data will allow government institutions to respond better to diaspora needs and aspirations, while also laying the groundwork for participation in key national events such as elections, investment forums, and policy consultations.

Registration is being coordinated by the NRM Secretariat’s Directorate of External Affairs, in collaboration with State House and Ugandan community leaders around the world. The initiative is non-partisan and open to all Ugandans abroad, regardless of political affiliation.

Unlocking Diaspora Voting and Representation

With a growing push for inclusive democracy, Uganda is exploring frameworks that could allow diaspora citizens to vote in future national elections. The current registration effort is considered a foundational step in that direction.

The government acknowledges the diaspora not only as a development partner but also as a legitimate political constituency. By registering and organizing themselves, Ugandans abroad will be in a stronger position to advocate for voting rights, influence national policy, and participate meaningfully in Uganda’s governance.

Diaspora Representation in Investment and Development

In a move to institutionalize diaspora involvement in Uganda’s economic growth, the government is creating a dedicated position within the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) for diaspora affairs. This office will serve as a direct point of contact for Ugandans abroad seeking to invest back home, streamlining access to information, partnerships, and services.

This development signals a deeper commitment to positioning the diaspora not just as donors or investors, but as strategic partners in Uganda’s transformation agenda.

How to Get Involved

All Ugandans abroad are encouraged to:

• Register through their local Ugandan associations or embassies.
• Participate in community organizing and national dialogues.
• Engage with electoral, economic, and policy initiatives.
• Contribute to shaping a Uganda that reflects the global voices of its people.

This initiative marks a turning point in how Uganda engages with its global citizens moving from informal ties to structured, meaningful collaboration. With proper representation, voting rights, and investment support, the diaspora can take its rightful place as a force for national unity and progress.

A Future Built Together

The Ugandan diaspora is no longer on the sidelines. With new structures being formed, formal recognition in national planning, and growing opportunities for democratic participation, Ugandans abroad are being empowered to help shape the country’s future.

The message is clear: it’s time to move from distance to impact.