

Ugandan Minister Highlights Energy Sector Progress at U.S. Diaspora Gala, Celebrates Ugandan Excellence
HOUMa — The grand dinner gala closing the 37th Uganda North American Association (UNAA) Convention was marked by high-level representation and meaningful dialogue on national development, as Uganda’s Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, delivered a special message on behalf of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
Hon. Nankabirwa extended the President’s gratitude to Ugandans living in North America for their continued and active role in the country’s socio-economic development. In her keynote address, she underscored the critical importance of a reliable energy sector for Uganda’s economic transformation.
“Uganda’s take-off depends on reliable power,” stated the Minister, emphasising that ongoing reforms within the energy sector remain a top priority for the government to fuel national growth and attract investment.
The prestigious event was also attended by senior presidential advisors, underscoring the administration’s commitment to its diaspora community. Mr. Mohammed Bagonza, Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, and Dr. Hillary Musoke, Senior Presidential Advisor on Agribusiness and Value Addition, were present.
On the sidelines of the gala, a significant interaction took place between Mr. Bagonza and Bishop-elect Simon Peter Engurait. The Ugandan-born prelate, recently appointed as the Bishop of Houma-Thibodaux in Louisiana, USA, has lived and served in the United States since 2007. Mr. Bagonza hailed Bishop-elect Engurait as a “shining example of Ugandan excellence abroad,” celebrating his achievements and contribution to the community.
The convention served as a powerful platform to strengthen ties between the Ugandan government and its diaspora, recognizing their vital contributions and discussing collaborative pathways for national development.