Kampala, Uganda – The International Organization for Migration (IOM) Uganda reinforced its partnership with the Government of Uganda through the handover of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) equipment to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The equipment will support the operationalization of the Real-Time Interactive Diaspora Platform, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening engagement with Ugandans living and working abroad. The handover ceremony was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Kampala and was officiated by IOM Uganda Chief of Mission, Mr. Sanusi Tejan Savage. The ICT equipment was formally received by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Bagiire Vincent Waiswa, on behalf of the Ministry.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Savage noted that the support is part of the project Enhancing Diaspora Engagement towards Socioeconomic Development in Uganda, with a Focus on Climate Action. He highlighted key achievements realised under the initiative, including diaspora skills mapping and assessment, benchmarking visits to learn from international best practices, capacity-building support for Ugandan missions abroad, and diaspora dialogue engagements that have strengthened collaboration between government institutions and Ugandan communities overseas. Mr. Savage commended the Government of Uganda for its commitment to digital transformation and welcomed the integration of the Diaspora Platform into the Integrated Foreign Affairs System (IFAS). He emphasised that the move would strengthen national ownership, improve sustainability, and enhance the Ministry’s ability to effectively engage with Ugandans abroad.
Receiving the equipment, Permanent Secretary Bagiire expressed appreciation to IOM for its longstanding partnership and support to Uganda, particularly in advancing migration governance and diaspora engagement. He acknowledged IOM’s contribution to the diaspora benchmarking exercises, skills mapping initiatives, and ongoing efforts toward the finalization of Uganda’s National Diaspora Policy. Mr. Bagiire also recognised IOM’s support during critical moments, including assistance provided during the COVID-19 pandemic and efforts to facilitate the safe return of Ugandans affected by crises abroad, including those in Myanmar. He further appreciated IOM’s support to the Ministry during Uganda’s chairmanship of the Khartoum Process, which focuses on migration and mobility issues.
Highlighting the Ministry’s vision for digital transformation, Mr. Bagiire said the Ministry is working towards automating all its processes to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery. He noted that many of these reforms directly benefit the Consular Services and Diaspora Affairs functions, enabling faster and more reliable services for Ugandans abroad. The digitization of processes, including the issuance of diplomatic notes and enhanced diaspora engagement systems, will strengthen communication and service provision to the diaspora community.
Ambassador Johnny M Muhindo, Head of Diaspora Department at MoFA, thanked IOM for its continued support towards the development of the National Diaspora Policy and for the ICT equipment donation. He described the gesture as a reflection of the strong cooperation between IOM and the Government of Uganda and emphasised the importance of leveraging technology to deepen engagement with Ugandans living abroad. The ICT equipment are expected to facilitate the timely establishment and effective functioning of the Real-Time Interactive Diaspora Platform, providing an innovative channel for communication, knowledge exchange, and collaboration between Uganda and its diaspora communities worldwide. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and IOM reaffirmed their shared commitment to concluding the National Diaspora Policy and implementing practical mechanisms that harness the skills, expertise, investments, and networks of Ugandans abroad to contribute to Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation and climate-resilient development.
