Uganda rallies diaspora in Korea for investment as trade talks open

What the report says

Uganda used a diaspora outreach in Seoul, South Korea, to encourage Ugandans living there to invest money, skills and technology back home ahead of a planned Uganda–Korea Trade and Investment Meeting. According to Watchdog Uganda, the gathering took place at the 88 Hotel in Seoul on Saturday and was organised by Uganda’s Embassy in Tokyo, which is accredited to Korea. It brought together Ugandan nationals, officials and other stakeholders to discuss investment promotion, trade and the diaspora’s role in national development.

Uganda’s ambassador to Korea, H.E. Tophace Kaahwa, urged the community to support economic diplomacy through investment, tourism, technology transfer and capacity building. She described Ugandans abroad as important contributors through remittances, expertise and networks, and pointed to opportunities in tourism, minerals, science and technology, and agribusiness. The ambassador also noted that the embassy continues to serve Ugandans in Korea despite the absence of a resident mission there.

The keynote address was delivered by Second Deputy Prime Minister Crispus Kiyonga, who said Uganda remained stable and secure and outlined the government’s economic ambitions, including a target of a much larger economy by 2040. He also highlighted infrastructure investment such as roads and rail links. Separately, officials said government is developing a diaspora policy to improve coordination and access to services, while urging overseas Ugandans to stay connected and share knowledge gained abroad.

The article said 654 Ugandans were living in South Korea as of July 31, 2026. The broader meetings are meant to strengthen business and government ties between Uganda and South Korea and showcase investment opportunities when the trade and investment forum opens on September 6.