A new umbrella body uniting Ugandan community organizations across Canada has officially been launched.
The National Alliance of Ugandan Canadian Associations (NAUCA) was inaugurated during Uganda’s 63rd Independence Day celebrations held at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa.
The launch was presided over by Mohammed Bagonza, Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, who delivered the keynote address and officially unveiled the Alliance.
He was accompanied by his deputy, Henry Wabyona, and joined by Ambassador Allan Kajik, Uganda’s Acting High Commissioner to Canada.
Bagonza described NAUCA’s formation as a significant milestone in strengthening unity, coordination, and cultural exchange among Ugandans living in Canada. He reaffirmed the Ugandan government’s commitment to engaging the diaspora as a key partner in national development.
“The government is determined to ensure that Ugandans abroad remain visible, connected, and empowered. The diaspora is an integral part of our development story,” Bagonza noted.
NAUCA Chairperson, Justus Mirembe, highlighted the organization’s mission to build a cohesive and influential diaspora voice.
He underscored the need for collaboration to address long-standing concerns such as visa waivers for Ugandans with foreign passports, high dual citizenship fees, complex registration processes, and the need for diaspora voting rights and a comprehensive National Diaspora Policy.
“NAUCA represents a united platform for advocacy and partnership. Together, we can push for reforms that benefit Ugandans in Canada while contributing meaningfully to Uganda’s development,” Mirembe said.
The launch of NAUCA stood out as the centerpiece of the Independence Day celebrations, marking renewed collaboration between the Ugandan Government and its diaspora community in advancing shared national goals.
NAUCA Board Members:
- Justus Mirembe – Chair (Vancouver)
- Isaac Kassami – Treasurer (Charlottetown)
- Jacqueline Tumusiime – Member (Ottawa)
- Bettina Tumuhaise – Member (Toronto)
- Issa Nsamba Mugabi – Member (Toronto)
- Andrew Mukwana – Member (Toronto)
- John Avudria – Member (Ottawa)
- Moses Mawa – Member (Toronto)
- Simon Ongom – Member (Cochrane)
- Rogers Muhirwa – Member (Vancouver)
- Rhonah Ajuna – Member (Edmonton).