Kampala Central Division Mayor and NRM Chairperson for Kampala Central Division, His Worship Salim Saad Uhuru, has reaffirmed Uganda’s strong ties with Ethiopia, describing the two countries as united by more than diplomatic relations.
Uhuru made the remarks while officiating at the Hibir Ken, or Unity in Diversity Day, celebration hosted by the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Kampala.
Representing Uganda at the celebration, Uhuru conveyed President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s warm Ethiopian New Year greetings to the people of Ethiopia and highlighted the longstanding relations between the two African countries.
“Uganda and Ethiopia share more than diplomatic relations. We share a common African identity, a belief in unity, and a commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous continent for future generations,” Uhuru said.
He also assured members of the Ethiopian community living in Kampala that they could turn to his office whenever they encounter challenges or require assistance.
“Our offices are yours. We are there to serve you,” Uhuru told the gathering.
The celebration, held under the theme “Diversity: The Ornament of Ethiopia,” brought together Ethiopian nationals, people of Ethiopian descent and friends of Ethiopia to celebrate the country’s cultural diversity and unity.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Uganda, Her Excellency Etsegenet Bezabih Yimenu, said Ethiopia’s diverse cultures, identities, traditions and landscapes constitute a source of strength rather than division.
She cited Ethiopia’s long history of defending its sovereignty, the victory at Adwa, the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and other national development initiatives as examples of what Ethiopians can achieve through collective effort.
The evening featured Ethiopian traditional dances, poetry, an authentic coffee ceremony and a combination of traditional and modern cuisine.
A fundraising drive conducted during the event raised close to US$3,000 to support people affected by natural and man-made disasters in Ethiopia.
The celebration concluded with a traditional Ethiopian cake-cutting ceremony, documentary presentations on Ethiopia’s development achievements and a raffle for a free Ethiopian Airlines round-trip ticket.