The Uganda High Commission celebrated the 63rd Independence Anniversary of the Republic of Uganda on Saturday, 10 October 2025, at the IMO Building.
The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including chief guest Lord Karan Bilimoria and CB Patel, Publisher and Editor of Asian Voice and Gujarat Samachar.
High Commissioner of Uganda to the United Kingdom and Ambassador to Ireland, HE Nimisha Madhvani, welcomed guests, highlighting the significance of the occasion in marking Uganda’s 63 years of independence.
“It is truly a pleasure and an honour to welcome you all this evening as we come together to celebrate the 63rd Anniversary of Uganda’s Independence,” she said, extending her gratitude to the Uganda High Commission team for their efforts in organising the celebration.
Reflecting on the historic day in 1962, she said, “Sixty-three years ago, our forefathers raised high the Ugandan flag, adorned with the proud and graceful crested crane, proclaiming to the world that Uganda was free and independent. That moment marked the birth of a nation guided by courage, unity, and hope.”
The High Commissioner praised Uganda’s progress and resilience, noting that “under the visionary leadership of His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Uganda remains a land of peace and stability, a safe and vibrant destination for investment, trade, and tourism.”
She highlighted that trade between Uganda and the UK now exceeds £600 million annually, with over USD 1.3 billion in UK investments in the past five years. “These are not just numbers,” she said. “They represent factories built, farmers empowered, and livelihoods transformed.”
Celebrating deepening bilateral ties, she cited the launch of the UK–Uganda Growth Dialogue in Kampala, the establishment of the British Chamber of Commerce in Uganda, and the relaunch of direct Uganda Airlines flights to London Gatwick. “We invite you to visit Uganda, escape the cold, grey skies and enjoy our full days of sunshine, natural beauty, and world-famous hospitality,” she added warmly.
To the Ugandan diaspora, she said, “You are our pride, our ambassadors, our investors, and our bridge to the world. Your remittances of over USD 1.6 billion annually make a real difference in the lives of families and communities back home.”
Looking ahead, HE Madhvani said Uganda stands “at the threshold of transformation, a country where innovation drives progress, where women and men lead together, and where peace and prosperity belong to all.”
She concluded, “Our partnership with the United Kingdom and the wider world is no longer about aid, it is about shared ambition. Uganda is open, ready, and rising. The Pearl of Africa shines brighter with every passing year.” “Long live the Republic of Uganda! Long live the friendship between Uganda and the United Kingdom! Happy 63rd Independence Anniversary!”
