Entebbe, Uganda — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and First Lady Maama Janet Museveni over the weekend hosted members of Uganda’s Indian community at State House Entebbe to celebrate Diwali 2025, the Festival of Lights, a vibrant evening marked by colour, culture, and reflection.
In his remarks, President Museveni congratulated the Indian community on the occasion and extended gratitude for their continued confidence in Uganda’s peace, stability, and economic progress.
He described the gathering as a testament to Uganda’s unity in diversity and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and mutual respect among all communities.
Reflecting on Uganda’s history, the President recalled the 1972 expulsion of Asians under Idi Amin’s regime, describing it as a “painful chapter” that deprived the nation of some of its most industrious citizens. He commended the resilience of those who returned to rebuild their lives and contribute to the country’s recovery.
“Uganda’s citizenship is inclusive; all our people came from somewhere,” President Museveni said, emphasizing the importance of unity and shared national purpose.
He praised the Indian community for their hard work, innovation, and enterprise, noting that their investments have played a significant role in strengthening Uganda’s economy through job creation, tax contributions, and business knowledge transfer.
“Your efforts have helped drive Uganda’s economic engine and inspired local entrepreneurship,” the President remarked, adding that the government will continue to provide a conducive environment for investors of all backgrounds.
The First Lady, Maama Janet Museveni, also commended the Indian community for preserving their cultural heritage while contributing meaningfully to Uganda’s growth. She encouraged continued collaboration in education, health, and philanthropy to uplift communities across the country.
The Diwali celebration featured colourful performances, traditional Indian cuisine, and symbolic lighting of lamps to signify the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. The event brought together business leaders, diplomats, and representatives of the Indian Association of Uganda in a shared spirit of harmony and gratitude.
