Uganda to Offer Economic Support for Repatriated Citizens

Over a thousand Ugandans who fled South Africa due to xenophobic violence are currently undergoing a significant transformation program at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi. The initiative aims to restore their hope, patriotism, and confidence to rebuild their lives within Uganda.

The program, described as exceeding expectations by officials from the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC), encompasses ideological orientation, focusing on patriotism, national identity, and economic empowerment. Participants, including 438 men, 261 women, and 331 children, arrived traumatized and hopeless after abandoning their livelihoods.

Hellen Seku, Commissioner at NSPC, noted that many participants have expressed newfound appreciation for Uganda, realizing its economic potential and viewing it as the best place for future investment. The program has generated interest from other Ugandans who returned independently and wish to benefit from similar training.

President Yoweri Museveni’s decision to facilitate repatriation has been hailed as an act of compassion. The government, through advisors like Moses Byaruhanga and Odrek Rwabwogo, is preparing economic interventions. These include organizing returnees into enterprise groups based on their skills and providing seed capital through existing government schemes, addressing challenges like unemployment as a driver of xenophobia.

Advisors also emphasized Uganda’s industrialization strategy, focusing on value addition, agro-processing, and leveraging the country’s abundant freshwater resources for potential job creation in sectors like fish farming and agriculture. The initiative seeks to encourage more Ugandans abroad to return and invest, fostering shared prosperity and national unity.

Medical and psychological support has also been provided by facilities like Mulago National Referral Hospital, with special arrangements made for children to ensure parents can fully engage in the training sessions.

This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to supporting its citizens abroad and facilitating their reintegration and economic recovery back home. The program offers a second chance for these individuals to rebuild their lives and contribute to Uganda’s development, underscoring the nation’s resilience and support for its diaspora.

Source: Nile Post