KHARTOUM — Ugandans living in Sudan have commemorated the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary, with Uganda’s Ambassador to Sudan, Dr Rashid Yahya Ssemuddu, calling for unity among the diaspora community and reaffirming Kampala’s solidarity with the Sudanese people amid the ongoing conflict.
The commemoration took place on Friday, October 16, 2026, during a working lunch at Bab Al Yemen Restaurant in Khartoum, bringing together members of the Ugandan community and officials from the Ugandan Embassy.
In his keynote address, Ambassador Ssemuddu paid tribute to the men and women whose courage and sacrifice secured Uganda’s independence from British colonial rule on October 9, 1962.
He also commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership and the Government’s efforts to promote peace, development and regional cooperation.
Delivering Independence Day greetings on behalf of the President, Ssemuddu urged Ugandans in Sudan to remain united, uphold their country’s reputation and contribute to Uganda’s development wherever they live.
He commended the community for its resilience and mutual support despite the challenges posed by the conflict in Sudan, expressing sympathy for families affected by displacement, loss and uncertainty.
The Ambassador emphasised the Embassy’s responsibility to maintain contact with Ugandan nationals, provide consular assistance within its mandate and engage relevant authorities on issues affecting their welfare.
Uganda reaffirms ties with Sudan
The independence commemoration followed a diplomatic engagement on Wednesday, October 14, when Ssemuddu met Ambassador Khalid Alkheir, Director of the Africa Department at Sudan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting focused on the longstanding relations between Uganda and Sudan and opportunities to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
Ssemuddu congratulated Alkheir on assuming his responsibilities and expressed Uganda’s commitment to working closely with Sudanese authorities to deepen bilateral relations.
He also highlighted the return of Uganda’s Embassy to Khartoum as a demonstration of friendship and solidarity with Sudan.
According to the Ambassador, Uganda’s Embassy was the first African diplomatic mission, and the third internationally, to return to the Sudanese capital following its liberation.
He welcomed efforts by Sudanese authorities to restore security and rehabilitate essential services, reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to maintaining diplomatic engagement and supporting stronger relations between the two countries.
Embassy urges Ugandans to register
During the gathering, Ssemuddu urged Ugandans living in Sudan to register with the Embassy, update their contact information, safeguard their travel and identification documents, follow official guidance and respect Sudanese laws.
He encouraged members of the community to report concerns relating to documentation, residence, employment, education, business and family welfare to the Embassy for appropriate assistance.
The Ambassador also called for greater solidarity across regional, religious and professional backgrounds, urging Ugandans to support students, vulnerable families, sick people and those experiencing isolation.
He further encouraged the diaspora to contribute to stronger Uganda-Sudan relations through education, trade, investment and professional cooperation.
The event was attended by Ugandan community leaders and Embassy officials, including Defence Adviser Brig. Gen. Tingira Irumba Omero, First Secretary Joseph Barigye and Finance Attaché Adrian Felix Wendiga.
Ssemuddu concluded by reaffirming his commitment to listening to the concerns of Ugandans in Sudan and working with the community to address issues affecting their welfare.
He also offered prayers for Uganda and for peace, healing and stability in Sudan.
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