The minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives Sanjay Tanna has called on the Indian community in Uganda to take advantage of the country’s favourable investment climate and continue investing in the country’s economic development.
Tanna made the remarks during a ceremony that honoured three distinguished public servants of Indian origin. They included Tanna himself, High Court judge Justice Deepa Verma, and Tororo Municipality MP Shyna Tanna.
He described the recognition as an important milestone for the Indian community and urged its members to use their resources and expertise to support Uganda’s growth.
“This is a great achievement for our community. We should use this opportunity to contribute to Uganda’s development by investing in the country’s economy,” Tanna said.
He reflected on the history of the Indian community in Uganda, recalling that only a small number of Indian families remained in the country during the difficult years of the 1970s.
“There were only about 103 families, with fewer than 150 people in total. Many of them were members of the Patel community,” he said.
Tanna said the Indian community has since grown and become more diverse, with Ugandans of Indian origin returning from countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, alongside new arrivals from India.
He encouraged members of the diaspora to strengthen their ties with Uganda and take advantage of the country’s growing economic opportunities.
Tanna also praised Uganda’s transformation over the years.
“When we lived in Uganda many years ago, there was little electricity, limited access to clean water, poor roads, insecurity and schools with few facilities. Today, the country has made significant progress,” he said.
Justice Deepa Verma urged the Indian community to work closely with Ugandans in promoting national development and justice.
She called for unity among all communities and discouraged divisions.
“I will continue working to promote justice wherever it is needed, but I also encourage everyone to respect the law and avoid criminal activities,” Justice Verma said.
She said the Indian community should continue working together with Ugandans to achieve common goals and strengthen national unity.
Speaking at the same event, India’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Upender Singh Rawat, reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening relations with Uganda.
He said the Indian High Commission would continue serving as a bridge to promote trade, investment, cultural exchange and friendship between the two countries.
Rawat also urged members of the Indian community to remain united and avoid internal divisions.
He said Uganda had become home to many members of the Indian community and encouraged them to continue contributing to the country’s economic and social development.
The Patel community also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Uganda’s economic growth and contributing to the country’s social development.
