The Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, has called on Ugandans living abroad to deepen their investment in the country, saying the diaspora remains a critical partner in driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

Speaking on Thursday at the opening of the 2nd Diaspora Convention at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Nankabirwa praised Ugandans in the diaspora for their contribution through remittances, investments, skills transfer and expertise, noting that their role is increasingly central to national development.

The convention, which concludes on Friday, brought together Ugandans from across the world to engage government on investment opportunities, reforms and national priorities.

Nankabirwa highlighted ongoing government reforms under the Rationalisation of Agencies and Public Expenditure (RAPEX) programme, aimed at eliminating duplication and improving efficiency in public spending. She said savings realised from the reforms have been redirected in the 2025/26 financial year to priority sectors, including healthcare, education and infrastructure.

The minister also used the platform to showcase progress in the energy sector, describing it as a backbone of Uganda’s industrialisation agenda. She said the country has expanded from just three power plants to more than 40, with installed electricity capacity growing from 60 megawatts to 1,837 megawatts. Government targets to raise capacity to 3,127 megawatts by 2027.

Electricity access has now reached 57.2 per cent, supported by flagship projects such as the Karuma and Isimba hydropower dams, expansion of transmission lines covering more than 4,300 kilometres, and increased investment in renewable energy, particularly solar, to strengthen energy security and climate resilience.

On oil and gas, Nankabirwa confirmed progress on the Uganda Refinery Project in Hoima, with Alpha MBM of the United Arab Emirates holding 60 per cent equity and the Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) 40 per cent. She also said construction of the East African Crude Oil Pipeline to Tanga, Tanzania, is ongoing and expected to be completed within the next two years.

The minister reaffirmed government’s appreciation of the diaspora as ambassadors of Uganda, encouraging them to register with Ugandan missions abroad to improve access to consular support and enable participation in national elections. She also urged them to safeguard and promote the development gains achieved since 1986.

The convention is organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in partnership with the State House Diaspora Unit and is attended by senior government officials, including the Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs and Head of the State House Diaspora Unit, Mr Mohammed Bagonza.