Related Articles
BY RICHARD DRASIMAKU
ARUA: TUESDAY, JUNE 09, 2026
On July 16–19, 2026, all roads lead to the Leonardo Hotel, Milton Keynes, United Kingdom where the Third International West Nile Diaspora Convention will take place.
This convention is organised by the West Nile Welfare and Development Association UK (WNWDA), in collaboration with the West Nile Diaspora Community (WDC), the West Nile Development Association (WENDA), Madi Cultural and Development Foundation (MACDEF) and The West Nile Foundation (WNF).
It follows in the footsteps of the events predecessors since their maiden inception in 2024. The West Nile Diaspora Convention has grown into a vital annual platform for dialogue, innovation, and partnership.
The organisers say that the gathering of some of the top brains from Uganda’s North-western sub-region who have gone abroad are brought to discuss important investment matters with global leaders, development actors, and investors committed to shaping the future of the region.
“Following the success of the inaugural convention in Stockholm in August 2024 and the second gathering in Washington DC in July 2025, the 2026 convention in Milton Keynes – UK represents a defining moment in our shared journey,” steering committee chairman Dr Lazarous Anguvaa has said.
The theme for this year is: “Unlocking Investment Opportunities in West Nile.”
Anguvaa said in this theme reflects the immense potential of the region at this moment in history.
Having become part of modern day Uganda 116 years ago, West Nile remains strategically positioned at the confluence of Uganda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo; providing unparalleled access to the East African Community common market of over 330 million people.
With improved infrastructure, expanded electricity supply, a dynamic population of 3.9 million, and supportive government policies, West Nile stands ready to emerge as a competitive investment hub.
Anguvaa said this convention will bring together a diverse community of stakeholders such as the diaspora professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers, UK and Ugandan businesses, financial institutions, government representatives, and development partners.
“We will explore high-potential sectors including agriculture, agro-processing, manufacturing, tourism, logistics, real estate, ICT, and healthcare. Our goal is to translate dialogue into tangible partnerships, bankable projects, and long-term investment frameworks that will catalyze sustainable growth,” asserted Dr Anguvaa.
A key feature of the 2026 convention is the Strategic Legacy Project—the establishment of the West Nile Museum, Information and Cultural Centre at Giligili in Arua City.
This landmark institution that was launched by President Yoweri Museveni as part of a raft of activities to mark West Niles 100 years anniversary as part of Uganda in 2014, will document, preserve, and celebrate the rich cultural heritage, history, and achievements of the people of West Nile. It will also promote tourism and education for future generations.
“The project represents our collective commitment to building a meaningful, lasting contribution for the region,” he emphasized.
To maximize participation, the convention will be delivered in a hybrid format, enabling Westnilers and stakeholders across the world and at home in West Nile to join virtually.
The steering committee is also working with partners in Uganda to establish mirrored participation hubs in Arua City and Kampala City, ensuring inclusiveness and broad engagement.
Dr Anguvaa encourages all Westnilers, friends of West Nile, business leaders, investors, policymakers, and development partners to be part of what he calls a historic gathering, cognizant of the fact that their participation, ideas, and contributions are vital to unlocking the vast potential of the region and shaping its path toward shared prosperity.
