In a bid to foster unity and community spirit among Ugandans living in Saudi Arabia, the Ugandan Embassy in Riyadh has launched a diaspora football tournament aimed at building stronger social and cultural ties while promoting economic empowerment.
The initiative, spearheaded by Deputy Head of Mission Ambassador Sheik Sulaiman Guggwa Lubega, kicked off on August 8 at the Riyadh Football Pitch, bringing together Ugandan nationals from across the Kingdom. The tournament is not only a recreational event but also part of a broader cultural diplomacy program being driven by the embassy.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Guggwa emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the Ugandan community abroad. He described the embassy as an open and inclusive institution ready to support diaspora members with both personal and business-related matters.
“The embassy door is wide open, and you should feel confident to approach our committed staff,” he said. “If you wish to speak directly with me, just ask, and you will be brought in.”
He encouraged Ugandans in Saudi Arabia to use football and other social events as tools for mental wellness, cultural exchange, and community bonding, especially when living away from home and family.
Addressing the emotional challenges of living abroad, Ambassador Guggwa advised eligible members of the diaspora to consider bringing their spouses to join them in Riyadh, where possible. He underscored the value of emotional well-being, particularly for migrant workers engaged in physically and emotionally demanding jobs.
The ambassador also tied the event to Uganda’s national development goals, invoking President Yoweri Museveni’s Operation Wealth Creation program. He urged the diaspora to form or reinforce SACCOs (Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations) to promote financial security and invest in Uganda’s socio-economic growth.
The inaugural match featured teams representing Ugandan communities from Riyadh and Jeddah, with the Riyadh team emerging victorious in a close 3-2 contest. The event was filled with excitement and cheers from supporters, reflecting the deep pride and camaraderie among participants.
Notable attendees included, Assistant Consular Hamza Ssebagala, Assistant Consular Ismail Kateera, Hajji Kafumbe, head of the Senior Community Leaders Club and Other local leaders and community mobilizers.
According to embassy officials, the football tournament is the first step in a series of planned cultural exchange programs under the embassy’s cultural diplomacy strategy.
These initiatives aim to:
Foster national identity among Ugandans abroad
Highlight Uganda’s cultural values
Strengthen relations between Ugandans and their host communities
Promote Uganda’s image on the global stage
Ambassador Guggwa also conveyed greetings and full support from Ambassador Isaac Ssebulime, the Head of Mission.
This positive initiative comes at a time when Uganda’s diplomatic missions in the Middle East have faced scrutiny over issues affecting migrant workers, including welfare concerns and legal challenges. In contrast, the football tournament provides a refreshing example of proactive community engagement and the potential of sports diplomacy to bridge gaps, promote health, and uplift morale.
The Ugandan Embassy in Riyadh is setting an example for diaspora missions through initiatives that go beyond protocol and paperwork—focusing instead on people, unity, and purpose. As the tournament continues, the embassy hopes it will spark more dialogue, deeper connections, and a renewed sense of belonging among Ugandans abroad.
