Ugandans living in France have marked Uganda’s 64th Independence Anniversary in Paris with a colourful celebration that brought together diplomats, government representatives, members of the Ugandan diaspora and friends of Uganda from across the world.
The celebration, held on November 6, drew several dignitaries, including 39 ambassadors, a French mayor, and representatives of different nationalities, as Uganda showcased its cultural diversity, growing tourism potential and deepening international partnerships.
The occasion came alive with vibrant cultural performances from Uganda. Bilo Me Abwong and Otule Cultural Troupe from Amolatar District delivered three electrifying performances that brought Uganda’s Northern cultural heritage to the heart of Paris.
The group opened with its iconic Otule performance, uniquely using horns from domestic animals as musical instruments, producing an extraordinary melody that immediately captivated the audience.
The performers then unleashed an energetic Lango dance, with powerful movements, rhythmic footwork, and breathtaking stamina that had guests watching in amazement as the dancers shook the floor with remarkable intensity.
The excitement continued with Ikoce, another highly energetic traditional dance that saw performers leap high into the air before landing in perfectly coordinated movements, drawing cheers and applause from the guests.
For their final performance, the troupe presented composed creative songs celebrating their origin being at the heart of Uganda, while also praising President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for the restoration of peace and cultural practices that, they said, have enabled Ugandan cultural groups to preserve their heritage and showcase it to audiences across the world.
Guests were also treated to a variety of Ugandan cuisines and beverages, including the iconic Uganda Waragi, as Ugandan music filled the hall and guests joined the celebrations on the dance floor.
Uganda’s Ambassador to France, H.E. Doreen Ruth Amule, said the Independence Anniversary was an opportunity for Ugandans to reflect on the country’s national journey, celebrate its achievements and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
Ambassador Amule said peace and security had remained central to Uganda’s development, helping to build confidence, attract investment, and drive socio-economic transformation.
She also highlighted Uganda’s ambitious 10-fold growth strategy, which seeks to expand the country’s economy to 500 billion US dollars by 2040, with priority areas including agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral development, science, technology, ICT and innovation.
The Ambassador further reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and commercial relations with France, particularly in trade, investment, and tourism.
As Uganda continues to market itself as the Pearl of Africa, the celebration also provided another platform to showcase the country’s tourism destinations and cultural heritage, in line with efforts to increase international visitor numbers and contribute to the country’s ten-fold economic growth strategy.
President of the Ugandan Community in France, Simon Kahuma, said the celebration reflected the growing unity and resilience of Ugandans living abroad.
Kahuma, who has lived in France for nearly two decades, said adapting to a new language and culture can be challenging, but noted that many Ugandans have successfully integrated into French society while maintaining their connection to home.
He estimated that the Ugandan community in France could be larger than 1,000 people, comprising families, students, diplomats and working professionals.
The celebration, therefore, became more than an Independence Day gathering, bringing Uganda to the heart of Paris through its food, music, dance, culture, and tourism while strengthening the bonds between Ugandans abroad and their homeland.