By For one Saturday in Hasbrouck Heights, New Jersey, Uganda did not feel thousands of miles away.
The Uganda Culture and Community Festival 2026, organised by the Uganda Tri-State Community Association (UTCA), was more than a cultural celebration. It was a gathering that brought together business, heritage, fashion, family, and community in one unforgettable day.
From the morning Business Breakfast to the evening Dinner and Dance, the festival created a space where Ugandans and friends of Uganda could reconnect, celebrate their identity, and imagine new possibilities together.
Business Breakfast
During the Business Breakfast, entrepreneurs, professionals, community leaders, and guests exchanged ideas on investment opportunities, tourism, real estate, construction, technology, insurance, and ways the diaspora can contribute to Uganda’s growth.
The Business Breakfast and the inaugural dinner were moderated by Uganda Diaspora Network (UDN) founder Mr. Ronnie Mayanja and former Miss Uganda Lilian Acom McClung, who guided the day’s discussions and celebrations with warmth and professionalism.
For many attendees, the morning was not just about exchanging contacts. It was about building relationships and exploring how collective effort can create lasting impact.
UTCA Chairperson Mildred welcomed members of the community and introduced the UTCA leadership and Board, highlighting the association’s objectives and its commitment to promoting unity, cultural preservation, and community development among Ugandans in the Tri-State area.
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Remmy Male, while the Guest of Honour was Uganda’s Ambassador to Washington, D.C. The event was also attended by Uganda’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, underscoring the importance of strengthening ties between Uganda and its diaspora. Government services, including National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) services and dual citizenship processing, were also made available to members of the community.
A Celebration of Culture and Identity
As the day progressed, the atmosphere transformed from a professional gathering into a vibrant celebration of Ugandan identity.
Families arrived dressed in elegant traditional wear and modern African-inspired fashion.
Friends reunited after years apart. Children experienced a taste of their heritage, while new members of the diaspora found themselves welcomed into a community that felt like home.
Fashion as a Story of Heritage
One of the highlights of the festival was the fashion showcase, which brought creativity and culture to centre stage.
The runway featured beautiful designs inspired by Ugandan fabrics, traditions, and contemporary African fashion. The showcase was more than an exhibition of clothing; it was a celebration of identity.
The fashion show was curated by fashion designer and engineer Harriet Wandira Rumanyika, who also heads a shipping line in Liberia. Through her carefully curated showcase, she celebrated the richness of Ugandan culture while highlighting the creativity and innovation of African fashion.
The Kaluma Family’s Inspiration
Among the many inspiring moments of the day was the presence of Mr. and Mrs. Tendo Kaluma, whose family story captured the attention of many attendees.
Their son, Arthur Kaluma, had recently achieved a historic milestone after earning a two-way contract with the Los Angeles Lakers following his impressive NBA Summer League performances.
For many Ugandans, Arthur’s achievement represented more than a sporting success. It was a reminder that global excellence can emerge from Ugandan roots.
Speaking during the Business Breakfast, Tendo Kaluma encouraged parents in the diaspora to intentionally empower their children by nurturing their talents, instilling discipline, and ensuring they remain connected to their Ugandan heritage while pursuing excellence wherever they live.
Ending the Day with Celebration
As evening arrived, the festival moved into its Dinner and Dance, bringing the day’s activities to a joyful conclusion.
From entrepreneurs discussing investments to designers showcasing creativity, from families celebrating heritage to young people discovering their roots, the festival reflected the many faces of Uganda abroad.
