By This year, the Ugandan North American Association (UNAA) will hold its 37th Annual Convention & Trade Expo in New Orleans from August 28 to September 1, 2025, during the US Labor Day weekend. Themed “Thriving Together: Advancing Healthcare, Business, and Technology through Innovation and Investment,” the event is widely recognized as the largest gathering of Ugandans outside the country. It is expected to attract a broad cross-section of politicians, business leaders, and community members, uniting the diaspora through forums, cultural activities, and celebrations.
Among the highlights this year will be guest appearance of Rev. Gary and Marilyn Skinner, the founders of the Watoto Church in Uganda. They will be expected to lead the special convention church service.
However, all has not been well at UNAA after reports emerged that the institution was sued. UNAA has faced controversy in recent months after reports emerged that bills from the previous convention, reportedly exceeding USD 100,000, remained unpaid under a former president. Organizers have since negotiated payment plans with the hotel involved, aiming to resolve the financial issue ahead of this year’s gathering.
It’s important to note UNNA has not held an AGM – annual General meeting for its members in the recent past. A forum in which UNAA financial reports are typically presented by the treasurer to its membership.
Key activities this year include a Business & Investment Forum, where participants can explore new ventures and connect with investors supporting Ugandan and diaspora businesses. A Technology Forum will feature thought leaders discussing ways technology can create opportunities between Uganda and North America. Attendees can also look forward to “A Night on the Nile,” a Mississippi paddlewheeler cruise offering music, drinks, and panoramic city views, as well as the grand final gala dinner with awards, keynote speeches, and cultural showcases.
In addition, UNAA election this year will present no competition as all the leading positions have incumbents that are unopposed. There has been a culture of gerrymandering the elections in the past to allow those in leadership to win during election years that partly explains the lack of enthusiasm in the races this year.
Despite recent setbacks, the Labor Day weekend convention continues to be the premier annual gathering for Ugandans abroad, celebrated for its scale, networking opportunities, and vibrant cultural programming.
