Kampala, Uganda: Kampala is once again in the continental spotlight as hundreds of delegates from Africa and the global diaspora gather in Uganda for the 8th AIDO Pan-African Convention, a major five-day summit focused on African unity, investment, culture and reparations.
The convention, taking place at Speke Resort Munyonyo from May 21 to 25, has drawn an influential mix of African royals, diplomats, policymakers, business leaders, academics, cultural figures and diaspora representatives for what organisers describe as one of the year’s most significant Pan-African gatherings.
The atmosphere at Munyonyo turned lively ahead of the official opening ceremony as delegates arrived from across Africa, Europe, the Caribbean and the United States for a programme blending economic dialogue, cultural exchange and continental diplomacy.
Activities kicked off on Wednesday with an Inter-University Symposium on Pan-Africanism and Reparations hosted at Makerere University. Scholars, students and international guests engaged in discussions surrounding historical injustices, reparations advocacy and the future of African cooperation in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Delegates later attended a colourful “Karibu Night” at Ndere Cultural Centre, where traditional dance, music, Ugandan cuisine and networking sessions highlighted Africa’s cultural diversity and heritage.
Investment and Economic Cooperation Take Centre Stage
Attention now shifts to the Pan-African Diaspora Economic, Business and Investment Forum scheduled for Thursday at Munyonyo, where investors and entrepreneurs are expected to explore partnerships in sectors including tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, technology and trade.
Organisers say the convention seeks to move beyond symbolic Pan-African discussions by creating practical economic opportunities capable of strengthening ties between Africa and its diaspora communities worldwide.
Financial institutions, private sector players, policymakers and diaspora investors are expected to participate in strategic conversations aimed at driving investment and cross-border collaboration.
Royals Gather for Cultural Diplomacy Summit
Friday’s programme will feature one of the convention’s headline events, the Royal Summit and Banquet, expected to bring together more than 60 kings, queens and traditional leaders from across the continent.
The summit will focus on cultural preservation, traditional governance and regional cooperation while examining the role of African kingdoms and cultural institutions in promoting peace and development.
The evening will conclude with the Pan-African Impact Awards, recognising individuals and organisations making notable contributions toward Africa’s socio-economic transformation and global influence.
Saturday’s activities will include bilateral meetings, networking engagements and cultural tours around Kampala and nearby tourism sites.
African Liberation Day to Mark Grand Finale
The convention will climax on Sunday with celebrations marking the 63rd African Liberation Day at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, where thousands are expected to gather for speeches, cultural performances and messages promoting African solidarity, self-determination and unity.
The event is running alongside the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo 2026, further positioning Uganda as a growing hub for international conferences, tourism promotion and Pan-African engagement.
Observers say hosting the dual events offers Uganda a strategic platform to strengthen its visibility as both a tourism destination and a centre for continental dialogue and investment diplomacy.