By David Mwanje
Uganda is set to observe its National Day at the Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, on October 8, 2025, featuring a dynamic lineup of commercial, artistic, and diplomatic activities. The event is designed to spotlight the nation’s investment prospects, vibrant heritage, and drive to deepen partnerships with Japan and the wider world.
The Expo 2025, which kicked off in April and wraps up on October 13, 2025, revolves around the overarching theme of “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” Uganda’s exhibit, located in the Commons A zone, has been drawing crowds from day one, emphasizing the East African country’s push toward modernization through manufacturing expansion, global trade, and foreign capital inflows. It also highlights Uganda’s ethnic mosaic and its allure as a travel destination.
Heading the Ugandan team is Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, accompanied by top administrators, envoys, and business leaders. The initiative is spearheaded by the Uganda Free Zones and Export Promotions Authority (UFZEPA), working hand-in-hand with Uganda’s diplomatic mission in Japan.
Kicking off the visit, the delegation will convene with leaders from the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry on October 7, 2025, to explore avenues for enhanced commerce, funding flows, and direct corporate collaborations.
The highlight on October 8 will take place at the National Day Hall with formal proceedings, including a keynote from Prime Minister Nabbanja and contributions from Japanese hosts. Attendees can expect an immersive showcase of Ugandan arts and customs through live demonstrations, capturing the essence of the country’s artistic flair and historical depth. This will be followed by guided visits to the pavilions of both nations, symbolizing collaborative progress at the Expo.
The evening will conclude with a reception at the Expo Guest House, fostering informal dialogues and deal-making opportunities among Ugandan and Japanese executives.
Post-Expo, Prime Minister Nabbanja will meet her Japanese counterpart in Tokyo on October 9, 2025, for talks aimed at bolstering joint efforts in commerce, economic ventures, and development initiatives.
Uganda’s participation aligns with the Expo’s “Empowering Lives” pillar, reflecting the country’s blueprint for equitable and sustainable advancement through commerce, innovation, and sector-wide expansion—core tenets of Vision 2040 and the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).
Hez Kimoomi Alinda, UFZEPA’s top official, noted that the Expo serves as an ideal platform for Uganda’s outreach. “Our National Day offers a chance to spotlight key growth areas, celebrate our traditions, and affirm our eagerness to collaborate for shared success and advancement,” Alinda remarked.
In essence, Uganda’s Expo spotlight not only honors its unique spirit but also positions the nation as a forward-thinking player in global exchange, aspiring to build a robust, trade-driven economy and a steadfast ally on the international stage.
