63rd Uganda Independence Celebrations in Sheffield | Graced by High Commission Representatives

Written By Tchiyiwe Chihana

The Ugandan Community in the United Kingdom, together with Alpha & Omega Church Sheffield, successfully delivered the 63rd Uganda Independence Celebration at Arbourthorne Social Centre in Sheffield. The event united Ugandans, friends of Uganda, and members of the wider Sheffield and UK diaspora community for a day of cultural appreciation, engagement, and community strengthening. ‪Tchiyiwe Chihana, representing African Voices Platform (AVP), attended the event and spoke to several dignitaries featured in this video. Interviews captured moments of cultural reflection, community achievements, and shared commitments to continued cooperation between the Ugandan community and wider Sheffield civic partners.

The programme featured remarks and participation from several distinguished guests:

  • PR Andrew & Josephine Bukenya – Hosts

  • Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL – Co-Host

  • Ambassador Philip Matthew Rukikaire – Deputy High Commissioner, Uganda High Commission London (Guest of Honour)

  • Cllr Safiya Saeed – Lord Mayor of Sheffield

  • Superintendent Paul Ferguson – Sheffield District Command, South Yorkshire Police

  • Hillary Massarella MBE DL – Representing the Lord Lieutenant of South Yorkshire

The celebration provided a platform to recognise Uganda’s 63 years of independence and highlight the country’s cultural heritage. The programme included traditional entertainment, cultural dance, music, and a full Ugandan meal, served to all attendees free of charge. The event also encouraged community networking, business visibility, and collaboration between Ugandan organisations and local institutions in Sheffield. The aim was to honour Uganda’s historical journey to independence and promote cultural pride and strengthen relationships within the Ugandan diaspora and the wider Sheffield community There was a showcase of traditional Ugandan food, dance, and artistic expression with opportunity networking, cultural learning, and community visibility. The celebration was supported by a range of sponsors, partners, and exhibitors.

These included: Panafrica Tourism Board, Uganda Community UKRA, JEP Wright, South Yorkshire Police, SHIFT, African Voices Platform, Irise, Eminent Financial, Get To Know Her, Lontex Cargo, VAS, New Beginnings Project, and other contributing organisations.

Tchiyiwe Chihana