A delegation of traditional leaders from across Africa has arrived in Uganda ahead of the 8th AIDO Pan-African Summit, scheduled to convene leaders from the continent and its diaspora.
The summit is expected to bring together African diaspora leaders, traditional monarchs, government officials, diplomats, investors, and global Pan-African representatives.
While welcoming the delegation at Entebbe International Airport, Prince Wasajja Kiwanuka, the Chairman of the Uganda Traditional Forum, who also represented the Buganda Kingdom emphasized the significance of the African Liberation Day, celebrated on March, 25th, marking the day Africans took control of their activities and well-being.
“The event is a reunion of people of African descent from various parts of the continent and the diaspora, highlighting the importance of unity and self-determination,” he said.
Wasajja further highlighted that the celebration includes a week-long series of activities, starting with the Inter-University symposium led by distinguished academicians and scholars from the Caribbean and Pan-African regions which aims to foster discussions on economic and development aspects that can benefit the continent, with delegates from different countries participating.
“On March 22nd, a business forum will be
held, where delegates will share ideas and
development aspects to help the continent
and specific countries, the Royal Summit on March 23rd will gather cultural leaders from within and outside Uganda to celebrate African Liberation Day and discuss the continent’s cultural heritage,” he explained.
In addition, Wasajja noted that the Royal Summit will culminate in the Royal Gala and the Pan African Impact Awards, held at Munyonyo, where cultural leaders will be recognized for their contributions as well as tours around Buganda Kingdom and other parts of Uganda, showcasing cultural places and important monuments.
“The final event on March 25th will be a
celebration, referred to as an African party,
focusing on unity and harmony among
Africans, and the day will serve as a reminder of the continent’s history, including the struggles
and achievements, and a call for living
harmoniously and enjoying Africa’s natural
and cultural riches,” he remarked.
The head of the delegation who is also the Founder and Global President of AIDO Network International (AIDO), Dr Paul Eganda said that many have arrived and more are still coming including Royals coming from the Caribbeans, Her Highness Queen Ashanti Com II, and Dr Hillary Brown, the head of the Global African Diaspora Kingdom among others.
The gathering is positioned as a prelude to Uganda’s annual Africa Liberation Day celebrations, set for 25th May 2026 at Phaneroo Grounds in Naguru, Kampala. The event will feature high-profile dignitaries, including King Bhungane III (born Khulu Radebe), the modern leader of the Embo Nation, a kingdom spanning parts of South Africa and will include discussions on various topics related to African development.
Discussions will focus on promoting African unity, strengthening diaspora partnerships, and advancing reparatory justice. Organizers say the meeting also aims to reinforce cultural and policy ties between Africa and its diaspora communities.
Officials expect the summit to produce resolutions on cultural cooperation, economic collaboration, and joint advocacy on historical justice issues affecting Africa and its diaspora.
The arrival of traditional leaders signals growing engagement between Africa’s cultural institutions and global Pan-African networks ahead of next year’s commemorations.
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