&w=64&q=75)
The Irish community in Uganda came together on March 17 for a grand celebration of St. Patrick’s Day at the Irish Ambassador’s residence in Kololo.
The event attracted a mix of guests, including government officials, civil society representatives, diplomats, and Ugandans eager to join in the festivities.
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, the Guest of Honour, attended the celebration alongside Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Oryem Henry Okello.
In his speech, Okello highlighted the strong ties between Uganda and Ireland, underscoring their shared commitment to fostering diplomatic and cultural relations.
A key part of the night was the presence of Guinness, the iconic black brew originally from Ireland, now proudly brewed in Uganda by Uganda Breweries Ltd (UBL).
Elizabeth Mutamuliza, UBL’s Marketing Manager – Beer, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to being part of the annual celebration.
“UBL will always be part of St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, especially because we are the home of Guinness in Uganda. Our consumers love Guinness, and many eagerly look forward to this day,” Mutamuliza said.
The night’s entertainment was a spectacle, headlined by the 9 Hazel Trees and a troupe of Irish dancers who travelled from Ireland to perform. Their energetic performances set the mood, filling the air with lively Irish rhythms and keeping guests engaged.
As the night unfolded, guests enjoyed a variety of drinks and an assortment of exquisite dishes, with trays of bites circulating through the venue. The event also carried an emotional touch, as it was the final St. Patrick’s Day in Uganda for Irish Ambassador Kevin Colgan.
In his farewell speech, Colgan expressed gratitude for the friendships and connections he built over the past four years.
“I am pleased we have gathered so many friends from all parts of Ugandan society. Being my last year, I reflect on four wonderful years for myself and my wife, Catherine. We have made firm friends in government, civil society, the diplomatic corps, and the private sector. We will miss you all,” he said.
As speeches wrapped up, the dance floor came alive with guests letting loose, moving to the beats of 9 Hazel Trees and enjoying the infectious energy that carried on late into the night.
St. Patrick’s Day remains a major celebration in Uganda, bringing together the Irish community and Ugandan friends to honour Ireland’s rich heritage.
This year’s event left many looking forward to the next gathering, marking another chapter in the long-standing cultural exchange between the two nations.