MUMBAI, 9th OCTOBER, 2023 (GPN):  Uganda, Pearl of Africa is all poised for dual celebrations this October with The 61st National Day of the Republic of Uganda on 9th October and the inauguration of direct flight between Entebbe – Mumbai, on the 7th of October and to commemorate this stupendous dual historic milestone a Grand Gala Event was hosted at Hotel St. Regis, in Mumbai on Monday, 9th October, 2023.

The 61st Independence Day anniversary celebrations of Uganda in Mumbai saw a vivid tapestry of arts, history, cultural diversity, and challenges. This year’s celebrations shed light not only on the country’s rich cultural heritage but also on the issues it currently grapples with.

H.E. Madhusudan Agrawal, Hon. Consul of Uganda – Mumbai, Western India welcomed Uganda Airlines (UR) milestone to commence the historic direct flight from Entebbe (EBB) to Mumbai (BOM), saying, “Since 2017, I have relentlessly pursued the dream of a direct flight from Mumbai to Entebbe, believing it to be the catalyst for enhanced trade, commerce, and tourism between our two nations. I am elated to witness the realisation of my vision. Besides convenience, we hope this route will add energy to the existing business and commercial relations between India and Uganda that date back more than a century. ”

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, addressing the gathering virtually said,  “With the beginning of air service between India and Uganda, the extension of trade, business, culture, tourism and health sector will definitely take place. It is due to such step that the mutual relations between both the nations will be further strengthened. It will bring prosperity and peace for the welfare of both the countries and there will be good cooperation in the future,” this confidence was exuded by Chief Minister Mr Eknath Shinde here, today.

He was speaking during the celebration of National Day of the Republic of Uganda and inauguration of direct flight between Mumbai Entebbe. Hon’ble FDA (MoS) DharmaraoBaba B. Atram, H.E. Minister Edward Wamala, H.E. Professor Joyous Kikafunda, H. E. Madhusudan Agrawalji, H.E. Vinod Sarogiji, Abul Husain Sameer Somaiyaji, Juhi Chawla, Jay Mehta, Shailesh Lodha of Tarak Mehta and Wah Bhai Wah fame and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

At the beginning of the program, the chief minister extended his greetings on the National Day of the Republic of Uganda. He said that Uganda is one of the most beautiful countries of the African continent. India and Uganda have had bilateral relations for decades adding that more than 40 thousand Indians stay in Uganda and they are contributing in the development of that nation. The beginning of the India- Uganda air service will strengthen the relations between both the nations and will give a boost to the economy of both the nations, the chief minister added.

Sharing in the joy of the journey between the two friendly countries were High Commissioner o Uganda to India Prof. Joyce K Kikafunda, H.E. Consul of Uganda, Mumbai, Western India Madhusudan Agrawal, Hon. Consul of Uganda, Chennai, Southern India Vinod Saraogi and Lenny Malasi from Uganda Airlines. Also present were Vice Consul of Uganda Vishal Saria and famed global strategist and business coach Manoj Gursahani who ably conducted the proceedings.

Uganda is a country of beautiful scenery and offers diverse activities like gorilla trekking, safaris, multiday mountain treks, and white-water rafting. Winston Churchill called it ‘the Pearl of Africa’ for its beauty, abundant wildlife and diversity.