Guest Info
Odrek Rwabwogo was appointed Uganda’s Senior Presidential Advisor on Trade promotion last August; he is a Ugandan businessman interested in agriculture, security and construction. His company is called Tomosi and is known for dairy products processing and farming.
He received his education at Makerere University Uganda and the University of Wales Cardiff in the UK. He mentors young people in business with his weekly podcast on Entrepreneurship in a developing country under one of his group companies, TerpMedia. He is married with four children.
About the Show
Uganda is known for its multiculturalism, home to over 50 ethnic groups with various languages, religions, and cultural practices.
Through a thought-provoking episode this week, Rajan Nazran and Odrek Rwabwogo bring into a stimulating conversation the powerful concept of “Ugandanness” and the revival of multiculturalism. The lush green country receives rain three times a year and is a blissful place with a happy population. Despite this, the government is well known for its history of brutality and instability.
During the regime of Idi Amin, from 1971 to 1979, Uganda experienced significant social and political changes. Human rights abuses, repression, and the expulsion of Asian Ugandans marked Idi Amin’s rule. His policies had a detrimental impact on the country, leading to economic decline, social instability, and a tarnished international reputation.
However, it is essential to distinguish the actions of Idi Amin from the true essence of Ugandanness. While his regime was characterised by violence and repression, it does not reflect the inherent nature of the Ugandan people or the country’s cultural values.
In recent years, Uganda has tried to heal and revive its multiculturalism and sense of compassion. The country has been working towards fostering unity, reconciliation, and a spirit of inclusivity. Ugandans within the country and in the diaspora have been actively promoting their diverse cultural heritage, emphasising the importance of tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence.
Odrek Rwabwogo clarifies the misconceptions about Uganda and how it often stems from a limited understanding of its complex history and diverse culture. The main misconception, he explains, is that people need a sense of multiculturalism. Still, he gives instances that the need for better communication skills makes the Ugandans seem extremist.
By celebrating and embracing the richness of Uganda’s multiculturalism, the country now continues to move forward, fostering a sense of national pride and Ugandanness that is inclusive and compassionate.
Tune into this insightful discussion highlighting the necessity to recognise Uganda as more than its past and that its people are actively shaping a brighter future.
Produced by Global Indian Series for the Global Indian Network.
Script by Rajan Nazran
original idea: Rajan Nazran
Introduction music: (Music credit: https://freesound.org/people/TheoJT/sounds/569783/)
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