Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa (2nd Right) shares a light moment of other guests.
Government officials, civil society representatives, diplomats and other invited guests joined the Irish community in Uganda last Thursday evening at the Irish Ambassador’s residence in Kololo to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
The Guest of Honour was the eputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa while other notable guests included Foreign Minister Henry Okello Oryem, Minister of State for Justice Nobert Mao, Minister of Justice in Uganda and Dr Ian, among others.
The Guinness-sponsored event drew a mix of guests, including Ugandans and Irish nationals, all eager to mark the special occasion with music, dance, and merrymaking.
Guests were treated to an endless flow of drinks and an exquisite assortment of food, with trays of delectable bites circulating through the crowd at all times.
One of the night’s most captivating highlights was the entertainment, headlined by the 9 Hazel Trees and a troupe of Irish dancers who travelled to Uganda for this grand event. Their performances set the tone for the evening, filling the air with the rich Irish rhythms and lively movements that define traditional Irish celebrations.
Irish ambassador Kevin Colgan at the function. PHOTO/ ISAAC SSEJJOMBWE
This year’s celebration also carried a sentimental note as it marked the last St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Uganda for Kevin Colgan as the Irish Ambassador.
In his speech, he expressed gratitude for the friendships and connections he had built over the past four years.
“I am so pleased that we have gathered so many friends here from a real cross-section of Ugandan society. Being that this is my last year, I reflect on what has been a great four years for myself and my wife, Catherine. We have made firm friends, whether in government or civil society, the diplomatic corps or the private sector. We will miss you all!”
As the speeches concluded and pleasantries were exchanged, the dance floor lit up and guests began to loosen up and shake their bodies on the dance floor.
St. Patrick’s Day has long been a momentous occasion in Uganda, celebrated with grandeur by the Irish society. This year’s event stood out with an infectious energy that carried on late into the night.
With melodies of the 9 Hazel Trees filling the air and the dancefloor alive, the night ended on a high note, leaving many looking forward to the next celebration of Ireland’s rich heritage and cultural pride.
