diplomacy 18 March 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Uganda and Ireland Mark 100 Years of Ties with Vibrant St. Patrick's Day Festivities
Uganda and Ireland celebrated a century of partnership during a lively St. Patrick's Day event at the Irish Ambassador's residence in Kampala, highlighted by Irish music, Guinness, and speeches on shared history. Officials emphasized enduring contributions from missionaries to modern development programs in education and healthcare. Source: https://observer.ug/news/beyond-the-guinness-toast-uganda-ireland-celebrate-100-years-of-partnership
On March 12, the gardens of the Irish Ambassador’s residence in Kampala buzzed with Irish folk tunes, diplomatic conversations, and pours of creamy Guinness, bringing together Ugandan officials, diplomats, and the Irish community.
The event, hosted by Ambassador Mags Gaynor, went beyond festivity to honor 100 years of strong bonds between Uganda and Ireland. Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa highlighted how Irish missionaries laid the groundwork for key schools and hospitals over a century ago, with ties formalized by the embassy’s opening in 1994.
Tayebwa praised ongoing Irish support through programs like the Karamoja Bursary and Irish Fellowships, which empower Ugandan youth toward Vision 2040 objectives. Ambassador Gaynor stressed the event’s role in celebrating cultural heritage and deep friendships, particularly in building classrooms, vocational training, and healthcare in Karamoja.
Guests including State Minister Henry Oryem Okello and Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo enjoyed Irish staples like Guinness, Roe & Co Whiskey, and Baileys. Uganda Breweries Limited’s board chairman Jimmy Mugerwa underscored commercial links through these brands.
Festivities continued publicly on March 14 at Sheraton Gardens, reinforcing the shared values of hospitality and resilience between the two nations.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)