Uganda’s diplomatic missions across Europe have renewed calls for greater unity and engagement among the diaspora, following a high-level turnout at the opening of the 2026 Euro Cranes Tournament in Amsterdam.
Ambassadors and the country’s High Commissioner joined hundreds of Ugandans living in Europe for the annual football event, which has increasingly become a key platform for fostering national cohesion, strengthening diaspora ties and promoting their role in national development.
The tournament attracted 10 Ugandan diaspora teams from across Europe, reflecting its growing reach and significance within the community.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were ambassadors Elizabeth Paula Napeyok, Mirjam Blaak Sow, Stephen Mubiru, Doreen Amule, Margaret M. Otteskov and Nimisha Madhvani.
Representing Uganda’s embassy in Rome, Ambassador Napeyok officially flagged off the Greek team, which made its maiden appearance in the tournament alongside nine other teams.
Speaking at the event, Napeyok commended Ambassador Mirjam Blaak Sow and the Uganda embassy in Brussels for successfully organising the tournament, describing it as an important platform that brings together Ugandans from different parts of Europe.
She congratulated the Greek team on its debut and urged all participants to uphold discipline, teamwork and fair play throughout the competition.
Napeyok emphasised that the tournament goes beyond football, noting that it provides an opportunity for Ugandans in the diaspora to strengthen friendships, nurture talent and celebrate their shared national identity.
She also challenged participants to remain good ambassadors of Uganda by demonstrating integrity, unity and mutual respect both on and off the pitch.
The debut of the Greek side marked another milestone in the steady growth of the Euro Cranes Tournament, which continues to attract increasing participation from Ugandan communities across Europe.
Organisers said the competition has evolved into a vital platform for strengthening links between Uganda’s diplomatic missions and the diaspora, while also promoting healthy living, cultural exchange and networking opportunities.
The presence of Uganda’s ambassadors and High Commissioner underscored government’s recognition of the diaspora as a strategic partner in advancing investment, trade, tourism and cultural diplomacy.
The Euro Cranes Tournament 2026 continues throughout the weekend, bringing together Ugandans from across Europe under one flag in a celebration of unity, friendship and patriotism through sport.
