Celebrating Achievements, Embracing the Future: Building a Stronger Tomorrow Together was the inspiring theme for AFRIDA’s end-of-year dinner in 2024. This grand event not only reflected on the association’s successes but also set the tone for a promising future.

A Tradition Rooted in Celebration

In 2023, AFRIDA’s Executive Committee (EXCOM) introduced the concept of an end-of-year dinner to bring members together for celebration, networking, fundraising, and fostering unity. The inaugural event, held on December 28, 2023, at Movic Hotel in Mpondwe-Lhubiriha Town Council, was a resounding success. Inspired by this, EXCOM established it as an annual tradition.

The day started with an AFRIDA thanks giving mass at Nyakahya Catholic Church

Words of Gratitude and Teamwork

The Chairperson of the organizing committee Mr. Yosia Baluku extended heartfelt thanks to AFRIDA members for their unwavering support. He commended the organizing team for their dedication and collaborative spirit, which resulted in a vibrant and memorable evening.

President’s Address

In his report, the Association’s President, H.E. Joward Ndungo Mubatsi II, expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, Rt. Rev. Aquirinus Kibira, Bishop of Kasese Catholic Diocese, and other distinguished guests for joining the celebration. He praised AFRIDA members for their enthusiasm and commitment, highlighting significant achievements of 2024:

  • Financial growth, with the association’s assets now valued at half a billion Ugandan shillings.

  • Successful investment ventures, such as the estate project in Kampala, where 25 titled plots were sold to members at subsidized rates.

  • Strategic partnerships, including a Memorandum of Understanding with Kasese District Local Government.

Looking ahead, the President shared ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to grow the association’s worth to 1.5 billion Ugandan shillings. He expressed confidence in the dedication of the EXCOM team to achieve these goals. Outstanding AFRIDA members were also recognized and rewarded for their contributions.

The 2024 Dinner: A Night to Remember

The second AFRIDA dinner took place on December 29, 2024, at Uhuru 50 Hotel in Kasese Municipality. Attended by approximately 150 members, the evening’s objectives were:

  • Celebrating Achievements: Reflecting on milestones achieved throughout 2024.

  • Networking and Collaboration: Providing a platform for members and partners to connect, share ideas, and strengthen relationships.

  • Recognizing Excellence: Acknowledging outstanding contributions by AFRIDA members.

  • Fundraising: Generating resources for ongoing projects and initiatives.

  • Setting Future Goals: Reviewing progress and laying the groundwork for 2025 and beyond.

    Highlights of the Event

Guest Contributions

Mr. Nzukwa, Headteacher of Kasese Secondary School, applauded AFRIDA for organizing such an impactful event. He offered insightful career development advice and encouraged professionals to actively engage with schools and mentor students.

The Chief Guest, Rt. Rev. Aquirinus Kibira, commended AFRIDA for its exemplary organization and described its members as the future hope of Kasese. He emphasized the importance of preserving the Lhukonzo language and challenged members to teach it to their children.

 

Rt.Rev.Aquirinus Kibira being rewarded shortly after his speech

Additionally, the Bishop donated 1 million Ugandan shillings toward AFRIDA’s upcoming medical camp on January 8, 2025, in Kithoma Market, Buhuhira Sub-County.

A Night of Celebration

The evening concluded with joyous celebrations, including live band performances and vibrant entertainment. Members reveled in the festivities, strengthening their bonds and looking forward to another year of progress and success.

AFRIDA’s 2024 end-of-year dinner was more than an event; it was a testament to the power of unity, vision, and commitment in building a stronger tomorrow together.