A fundraiser event in Leicester next month to mark the 50th anniversary of the Ugandan exodus is expected to bring together scores of people from home and abroad.
The expulsion was devasting and traumatic for those who witnessed horrific scenes in the days and weeks that followed the announcement. More than 70,000 people migrated to various parts of the world and indeed Britain. Cities like Leicester became a new home for those who were forced to flee a country they loved. Many came with nothing but have not only turned their lives around, they've helped to contribute massively to the local and national economy. We only have to look at Belgrave Road, also known as the Golden Mile, to see how businessmen and women from Uganda have transformed the area. Every year, the biggest Diwali festivities outside of India take place in Belgrave, thanks to the hard work of Ugandan Asians. The area is now a mecca for shoppers from around the UK. It’s a success story that will be celebrated in style with African dancers, Swahili & Bollywood singers and mouth-watering cuisine with an East African twist.
Lord Jitesh Gadhia will be a guest speaker as people come together to remember and reunite. Over the last 8 months, ITV news reporter Rajiv Popat and entrepreneur and radio broadcaster Priti Raichura have been interviewing those who were in Uganda. Rajiv is one of the first British Asian reporters who has remained in the industry and continues to do a remarkable job in telling powerful stories. They spoke movingly about their memories of Uganda, the good ones and the bad. Some of the interview clips will be played on the night. Priti & Rajiv have also been visiting schools across Leicester to raise awareness about the expulsion. The children have been fascinated and keen to ask lots of interesting and searching questions. The evening, Ugandan Exodus Movement of The People, will be a fitting tribute to a generation who left the Pearl of Africa 50 years ago. Their resilience and determination should never be forgotten. All money raised on the night will be donated to the Auro Foundation which operates a vocational college in Eastern Uganda giving students practical skills to become self-sufficient.
The event will take place at Winstanley House in Leicester on Saturday, 10 September 2022.
For tickets and more information contact Rajiv Popat on 07973 461165 or Priti Raichura on 07866 727181.
