Former Ethiopian PM Hailemariam Honored at Diplomatic Dinner in Kampala

A high-level diplomatic dinner was held on Thursday evening at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel, hosted by H.E. Etsegenet Yimenu in honor of former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn.

Dessalegn, who currently serves as Chairman of Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa and Patron of the Ateker Community, was celebrated for his continued contribution to regional cooperation and Pan-African development.

Col. Yirga Gebremariam, (R) the Head of Defense Attaché, welcomes H.E Hailemariam

The event attracted a distinguished guest list, including members of the Ethiopian diplomatic mission, senior officials from AGRA, representatives from international organizations, and key figures from Uganda’s private and public sectors—creating a platform for networking and strengthening bilateral ties.

In her remarks, Ambassador Yimenu praised Dessalegn’s role in deepening people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and Uganda, noting that his leadership complements ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Uganda H.E Etsegenet Yimenu Bezabih addressing guests at the dinner

She also expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Uganda for the warm hospitality extended to the visiting delegation, and congratulated him on his successful meeting with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.

H.E Hailemariam greets Mr. Jean-Philippe Bittencourt, General Manager of Sheraton Kampala Hotel

Speaking at the dinner, Dessalegn emphasized Ethiopia’s long-standing history of independence and resilience, describing service to the nation as a noble calling.

He further highlighted his role at AGRA as an opportunity to advance agricultural transformation and development across Africa in the spirit of Pan-Africanism.

The former Prime Minister also commended both the Ethiopian Embassy in Kampala and the Government of Uganda for their hospitality throughout his visit.

The evening featured a ceremonial cake-cutting in his honor, symbolizing appreciation for his leadership and contributions to regional unity.