Zohran Mamdani: Ugandans Celebrate New York Mayor of Ugandan Descent

In a significant moment for Ugandans, many citizens are celebrating the election of Zohran Mamdani as the mayor of New York City. Born in Uganda and holding dual nationality, Mamdani's ascent to this prominent position has sparked a wave of pride across his homeland.

Zohran Mamdani, aged 34, is the son of Professor Mahmood Mamdani, a respected academic in Uganda, and Mira Nair, a well-known filmmaker. His background has led many Ugandans to regard him as one of their own, with his accomplishments serving as a source of inspiration for many.

Angelo Izama, a journalist who mentored Mamdani during his early career at a leading Ugandan newspaper, described the reaction in Uganda as one of "excitement", particularly due to Mamdani's relatively young age. According to the CIA World Factbook, Uganda has one of the youngest populations globally, with a median age of just 16.2 years.

Izama noted that although Mamdani was initially “shy” during their time together, he displayed a strong determination to effect change. He expressed that Mamdani often reflects fondly on Kampala, Uganda’s capital, which highlights his enduring connection to his roots.

Professor Mahmood Mamdani has had a longstanding association with Uganda, having spent over a decade teaching at Makerere University, the country's oldest university. His academic work focuses on the impacts of colonialism in Africa, particularly in relation to governance and justice. He met his wife, Mira Nair, in Kampala while she was conducting research for a film about the expulsion of Asians from Uganda during the regime of Idi Amin.

Professor Okello Ogwang, a colleague of Mamdani's at Makerere University, expressed pride in Zohran's achievements, referring to him as a "son of a colleague" and a representation of hope for the continent’s youth. "We are missing out on the greatest resource we have - the youth," he stated.

While many Ugandans may not have been familiar with Mamdani prior to his election, students at Makerere University shared their enthusiasm. Abno Collins Kuloba, a student, remarked that his success demonstrates that anyone can rise above their circumstances. "It gives morale, especially to us as youths," he said, reflecting a sentiment echoed by others.

Chemtai Zamzam, another student, expressed her admiration for Mamdani, stating that his achievements illustrate that young people can realise their dreams with faith and determination. "It shows we can become anything we want as long as we put faith and determination," she said.

Mamdani's victory has also resonated beyond Uganda, with figures from across the African continent acknowledging his accomplishment. Abdul Mohamed, a former senior official at the United Nations and the African Union from Ethiopia, noted that Mamdani has inherited a commitment to pan-Africanism from his parents. He urged young Africans to learn from Mamdani’s example, emphasising the importance of political organisation and action.

"Through him, the power and beauty of multi-ethnic, multi-religious identity found its voice," he said, highlighting the diverse nature of African societies.

Uganda is set to hold elections next year, with President Yoweri Museveni, who has been in power for nearly 40 years, seeking another term. This backdrop adds further significance to Mamdani's election as a symbol of potential change and progress.

The Mamdani family has roots in South Africa, having spent around three years in Cape Town during the 1990s. Rashied Omar, the imam of Claremont Road Mosque in Cape Town, remarked on Mamdani's formative years spent in his congregation. He noted that Mamdani's early experiences in South Africa shaped his political consciousness.

"It is inspiring to see how Zohran's early experiences made a lasting impression on his political consciousness and helped shape his creative, community-based approach to politics," Dr Omar said, advocating for progressive politics that resonates with new generations.

The Economic Freedom Fighters, a prominent South African political party, also praised Mamdani's election as a transformative achievement, signifying a shift toward justice-driven leadership.

In Nigeria, Pastor Okezie J Atañi, a supporter of President Bola Tinubu, welcomed Mamdani's success, asserting that it indicates resilience in the face of political challenges. His remarks followed recent threats from former US President Donald Trump regarding military action in Nigeria, highlighting the complexities of global politics.

As Zohran Mamdani embarks on his role as mayor, his election is seen not just as a personal victory, but as a beacon of hope for many across the African continent, particularly for the youth who aspire to make a difference in their communities.