Government Donates Vehicles to Cultural Leaders
The Ugandan government has officially donated 30 new vehicles for cultural leaders across the country. This initiative supports the mobility and outreach of traditional institutions as they engage communities in peace-building and development efforts ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Speaking during the launch of the Traditional Leaders Enhancement Programme at Kololo Independence Grounds, Vice President Jessica Alupo, representing President Museveni, highlighted the importance of cultural institutions.
“The vehicles that you are receiving today will help ease your mobilisation efforts and enable you to reach all parts of your kingdom,” read President Museveni’s message. The president affirmed that cultural institutions are essential partners in fostering peace, unity, and socio-economic transformation.
Who Received the Vehicles?
At least 15 out of Uganda’s 65 recognized indigenous tribes received two vehicles each—one for leadership and one for logistical support. The list of cultural leaders who benefited includes:
- Emorimori Paul Sande Etomeileng (Iteso Cultural Union)
- Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru (Tooro)
- Omukama Gafabusa Solomon Iguru (Bunyoro)
- Lawirwodi me Acholi David Onen Achana
- Kwaar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor
- Won Nyaci me Lango Micheal Moses Odongo Okune
- Omukama wa Buruli Mwogezi Butamanya
- Kamuswaga Constantine Apollo Ssansa Kabumbuli (Kooki)
- Rwoth Ubimu Philip Edger Keronger Olaker (Alur Kingdom)
- Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere
- Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma
- Omusinga Martin Kamya Ayongi (Bwamba)
- Kyabazinga William Wilberforce Nadiope IV (Busoga)
- Omwenego Obara Robert (Bugwe)
- Won Ateker Raphael Otaya (Kumamu Cultural Heritage)
Buganda and Bugwere Opt Out
However, Buganda and Bugwere kingdoms declined the donation. According to Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Betty Amongi, Buganda preferred to receive the money instead of vehicles.
“I visited the Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, and he stated that their culture requires that certain provisions are done by the local people—the subjects,” said Amongi.
Bugwere did not receive a vehicle due to the absence of a confirmed cultural successor. However, Minister Amongi assured that the car will be provided once the kingdom’s succession matter is resolved.
She emphasized that these vehicles recognise the role cultural leaders play in solving land disputes, reducing teenage pregnancies, and promoting poverty reduction.
Leaders Pledge Support for Government Initiatives
Representing the cultural institutions, Tieng Adhola Moses Stephen Owor thanked the government, pledging support for national programmes.
“We pledge to do our best and we are ready to change the face of Uganda through our humble contribution,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Won Ateker Papa Kumam, Raphael Otaya, expressed deep appreciation, noting that transportation has long been a challenge. “Now with these vehicles, we can move around our people preaching the word of peace, socio-economic transformation, and patriotism,” he said.
This donation marks a significant investment in Uganda’s traditional institutions, reinforcing their relevance and practical role in community development. It is hoped that the vehicles for cultural leaders will enhance their ability to engage effectively with citizens, especially as the country gears up for the 2026 elections.
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