National

Minister Amongi lauds traditional leaders for promoting unity, socio-economic development

Gender Minister Betty Amongi hands over the award to Omukama Omukama Gafabusa Solomon Iguru I of Bunyoro received by his Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaaga

Kampala, (UG):- The Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Hon. Betty Amongi Akena, has applauded traditional and cultural leaders for their vital role in fostering unity and advancing socio-economic development in Uganda.

The Minister made the remarks on Friday, January 17, 2025, during the closure of the two-day National Conference for Traditional and Cultural Leaders at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.

In her address, Hon. Amongi emphasized the long-standing collaboration between the government and traditional institutions, highlighting their shared vision for a better Uganda. She praised the leaders for their commitment to promoting positive cultural norms and values, citing their efforts in tackling early marriages, encouraging girls to return to school after pregnancy, and mobilizing communities for development initiatives.

- Advertisement -

“Traditional leaders have become essential partners in implementing legal frameworks like the Domestic Violence Act, the Female Genital Mutilation Act, and the Defilement Act. Their efforts in resolving disputes and fostering social cohesion are invaluable,” Amongi noted.

The minister also acknowledged the contribution of traditional leaders in addressing social challenges, such as supporting widows, educating orphans, and preventing street homelessness. She emphasized that their actions complement government efforts to address pressing social issues.

Hon. Amongi highlighted examples of successful initiatives led by traditional institutions, including the Buganda Kingdom’s coffee production campaign and the promotion of modern agriculture, scholarships, and tourism. These efforts, she said, are driving Uganda’s development agenda.

The minister also commended the use of traditional alternative justice systems in resolving conflicts, citing a notable case in the Acholi community where a restorative approach facilitated reconciliation and forgiveness. She urged leaders to continue promoting dialogue and reconciliation to strengthen peace and unity.

“As custodians of culture, you play a crucial role in shaping communities and fostering inclusivity. Your guidance promotes unity, influences positive development, and helps resolve conflicts peacefully,” Hon. Amongi stated.

She further called on traditional leaders to play a pivotal role in ensuring peaceful political engagements, especially as the country approaches elections. “Your influence is critical in encouraging politicians to embrace politics of love, dialogue, and reconciliation for the good of the nation.”

Hon. Amongi assured the traditional leaders of continued government support and revealed that President Yoweri Museveni will very soon meet them to address their concerns and provide actionable solutions.

“His Excellency the president has already indicated that he is going to meet you. This meeting was a precursor to listen to you and give him ahead of time all the issues that you have raised, and all the issues that you want clarification from him. So what we have discussed is we are going to have a private meeting with you as kings alone and answer all the issues that you have raised with a concrete proposal,” Minister Amongi affirmed.

“I can commit on behalf of the minister of gender, labour and social development and government that we will continue to work with you so that together we can work collectively for a shared Thank you,” she concluded.

Traditional and Cultural Leaders Recognized

At the same function, Minister Amongi recognized the following traditional and cultural leaders for their pivotal roles in driving socio-economic development and cultural preservation within their communities.

  1. Omukama Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV
    (Promotion of Sustainable Tourism and Promotion of Public Health and Positive Health Living)
  2. Omukama Solomon Iguru I
    (Defending the Rights of Communities in the Oil and Gas Sector)
  3. Laloyo ma ber me Acholi Onen David Achana II
    (Protection of the Alternative Justice System)
  4. Kwar Adhola Moses Stephen Owor of Tieng Adhola
    (Advocacy Against Gender-Based Violence)
  5. Omukama Isabaruli Constantine Butamanya Mwogezi Mwatyansozi I of Buruuli
    (Advocacy Against Gender-Based Violence)
  6. Amuswaga Apollo Ssansa Kabumbuli II
    (Promotion of Sustainable Tourism)
  7. Wot Jobi Philip Edger Olarker Rauni III
    (Promotion of Environmental Justice)
  8. Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma
    (Embracing Peaceful Resolution of Conflict)
  9. Sabasajja Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II
    (Promotion of Wealth Creation Through Coffee Growing)
  10. Kyabazinga William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV
    (Promotion of Health Through Malaria Eradication)
  11. Omudingiya Martin Kamya Ayonga
    (Promotion of Education Through Scholarships for Human Capital Development)
  12. Emorimor Sande Paul Emolot
    (Galvanizing Cultural Leaders for Local, Regional, and Global Development)
  13. Omwen’engo Robert Obara
    (Promotion of Modern Agricultural Practices)
  14. Won Ateker Raphael Otaya
    (Promoting Dialogue for Peaceful Co-Existence)

The conference, held under the theme “The Role of Traditional and Cultural Leaders in Promoting Unity for Socio-Economic Development of Uganda” brought together traditional leaders from across the country, serving as a platform for dialogue and strengthening the partnership between cultural institutions and the government in promoting unity and socio-economic progress.

Send us your story or opinion on: [email protected]. You can also follow Daily Express on WhatsApp for all the latest news and updates.



Daily Express is Uganda's number one source for breaking news, National news, policy analytical stories, e-buzz, sports, and general news.

We resent fake stories in all our published stories, and are driven by our tagline of being Accurate, Fast & Reliable.

Copyright © 2024 Daily Express Uganda. A Subsidiary of Rabiu Express Media Group Ltd.

To Top
Translate »