Maragoli community renews push for recognition ahead of minority rights dialogue

Kiryandongo, Uganda: The Maragoli Community in Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to unity, transparency, and peaceful advocacy as it prepares to host representatives from Minority Rights Group International (MRGI) during a major community dialogue scheduled for July 8, 2026, in Kigumba Town Council.

The resolution was reached during a strategic community meeting where leaders and members agreed to present a united position on issues affecting the community, particularly its longstanding campaign for constitutional recognition as Ugandan citizens by birth and equal participation in the country’s social, political and economic development.

The upcoming engagement will bring together members of the Maragoli Community and officials from MRGI’s Africa regional office in Kampala to discuss minority rights, social inclusion, civic awareness and institutional support aimed at empowering marginalised communities.

Community leaders described the meeting as another milestone in strengthening partnerships that promote justice, equality and the protection of minority communities in Uganda.

Leaders reiterated that engagement with organisations such as MRGI and the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) is intended to complement government efforts to promote equality and safeguard the rights of all Ugandans.

They maintained that constitutional recognition of the Maragoli Community as citizens by birth remains their primary objective, arguing that it would strengthen access to equal opportunities, national inclusion and the full enjoyment of constitutional rights.

The meeting also addressed claims circulating among sections of the community alleging that members of the executive committee had personally benefited from livelihood support funds provided by MRGI.

Community leaders dismissed the allegations as false and without evidence. They said all engagements with development partners have been conducted with integrity, transparency and accountability, urging members to rely on official communication channels for accurate information.

The community expressed appreciation to Hon. Jacob Karubanga Ateenyi for his continued support and guidance towards the Maragoli Community’s advocacy initiatives.

Leaders said his contribution has helped strengthen engagement with government institutions, development partners and other stakeholders while raising awareness of the community’s concerns through peaceful dialogue.

The meeting clarified that the Maragoli Community continues to be led by the executive committee elected in 2016.

Although the committee lost two senior officials, former Chairperson Kagunza Christopher, who passed away in 2024, and former Treasurer Amugune John Agison, who died in 2025, the remaining members continue to execute their responsibilities while preserving the vision established by the community’s founders.

Leaders also noted that some committee members had missed recent engagements because they were attending burial ceremonies in Kaduku, reflecting the community’s tradition of standing together during bereavement.

Community leaders encouraged all Maragoli members to attend the July 8 dialogue, saying broad participation would strengthen their collective voice and ensure their concerns are directly presented to development partners and relevant institutions.

They stressed that unity, discipline and constructive engagement remain the most effective tools for advancing the community’s aspirations.

As preparations continue, community leaders expressed optimism that continued collaboration with institutions such as MRGI and the Equal Opportunities Commission will contribute to greater awareness, stronger advocacy and meaningful progress towards constitutional recognition and equal treatment of the Maragoli Community in Uganda.