State House to Train Bugisu Clan Leaders and Cultural Ministers on Ethics, Culture Preservation

The Office of the President, through the Department of Ethics and Integrity, is set to conduct a cultural capacity-building training for leaders within the Bugisu Cultural Institution in a move aimed at strengthening moral values, preserving cultural heritage, and addressing emerging social vices affecting communities.

According to the spokesperson of the Bugisu Cultural Institution, Steven Masiga, communication has already been made to the institution through the Prime Minister, Dr. Paul Mwambu, directing the organization of the training that will bring together about 35 clan chairpersons, cultural ministers, and other cultural actors from across Bugisu.

Masiga revealed that the training is expected to take place next week in Mbale City and will focus on equipping cultural leaders with knowledge and skills to confront growing moral and social challenges in society.

“The Office of the President through the Department of Ethics and Integrity has reached out to the Bugisu Cultural Institution to organize a capacity-building training for clan leaders and cultural actors. The intention is to strengthen the institution in areas of cultural preservation, ethics, and combating moral decay in society,” Masiga explained.

He noted that one of the key areas of focus during the training will be the fight against pornography and other harmful practices that are increasingly influencing young people and communities.

Masiga further disclosed that a special anti-pornography committee is expected to be established as part of the broader strategy to safeguard cultural values and protect children and youth from destructive behaviors.

“The training seeks to empower cultural leaders so that they can become ambassadors of morality and defenders of our cultural norms and traditions,” he said.

Participants attending the training will reportedly receive a modest transport refund based on public transport fare rates.

The initiative comes at a time when many communities are expressing concern over what leaders describe as a growing moral breakdown among young people. Cases involving exposure to inappropriate online content, substance abuse, and other behaviors considered contrary to traditional African values have become increasingly common.

Cultural leaders in Bugisu believe that strengthening clan structures and empowering traditional leaders can play a significant role in restoring discipline, promoting responsible behavior, and preserving the cultural identity of the Bamasaaba people.

Observers say the involvement of the Office of the President highlights government recognition of cultural institutions as important partners in community mobilization, moral guidance, and social transformation. 

The Bugisu Cultural Institution has in recent years intensified efforts to promote cultural awareness, unity, and responsible social conduct among communities in eastern Uganda.

Leaders within the institution say the upcoming training will not only reinforce ethical leadership among clan heads but also revive the role of traditional structures in mentoring younger generations and protecting cultural values from negative external influences.