Umubano and Council for Abavandimwe Welcome President Museveni's Executive Order, Reject False Claims by Impersonators
The statement, addressed to all media houses and signed by representatives of Umubano, rejects the assertions made by Donati Kananura, Simon Kayitana, and Mukasa Mbidde as false, alarmist, and divisive.

In a strong and unequivocal statement, the Council for Abavandimwe/Umubano has dismissed recent claims made by individuals they describe as impostors, following the issuance of an Executive Order by President Museveni addressing the citizenship rights of Indigenous Banyarwanda. The statement, addressed to all media houses and signed by representatives of Umubano, rejects the assertions made by Donati Kananura, Simon Kayitana, and Mukasa Mbidde as false, alarmist, and divisive.
Historical Context and Leadership of Umubano
Umubano, founded in 1995 by notable figures including the late John Rucogoza, Hajje Gashegu, and Capt. Gad Gasatura, has long been a cornerstone of Indigenous Banyarwanda unity and advocacy. Dr. Ephraim Kamuhangire, who served as Chairman of Umubano from 2010 until his passing in November 2024, played a pivotal role in leading the organization. Since his death, no elections have been held to appoint new office bearers. The Council categorically refutes claims that leadership changes were made, attributing these allegations to a "small clique of opportunists" led by Kananura, Kayitana, and Mbidde.
Denouncement of Impersonators
In their press release, the Council labels these individuals as "impersonators and masqueraders" who have no legitimate connection to Umubano. The Council condemns their attempts to mislead the public with false claims of leadership and fabricated pronouncements, urging the public and media to treat these assertions with "the contempt they deserve."
Support for the Executive Order
The Council welcomed President Museveni's Executive Order as a positive step towards addressing longstanding issues regarding the citizenship rights of Indigenous Banyarwanda. Representing the largest cross-section of the community through their umbrella body, the Council for Abavandimwe, Umubano expressed unanimous support for the order. They also extended their gratitude to President Museveni, highlighting their hope for improved recognition and handling of Indigenous Banyarwanda’s citizenship rights.
A Call to Action Against Disinformation
The Council warned media outlets, the general public, and authorities to ignore and disregard the misinformation spread by Kananura, Kayitana, and Mbidde. They emphasized the importance of unity and truth in safeguarding the integrity and mission of Umubano.
The Council reaffirmed its commitment to representing the interests of Indigenous Banyarwanda in Uganda and maintaining its founding principles of unity and advocacy. With the Executive Order in place, they look forward to progress and positive change for their community, while standing firm against any attempts to derail their efforts through falsehoods or opportunism.
About Umubano and Council for Abavandimwe
Umubano, established in 1995, works alongside the Council for Abavandimwe to represent and advocate for the rights and interests of Indigenous Banyarwanda in Uganda. Together, they remain committed to fostering unity and addressing issues affecting their community.