Umukuuka Challenges Media to Promote Unity, Reject Negative Narratives in Bugisu

The Umukuuka wa Bugisu, His Royal Highness Sir Jude Mike Mudoma III, has rallied journalists and security agencies to play a more proactive role in promoting social harmony, safeguarding cultural heritage, and advancing inclusive development across the Bugisu sub-region.

HRH Mudoma made the call during a Media Breakfast Briefing held on March 27, 2026, at the Umukuuka Headquarters in Malukhu. The engagement brought together key media houses, security officials, and leaders from the Institution of Umukuuka wa Bugisu to strengthen collaboration and address critical issues affecting the region.

Purpose of the Engagement

According to the Umukuuka Wa Bugisu’s spokesperson, Steven Masiga, the meeting aimed to create an interface between the Umukuuka Wa Bugisu, media, and security agencies. It also provided an opportunity to respond to frequently asked questions surrounding Imbalu cultural practices, share updates on priority initiatives, and foster coordinated communication.

The institution is particularly focused on:

Promoting social harmony within communities

Preserving the cultural heritage of the Bagisu

Advancing inclusive socio-economic transformation across the region

HRH Mudoma: Media Must Drive Positive Change

In his address, HRH Mudoma described journalists as the “fourth estate” and one of the most powerful forces of influence in society.

“This is my third meeting with the media,” he said, noting that he has consistently engaged various stakeholders including religious leaders, politicians, youth, security organs, editors, media owners, and clan leaders.

He emphasized that leadership requires transformation, even if it creates discomfort.

“When you are called to lead, it means you must cause a shift from the status quo to a new dimension. A leader must sometimes create discomfort to propel people to better things,” HRH Mudoma stated.

He revealed that upon assuming office, he found the institution in a poor state and undertook renovations to restore its image—decisions he acknowledged may not have pleased everyone but were necessary for progress.

Strategic Vision and Development Agenda

HRH Sir Jude Mike Mudoma III outlined his dual mandate of promoting cultural heritage and driving development, anchored in a five-year strategic plan (2025–2029).

He noted that resistance to change has partly fueled conflict within the institution but maintained that his leadership remains focused on results.

To enhance development, Mudoma disclosed that the institution is actively lobbying the Government of Uganda for increased funding to Bugisu districts, citing disparities in budget allocations.

He revealed that a National Steering Committee led by Rt. Hon. Dr. Paul Mwambu, Prime Minister of the Institution, has been established to spearhead engagement with the Ministry of Local Government.

Call for Responsible Journalism

The Umukuuka urged journalists to uphold professionalism by:

Avoiding misinformation and extremism

Verifying information through official channels

Practicing balanced and investigative reporting

Promoting accountability and harmony

He cautioned against amplifying “negative forces” and instead encouraged the media to support both cultural and government institutions constructively.

“My office is open. Come and verify facts. Balance your stories and let the public judge,” he said.

Protection of Cultural Assets

HRH Sir Mudoma also revealed that he personally engaged President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to ensure that the Malukhu-based cultural assets remain under the institution’s control rather than being transferred to Mbale City.

He assured stakeholders that the land and buildings will be preserved and renovated for the benefit of the institution.

Evidence-Based Leadership

Highlighting his scientific approach to leadership, Mudoma cited a 2025 Community Transformation Assessment conducted by Roots Africa across 12 communities in Bulambuli, Manafwa, Mbale, and Sironko districts.

The study, which collected over 1,000 responses, is being used to guide planning and resource mobilization.

Support to Journalists

In a move to support media work, the Umukuuka donated tablets and branded pens to journalists, noting that over 200 tablets were allocated to the institution by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).

He also pledged to support capacity building among journalists, including facilitating access to scholarships.

Addressing Institutional Conflicts

HRH Sir Mudoma challenged his critics to present evidence of wrongdoing, vowing to resign if proven at fault.

He called upon the Mbale City RCC, George William Wopuwa, to convene a reconciliation meeting with his rivals, urging them to tone down tensions for the sake of unity.

“I am a seasoned civil servant for more than 20 years and very professional,” Mudoma said, adding that his international recognition, including a knighthood, has opened opportunities such as scholarships.

Voices from Other Leaders

Several leaders echoed the call for unity, professionalism, and collaboration:

Hon. Wilson Watira provided a historical perspective on the institution since 1998 and urged the Bamasaba to avoid internal conflicts.

SP Rogers Taitika the Elgon Region Police Spokesperson emphasized the need for factual and truthful reporting, advising journalists to verify information and correct errors.

Hon. George William Wopuwa , Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Mbale City described Mbale City as the “sitting room” of Bugisu and pledged to promote dialogue, consultation, and reconciliation among stakeholders.

Richard Maserejje Umukuuka Wa Bugisu's  Attorney General and Ethics Minister, highlighted the constitutional foundation of cultural institutions under Article 246 of the 1995 Constitution, noting that leadership in Bugisu is elective rather than hereditary. He also revealed plans to develop a consultative framework for future leadership transitions to prevent disputes.

Ministers in Attendance

The meeting was also attended by several ministers from the Institution of Umukuuka wa Bugisu, including:

Hon. Sam Sakwa Napokoli – Minister for Local Government and Clan Affairs

Hon. Massa Kalid – Minister for Security Affairs

Hon. Peter Kiwuso – Minister for Agriculture 

Rev. Titus Kutosi – Ambassador of Peace and Reconciliation 

A Unified Path Forward

The briefing concluded with a strong call for continuous engagement between the media, security agencies, and the Umukuuka Wa Bugisu.

HRH Sir Mudoma reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, unity, and development, urging all stakeholders to work together in shaping a peaceful and prosperous Bugisu.

“Let us walk this journey together. If I fail, I will apologize. But my focus remains on unity, culture, and development,” he said.