Elders urge government to involve cultural leaders in mobilizing Bamasaba for government programs
Approximately 17 million shillings were allocated to victims to construct houses in Bulambuli.
Mbale: Elders from Masabaland have called on the government to support their efforts through their SACCO and are determined to mobilize all Bamasaba to actively participate in various government programs.
They emphasize the importance of involving cultural leaders, from the clan level to the national level, in sensitizing their communities about government initiatives.
Many elders believe that cultural leaders are better positioned to engage the masses and that their exclusion from the mobilization process could undermine the constitutional principle of equality (Article 21), which calls for equal participation in all spheres of influence.
In an interview with this publication, many elders expressed their belief that cultural leaders are more effective in rallying people to get involved in crucial government programs such as healthcare, Emyooga, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and education.
According to Hon. Irene Khainza, an elder and former RDC of Manafwa, the Bamasaba have a duty to mobilize their people and ensure they take full advantage of government programs aimed at empowering them out of poverty.
Recent government efforts to support those affected by landslides in Bududa have faced significant challenges. Approximately 17 million shillings were allocated to victims to construct houses in Bulambuli.
However, reports suggest that none of the recipients have made any progress, with many reportedly misusing the funds. A key reason for the failure, according to the elders, was the absence of the cultural institution, which could have provided the necessary guidance to help people use the money effectively.
In response, the 26 clan chairmen in Masabaland plan to request a meeting with the President to stress the importance of utilizing cultural institutions as effective mobilization tools.
Clan chairman Bugobero, reflecting on his own experiences as a former youth leader, highlighted the role of cultural leaders in reaching and guiding younger generations.
He argued that, despite their age, cultural leaders still possess the ability to communicate with youths in a way that is effective and relatable.
The Bamasaba cultural institution, led by Umukuka III, oversees over 2,000 clans and will work closely with clan leaders to ensure that Masabaland fully benefits from government programs.
The institution’s spokesperson, Mr. Steven Masiga, reported that clan leaders are also seeking funding for their SACCO to facilitate the mobilization process. By securing such funding, the cultural leaders aim to better organize their people and ensure they can actively participate in national development programs.
The elders are calling for a more coordinated and inclusive approach to mobilizing the Bamasaba people, stressing the importance of involving cultural leaders at every level to ensure that government programs reach their full potential in transforming lives and alleviating poverty.
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