TORORO
Cultural and political leaders from the Bukedi sub-region have launched an initiative to restore Obwa’Senkulu Bwa Bukedi Kingdom, saying the move is aimed at fostering unity, development, and a stronger collective voice for the people.
The restoration of Obwa’Senkulu Bwa Bukedi is an ongoing cultural and socio-political movement aimed at reinstating the traditional leadership that was abolished by the British colonial government in 1917.
The declaration was made Tuesday during a meeting at Rock Classic Hotel in Tororo District by the Acting Prime Minister of the proposed kingdom, Hon. Dr. Kedi Steven Zuluba.
Speaking to an assembly of cultural leaders, local government officials, and steering committee members, Dr. Zuluba said the restoration was “not about division” but about building a common platform to advance the interests of communities in Busia, Tororo, Budaka, Kibuku, Pallisa and Butaleja.
“Today’s meeting is not about taking away anyone’s authority or identity. It is not about weakening existing cultural institutions. Rather, today’s meeting is about finding common ground upon which we can collectively build a stronger, more prosperous and united Bukedi,” he said.
Dr. Zuluba said the kingdom’s motto, “UMOJA NI NGUVU” (Unity is Strength) would guide the process. He assured leaders of Tieng Adola, Obwa Ikumbania Bwa Bugwere, Obwene’ngo Bwa Bugwe, Iteso Cultural Union and Owa Sehulu Wa Bunyole that the restored kingdom would serve as an umbrella and not interfere with their mandates.
“Every kingdom under Obwa Senkulu Bwa Bukedi shall continue to preserve its unique customs, traditions and leadership. The restoration seeks to provide an umbrella through which we can coordinate our efforts, amplify our collective voice, and pursue shared development aspirations,” he added.
The Acting PM said a united Bukedi would better advocate for improved roads, health services, education, clean water, electricity, markets, youth employment and investment. He also called for promotion of tourism based on the region’s cultural heritage and preservation of languages for future generations.
“We call upon every political leader, cultural, religious and administrative leader to become ambassadors of peace and reconciliation. Let us reject misinformation, suspicion, and unnecessary competition,” Dr. Zuluba urged.
He appreciated the Government of Uganda, led by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for recognizing cultural institutions as partners in peace and development, and also acknowledged support from the Bukedi Regional Administration and Operation Wealth Creation.
Dr. Zuluba delivered the remarks on behalf of His Royal Highness Patrick Pangoli Ndoboli II and the leadership of Obwa Senkulu Bwa Bukedi.
The Chairperson of the Steering Committee, Mr. Mangeni Dirisa, a resident of Busia District, expressed gratitude over the outcome of the meeting.
He said their engagement with Bukedi district leaders was successful and expressed belief it will yield positive results toward the restoration cause. “Our Kingdom needs to be restored for the development of the region,” Mr. Dirisa said.
One of the attendees, Ms. Mugoya Susan, a resident of Kibuku District, welcomed the move, saying it would create unity among Bukedi people and steer development in the districts.
“We need to tell the past stories about our Kingdom to our children and teach them about our cultural values. I call upon all the cultural leaders and political leaders who were present to preach unity,” Ms. Mugoya said.
Stakeholders and prime minister Dr. Kedi say they will continue to hold consultative meetings to empower the institution and advocate for regional development.
In attendance were cultural leaders of Japadhola, Bagwere, Samia, Banyole and Itesots, district chairpersons, LC5s, municipality and town council mayors, LC3 and LC1 chairpersons, and members of the Bukedi Kingdom Steering Committee.
