In a colourful ceremony held at Kololo Independence Grounds, Vice President Jessica Alupo handed over brand-new vehicles to Uganda’s traditional and cultural leaders—part of a government effort to strengthen their role in community mobilization and grassroots development.
The occasion was more than just a vehicle handover. It symbolized a renewed commitment to cultural heritage, unity, and the critical role traditional institutions play in shaping Uganda’s future.
“These leaders are not just custodians of culture—they are bridges to development, peace, and identity,” Alupo said, as she stood before a gathering of kings, clan leaders, ministers, and community elders.
Alupo also delivered a message from President Yoweri Museveni, who underscored the deep historical value of Uganda’s cultural institutions. He reminded the audience that Uganda’s early kingdoms—such as Buganda, Bunyoro, and Ankole—were formed through the foresight of ancestors who believed in unity over division.
“These ancestors united clans to reduce conflict and foster cooperation, creating a peaceful foundation for the nation we are building today,” Museveni’s message read.
The President also called cultural leaders vital partners in mobilising citizens for education, healthcare, and wealth creation—key pillars of Uganda’s development agenda. He pledged the government’s continued support for cultural tourism and heritage conservation.
A total of 30 vehicles were handed over—each leader receiving a top-of-the-line Land Cruiser Prado and a specially designed security vehicle. These aren’t just fancy cars; they’re tools meant to help leaders reach even the most remote corners of their kingdoms and promote government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga.
One of the grateful recipients was Sir Jude Mike Mudoma, the Uwelukoosi Umukuuka wa Bugisu. His Communications Minister, Uweshirifa Alfred Geresom Musamali, confirmed that the vehicles arrived as a welcome relief.
“Ever since he assumed office in August 2023, travel has been a challenge for the Umukuuka. There was no government facilitation due to ongoing court cases about his succession. These vehicles are a breakthrough,” Musamali explained.
He added that the Umukuuka is determined to use them to reconnect with the Bamasaaba people—not just in Bugisu, but across Uganda.
“These vehicles will help us reach our people, share messages of unity and development, and bring government programmes to life at the grassroots,” said Mudoma, as quoted by Musamali.
The handover comes under the Traditional Leaders Enhancement Programme, championed by Gender, Labour and Social Development Minister Betty Amongi. Among the other leaders who received vehicles were:
Emorimori Papa Sande Emolot – Iteso Cultural Union
Kwar Adhola Moses Owor – Adhola Cultural Institution (TACI)
Kyabazinga William Gabula Nadiope IV – Busoga Kingdom
Won Nyaci Dr Michael Odongo Okune – Lango Cultural Foundation
However, one notable absentee was Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II of Buganda. Sources close to the kingdom say the Kabaka declined the offer, stating that he is “well-looked after by his subjects.” He has also previously declined the monthly UGX 5 million stipend provided by the government
According to vehicle dealers in Kampala, each Prado costs between UGX 450m and UGX 750m, while the accompanying security pickup is worth around UGX 350m. That brings the total value of each package to roughly UGX 1 billion—and with 15 leaders receiving them, the programme comes to a total of UGX 15 billion from the Consolidated Fund.
Vice President Alupo concluded the ceremony by thanking the cultural leaders for their continued support in building a united and prosperous Uganda.
“These vehicles are not just gifts—they’re symbols of the trust we place in you to lead our communities into a brighter future,” she said.
As the engines roared to life, there was a renewed sense of purpose in the air. For Uganda’s traditional leaders, this wasn’t just about transportation—it was about empowerment, connection, and the journey ahead.
