Uganda cultural leaders vehicles, traditional leaders Uganda, NRM 2026, cultural institutions Uganda
Full Article:
President Yoweri Museveni has donated 30 brand-new vehicles to officially recognised cultural leaders across Uganda. The move aims to support their community mobilisation work in the lead-up to the 2026 general election.
During a ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds, Vice President Jessica Alupo delivered the President’s speech, praising the role of cultural institutions in Uganda’s development. She emphasised their influence in shaping values, promoting peace, and supporting government programmes.
Museveni stated that the government views cultural institutions as partners in transformation. He said the Uganda cultural leaders vehicles initiative will help ease travel and enhance engagement across their communities.
Fifteen out of 65 tribes received two vehicles each—one of them a lead car. Recipients included leaders such as Omukama Oyo of Tooro, Omukama Gafabusa of Bunyoro, Emorimori Etomeileng of Iteso, Kyabazinga Nadiope of Busoga, and Omusinga Mumbere of Rwenzururu, among others.
However, the Buganda and Bugwere kingdoms declined the vehicles. Gender Minister Betty Amongi explained that Buganda’s Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, said their customs required internal support rather than government donations. As a result, the money allocated will be sent as a direct grant.
Regarding Bugwere, the government is still working to identify a successor to the deceased cultural leader. Amongi clarified that once leadership is settled, they too will receive a vehicle.
She further noted that the cars are part of a wider plan to strengthen cultural institutions. These leaders often help resolve land disputes, combat teenage pregnancies, and fight poverty at grassroots level. According to her, many have reformed their cultural practices to align with national law.
Speaking on behalf of the beneficiaries, Tieng Adhola Moses Stephen Owor appreciated the gesture. He promised to rally traditional leaders behind all government development programmes.
“We are grateful for the Uganda cultural leaders vehicles, and we commit to serving the nation with renewed energy,” he said.
Won Ateker Raphael Otaya of Kumam Cultural Heritage described the donation as timely. He said mobility had limited their reach in the past, but these vehicles will now enable them to spread messages of unity and patriotism more effectively.
