By Our Staff Reporter

Mbale, Uganda – May 2026
The Bamasaba students at Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) Main Campus in Mbale marked a significant milestone with a peaceful and well-organized leadership handover ceremony, celebrating unity, cultural identity, and continuity in leadership.

The event, organized by the IUIU Bamasaba Students’ Association, brought together cultural leaders, university administrators, student representatives, alumni, and prominent national figures. It was graced by distinguished guests including Umaru Nangoli, Lydia Wanyoto Mutende, and John Musila, who served as the Chief Guest.

A Moment of Reflection and Transition
Out-Going President Of iuiu Bamasaba Students Association- WANAKOLI ROGERS

In his farewell speech, outgoing chairperson Wanakoli Roers described the occasion as more than a ceremonial transition, emphasizing accountability, reflection, and recommitment to the Bamasaba community. He highlighted the association’s achievements during his tenure, including formal registration with the university, strengthening student coordination, promoting cultural identity, and enhancing alumni engagement.

He underscored the importance of preserving heritage through the Inzu Ya Masaaba Cultural Institution, urging students to remain loyal and committed to their cultural roots.

“Culture is identity, dignity, and belonging. When protected and promoted positively, it becomes a source of power,” he noted.

The invited leaders applauded the students for their unity, discipline, and leadership spirit demonstrated throughout the transition.

Hon. Umaru Nangoli commended the association for fostering cohesion among students and encouraged them to remain focused on education while preserving their cultural values. He contributed UGX 500,000 towards student activities, describing the association as “a foundation for future leaders.”

Hon. Lydia Wanyoto Mutende praised the students for embracing their identity with pride and using it as a platform for development. She emphasized that cultural awareness among young people is key to national unity and progress. She contributed UGX 200,000 in support of the association’s initiatives.

Chief Guest Hon. John Musila applauded the peaceful transition of leadership, describing it as a model for student governance and national leadership. He encouraged the incoming leaders to build on the foundation laid by their predecessors and remain committed to service, integrity, and unity. Hon. Musila contributed UGX 1,000,000 to support the association’s future programs.

A delegation from the Inzu Ya Masaaba Cultural Institution also attended the ceremony, reaffirming its commitment to supporting young people and strengthening the bond between cultural leadership and students.

The delegation emphasized the importance of unity within the Bamasaba community and encouraged students to actively participate in preserving and promoting their heritage.

The ceremony also attracted students from various cultural associations within IUIU, showcasing a spirit of inclusivity and coexistence. Leaders called for continued collaboration among different cultural groups, highlighting that diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.

Organizers clarified that the event was officially recognized by university management and strictly focused on leadership transition, cultural celebration, and unity, dismissing any potential misinformation regarding its purpose.

As the new leadership takes over, the message from all speakers remained consistent: protect the association, uphold cultural identity, and lead with integrity.

The IUIU Bamasaba Students’ Association continues to stand as a vital platform for nurturing leadership, promoting culture, and empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to society.
The event concluded on a high note, marking a smooth transition of leadership while reinforcing a shared commitment to unity, development, and the advancement of the Bamasaba community.