By Hon. Wakooli Godfrey Matembu, MP Butiru County, Manafwa, and Chairperson, Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus

Your Excellency,
On behalf of many sons and daughters of Bugisu, I write with respect, loyalty, and hope. We remain grateful for your leadership and reaffirm our unwavering support for you and your Government. Our appeal is not born out of anger but out of concern that our community often feels overlooked when matters of great cultural importance arise.

The Bamasaba say, “One finger cannot kill a louse.” National unity is built when every community feels seen, heard, and valued. Likewise, another African proverb reminds us that “When spider webs unite, they can tie up a lion.” Uganda grows stronger when every region walks together.

Your Excellency, we respectfully wonder why important occasions in Bugisu often struggle to receive timely government attention. Whether it is official participation, facilitation, or support, assistance frequently arrives late or remains uncertain. This leaves many of our people asking whether Bugisu occupies the same place in the national family as other regions.

We understand that, like every community, Bugisu has had individuals who may have disappointed Government in one way or another. However, the mistakes of a few should never become the burden of an entire people. As another African proverb teaches, “When one branch dries, the whole tree is not dead.” The actions of a few sons and daughters should not define the loyalty, patriotism, and aspirations of the entire Bamasaba community.

Our sacred Imbalu cultural celebrations commence on the first Saturday of August 2026. This is not merely a regional event; it is a treasured national cultural heritage that promotes unity, tourism, and the identity of Uganda. As I write, many members of our community remain uncertain about the level of Government support for this important occasion. We have also received information regarding financial support reportedly released by the Ministry of Gender, but we are told the Permanent Secretary of that ministry gave that little to an individual who is not among the organizers, and we are asking what informed the PS to do so after her boss, the Minister, together with leaders and elders, resolved that the Imbalu Independent Committee be in charge of everything, including handling financial matters.

We respectfully appeal for transparency and coordination so that any Government support reaches the officially mandated organizing structures and serves its intended purpose for the benefit of the entire community.

Your Excellency, our request is simple: let Bugisu feel that it belongs. Let our cultural institutions receive timely recognition and support. Let our people know that their loyalty and contribution to Uganda are appreciated.

We remain hopeful because we know your commitment to national unity. We believe that every child of Uganda deserves a place at the national table and that no community should feel forgotten.

May God continue to bless you, bless the Bamasaba, and bless the Republic of Uganda.

Hon. Wakooli Godfrey Matembu, MP Butiru County, Manafwa
Chairperson, Bugisu Parliamentary Caucus
For God and My Country.

By Our Staff Reporter