By Aggrey Baba
Focusing on enhancing education and socio-economic development in Bugisu, (Masaabaland, the North America Masaba Cultural Association (NAMCA) recently held its 24th Annual Convention and General Meeting in Oklahoma City, USA, from May 23 to 26, 2025.
The gathering brought together more than 60 Bamasaaba members from across the United States, Canada, Uganda, and the United Kingdom.
The convention was an important occasion for the Bamasaaba community, as it sought to address pressing issues in Bugisu, including the need for improved education and economic opportunities.
The theme, “Enhancing Education and Socio-Economic Development in Bugisu,” set the tone for the discussions, which revolved around culture, education, and business networking as key pillars for the region’s progress.
The convention was officially opened with a prayer led by Pastor David Mugisha, and the opening remarks were given by NAMCA President Kriss Namakoola, AUO Chairperson Dr. Sarah Senyondo, and Oklahoma City’s Spencer City Council Manager, Ms. Shamia Jackson.
Among the highlights of the event were keynote speeches from prominent leaders. John and Joyce Wanda, representing REACH Uganda, discussed the intersection of education and socio-economic development, with a focus on the Bugisu region. Dr. Stephen Watiti, a renowned scholar, examined how the Bamasaaba culture influences education and development.
Several other NAMCA members shared their ongoing projects in Masaabaland, demonstrating the association’s active role in the region’s growth. Eng. Nicholas Wakou presented the Education Resource Center (ERC) project, which aims to establish a multi-use educational and cultural facility.
Dr. Betty Wakou discussed the Universal Seniors Social Services Uganda (USSSU), which provides social care for the elderly in Manafwa District, while Racheal Khaitsa presented the BE’NGO initiative, which focuses on supporting vulnerable communities in the region.
The event was also marked by the election of new NAMCA officers, where Paul Ivan Makanya was elected as the new President, with Halima Mugide taking the role of Vice President, and Pheonah Nandudu Wamai as Secretary.
A full list of the new Board of Directors was announced, and the newly elected officers were sworn in by Prof. Peter Simbi, Chair of the NAMCA Trustee Council.
The Umukuuka (King) of the Bamasaaba, Jude Mike Mudoma, praised the event’s success and emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and economic empowerment, stressing the need for continued partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector to support development in Bugisu.
The Umukuuka also outlined key challenges facing the region, including the need for mental health services, leadership succession planning, and safeguarding cultural heritage. He highlighted the importance of involving the diaspora in addressing these issues and ensuring that Bugisu is well-positioned for future growth.
As part of the ongoing efforts to empower the Bamasaaba community, several NAMCA members presented projects aimed at improving education and social services in the region.
REACH Uganda, for example, has established schools in Bududa and Namisindwa districts, which are now among the best in the country. Similarly, the USSSU provides medical and social care to the elderly, and Michael-K International Ministries is focused on empowering disadvantaged groups in the region.
Looking forward, NAMCA has set ambitious goals for the coming year, including supporting the Bugisu Women Initiative, raising funds for the Education Resource Center, and advocating for the establishment of a university in Masaabaland.
These initiatives reflect NAMCA’s commitment to enhancing the well-being of its members and contributing to the development of Bugisu.
The convention also highlighted the importance of culture, unity, and education in driving socio-economic development and with a clear focus on these pillars, NAMCA aims to empower its members and support the growth of the Bamasaaba community, both in the diaspora and in Bugisu.
The next NAMCA Convention and AGM is scheduled to take place in Seattle, Washington, in May 2026, marking another important milestone for the association as it continues to strengthen its global network and further its mission of cultural and socio-economic advancement. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
