Kampala, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni has called on Uganda’s traditional and cultural leaders to use their influence to promote local languages and drive socio-economic transformation.
Speaking through the Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development, Betty Amongi, at the National Conference for Traditional and Cultural Leaders held at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, Museveni emphasized the critical role cultural leaders play in shaping Uganda’s progress.
The President noted the government’s recognition of the leaders’ contributions and announced an enhancement of their monthly emoluments.
This move is intended to support their efforts in preserving local languages, addressing harmful cultural practices, and fostering socio-economic empowerment within their communities.
Museveni also highlighted the government’s ongoing initiatives, such as providing transportation for easier mobility, building palaces where they are lacking and ensuring security for the leaders as they carry out their responsibilities.
Museveni acknowledged the growing evidence that sustainable development stems from harnessing cultural values and forming strong partnerships.
He called on cultural leaders to champion messages of wealth creation and work collaboratively with government agencies to ensure their institutions contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development goals.
He pointed out that these partnerships are essential for achieving Vision 2040, Africa’s Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
The conference, themed “The Role of Traditional or Cultural Leaders in the Promotion of Culture for Socio-Economic Development in Uganda,” served as a platform for dialogue between government representatives and cultural institutions.
Museveni emphasized that this collaboration should focus on identifying actionable steps to strengthen the relationship between the government and cultural leaders to foster unity, preserve heritage and promote economic growth.
Highlighting the intersection of culture and development, Museveni expressed optimism about the contributions cultural leaders can make towards a prosperous and unified Uganda.
He urged them to harness their influence to inspire their communities to embrace socio-economic transformation while remaining rooted in the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
