The Omusinga of Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu, Charles Wesley Mumbere Irema Ngoma, has called for unity, peace, and active diaspora involvement as the kingdom unveiled an ambitious five-year strategic plan aimed at driving socio-economic transformation and cultural development.
The Omusinga, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Agnes Itungo, was warmly received in Kampala by members of the Bakonzo community living in the city and surrounding areas.
Community members welcomed the visit and praised government support, with some acknowledging President Yoweri Museveni’s role in facilitating the Omusinga’s access to specialized treatment abroad.
“We are happy to receive our King, and we thank President Museveni for supporting him, including allowing him to get specialized treatment abroad,” one community member said.
Residents emphasized that unity remains central to development efforts within the kingdom.
“Without unity, we cannot achieve meaningful progress as a kingdom or as a country,” another member noted.
Others called for sustained peace and reconciliation, saying it is key to long-term transformation.
“Sustainable peace is the foundation of development. We urge our King to continue promoting reconciliation among our people,” a speaker added.
They also raised concerns about representation, calling for greater inclusion of the Bakonzo community in government positions.
The Member of Parliament-elect for Bukonzo East commended the Omusinga’s leadership in promoting cohesion and said local leaders have been engaging government on development priorities.
“The King has played a big role in uniting our people. As leaders, we recently met in Kyankwanzi to lobby for government support to revive Kilembe Mines and improve health services,” he said.
The kingdom’s Prime Minister, Kule Benson Malitazali, said the Kampala visit aimed to strengthen ties with the diaspora while sharing the kingdom’s development roadmap.
“This visit is about engaging our people in the diaspora and sharing our vision for the next five years,” he said.
He also acknowledged government support, including scholarships and logistical assistance to the kingdom.
“We appreciate the annual scholarships for our students, the vehicles provided to the Omusinga, and the improved monthly support extended to the kingdom,” he added.
Key priorities in the 2025–2030 strategic plan include construction of a modern royal palace, establishment of a cultural tourism village, plans for a Rwenzururu university, and programmes addressing gender-based violence and maternal health.
The Omusinga urged diaspora members to actively participate in preserving culture and supporting development initiatives.
“The Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu is a divine gift that we must protect and develop together,” he said.
He also expressed concern over delays in infrastructure projects, particularly the royal palace.
“It is unfortunate that the construction of a befitting royal palace is moving slowly. This must be addressed if we are to restore the dignity of our kingdom,” he added.
The visit is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen unity between kingdom leadership and its urban-based community as development priorities take shape across the Rwenzururu Kingdom.
