BUSIA, Uganda – The Bugisu Cultural Institution has pledged its full support for a new digital initiative spearheaded by Busitema University and the Ministry of Finance aimed at transforming Uganda’s local economies through data-driven planning.
The initiative, known as the Area-Based Commodity Development (ABCD) Data Portal, seeks to establish a comprehensive regional database that will guide communities to focus on producing commodities in which they have a comparative advantage, ultimately boosting productivity, value addition, and household incomes.
Speaking during the inaugural regional symposium held in Busia, the spokesperson of the Bugisu Cultural Institution, Hon. Steven Masiga, said the kingdom fully embraces the digital platform, describing it as a long-awaited tool that will enhance regional economic planning through reliable microeconomic data.
“As the Bugisu Cultural Institution, we are fully committed to supporting this initiative. This digital platform for regional value chain performance is something our community has been waiting for. We appreciate Busitema University and the Ministry of Finance for involving cultural institutions in this important programme,” Masiga said.
Representing the Bugisu Cultural Institution at the symposium, Masiga pledged to mobilise communities across the region to embrace the initiative and ensure they understand its benefits.
He also commended the organisers for involving local governments, noting that commercial officers and district community development officers from across the Bugisu region were in attendance.
“We shall brief our people and mobilise them to actively participate in this milestone programme. We are equally grateful that our local governments have been fully involved in the process,” he added.
The regional symposium attracted participants from across Eastern Uganda, including representatives from local governments, cultural institutions, religious leaders, and development partners.
Busitema University’s Vice Chancellor was represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Waako Paul.
Keynote presentations were delivered by Dr. Fulgensia Kamugisha Mbabazi on behalf of Busitema University and Diana on behalf of the Ministry of Finance. Dr. Fulgensia highlighted the critical role of research in addressing both academic and community development challenges.
The symposium was moderated by Mr. Christopher Bagole, who served as the programme rapporteur.
The Bugisu Cultural Institution, alongside the Busoga and Budama cultural institutions, was selected to represent traditional and cultural institutions in the ongoing survey and development of the ABCD Data Portal.
According to the organisers, the digital platform is expected to provide accurate, area-based economic data that will inform investment decisions, strengthen regional value chains, and support the implementation of Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the government’s US$500 billion economy agenda.
The initiative is expected to play a key role in promoting evidence-based planning and unlocking the economic potential of communities by encouraging production based on regional comparative advantages.
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