The North America Masaba Cultural Association (NAMCA) convened its 24th Annual Convention and General Meeting from May 23–26, 2025, in Oklahoma City, USA, rallying the Bamasaaba diaspora behind the cause of advancing education and socio-economic development in Bugisu (Masaabaland).
The gathering brought together over 60 members from across the United States, Canada, Uganda, and the United Kingdom, all sharing a commitment to uplifting their ancestral region. Under the theme “Enhancing Education and Socio-Economic Development in Bugisu,” discussions centered on harnessing culture, education, and business collaboration as tools for regional transformation.
The convention opened with a prayer led by Pastor David Mugisha. Key welcome remarks were delivered by NAMCA President Kriss Namakoola, AUO Chairperson Dr. Sarah Senyondo, and Ms. Shamia Jackson, City Manager of Spencer, a municipality in the Oklahoma City metro area.
In a series of insightful keynote addresses, John and Joyce Wanda from REACH Uganda spoke about the interplay between education and economic growth in Bugisu, while Dr. Stephen Watiti explored how Bamasaaba cultural identity shapes both personal and communal development.
Several NAMCA members showcased their active projects in Masaabaland, illustrating the diaspora’s ongoing involvement in local progress. Engineer Nicholas Wakou introduced the Education Resource Center (ERC), a proposed facility to serve as a hub for educational and cultural activities. Dr. Betty Wakou presented the Universal Seniors Social Services Uganda (USSSU), which delivers vital care for the elderly in Manafwa District. Racheal Khaitsa highlighted the BE’NGO initiative, focused on supporting vulnerable groups within the region.
During the convention, new NAMCA leadership was elected. Paul Ivan Makanya emerged as the new President, with Halima Mugide assuming the role of Vice President and Pheonah Nandudu Wamai named Secretary. A full slate of board members was also unveiled, with the swearing-in conducted by Professor Peter Simbi, Chair of the NAMCA Trustee Council.
In his address, Umukuuka (King) Jude Mike Mudoma commended the convention’s success and underscored the dual importance of cultural preservation and economic empowerment. He called for sustained partnerships with government bodies, global organizations, and private sector actors to foster meaningful development in Bugisu.
The Umukuuka also drew attention to pressing challenges in the region, such as the need for mental health services, cultural preservation, and planned leadership transitions. He emphasized the value of diaspora involvement in solving these problems and driving sustainable development back home.
In keeping with this spirit of collective responsibility, various members shared additional initiatives. REACH Uganda has established high-performing schools in Bududa and Namisindwa districts. USSSU continues to provide medical and social support for the elderly, while Michael-K International Ministries is actively empowering marginalized communities.
Looking ahead, NAMCA is poised to pursue several strategic goals, including support for the Bugisu Women Initiative, fundraising for the ERC project, and advocacy for the creation of a university in Masaabaland. These aspirations mirror the association’s enduring dedication to social uplift and educational access in the region.
Culture, education, and unity were emphasized as central pillars in the association’s broader mission. NAMCA envisions a future where the diaspora and the homeland move forward together, bound by shared values and a common purpose.
As the organization expands its reach and impact, its next Annual Convention and General Meeting is slated for May 2026 in Seattle, Washington—an event that is expected to further galvanize the Bamasaaba diaspora around the development agenda for Bugisu.
