King William Gabula Nadiope IV, also known as the Kyabazinga of Busoga, has called upon his subjects living in the United States and its neighboring areas to consider investing in their homeland. He made this appeal while addressing delegates at the Twegaite International Convention held at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel by the Galleria on Sunday, May 25, 2024, evening.
The Kyabazinga emphasized the importance of remembering one’s roots and contributing to the development of their homeland, even while enjoying the opportunities and experiences in a developed country like the United States. He urged his subjects not only to invest financially but also to preserve and uphold their cultural heritage and values.
Accompanied by Prince Fredrick Mesarch Walugembe, the hereditary chief of Butembe chiefdom, the Kyabazinga showcased various initiatives and projects undertaken by the Busoga Kingdom in fields such as education, health, agriculture, environment, and tourism. He highlighted how these programs have positively impacted the people of Busoga, creating a ripple effect of development.
In addition to the Kyabazinga’s address, Ivan Kiirya, the state minister for finance in the kingdom, commended the Twegaite team for their involvement in significant events like the Royal Wedding. He urged diaspora members to maintain connections with their ancestral chiefdoms as a means of preserving their heritage.
Peter Mukunya, the President of Twegaite International, expressed appreciation for the Kyabazinga’s ongoing support and engagement with the diaspora community, reinforcing their commitment to safeguarding Busoga’s culture.
During the convention, various speakers addressed concerns related to education, health, agriculture, women’s empowerment, and other issues pertinent to Busoga’s development. Hellen Namutamba, the tourism minister of Busoga Kingdom, highlighted the region’s tourism potential, encouraging those passionate about Busoga to promote tourism as a means of generating resources for development.
The convention attracted participants from across the United States, including prominent figures like Lambert Etibot, the current UNAA President, and Henrietta Nairuba Wamala, the immediate past President. Past Twegaite Presidents and notable personalities such as Tony Isubikalu, Julie Aliyinza Mugulusi, Rev.Fr.Dr. Fred Mitala Jenga, Amos Kigenyi (also known as Mega Dee), and Uganda’s Aerospace Engineer Dr. Salims Idiobe Muwanika were also in attendance.
The event served as a platform for dialogue and collaboration, aiming to address key issues facing the Busoga region and to foster a sense of unity and purpose among its diaspora community.