Jinja City recently witnessed a flurry of events that showcased both its cultural richness and underlying tensions. Kiira College Butiki claimed victory in the city’s poetry, debate, and public speaking championships, setting the stage for their quest at the upcoming national competition hosted by Holy Cross Lake View. It was a battle of words that resonated across the city’s educational landscape, leaving audiences both entertained and enlightened.
Meanwhile, at the BP Training Centre & Campsite in Buwenda, the Jinja Scouts Skills Camp 2024 concluded with a flourish. From June 27th to 30th, young participants honed their life skills under the watchful guidance of trainers, preparing themselves for the challenges of adulthood. The camp not only fostered camaraderie but also equipped attendees with practical knowledge, ensuring they left with more than just memories.
Sports enthusiasts were treated to a thrilling encounter at Kabale Stadium where Walukuba Rugby Club triumphed over their rivals, Hippos Rugby Club, in a pulsating final of the Kigezi High Altitude Rugby 7s tournament. The emphatic 22-12 victory underscored Walukuba’s dominance and left their supporters jubilant in the high-altitude air.
On a more formal note, the MTN-Busoga Masaza Cup 2024 was officially launched at the Busoga Kingdom headquarters in Jinja City. The ceremony, graced by Owek Alhaj Osman Ahmed Noor, revealed a substantial sponsorship package worth 550 million Ugandan shillings for this year’s edition. As the 7th edition of this esteemed tournament approaches on August 3rd, anticipation among football enthusiasts in the region continues to build, promising another year of spirited competition.
Amidst these vibrant happenings, Jinja City prepares for the 3rd Annual Sickle Cells Convention, organized by Raising Hope International Friends Ltd. Scheduled for July 5th at the Jinja City Town Hall, the convention aims to educate and raise awareness about sickle cell disease. It’s an event that underscores the city’s commitment to health education and community support.
However, not all news from Jinja is celebratory. The Busoga Kingdom issued a stern warning against individuals attempting to encroach upon the land housing the iconic Jinja showground, a symbol of cultural and historical significance at the source of the Nile. The kingdom’s stance reflects ongoing tensions over land ownership in the region, highlighting the delicate balance between development and heritage preservation.
Adding to the city’s mix of achievements and challenges, Jinja’s Resident City Commissioner, Mr. Darius Nandinda, voiced concerns over regional leaders skipping the National Agricultural Education Show hosted in Jinja City. His remarks underscored the importance of community participation in such pivotal events, urging leaders to prioritize agricultural education as a cornerstone of regional development.
