Balaam Barugahara, a prominent figure known for his support of the first son and his involvement with the Patriotic League of Uganda, has been appointed as the new Minister of State for Gender, Labour, and Social Development (Youth and Children Affairs) by President Yoweri Museveni on Thursday, March 21, replacing Sarah Mateke.
Balaam Barugahara, a well-known Ugandan businessman, events promoter, and political figure, has long been active in various sectors such as entertainment, public relations, and politics. His work in organizing and promoting events, particularly in the music and entertainment industry, has earned him recognition and prominence within Uganda.
Notably, Barugahara has been associated with the MK Movement, which later transformed into the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). This political group has been a driving force for the first son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and has aligned itself with the ideals and initiatives of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party.
Upon his appointment, Barugahara expressed gratitude and saw it as a vote of confidence not only in himself but also in his affiliations. He mentioned his first unit, MK Army, the MK Movement now known as the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), as well as Bunyoro and the patriotic youth of Uganda, acknowledging their support and backing.
More About Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi
Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi was born on July 28, 1979, in Masindi District to Gladesi Byenkya Abwooli of Kalisizo District in Central Buganda, and the late Engineer David Balaam Byenkya Akiiki of Kijura. He is of Munyoro descent and is the fifth child among 14 children. His father passed away when he was at a tender age in 1991.
Education Background
Balaam Barugahara attended Namasagali Secondary School and St. John Bosco Senior Secondary School, both in Kamuli district, Busoga, for his O’level studies, and Original Progressive Senior Secondary School for his A-level studies. Afterwards, Balaam pursued a Diploma in Marketing in 2001 and a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce in 2007 at Makerere University. He pursued a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing at Cavendish University Uganda in 2009.
Marriage/Relationship
Balaam is not married; however, he was previously in a relationship and had a son whom he tragically lost to cancer in 2013. Balaam is also a father to Benta Karuhanga Abwooli, Biden Kamusiime Amooti, Brennan Kamukama Akiiki, and Bennette Tumusiime Amooti. During an interview in November 2023, he was quoted as saying that he hopes to marry a Dinka, a Karamojong, an Acholi, and a Munyankole, expressing his desire to marry four women in a bid to “balance Uganda.”
Career and Professional Work Experience
While attending Makerere University, Balaam Barugahara got involved in event promotion after meeting Abitex, the planner of a Kadongo Kamu event at Nakivubo Stadium. After a beverage-selling gig at the show went wrong, Balaam decided to get into events promotion. He did this in response to Semujju’s shame and frustration. Beginning with Miss University and the buzzers throughout the university, he began planning events within the university and continued even after finishing.
Balaam Barugahara is the owner and operator of two businesses in South Sudan: Radio One, the first privately held media outlet he founded in 2009, and the Original Best Water Company. Along with being the MTN Uganda distributor for the Kigezi sub-region, he is also the owner and managing director of Radio 4 (Uganda), Radio 7 (Masindi), Radio 8 (Masaka), and Radio 8 (Elgon region). Balaam is also a real estate developer and operates hotels in South Sudan and Kampala, including a five-star establishment in Masindi that President Museveni officially opened in September 2022. He was elected President of the National Federation of Entertainment Promoters Limited (NAFEP) in August 2023.
Other Career Accomplishments
Balaam is the Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director of the following:
- Entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer of Balaam Marketing and Promotions Agency Ltd.
- Director and Founder of Radio 7 100.7 FM Uganda, 103.3 FM Radio 4 Uganda, and 87.9 FM Radio One South Sudan’s Juba.
- Managing Director/Chairman of Balaam Group Ltd., a promotions and civic education agency; founder and director of a five-star hotel in Masindi.
Balaam is the vice-chairperson of the PLU, formerly MK Movement in Western Uganda, and the president of Ugandan entertainment promoters. As the Director of Public Relations, he is essential in liaising between the Ugandan government, which includes President HE Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, and artists, particularly musicians, comedians, and actors from films. In addition to his extensive volunteer activities, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi is involved in constructing a home for children with mental disabilities. He has also assisted other musicians in need and has frequently been asked to resolve conflicts that come up between artists.
