Umukuuka graces Bamasaaba Dispora Convention in Oklahoma-USA

The Umukuuka (King) of the Bamasaaba, Jude Mike Mudoma, graced masaabaland, North America Masaba cultural association (NAMCA) in Oklahoma United States of America focusing on enhancing education and social -economic development in Bugisu sub region.

The annual gathering brought together more than 60 Bamasaaba across USA , Canada, United Kingdom and Uganda.

The Umukuuka of Bamasaaba Jude Mike Mudooma praised the event's success and emphasized the importance of cultural preservation and economic empowerment, stressing the need for continued partnerships with government agencies, international organizations, and the private sector to support development in Bugisu.

"Enhancing culture, unity, education and business networking are the pillars of development. He urged Bamasaaba to strengthen these pillars because they are essential for building strong, resilient communities that can drive sustainable development. He called upon the diaspora community to continue playing a leading role this development". stated Jude Mike Mudooma, Umukuuka(king) of Bamasaaba.

The Umukuuka also outlined key challenges facing the region, including the need for mental health services, leadership succession planning, and safeguarding cultural heritage. He highlighted the importance of involving the diaspora in addressing these issues and ensuring that Bugisu is well-positioned for future growth.

"I urge you to foster partnerships with international organizations, government entities and private sector to raise revenues for development. He urged Bamasaaba to use their expertise to help raise funds.

In my capacity as Umukuuka, i have acquired scholarships for students in Uganda and abroad, infrastructure developments at Mutoto, renovation of Bugisu District Administration building, and repossession of land at Malukhu, for museum and cultural Heritage center". stated Jude Mike Mudooma, Umukuuka(king) of Bamasaaba.

The theme, "Enhancing Education and Socio-Economic Development in Bugisu," set the tone for the discussions, which revolved around culture, education, and business networking as key pillars for the region's progress.

Among the highlights of the event were keynote speeches from prominent leaders. John and Joyce Wanda, representing REACH Uganda, discussed the intersection of education and socio-economic development, with a focus on the Bugisu region. Dr. Stephen Watiti, a renowned scholar, examined how the Bamasaaba culture influences education and development.

Several other NAMCA members shared their ongoing projects in Masaabaland, demonstrating the association’s active role in the region’s growth. Eng. Nicholas Wakou presented the Education Resource Center (ERC) project, which aims to establish a multi-use educational and cultural facility while Betty Wakou discussed the Universal Seniors Social Services Uganda (USSSU), which provides social care for the elderly in Manafwa District.

The event was also marked by the election of new NAMCA officers, where Paul Ivan Makanya was elected as the new President, with Halima Mugide taking the role of Vice President, and Pheonah Nandudu Wamai as Secretary.

The next NAMCA Convention and AGM is scheduled to take place in Seattle, Washington, in May 2026, marking another important milestone for the association as it continues to strengthen its global network and further its mission of cultural and socio-economic advancement