Both Makerere University and the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) have extended formal invitations to His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, the cultural leader of the Bamasaba people, to attend their upcoming events.
This announcement was made by Mr. Steven Masiga, the spokesperson for the Bamasaba Cultural Institution.
Mr. Masiga confirmed that the Vice Chancellor of IUIU, Associate Professor Ismail Simbwa Gyagenda, had invited the Umukuka (Bamasaba cultural leader) to attend the university’s 33rd graduation ceremony. The event is set to take place on 14th December at the main campus in Mbale.
In his invitation letter, Professor Gyagenda conveyed warm greetings to His Highness, writing, “Assalam Alaikum Warahmatullah Wabarakatuh, Your Highness”—a traditional Islamic greeting meaning “Peace be upon you, Your Highness.”
The invitation continued with Professor Gyagenda offering the university’s best wishes and extending a special invitation for the Umukuka to attend as a cultural representative of the Bamasaba people.
“Please accept the assurances of our highest consideration and esteem,” the Vice Chancellor concluded.
Mr. Masiga commended the Islamic University for the respectful gesture, emphasising that all land in Masabaland belongs to the Umukuka.
He stated that IUIU had done the right thing by inviting the cultural leader to witness the achievements of students who have been studying in his ancestral land.
He further called on other universities and learning institutions to take a similar approach and recognise the importance of cultural leadership.
In addition to IUIU’s invitation, Makerere University has also reached out to the Umukuka, inviting him to the International Conference on Geographical Sciences for Resilient Communities, Ecosystem, and Livelihoods, which will be held at the Africana Hotel in Kampala.
This invitation was extended by Professor Yazidhi Bamutuaze, the Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University.
The Bamasaba cultural leader has been invited to participate as a keynote speaker alongside other distinguished dignitaries, including Hon. Beatrice Anywar, the Minister of State for Environment.
Mr. Masiga confirmed that the Umukuka’s role as a keynote speaker highlights the significance of the Bamasaba people’s cultural heritage in environmental and geographical sciences.
Further confirming his busy schedule, Mr Masiga revealed that the Umukuka will also be attending Ibanda University on Friday, where he has been invited as Chief Guest for the graduation ceremony.
These invitations to prominent academic events mark a significant recognition of the Umukuka’s role in cultural leadership and community development.
The Bamasaba Cultural Institution continues to be influential in promoting the values and traditions of the Bamasaba people, and these invitations from leading educational institutions highlight the respect and admiration they hold for their cultural heritage.
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