By John Kusolo
The Bugisu cultural institution is poised for a significant transition from its longstanding framework, Inzu Ya Masaba, to a newly proposed entity, Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba. This development has received the backing of the Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Regis Mutuuzo, who is also the Woman Member of Parliament for Bunyangabu District. Hon. Mutuuzo has expressed her ministry’s readiness to support and gazette the change, provided the transition adheres to constitutional and cultural norms.

Speaking on the matter, Hon. Mutuuzo emphasized that Article 246 of the Constitution of Uganda, particularly Section 9(a) and (b), grants cultural institutions the right to define and redefine themselves. She noted that the ministry will oversee the process to ensure it aligns with legal and cultural standards. "If the transition is within their norms and seeks to renew themselves, the ministry is prepared to gazette the change. The Bugisu leadership has the liberty to determine how they evolve under the law," she remarked.
The proposal to transition to Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba stems from concerns raised by Umukuuka Jude Mike Mudoma III, the current leader of Inzu Ya Masaba. According to him, the constitution governing Inzu Ya Masaba is no longer legally tenable under the Cultural Leaders and Institutions Act of 2011. Established in 2010, Inzu Ya Masaba has played a pivotal role in preserving the culture and traditions of the Bagisu people. However, Mudoma argues that the existing framework has become obsolete, necessitating a shift to a new governance structure that complies with current legal provisions.

The proposed transition is expected to align the institution with updated legal frameworks and provide a more inclusive and adaptable governance system for the Bagisu community. Mudoma explained, "The old institution framework has become irrelevant under the Cultural Leaders and Institutions Act of 2011. To preserve our cultural heritage and ensure compliance with the law, we must adopt the Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba framework."

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