*By John Kusolo*
Hon. Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo is a distinguished Ugandan politician, diplomat, and National Treasurer of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Party. Known for her dedication to service and ability to mobilize communities, Amb. Oundo has emerged as a key figure in Uganda’s political landscape. Her recent role in coordinating the successful 62nd Independence Day celebrations in Busia District, held at Busikho Primary Teachers’ College, further cements her reputation as a highly effective leader who can bring people together for national causes.
As the National Treasurer of the NRM Party, Hon. Amb. Nekesa Oundo plays a critical role in managing the financial affairs of the ruling party. Her expertise in financial management ensures that the NRM’s operations run smoothly, and that the party is well-positioned to execute its programs across the country. In this role, she also oversees the mobilization of resources to support the party's strategic objectives.
Her leadership is characterized by her hands-on approach, commitment to transparency, and drive to engage citizens in national development. These qualities were particularly evident during the 62nd Independence Day celebrations, where she spearheaded the organizing efforts.
The 62nd Independence Day celebration, held on October 9th, 2024, in Busia District, was a historic event. For the first time, Busia hosted a national Independence Day event, an occasion that saw an unprecedented number of people gather to commemorate the country's progress since gaining independence from British colonial rule in 1962.
In her capacity as a member of the National Organizing Committee (NOC), Hon. Nekesa Oundo played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this event. She coordinated efforts with religious leaders, local authorities, and security personnel, rallying the people of Busia and surrounding districts to participate in large numbers. Her appreciation letter, addressed to the religious leaders, NRM fraternity, political leaders, and the general public, is a reflection of her humility and ability to acknowledge the collective effort that contributed to the success of the celebration.
She specifically commended the role of religious leaders from the district's highest levels to the grassroots for their contributions to mobilization. Her gratitude extended to the political leadership of Busia, regional and district security officials, and the media fraternity, all of whom played a part in making the event one of the most memorable national celebrations in recent years.
Hon. Nekesa Oundo's diplomatic career has significantly shaped her leadership style. She previously served as Uganda’s High Commissioner.
Her experience in diplomacy has made her an exceptional mobilizer and communicator. She understands the importance of dialogue, negotiation, and consensus-building—skills that are crucial when leading large-scale events like the Independence Day celebrations. Her ability to unite diverse groups and ensure inclusivity has become one of her trademarks in leadership.
In her letter of appreciation following the Independence Day celebration, Amb. Nekesa Oundo expressed regret that the planned venue could not hold the overwhelming number of people who attended. This humility and acknowledgment of shortcomings, along with her promise to "plan better next time," show her commitment to continuous improvement and growth.
As a native of Busia District, she has a deep understanding of the challenges and aspirations of her community. Over the years, she has been a strong advocate for local development, particularly in areas such as education, infrastructure, and youth empowerment. Her leadership in Busia has been instrumental in bringing the district into the national spotlight.
Amb. Nekesa Oundo’s influence extends beyond Busia. As a senior figure in the NRM and a respected diplomat, she is a voice for national unity, development, and the empowerment of women in politics. Her ability to inspire and mobilize communities will be crucial as Uganda continues its journey toward achieving its Vision 2040 goals.
Hon. Amb. Barbara Nekesa Oundo is a dynamic leader whose commitment to national service and community mobilization has earned her widespread respect. As the NRM’s National Treasurer, she continues to play an integral part in shaping the future of Uganda. The resounding success of the 62nd Independence Day celebrations in Busia District is a testament to her leadership, and it is clear that she remains a vital force in Uganda’s political and social development. As she continues to serve her country, her influence will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy.
Comments