In a vibrant two-day workshop held at the Mitooma Town Council on 29th and 30th January 2026, the conversation shifted from the heat of recent elections to the practical work of building a nation. Organized by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the gathering brought together a wide array of voices, from seasoned ministers to newly elected local councillors, all centered on the idea of what it truly means to lead.

The State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, set a serious tone for the event by challenging the newly elected leaders to be the gold standard for their communities. He was firm in his stance that leadership is not a trophy to be displayed, but a responsibility to be lived out. He specifically pointed to government initiatives like the Parish Development Model and Emyooga, noting that these programs only succeed when local leaders take a personal interest in ensuring they actually reach the people they are meant to help. His message was simple: put the livelihoods of the citizens above personal gain and focus on the national interest.

To ensure leaders understood the landscape they are operating in, Jonah Bakalikwira, the Assistant Commissioner for National Guidance, delivered a key presentation on how to navigate and understand democracy within a multi-party environment. This session served as a crucial guide for the newly elected officials, helping them balance their political affiliations with their duty to serve all citizens regardless of their party leanings.

Mitooma’s Resident District Commissioner, Kayondo Paddy, added another layer to the discussion by addressing the digital age. He spoke directly to the youth, urging them to view their smartphones as tools for financial liberation rather than platforms for division. He noted that while social media is often used to spread hate speech or tarnish reputations, it holds immense power to fight poverty if used constructively. To support this shift in mindset, the RDC even suggested reviving programs like Chaka Mchaka to help instil a deeper sense of patriotism and love for the country from a younger age.

The workshop also opened the door for some refreshingly honest feedback from local representatives. District Councillor Mackline Natukwasa pointed out that a lack of consistent civic education has led many people to vote based on "waves" of popularity rather than the actual competence of a candidate. This sentiment was echoed by the District Speaker, Tumwekase Moses, who didn't shy away from the top of the leadership ladder. He called on the Ministry to extend this kind of rigorous training to Members of Parliament and senior officials to help curb the culture of bribery and abuse of office.

By the end of the two days, the consensus among participants including District Chairperson Karyeija Benon and various community members, was that ignorance is the biggest hurdle to development. While they thanked the Ministry for the orientation, their message was clear: this shouldn't be a one-time event. There is a deep hunger in Mitooma for ongoing mentorship and training. As leaders and parents alike reflected on their roles, the takeaway was clear: building a better Uganda starts with better character, whether that’s in the home, on social media, or in the halls of government.