KAMPALA, UGANDA —In a formal ceremony held at Kololo Independence Grounds, the Ugandan government handed over brand-new vehicles to cultural leaders drawn from various regions across the country.
Vice President Jessica Alupo presided over the event, presenting the vehicles on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni. Among the handovers were Toyota Land Cruisers and Prado pickups, given to leaders representing institutions such as the Buganda Kingdom, Busoga, Tooro, Bunyoro, Acholi, and others.
The government says the gesture is meant to support the leaders in their day-to-day community roles which range from promoting cultural heritage to resolving local disputes and supporting grassroots development.
“This support is meant to strengthen the role of cultural institutions in building unity, peace and development,” Alupo said during the event.
She praised the traditional leaders for fostering harmony and safeguarding values that, in her words, help shape the country’s moral foundation.
The ceremony was attended by Members of Parliament, religious figures, and hundreds of citizens. Many welcomed the move, viewing it as a sign of respect for Uganda’s diverse cultural history.
Notably, the cars were presented under the Presidential Initiative for Support to Cultural Institutions a programme launched to improve cooperation between the central government and traditional leadership structures.
Uganda recognises 13 cultural institutions under its Constitution, which bars these leaders from engaging in partisan politics but allows them to act as custodians of tradition and advocates for development.
Critics, however, have in the past questioned the timing of such handovers, especially ahead of election cycles. While the government insists the gifts are administrative and apolitical, others see them as a potential way to win favour with influential figures.
Still, cultural leaders at the event expressed gratitude. Some called the handover a long-overdue recognition of their contribution to the country’s cohesion and identity.
As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, the government has promised more engagement with traditional leaders to help promote civic awareness, cultural preservation, and conflict resolution across rural and urban areas.
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