Stakeholders have raised concerns over the declining involvement of communities in self-help initiatives such as “Burungi Bwansi” and community savings groups, which are vital for grassroots development.
The issue was a focal point at the Fireplace Dialogue, hosted yesterday evening at Heras Resort in Kabale Municipality. Organized by Kick Corruption Out of Uganda in partnership with the NGO Forum, the event aimed to explore how integrating local philanthropy into the Local Economic Development (LED) Policy could bolster community-driven progress in the Kigezi Sub-Region.
Participants expressed concern that initiatives like Burungi Bwansi, historically pivotal for fostering collective community action, are losing relevance due to limited awareness, changing priorities, and reduced engagement.
Miria Tuguma, the Kabale District Vice Chairperson and a keynote speaker, underscored the need to rekindle community spirit and awareness to embrace LED policies effectively. “Local philanthropy is an untapped resource. Communities must realize their power to drive development from within by leveraging shared resources and talents,” she said.
Tuguma also highlighted that while government programs such as Emyooga, the Parish Development Model (PDM), and the Women Empowerment Program (WEP) aim to eradicate poverty, their impact has been minimal due to inadequate community sensitization and training.
The dialogue emphasized that incorporating local philanthropy into the LED Policy could establish a structured framework to enhance community participation, ensuring sustainable and inclusive development. Proposed strategies included strengthening local leadership, increasing public awareness, and offering incentives for collective action.
Robert Kakuru, the Executive Director of Kick Corruption Out of Uganda, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the significance of dialogues like these in reviving traditional community practices. “Historically, fireplace dialogues were platforms for discussing community development. This initiative aims to guide communities on how to reclaim ownership of their development rather than relying solely on external triggers,” Kakuru said.
He further stressed the importance of community participation in implementing LED policies, urging communities to create frameworks for their own growth.
The Fireplace Dialogue is expected to inspire similar engagements across the Kigezi Sub-Region, addressing apathy towards self-help initiatives and reigniting grassroots development.
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