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Prof. Julius Kiiza delivering the 2nd Kabalega Memorial Lecture Keynote Address Speech<\/em><\/p>\n Hoima Resort Hotel | October 3, 2025<\/em><\/p>\n On the third day of Kabalega Independence Week, Hoima slowed down\u2014not in pace, but in posture. The energy shifted from music and marketplaces to quiet thought and meaningful dialogue as a multi-generational crowd gathered for the 2nd Kabalega Memorial Lecture<\/strong>, hosted at Hoima Resort Hotel.<\/p>\n Under the theme \u201cCulture, Knowledge & Innovation: Reimagining Leadership for Community Transformation,\u201d<\/strong> the event felt less like a traditional lecture and more like a collective reflection<\/strong>\u2014a search for authentic, homegrown solutions to Uganda\u2019s most pressing leadership and development challenges.<\/p>\n This landmark event was organized by Kabalega Foundation<\/strong> in partnership with the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom<\/strong>, and supported by Konrad Adenauer Stiftung<\/strong>, long recognized for its work in democracy, governance, and civic education.<\/p>\n The event opened with traditional music, and dance<\/strong>\u2014not as cultural decoration, but as a grounding reminder of what came before governance: community, rhythm, and meaning.<\/p>\n Cultural dances perform before the start of the Memorial Lecture.<\/em><\/p>\n Remarks by Mr. Bernard Mukhone \u2013 Programmes Manager, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Uganda<\/strong><\/p>\n Speaking on behalf of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Mr. Bernard Mukhone brought a thoughtful lens to the conversation, challenging the audience to reimagine what leadership could\u2014and should\u2014look like in Africa today. \u201cHow do we build leaders who truly serve all people, including marginalized communities?\u201d he asked. His answer: leaders must listen deeply, respect the histories of their people, and have the courage to ask how things can be done differently.<\/p>\n He emphasized the importance of education and democratic dialogue as cornerstones of accountable leadership. True transformation, he said, requires partnerships\u2014between traditional and modern institutions, between civil society and government, and between local wisdom and global ideas. \u201cAs we honor the legacy of Kabalega today,\u201d he said, \u201clet us also commit to nurturing a new generation of leaders who are not only visionary, but also empathetic, inclusive, and innovative.\u201d<\/p>\n Mr. Bernard Mukhone, the Programme Manager and representative of Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, a key lecture partner delivering opening remarks.<\/em><\/p>\n Mr. Mukhone closed by reaffirming KAS\u2019s support for initiatives like the Kabalega Memorial Lecture, which provide platforms for critical thinking and shared vision. \u201cLeadership must be a force for dignity and transformation for all,\u201d he concluded\u2014a sentiment that echoed the purpose of the day.<\/p>\n Then came the keynote.<\/p>\n That was the question posed by keynote speaker Professor Julius Kiiza<\/strong>, who delivered a hard-hitting, deeply thoughtful address. Drawing from African history, economic trends, and personal experience, Professor Kiiza reminded the room that Omukama Kabalega<\/strong> was not just a historical figure\u2014but a model of transformative leadership<\/strong> for today.<\/p>\n Kabalega was a monarchist who\u00a0believed in leadership that was rooted, responsive, and forward-looking. His style mirrored what modern military science now calls \u201cmission command\u201d\u2014leadership with clear vision, local accountability, and community involvement.<\/p>\n \u201cLeadership is not about occupying space,\u201d Professor Kiiza said. \u201cIt\u2019s about catalyzing change.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n He warned against rulers who rule for ego, not outcomes; against systems that reward mediocrity and stunt innovation; and against mindsets that confuse culture with stagnation.<\/p>\n Dr. Cindy Evelyn Magara taking up the stage for the panel discussion moderation<\/em><\/p>\n With a panel of diverse representation moderated by Dr. Cindy Evelyn Magara<\/strong>, it delved into real conversations about what leadership means today, and where it must go.<\/p>\n Owek. David F.K. Mpanga, <\/strong>who also represented the Prime Minister of Buganda Kingdom at the event\u00a0spoke passionately about the continuing role of cultural institutions<\/strong> in shaping modern governance\u2014not by resisting progress, but by guiding it with integrity and identity.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Owek. David F.K Mpanga delivering his remarks <\/em>during the panel discussion\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Dr. Lenard Nalubo, <\/strong>a leading AI researcher and founder of the Bunyoro Development Think Tank, urged the audience to stop seeing technology as a foreign concept, and emphasized the role of AI and digital innovation<\/strong> in preserving culture\u2014from 3D scanning of heritage sites<\/strong> to digital storytelling in native languages. He called for tech centers in industrial parks<\/strong>, stronger digital infrastructure, and tools to ensure Africa becomes not just a user<\/strong> of technology\u2014but a creator<\/strong> of it.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Dr. Leonard Nkalubo delivering his remarks during the panel discussion\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Nancy Kalembe<\/strong>, a former presidential candidate, shared the challenges of navigating male-dominated spaces as a woman<\/strong>, offering both critique and hope for more inclusive, empathetic leadership.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Ms. Nancy Linda Kalembe delivering her remarks during the panel discussion\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Innocent Turyahikayo<\/strong>, a youth leader, was blunt, raising\u00a0critical question: \u201cWho is truly there for the youth?\u201d<\/strong> Despite young people making up the majority of Uganda\u2019s population, they often remain sidelined in key decisions and development initiatives. He urged leaders\u2014government officials, cultural custodians, and religious figures alike\u2014to recognize the vast potential of young people and take collective responsibility for their empowerment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n Mr. Innocent Turyahikayo delivering his remarks during the panel discussion\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n Highlighting the emerging oil economy as a pivotal opportunity, Innocent called for deliberate action to position youth as active participants, not mere spectators, in national development.<\/strong> He advocated for the creation of an innovation fund dedicated to supporting youth-led ideas and projects<\/strong>, ensuring that development efforts are inclusive and responsive to young people\u2019s aspirations.<\/p>\n He posed a vital question to the audience: \u201cWho is mentoring our young people to become the leaders of tomorrow?\u201d<\/p>\n Innocent commended Kabalega Foundation for its forward-thinking initiative to establish the Kabalega Institute of Leadership & Cultural Studies (KILCS),<\/strong> expressing optimism that this platform will significantly contribute to nurturing youth leadership and driving sustainable development across the region.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n The event featured important speeches from key partners, underscoring the spirit of collaboration and shared vision.<\/p>\n Owek. Atuha Moses, representing the Prime Minister of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, expressed pride in the collaboration, stating:<\/p>\n \u201cThis lecture series rekindles the spirit of our ancestors and inspires us to lead with wisdom and humility. Kabalega was a visionary who understood the power of unity and culture. We see this event as a continuation of that legacy.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Owek. Atuha Moses delivering remarks on behalf of the Kingdom<\/em><\/p>\n He also noted:<\/p>\n \u201cModern challenges require traditional values as their foundation. We honor Kabalega not as a relic of the past, but as a guide for today\u2019s leadership.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Owek. Robert Owagonza Abwooli, representing Bank of Uganda, addressed the audience with a message of economic and social transformation:<\/p>\n \u201cBank of Uganda is honored to support initiatives that blend heritage with innovation. As custodians of our financial systems, we recognize the vital role culture plays in shaping economic behavior and sustainable growth.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Owek. Robert Owagonza Abwooli, representing Bank of Uganda; one of the Lecture sponsors delivering his message<\/em><\/p>\n He added:<\/p>\n \u201cThe Kabalega Institute\u2019s approach to leadership education will equip new generations with the tools to lead Uganda into a future that respects both tradition and progress.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Prince Dr. James Isagara Kisoro\u2019s remarks tied together the event\u2019s themes with a hopeful call to action:<\/p>\n \u201cWe believe this platform can be leveraged\u2014just as we have always said in our communications\u2014to draw inspiration from a hero\u2019s legacy to drive social, cultural, and economic transformation within our society.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Prince Dr. James Isagara Kisoro; the Executive Director – Kabalega Foundation delivering his speech<\/em><\/p>\n He urged attendees, especially youth, to see culture as a foundation, not a hindrance:<\/p>\n \u201cBy holding our heritage close while embracing technological advancements, we open ourselves to new opportunities. Culture and innovation are not enemies\u2014they are partners in progress.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Dr. Kisoro also paid tribute to the team and partners:<\/p>\n \u201cWithout the tireless efforts of our team and the support of partners like Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Bank of Uganda, Centenary Bank, Roofings Uganda, among others\u00a0, this lecture series and the launch of KILCS would not be possible.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n In closing, he invited the community to take collective responsibility for the future:<\/p>\n \u201cThe Kabalega Institute of Leadership and Cultural Studies is a commitment to nurture leadership and culture as vital lessons for societal progress. Let us all take part in making this vision a reality.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Throughout the day, interludes of traditional music, and dance, <\/strong>reminded everyone that culture is not a costume\u2014it is compassing and can be used to communicate, <\/strong>and that\u00a0Leadership is not just about what you say; it\u2019s about how you live, remember, and build.<\/strong><\/p>\nMore Than a Lecture \u2014 A Reflection on the Past, Present, and Future<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\nA Call for Empathetic, Inclusive Leadership<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n\u201cWhat if leadership isn\u2019t about power\u2014but about purpose?\u201d<\/h3>\n
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A Grounded Panel Conversation<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Words from Our Partners and Leaders<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom Representative<\/h3>\n
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Bank of Uganda Representative<\/h3>\n
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Executive Director, Kabalega Foundation<\/h3>\n
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