Hon. Steven Masiga, spokesperson of the Bamasaba Cultural Institution, has called on business owners in the Bugisu region to support needy members of the community. He made the remarks during a one-day symposium organised by the Bugisu NGO Forum. Masiga cited the resettlement of people from Bududa to Bunambutye as an example, where the Chinese Industrial Park donated items worth Shs100 million, but local community members did not make significant contributions.
Masiga compared the situation in Bugisu to Tooro, where people showed love and support towards their cultural institution and the King. He contrasted this with the situation following the death of Umukuka Wamimbi, where many Bamasaba did not contribute towards the burial until the government intervened. Masiga urged civil society organisations and the business community to work together to support vulnerable people in society.
The symposium, jointly organised by the Bugisu NGO Forum and its partners, including Legacy, aimed to promote community-focused development. Masiga appealed to civil society organisations to document philanthropic contributions made by businesses and individuals so that such efforts can be recognised and encouraged.
Masiga said the cultural institution would recognise and reward individuals and businesses that support community development. He encouraged businesses to embrace corporate social responsibility and consistently give back to the community. Other speakers at the workshop included Catherine, representing the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Mbale, and Iddi Mafabi, a programme officer at the Bugisu NGO Forum.
The workshop, held at Mt. Elgon Hotel, brought together stakeholders to discuss community development and philanthropy. Masiga's call to action resonated with participants, who acknowledged the need for greater collaboration and support for needy community members.
The Bamasaba Cultural Institution has been working to promote community development and support vulnerable members of society. Masiga's remarks highlight the need for greater involvement from business owners and civil society organisations in supporting community-related activities.
The Bugisu NGO Forum and its partners will continue to promote community-focused development and philanthropy in the region. The symposium marked an important step towards fostering greater collaboration and support for needy community members.
Key points
- Masiga challenges Bugisu business owners to stop selfishness and support needy community members.
- The cultural institution will recognise and reward individuals and businesses that support community development.
- Masiga urges civil society organisations to document philanthropic contributions made by businesses and individuals.
