EDITOR
Residents of Kikongi Parish in Bwambara Sub-county, Rukungiri District, today witnessed a milestone in their community development efforts with the official launch of the Kikongi My Roots Development Association (KMRDA). The colorful event was graced by the Minister of Security, Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, as chief guest, alongside Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo, a woman MP aspirant for Rukungiri District, among other dignitaries.
KMRDA, founded in April 2023 and formally registered with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau on 5 February 2025, is a community-based organization that brings together the 12 villages of Kikongi Parish. These include Kikongi, Rushebeya, Mironzi, Nyaruhungye, Ihimbo, Rushararazi, Kempazi, Karyamacumu, Kateramu, Nyakarama, Nyakatunguru, and Kanyinabarongo.
The association’s strategic plan, approved during a general meeting on June 22, 2025, outlines a five-year roadmap running from April 1, 2023, to March 30, 2028. It focuses on transforming lives through collective action, sustainable development, and preservation of cultural heritage.
KMRDA’s vision is “to be a united and empowered community transforming lives through collective action, sustainable development, and cultural heritage.”
Its mission emphasizes promoting solidarity among Kikongi Parish natives by fostering socio-economic development through welfare support, savings, education, agriculture, and cultural identity.
The association upholds values such as unity and belonging, transparency and accountability, respect for culture, inclusiveness, self-reliance and empowerment, and integrity.
KMRDA is proud to have a permanent office at Three Sisters Complex in Ntinda, Kampala, and land along the Kikongi-Omukabingo road. The association also boasts a committed leadership team, dedicated members with monthly subscriptions, and participation from educated community members.
While the association faces challenges like limited funding and generally low-income levels among members, it sees vast opportunities in its environment. These include proximity to the Rukungiri-Kanungu tarmac road, two productive agricultural seasons, the natural tourism potential of Ihimbo Hot Springs, and access to Bikurungu Market. Government programs such as the Parish Development Model, Emyooga, and Wealth Creation are also potential avenues for support.
KMRDA’s development strategy involves working with four key partner categories: community members, local and central government agencies, non-state actors such as NGOs, and international collaborators.
In his keynote address, Minister Jim Muhwezi commended the people of Kikongi for coming together to forge a better future through unity and vision-driven development. Hon. Mary Paula Turyahikayo also lauded the association’s inclusive and grassroots-based approach, urging more people to participate in such initiatives to transform Rukungiri from the ground up.
1 Comment