In a vibrant display of cultural reverence, mutual respect, and shared ambition, MTN Uganda’s CEO, Sylvia Mulinge, and a delegation from the telecommunications giant converged at the majestic Igenge Palace in the heart of Busoga today to visit the Kyabazinga Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV.
This morning of “culture, connection, and gratitude” underscored the deepening seven-year partnership between MTN and the Busoga Kingdom, a collaboration that continues to yield dividends for the people of Busoga.
The MTN team was warmly welcomed by Dr. Joseph Muvawala, Katukiiro gha’Busoga (Prime Minister of Busoga), who set the tone for the engagement.
Dr. Muvawala eloquently reminded attendees that “culture is not just tradition… it’s emotion, identity, and unity.”
He emphasised the spirit of reciprocity that defines the enduring bond, stating, “A friend who gives, we give,” a sentiment that perfectly reflects the fruitful relationship.
Owek. Al-Hajj Ahmed Osman Noor, the 2nd Deputy Prime Minister and Head of Partnerships for the Busoga Kingdom, proudly highlighted the tangible outcomes of this seven-year journey.
From the thrilling Busoga Masaza Football Cup and Bicycle Races that ignite community spirit to meaningful support in digital inclusion and youth empowerment, MTN’s commitment has demonstrably transformed lives.
“Your commitment has turned our partnership into one of the most admired to date,” Owek. Al-Hajj Ahmed Osman Noor said, a testament to the visible impact across the Kingdom.
Martin Sebuliba, MTN Uganda’s Senior Manager, Brand and Communications, introduced the distinguished MTN delegation, which included key figures like Ibrahim Senyonga, the GM-Enterprise Business, and Dorcas Batwala Muhwezi, the GM-Customer Experience, among others, including those serving directly within Busoga.
Dr. David Nsiyona, MTN’s Chief Community Officer and a key distributor in the region, offered a powerful personal testimony, illustrating how the partnership actively uplifts local businesses.
He revealed that MTN’s support now directly impacts over 40 service centres, collectively reaching nearly 400,000 people across the Kingdom, showcasing the expansive reach of their collaborative efforts.
In a very touching moment, MTN Uganda CEO Ms. Mulinge, clad in a traditional ‘gomesi’ worn specially for her inaugural visit to the palace, addressed His Majesty and the gathered dignitaries.
She extended her heartfelt congratulations to His Majesty, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, on his recent and significant appointment as a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador.
Ms. Mulinge further lauded the Kingdom’s proactive and commendable efforts in combating critical societal challenges such as teenage pregnancy through innovative approaches encompassing education, sports, and technology.
She underscored MTN’s core philosophy, stating that “a socially empowered community is what guarantees companies like ours a future,” hence MTN’s unwavering belief that “together, we’re unstoppable.”
In a gesture of profound appreciation, His Majesty, the Kyabazinga, reciprocated the sentiments, expressing his deep gratitude for MTN’s pivotal role in shaping progress across both Uganda and his Kingdom.
“We’ve walked together for 7 years. Let’s go even further,” he declared, signalling a desire for greater collaboration in the years to come.
The ceremony culminated in a symbolic exchange of tokens. The Busoga Kingdom presented MTN with a meticulously crafted plaque of appreciation and exquisite portraits of the King and Queen, embodying the Kingdom’s gratitude.
In turn, MTN gifted His Majesty the Kyabazinga, his queen the Inhebantu, and the Prime Ministers with the latest smartphones; powerful symbols of their continued connection, digital inclusion, and a partnership geared towards a connected and prosperous future. According to Mulinge, this wasn’t merely a courtesy visit; it was a vibrant celebration of shared purpose and a powerful affirmation of a partnership that continues to set a benchmark for corporate-cultural collaborations in Uganda. As both parties affirmed, their collective progress is indeed unstoppable