The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has officially launched a mediation initiative aimed at resolving leadership disputes within the Bugwere cultural institution. This process will culminate in the election of an agreed upon Ikumbania the traditional cultural leader of the Bagwere people.

The mediation follows IRCU’s appointment by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to facilitate dialogue and conduct elections for the Ikumbania, following years of internal division.

Engagements across Obwa Ikumbania bwa Bugwere are now underway, encompassing the districts of Budaka, Kibuku, Pallisa, and Butebo.

Since the passing of former Ikumbania Crysostom Wayabire in 2021, a number of individuals have laid claim to the title, plunging the cultural institution into confusion and division. To address the crisis, the Ministry entrusted IRCU to lead a peaceful and inclusive reconciliation process.

With a longstanding commitment to interfaith dialogue and peacebuilding, IRCU continues its tradition of mediating cultural conflicts and fostering unity among communities within the country.