The Isebantu Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has been appointed as a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador to lead efforts against teenage pregnancy in Busoga and Uganda.
Known for his dedication to cultural, social, and economic transformation, the Kyabazinga will champion the campaign “Abasadha Ne’Mpango” (Men Are the Pillars), aimed at addressing the root causes of teenage pregnancies, including poverty, uninvolved parenting, and limited access to reproductive health services.
Announced by Owekitiibwa Haji Osman Ahmed Noor, the 2nd Deputy Prime Minister of Busoga Kingdom, during a talk show on Baba FM, the campaign aligns with UNAIDS’ mission of achieving zero new HIV infections, zero AIDS-related deaths, and zero discrimination, while also addressing several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Kyabazinga’s role will focus on engaging men and boys as key stakeholders in transforming societal norms, inspiring active parenting, and reducing negative development indicators in the region.
Supported by 11 UN agencies, including UNHCR, UNICEF, WHO, UNFPA, and the World Bank, the campaign will tackle critical issues such as poverty, education gaps, and harmful social practices that perpetuate early pregnancies and child marriages. The Kyabazinga’s initiative will also aim to strengthen family structures as a foundation for cultural and economic growth in Busoga.
The official appointment will be celebrated on December 13, 2024, at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters in a ceremony coinciding with Uganda’s celebration of International Men’s Day.
The event, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, and the Ministry of Health, will bring together cultural leaders, UN agency representatives, and the public. Attendees will access free medical services, including TB screening, HIV/AIDS counseling, and prostate cancer checks, alongside health education sessions.
The campaign will be spearheaded by Kyabazinga Initiatives (KI), an organization established in 2023 to implement strategic programs for the development of Busoga. With the Kyabazinga’s leadership, KI will work closely with UN agencies and other partners to ensure the campaign’s success, alongside broader efforts to improve public health, education, and economic stability.
The appointment comes at a time of celebration for the Kyabazinga, who will mark his 36th birthday with a royal banquet at Igenge Palace on December 14, followed by the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup final on December 15 at Bugembe Stadium.
The banquet will feature the unveiling of Busoga United FC by FUFA to the Kyabazinga. The final match between Butembe and Bukono will also include a friendly game between Busoga United FC and the Uganda Cranes, symbolizing unity and strength in Busoga.
