Uganda's Balaam Barugahara Named Second Runner-Up in Continental Ministerial Awards

Uganda’s Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has achieved continental recognition after being named the second runner-up in the prestigious Unstoppable African Awards. The ceremony took place in Nairobi over the weekend during the official launch of the Africa Agenda Forum.

The accolades highlight ministers across Africa for exceptional contributions to public service, administrative reforms, and transparency. Zimbabwe’s Barbra Rwodi secured the overall winner position, while Kenya’s Minister for Public Service, Geoffrey Ruku, claimed the first runner-up spot.

The recognition follows a series of rigorous anti-corruption initiatives championed by the Ugandan ministry. Earlier this year, President Yoweri Museveni directed Balaam and fellow local government officials to conduct field inspections, public barazas, and surprise audits to tackle resource misappropriation and enhance service delivery in healthcare and infrastructure.

Taking to his official X account, the minister expressed profound gratitude to the public voters and attributed his success to divine guidance, referencing biblical humility. He also extended appreciation to President Museveni and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for their leadership, mentorship, and trust.

Balaam noted that the continental honor will not slow down his momentum, but rather strengthen his resolve to safeguard public resources. He emphasized that every shilling sent to villages, parishes, and districts must translate into tangible community development.

Established in 2026 by the Africa Agenda Forum, the Unstoppable African Awards celebrate leaders and institutions driving governance and innovation in alignment with the broader ideals of the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

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