President Yoweri Museveni has appointed Henry Lutwama as Special Presidential Assistant and Coordinator of Bataka affairs in Buganda, a role based at State House.
The appointment takes immediate effect, according to a letter issued by the Ministry of Public Service on the directive of the President.
According to the confirmation, the appointment was made in accordance with Article 172(1)(a) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, and on the advice of the Public Service Commission.
In the letter, the Permanent Secretary informed Lutwama that the President had approved his appointment to serve as Special Presidential Assistant and Coordinator of Bataka in Buganda within the Public Service of Uganda.
Lutwama has welcomed the appointment, expressing gratitude to President Museveni and committing to work closely with relevant stakeholders.
“I am grateful to His Excellency the President for the confidence placed in me. I look forward to engaging respectfully with all stakeholders so that our cultural heritage continues to contribute to peace, unity and socio-economic development,” Lutwama said.
Before his appointment, Lutwama served as a Political Assistant to the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, where he was involved in political mobilisation and public engagement. He has also held leadership positions at the Kampala Capital City Authority, with a focus on community mobilisation and local development initiatives.
The Bataka are traditional clan heads in Buganda and are widely regarded as custodians of the kingdom’s lineage, customs and cultural institutions. They play a significant role in preserving indigenous governance systems and promoting cultural identity within the kingdom.
President Museveni began formal engagements with Bataka leadership shortly after taking power in 1986, particularly on national matters affecting Buganda. These discussions contributed to the process that led to the restoration of the Buganda Kingdom, following a resolution passed by the Army Council in Gulu on April 3, 1992, which supported the return of the monarchy and the reinstatement of the Kabaka.
Since the restoration, the President has continued to maintain working relations with Bataka leaders on cultural, social and community matters in Buganda.
Observers say Lutwama’s appointment is expected to strengthen coordination between the Presidency and Bataka leadership, particularly in advancing cultural affairs, dialogue and community engagement across the Buganda region.
