By Eumu Emmanuel.
Kaberamaido District, May 6, 2024
Mr. Mulambe Tonny, Principal Assistant Secretary in the Office of the President, emphasized the importance of journalists accurately reporting on government programs to the community. This initiative aims to ensure transparency and enhance public understanding of governmental actions.
Mr. Mulambe highlighted the significance of the National Honours and Awards Act of 2001, which empowers the President to confer honors to individuals who have rendered outstanding service to Uganda. These honors recognize contributions in military, civil, and other capacities, both domestically and internationally.
The process of nomination and selection involves various ministries, departments, agencies of government (MDAs), and individuals. The Presidential Awards Committee, established by the Act, is responsible for vetting and forwarding nominations to the President for approval.
The Act also established the chancery for the custody of awards and other related functions. Operationalizing the Act, the National Honours and Awards Committee Regulations of 2014 provide a simplified framework for identifying exemplary achievers and guide the public on the procedure, selection criteria, approval, and conferment of honors.
Nominations, submitted by MDAs, NGOs, or public/private institutions, undergo assessment by independent experts and senior civil servants. Honorary awards for foreign nationals are recommended through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Chief of Protocol. The President formally approves the nominations, and recipients attend investiture ceremonies to receive their medals.
The committee ensures that nominees have demonstrated outstanding achievements or voluntary contributions beyond what is expected through paid employment. Nominations are kept confidential, and nominees are notified in advance of the award ceremony.
Local officials in Kaberamaido District, including the Resident District Commissioner Mr. Lino Lotem and Deputy Resident District Commissioner Ms. Aipo Clear, expressed support for the initiative. They emphasized the importance of recognizing prominent individuals in the community and urged journalists to keep the public informed.
Mr. Lotem announced plans to collaborate with journalists in identifying deserving individuals for awards in Kaberamaido District, while Ms. Clear highlighted the significance of respectful treatment towards awardees in public facilities.