Kampala, once a stronghold of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), Uganda’s capital has in recent years tilted sharply toward the opposition. Yet beneath the surface of the city’s political shift lies a network of long-serving NRM cadres quietly working to sustain and rebuild the party’s grassroots base.
These individuals, often operating without fanfare, have been instrumental in maintaining the party’s presence in areas where its popularity has declined. Their work, ranging from community mobilization to promotion of government programs—continues to anchor the NRM in the daily lives of residents, particularly in neighborhoods where political loyalties are shifting.
Among them is Rubyoogo Robert, commonly known as Mulokole, a veteran NRM supporter and LC1 Chairperson of Kamwokya Market Area. A fixture in his community, Mulokole is known for his early-morning announcements through a megaphone, informing residents about government initiatives, vaccination drives, and registration programs.
Now in his sixties, Mulokole says his commitment to the NRM dates back to the early years of the movement. Despite occasional backlash from political rivals and residents in the ghetto suburb where he lives, he remains resolute in advancing government priorities.
“I believe in the NRM’s vision for Uganda. It’s not always easy here, but someone must carry the message to the people,” he said.
His work has not only involved civic awareness but also neighborhood security. Residents credit him with maintaining relative calm in an area historically challenged by crime and youth unemployment.
Similarly committed is Rose Wacha, the Chairperson of Shimoni in Nakasero, who has quietly grown NRM support in her community through a loyal team of party activists.
“I am committed to the party’s ideals and principles,” Wacha said at a recent NRM event. “It is on that background that I’ve made sure NRM is always victorious in Kitante. It has been an honor because I believe the NRM government works for the people and the good of the country.”
Her approach combines outreach, community involvement, and consistent political messaging, ensuring NRM remains a relevant voice in the area.
Another key figure is Councilor Sylvia Bahemurwaki Kizza, who represents Nakasero 1 Parish. Since assuming office, she has undertaken a rigorous mobilization campaign to unite all the villages within the parish under the NRM banner.
“NRM has never lost in my parish ever since I got elected.We’ve worked tirelessly to build a community that understands our values. That’s something I’m proud of,” she said.
Bahemurwaki regularly holds village meetings, coordinates community events, and uses both formal and informal channels to communicate party programs, efforts she says have created a sense of political cohesion.
Nakibuuka Norah, serving as the Village Health Team (VHT) coordinator for Nile Village and the LC1 Woman Chairperson, is making a significant and lasting impact in her community.
A committed mobilizer, Nakibuuka is at the forefront of building grassroots support for the National Resistance Movement (NRM). Together with her colleagues, she offers critical support to victims of domestic violence—providing safe shelter, comfort, and a compassionate ear. Many victims have testified to her selfless dedication and timely assistance.
Beyond advocacy, Nakibuuka actively supports vulnerable households by providing basic necessities to families in need. She works closely with Paul Nuwagaba, the Chairman of Nile Village, and dedicated community ministers like Byamukama Nelson and Gloria Kaunda, all of whom exemplify the NRM’s values of citizen empowerment and community welfare.
Their unwavering commitment has not only earned them personal respect but has also strengthened the image and support of the NRM at the grassroots level in Kampala. Their efforts continue to inspire others to work toward meaningful, community-driven change.
While critics may argue that the NRM’s challenges in Kampala stem from deeper issues, for cadres like Mulokole, Wacha, Bahemurwaki, Nakibuuka, among others, the solution lies in visibility, consistency, and personal engagement.
These community leaders believe that this model will reclaim Kampala for the NRM and what is clear is that these individuals, though rarely in the national spotlight, represent the enduring spine of the party’s grassroots machinery.
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