Public Urged to Nominate Deserving Citizens for Presidential Awards

Rukungiri: The Secretary of the Presidential Awards Committee and Head of the Chancery Department in the President’s Office, Hajjat Malole Zamina, has called on the public to actively participate in identifying deserving individuals for national honors.

Zamina made these remarks on December 11, during a one-day workshop at the Rukungiri District Council Hall, aimed at increasing awareness of the nomination criteria for presidential awards.

Hajjat Zamina emphasized that every year, the Head of State decorates outstanding achievers with medals at national ceremonies to recognize their contributions to national development. However, she noted that the awards process has sometimes been marred by personal interests and monetary influences, straying from its original purpose of promoting excellence as outlined in the National Honours and Awards Act.

She warned against nominating individuals based on financial influence or political conflicts, stressing the importance of recognizing true merit. The goal of the awards is to inspire patriotism, exemplary leadership, and a commitment to excellence.

To bridge the gap in public understanding, Hajjat Zamina has embarked on a nationwide tour to educate district authorities on identifying outstanding individuals. So far, she has visited districts in the Kigezi sub-region, including Kabale, Rubanda, Rukiga, Kisoro, and Rukungiri, with plans to continue to Kanungu District.

She encouraged the public to collaborate with Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) to nominate individuals who have excelled in sectors like education, health, leadership, agriculture, and business among others.

Rukungiri Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Steven Nsubuga Bewaayo, acknowledged public confusion regarding the nomination process. He explained that the District Security Committee, headed by the RDC, selects nominees based on information provided by the District Internal Security Officer (DISO). However, he admitted that the short notice given for nominations sometimes causes issues.

Bewaayo welcomed the sensitization efforts, saying it would help the public better understand and appreciate the awards process.