It is a bright morning in Ibanda town.
Children run across the newly paved paths connecting Rugazi Primary School to nearby neighborhoods, their laughter echoing over the bridge that has replaced the old, rickety crossing over the rivers.
On the school grounds, teachers arrange new textbooks, rulers, and exercise books recently distributed by none other than Mwiine Bakamuhara, the independent candidate whose name has become synonymous with action in Ibanda Municipality.
Residents speak of him not as a politician, but as “the man who delivers.”
“Before Bakamuhara, our children used to study under leaking roofs, and fetching water was a daily struggle,” says Grace, a mother of three in Rugazi ward. “Now we have a classroom block, boreholes, and even bridges. Who else can do that?”
The Boreholes That Changed Lives
Across Ibanda Municipality, Bakamuhara’s 43 boreholes are a visible testament to his commitment. In villages, women gather daily at the borehole he commissioned, chatting while filling jerrycans with clean water.
“I used to wake up at 5am and walk for hours to fetch water,” says Martha, a smallholder farmer. “Now I have water near my home. This man is already thinking about our needs even before he becomes MP.”
Building Futures, One Classroom at a Time
Bakamuhara’s impact is also visible in schools. The Rugazi Primary School classroom block he facilitated has reduced overcrowding, allowing teachers to give pupils more attention.
His distribution of textbooks and educational materials has further ensured that pupils are prepared for exams and daily lessons.
“He doesn’t just promise; he acts,” says a teacher at Rugazi Primary. “He shows up. He listens. He delivers.”
Bridges, Roads, and Business Relief
In Ibanda town, traders credit Bakamuhara for his help in easing business operations. Local farmers and transporters praise the bridges he helped build, which have restored access to markets that were previously cut off during the rainy season.
“Before these bridges, we had to take long detours or risk crossing dangerous waters,” says Isaac Byaruhanga, a vegetable trader. “Now, my produce reaches town on time. Bakamuhara’s work speaks louder than speeches.”
Guarding the Environment
Bakamuhara has also taken action to protect Saza Forest Reserve, ensuring that logging and encroachment are controlled. Residents note that the forest is vital for water catchment and farming, and many see his intervention as forward-thinking leadership.
The Manifesto That Reflects His Work
His campaign pledges are a direct continuation of these efforts:
- Clean water and electricity for all households
- More classroom blocks and school facilities
- Roads, bridges, and public infrastructure
- Sports and talent promotion for youth
- Proper parliamentary representation
- Anti-corruption initiatives
- Land title advocacy
Agaba Peter’s Struggle
NRM’s Hon. Peter Agaba has relied on party backing and campaign rhetoric, but voters express frustration.
“I have seen him around only during campaigns,” says Betty , a resident in Ibanda town. “He talks a lot, but Bakamuhara works. I know who I’ll vote for.”
Analysts say Agaba faces an uphill battle: Bakamuhara has already delivered results, leaving party loyalty secondary in voters’ minds.
Election Day Looms
With January 27 approaching, the municipality is buzzing with anticipation, but few doubt the outcome. Residents describe Bakamuhara as already performing the MP’s role, from infrastructure to social programs.
“Come January 27, we are not just voting; we are confirming what we see every day,” says Martha. “He is already our MP.”
In Ibanda Municipality, the narrative is clear: action, not promises, wins votes. And Bakamuhara has been acting for years.
