BUTALEJA — National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Treasurer Barbara Oundo Nekesa has called on Kenyans and Ugandans to become agents of socio-economic transformation, saying cross-border marriages should strengthen not only family ties but also regional development and the fight against poverty.
Nekesa made the remarks while representing NRM Secretary General Rt. Hon. Richard Todwong during the giveaway ceremony of Dr. Esther Nabwire Patience, daughter of NRM Director of Information Hon. Emmanuel Dombo, who was united with her Kenyan fiancé, Samuel Waluchio, in Butaleja District.
She said the union between the Ugandan bride and her Kenyan groom reflected the growing bonds between the two neighbouring countries and the wider East African Community.
Beginning her address, Nekesa thanked God for granting her a safe journey from Kampala amid increasing road accidents across the country.
"I left Kampala at 4:00 p.m., and I thank Almighty God that I arrived safely, healthy and in time to attend this function," she said, urging travellers to always appreciate safe journeys.
She conveyed greetings and congratulations from President Yoweri Museveni, who is also the NRM National Chairman, and from Secretary General Richard Todwong to the newlyweds and their families.
Nekesa thanked Dombo and his family for the invitation, describing wedding invitations as a special honour that should never be taken for granted.
Turning to the bride, she praised Dombo's influence beyond politics, saying he had inspired countless young people across Uganda through his leadership and mentorship.
"Your father has not only inspired you and your siblings; he has inspired many people beyond Butaleja and Bukedi," she said.
She also commended Dombo and his wife for raising Esther into the woman she has become, saying their efforts had produced a family worthy of celebration while creating a lasting bond between Uganda and Kenya.
Addressing the couple, Nekesa reminded them that marriage was the beginning of a lifelong journey rather than its destination.
Drawing from a song by Ugandan musician Rema Namakula, she likened marriage to a journey that starts with polished shoes but eventually encounters dust and challenges.
"When those challenging moments come, Dr. Esther, keep walking. Samuel, keep walking too. Support one another. Walk hand in hand, and your journey will last a lifetime," she advised.
She urged the newlyweds to embrace the ideals of the NRM's Ten-Point Programme by becoming champions of development and prosperity.
"The National Resistance Movement has a purpose guided by its Ten-Point Programme... At the centre of all these efforts is one objective: fighting poverty," Nekesa said.
"Whether you remain in Uganda or cross into Kenya, continue the fight against poverty. This struggle will not only build Uganda but also strengthen the East African Community."
She said marriages that bridge East African countries should contribute to regional integration and economic development, encouraging the couple to emulate Dombo's example of community leadership.
"We therefore encourage you to become agents of socio-economic transformation—not only within your households but also within your communities—just as Hon. Dombo has done," she said.
In a light-hearted moment, Nekesa noted that Dombo is a successful farmer and joked that his daughter had clearly grown up enjoying fresh milk after seeing the many cattle at the family home.
She said the NRM did not want Esther to leave Uganda "without a cow" before announcing a cash contribution of Shs5 million on behalf of the party.
"We therefore do not want her to leave Uganda without a cow. On behalf of the National Resistance Movement, I would like to present this contribution of five million Uganda shillings," she announced.
Also speaking at the ceremony, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Kadaga said the marriage symbolised the deep historical ties among East African countries.
She noted that Ugandans, Kenyans and Tanzanians have shared leadership, friendships and family relationships for decades, saying such unions continue to strengthen regional integration.
Kadaga urged Kenyans to support the East African Political Confederation, arguing that citizens should eventually be able to move freely across borders without unnecessary restrictions.
"When you travelled here, you stopped at the border. You were asked where you were going, how long you intended to stay, how much money you had, and when you would return. That should not be the future of East Africa," she said.
She also called for greater use of local currencies, the removal of barriers affecting border communities, and continued harmonisation of laws, trade systems and academic qualifications across the region.
Addressing the newlyweds, Kadaga encouraged them to nurture their marriage through constant communication and expressions of love.
"As soon as you have the opportunity, call your spouse. Ask, 'How are you?' Tell them, 'I love you.' Give each other affection and encouragement," she advised.
The ceremony brought together political leaders, family members and guests from Uganda and Kenya to celebrate a union that speakers described as both a family milestone and a symbol of East African unity.