Conversation with Kwame Rugunda – Candidate National General Secretary of the NRM Entrepreneurs League.
In our first series of Conversations with APT, we sat down with Kwame Rugunda to get insights about his candidacy for the position of the National General Secretary of the NRM Entrepreneurs League.
Kwame, the son of distinguished politician and academician, former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda expressed his desire to stand for this position shortly before he picked nomination forms from the party headquarters earlier this week setting his sights into the political arena. In an exclusive Conversation with APT Communications, Kwame opens up about his inspiration, the value of starting from within the party structures, the role of legacy in politics plus his thoughts on Uganda’s political transition.
Question:
Why are you standing for the position of the National General Secretary of the NRM Entrepreneurs League?
Kwame Rugunda:
Well, this position puts me at the center of coordinating the NRM Entrepreneurs League. Inside each League, there’s a chairperson, a general Secretary and a team of five. The General Secretary operates like a CEO in a company. On the other hand, the chairman is often the face, the general Secretary manages the day-to-day operations.
Therefore, I strongly believe that the NRM Entrepreneurs League has a key role to play in shaping our country’s economic direction. Even though the role’s capacity is well outlined in the NRM constitution, it’s potential hasn’t yet been fully felt or realized. This is therefore why I’m stepping forward.
My involvement is driven by two main reasons. First and foremost, the League sits at the center of politics and the economy. These are areas I have been involved in deeply. I come from the private sector and I also want to contribute politically. So, what better entry than coordinating the business community which is at the core of our country’s economy.
Question:
What makes this particular role special to you?
Kwame Rugunda:
As I stated, it’s the political-economic arm of the party. We need some fresh air, relevance and energy injected into it. This is a great opportunity to bring vibrance and practicality into that space and it can only be done by merging political will with economic strategy. This is why this role is special and urgent.
Question:
Why not go for a bigger position and more actively political position in the limelight?
Kwame Rugunda:
That’s a fair question. The truth is I’ve been participating in the sidelines of the party structures.
I strongly believe that I’m growing through the ranks, building legitimacy, earning trust and also serving meaningfully.
This position therefore gives me the opportunity to start from the foundation, contribute steadily, and also grow within the party whilst making a tangible impact. That’s how I believe institutions and individuals grow stronger, through service not shortcuts.
Question:
Your father, Dr Ruhakana Rugunda is quite a popular figure in the country’s leadership circles – did he endorse your candidacy?
Kwame Rugunda:
Absolutely yes. He’s both a biological and political mentor to me. It would not have been right to take such a great step without first seeking his counsel and endorsement. His blessings no doubt mean a lot to me, both physically and politically.
Question:
What would be your response to critics and people who say that ‘children of big shots’ dominate the NRM Structures?
Kwame Rugunda:
It’s an interesting question and definitely one that deserves reflection. From my viewpoint, any Ugandan who wants to serve should be allowed to do so. Whether you’re a child of a “big shot” or not, the focus should be on your capabilities.
So, the real question here should be: Are you willing to serve? Do you believe in the values of the party and can you make a meaningful contribution? That’s what’s most important – background and biology are secondary in this case. Any person that feels the call to serve should come ahead. That’s what informed my own decision.
Question:
Uganda’s Next Political Transition is a Big Talking Point. What’s your view?
Kwame Rugunda:
Yes, it’s a central factor in the coming years. We’re already seeing signs of that and I believe that the next five years will be so instrumental in shaping what transition looks like for Uganda. While no one has complete clarity about the future the best way to secure a good future is nu preparing for it today. I believe the NRM is preparing and that we must continue to do so with strategy, unity and forward thinking.
Closing Remarks
Kwame Rugunda’s candidacy marks an important generational change within the NRM. His practical approach, clear vision and disciplined political maturity, he seeks to inject a new energy into a League he believes is vital to Uganda’s future – one that bridges the economic reform with political structure.
Rugunda promises to lead with coordination, service and strategy if elected thus setting a tone for a thoughtful inclusive leadership in the years ahead.
Conversations with APT Communications
Conversations with APT Communications is a podcast that brings together diverse voices from across industries, communities, and cultures to share the stories that shape our world.
Each episode features authentic conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers who are making an impact in their fields. From entrepreneurs and artists to activists and executives, we explore the journeys, challenges, and insights that define their work and vision.
Whether it’s uncovering the strategy behind a successful brand transformation, the passion driving a social movement, or the creative process behind groundbreaking innovation, Conversations with APT creates a platform where meaningful dialogue meets powerful storytelling. Join us as we connect voices and amplify the stories that matter.