Namaara Jovia Tugume, the current lady captain at Entebbe Club is one of the influential ladies in Entebbe Municipality. Endowed with rich expertise in leadership, sports, business and tourism, Namaara shares her life story, scores thus far and bold aspirations including eyeing the MP seat for Entebbe come the forthcoming national elections in 2026.
Who is Jovia Tugume?
My full name is Namaara Jovia Tugume. I am a proud resident of Bugonga, Entebbe – Division A. I come from a family deeply rooted in Entebbe. I am married to David Tugume Bachengana. Together, we have been blessed with three children. Education wise; I completed my schooling in Uganda and pursued further studies that equipped me with skills in business and management. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work in both the private and community sectors. My professional journey includes serving as a marketing executive at Central Inn Hotel, managing Visit Uganda Safaris and Safaris by Jovial (family business) and leading efforts at MTN Service center. Additionally, I am the founder of the Jovial Foundation, which supports underprivileged students by providing school fees and other essentials.
What is your background in leadership?
I have been in leadership positions for several years, especially within community-focused organizations. I served as the Lady Captain of Entebbe Golf Club from 2016 to 2018, and I currently hold the same position since 2022.
Through these roles, I have had the chance to spearhead initiatives that promote both spirts and youth engagement.
These experiences have shaped me as a community leader who is deeply committed to making a difference. I have also marketed Uganda through the game of Golf and this has given me a chance to proceed to football, athletics and netball, among others.
These, I intend to work with youths in such programmes.
Entebbe has a big potential and together we can be better than we are. I want to be the voice of the voiceless and bridge that gap.
I will always be part of the people in our community because what affects Entebbe affects me.
Why have you decided to stand for the MP seat in Entebbe Municipality come 2026?
The decision to run for the MP seat in Entebbe Municipality stems from my deep commitment to the community, I have witnessed the challenges faced by many residents, from inadequate health care and education to the struggles of small business owners and boda boda riders.
I believe that with the right leadership, these issues can be addressed effectively, I want to represent the people of Entebbe by being a strong voice in Parliament, advocating for polices that promote inclusivity, economic growth, and access to essential services.
My aim is to ensure that Entebbe continues to grow while leaving no one behind. About talent development; Uganda has so many talented young people.
Being a sports person, I very well know how much sports, athletics can market the country. I would love to see the next Tiger Woods, Messi come from Entebbe.
I salute our heroes who have continuously put Uganda on the world map with incredible persons as Joshua Cheptegei, Peruth Chemutai, Peace Proscovia, Dorcas Inzikuru and others.
How are you trying to bridge the synergy between leaders and the people?
Bridging the gap between leaders and the people requires consistent engagement, listening and action. I believe that leaders should not only make decisions but also work hand-in-hand with the community.
This is why I have been actively involved in local initiatives that address the needs of the people. Through my foundation and my leadership at Entebbe Golf club, I have always maintained an open-door policy.
I will carry this approach forward in my role as MP by ensuring regular consultations with the people, organizing forums where concerns can be heard, and working closely with local stakeholders to find collaborative solutions.
This way, the people feel represented and empowered to contribute to the decision-making process.
I am part of very many women NGOs. One of them is called “Zimba women” which is aimed at supporting women in small scale industries and I’m looking forward to extending It Entebbe”.
Who is responsible for service delivery to the people in Entebbe Municipality, Uganda?
Service delivery is a shared responsibility between the government, local authorities, and the elected leaders. While, the central government provides the resources and sets the policies, local government structures play a crucial role in ensuring that these services read the people. As a prospective MP for Entebbe, my role will be to advocate for the efficient allocation of resources and ensure that the responsible institutions, such as the local councils and service providers are accountable to the people. It is vital to create a system where each level of government works cohesively to improve the lives of the people.
What particular elements do you anticipate to polish from the current and previous leaders in Entebbe Municipality?
While I respect the work of all the previous leaders, there are areas that still require significant improvement. One key area is healthcare, particularly maternal health.
Many mothers still lack access to adequate health care, which I aim to change by advocating for better funding and infrastructure for health centers.
The other issue is education. While efforts have been made, many children from low-income families still struggle to access quality education.
I intend to introduce programs that support underprivileged students and equip schools with better resources.
Furthermore, small business support has been insufficient. Mark vendors and boda boda riders face numerous challenges, including high taxes and security issues.
I will push for polices that lower taxes for small businesses and enhance security measures for vulnerable groups. I am committed to being a proactive leader who listens to the people and acts on their needs.
Entebbe is a home to incredible tourist attractions. We have the Lake Victoria which flows with the natural water.
We have Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) which the is the biggest zoo in East and Central Africa. There is the Mabamba swamp which is well known for bird watching and especially having shoebill.
There is the Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe Golf club, which is the oldest club in East Africa and is 123 years old, Entebbe’zamugula in Kigungu and this is the Man who gave Entebbe its name. Mugula was the title of a chief of a subdivision of the “mamba clan”.
We need to fully develop and market these tourist attractions to the rest of the country and the world at large.
On Sunday, 29th September 2024, Namaara Jovia Tugume celebrates her date of birth. Happy BIRTHDAY
