U.M.A NEC Corporate Governance Retreat

On 10 January 2026, the U.M.A NEC Corporate Governance Retreat officially opened, marking an important moment of reflection, alignment, and recommitment to the future of the Association. The retreat began with an address from the President, who articulated a clear two-year vision for U.M.A, outlining strategic priorities and the direction in which the Association intends to move. This vision set the tone for the discussions that followed, providing a shared framework around which members of the National Executive Committee (NEC) offered their reflections, perspectives, and affirmations of collective purpose.

The U.M.A SACCO was represented by its Board Chair, Dr. Paul Kibenge, who reaffirmed the SACCO’s commitment to working closely with the NEC. He emphasized the SACCO’s role in ensuring that doctors who associate with U.M.A are not only professionally represented but also economically empowered. His remarks highlighted the importance of strong institutional partnerships in advancing the welfare of members and reinforcing the Association’s broader mission.

The retreat was further enriched by the presence of the Elders Forum, led by Dr. Epuwatt, together with Dr. Florence Baingana, Dr. Degratious Ssekimpi, and Dr. Nyabwana. The Elders reminded participants of the Forum’s enduring advisory role, its institutional memory, and its steady support to the Association in both stable and challenging periods. They reflected on their recent intervention during election-related disputes, underscoring the importance of wisdom, continuity, and dialogue in safeguarding the unity of the Association.

In their guidance, the Elders Forum called attention to several critical governance priorities. These included the need for a comprehensive constitutional review, the establishment of a secure and up-to-date membership database, and the strengthening of accounting systems to enhance transparency and accountability. They also emphasized the importance of clearer checks and balances between NEC and NGC leadership structures, the development of well-defined criteria for future Presidents, and the deliberate inclusion of more female doctors within NEC leadership. These recommendations were presented as essential steps toward building resilient, credible, and inclusive governance systems.

The retreat also featured a governance session led by leadership and management consultant Alfred Brian Agaba, who guided participants through the fundamentals of effective board governance. His presentation explored why boards matter, who should sit at the table, and the personal and professional attributes required for principled and effective leadership. The session provided both conceptual grounding and practical insight, encouraging NEC members to reflect on their roles not only as leaders but as stewards of the Association’s long-term integrity.

Overall, the opening of the retreat reflected a shared commitment to thoughtful leadership, institutional strengthening, and service grounded in values. It reaffirmed U.M.A’s resolve to govern with clarity, accountability, and inclusivity, guided by experience and united by purpose.

Service with Honour.