From Japan to Koboko: Ashinaga Celebrates Amb. James Baba’s Legacy of Empowerment and Community Change

In an event of both historical significance and heartfelt community pride, the Deputy President of Ashinaga Japan, Professor Osamu Murata, alongside a distinguished delegation, made their inaugural visit to Uganda’s Koboko District. This momentous occasion celebrated the unparalleled legacy of Hon. James Baba, the current Member of Parliament for Koboko County and former Ugandan Ambassador to Japan, whose contributions have forged enduring ties between Uganda and Japan while deeply enriching his home region.

The Ashinaga delegation, comprised of key figures including Mr. Sato Hiroyasu, Deputy Director General of Student Activities, Mr. Cole Harton from the President’s Office in Tokyo, and Mr. Vialey Lutaya, a proud beneficiary of the Ashinaga Scholarship, were led by Professor Murata on this historic tour. Their primary mission was to witness firsthand the impactful projects spearheaded by Amb. Baba, a man whose influence stretches from diplomatic halls to the fields of Koboko.

The day’s program, meticulously organized by Mr. Bongo Patrick, the Programs Manager for ACAV (Associazione Centro Aiuti Volontari) in Koboko, commenced with a courtesy visit to Koboko Municipality’s offices. Here, His Lordship, the Mayor of Koboko, Mr. Sanya Wilson, welcomed the delegation in a warm and fruitful dialogue with Natures Harvest and Ashinaga officials. The discussions revealed a visionary proposal for the construction of the James Baba Boliba Library—a cutting-edge educational facility aimed at providing remote learning opportunities for students, embodying Amb. Baba’s commitment to education and community empowerment.

Following this, the delegation was received at the Koboko District Headquarters by LC5 Chairman, Mr. Mambo Ashraf. In his address, Mr. Ashraf offered profound gratitude for Ashinaga’s decision to visit Koboko and lauded the tireless efforts of Amb. Baba, who has been instrumental in shaping the region’s development. He emphasized that Baba’s deep-rooted passion for community progress has been a catalyst for transformative initiatives, including Ashinaga’s ongoing support for African students. Mr. Ashraf’s remarks underscored the collective hope for continued partnership and growth between the district and Ashinaga.

The delegation’s next stop was at PICOT (Partners in Development and Center for Holistic Transformation), an NGO supported by Amb. Baba that provides critical interventions in health and agriculture. Here, they were briefed by Executive Director Ms. Sauda Ropani, who presented the organization’s life-changing work for refugees, the elderly, and vulnerable communities. The delegation praised PICOT’s holistic approach, which mirrors Ashinaga’s values of support and empowerment.

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments came during the delegation’s visit to the Lobule Refugee Settlement. The settlement, managed by Mr. Alibi David of the Office of the Prime Minister, offered a sobering view of the refugee crisis and the resilience of those displaced by conflict, particularly from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The delegation had a heartwarming encounter with an elderly refugee who has called Lobule home for over a decade. They were deeply moved by the harmonious integration of refugees and local host communities, where land and livelihoods are shared—a testament to the region’s spirit of unity and compassion.

A stop at the Jabara Agricultural Vocational Institute was next on the agenda, where the delegation met the former Principal, Mr. Amule Isaac. Mr. Isaac shared an emotional tribute to Amb. Baba, whose unwavering support had helped the institute flourish. Plans are now underway to construct an administrative block named in Baba’s honor, recognizing his pivotal role in advancing agricultural education and vocational training in Koboko District.

The delegation’s journey took a personal turn with a visit to Amb. James Baba’s ancestral home in Lurujo Village, Kuniro, Abuku Subcounty, where they were welcomed by Baba’s family. A commemorative photograph was taken beside his verdant homestead, symbolizing the deep connections between his heritage and his extraordinary contributions. It was a moment rich with symbolism and reflection, a bridge between the past and the thriving future that Baba has helped to shape.

Lunch was hosted at the ACAV headquarters, where the guests were treated to a delicious Ugandan spread, including ‘inyasa’ – a regional delicacy akin to millet bread. The meal served as more than sustenance—it was a moment of fellowship, a meeting of minds and cultures, where stories were exchanged, and future collaborations discussed in a relaxed setting.

The final highlight of the day was a visit to the Natures Harvest Demonstration Farm in Lukemuru Village, Nyambiri, Kuluba Subcounty. Here, the delegation took part in an exhaustive tour, gaining insights into the entire cocoa value chain. From nursery bed preparation to harvesting, fermentation, drying, and storage, the team was impressed by Natures Harvest’s commitment to economic empowerment through sustainable cocoa farming. Plans to embark on value addition for cocoa products were also shared, generating excitement about the future potential for international trade.

Throughout the day, Professor Murata and his team were clearly moved by the profound sense of community, development, and Amb. Baba’s vision. His contributions to the educational, agricultural, and social landscapes of Koboko were universally celebrated by leaders and citizens alike.

As the day drew to a close, with contacts exchanged and promises of future visits made, Professor Murata expressed his deep appreciation for the hospitality extended to the delegation. The delegation hinted that future visits may include an overnight stay at the picturesque Nyambiri Farm—an acknowledgment of the rich potential and serene beauty the region offers. The day was more than just a tour; it was a living testament to the extraordinary work of Ambassador James Baba—a man whose vision has touched lives not only in Koboko but across the globe. Natures Harvest, under his sage leadership, remains steadfast in its mission to uplift communities, empower households, and set a new standard for agricultural excellence in Uganda.

News by:
Natures Harvest – Press Team