Balaam Barugahara actually looks dapper in a suit. Recent pictures of events promotion guru suited up shows a suave and debonair lifeline to the persona society had reduced to casual wear.
Balaam is now expected to suit up often and painfully, slowly, relegate his legendary striped orange polo shirt to “field job”.
“I have been told that I won’t be allowed in Parliament with my shirt,” Balaam said grudgingly on Sanyuka TV.
“I would have wished to stay in my shirt because the shirt is what makes me comfortable, it doesn’t define who I am.”
During an appearance on Sanyuka Television, Balaam faced a question regarding his attire, with inquiries about whether he would trade his usual polo shirts for suits in light of his new role.
While expressing a personal fondness for his trademark polo shirts, he acknowledged the necessity of adapting his attire to align with the expectations of his new position.
In an unexpected move on Thursday night, President Museveni announced the appointment of Balaam Barugahara, a businessman and events promoter, as the new State Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. The announcement of Balaam’s appointment caught many off guard, given his relatively limited experience in public service.
Despite the surprise surrounding his appointment, Balaam, known for his distinctive orange shirts, has already conveyed his eagerness to collaborate with the President to fulfill his responsibilities.
“I look forward to working with and supporting the President in his visionary and deliberate efforts towards the socio-economic transformation of the people of Uganda, especially the youth.” Balaam said while commenting on his appointment.
“I pledge to serve Uganda in a patriotic manner, listen to the youth and their concerns, engage with them, mobilise them, and empower them towards bettering themselves and improving their lives.” he added.
But who is Balaam?
Born on July 28, 1979, to the late Engineer David Balaam Byenkya Akiiki of Kijura, Masindi District, and Gladesi Byenkya Abwooli of Kalisizo District in Central Buganda, Balaam embodies various roles: a businessman, family man, music and events promoter, and a devout follower of Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Balaam, reportedly blessed with four children, tragically lost his first son to cancer in 2013. His educational journey took him through Namasagali School, St. John Bosco Senior Secondary School, and Original Progressive Senior Secondary School for his A-levels. He earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree, specializing in Marketing, from Makerere University, and pursued further studies with a Master of Business Administration from Cavendish University.
In recognition of his contributions to Ugandan society, Balaam received an Honorary Doctorate in humanity from Zoe Life Theological College, USA, last year.
As a billionaire businessman, Balaam oversees diverse interests through his Balaam Group of Companies, spanning operations in Uganda and South Sudan. His ventures encompass real estate, media, entertainment, hotels, manufacturing, and more.In Uganda, his notable businesses include Radio4, Radio 7 (Masindi), Radio8 (Masaka), Radio8 (Elgon region), and Balaam Marketing Agency.
He also serves as the MTN Uganda distributor for the Kigezi sub-region.In South Sudan, Balaam is the proprietor of Original Best Water company, Radio One, the first privately owned media house he established in 2009, among others.
With his appointment to a ministerial position, Ugandans scrutinize Balaam’s capability to fulfill his duties, considering his lack of prior public service experience. Nonetheless, supporters cite his charisma, patriotism, and adaptability as qualities that equip him for success in his new role.
Paul Taremwa, acting chairperson of Patriots Club, praises Balaam’s versatility and understanding of political dynamics, expressing confidence in his ability to engage with the youth effectively.
Similarly, via social media, individuals like DBwambale commend Balaam’s entrepreneurial journey and resilience, viewing him as an inspiration for the youth.Others, like Duncan Agaba and MP Medard Sseggona, endorse Balaam’s appointment, highlighting his academic qualifications and suitability for the position in President Museveni’s Cabinet.
