Wakiso LCV chairperson, Matia Lwanga Bwanika, has been named Champion of Inclusive Development and Human Rights at the Papyrus Global Mayors Conference and Awards 2026 in Abuja, Nigeria.
The award was presented during the three-day gathering held from April 29 to May 1 at The Palms Hotel in Abuja’s central business district.
The event brought together mayors, local government leaders, policy makers and development practitioners from 27 countries.
Organisers said the conference recognises outstanding leadership at the local government level, with a focus on policies and programmes that directly improve lives at the grassroots.
Bwanika was singled out for his record in promoting inclusive service delivery, human rights and community-driven development in Wakiso District, one of Uganda’s most populous and rapidly urbanising areas.
As district chairperson, Bwanika has overseen initiatives aimed at expanding access to education, improving health services and strengthening local governance systems.
His administration has also been associated with efforts to support vulnerable communities and improve accountability in public service delivery.
Participants at the conference said the awards highlight leaders who translate policy into measurable impact, particularly in fast-growing urban and peri-urban districts facing pressure on infrastructure and social services.
The Papyrus Global Mayors and Local Government Leaders Conference and Awards is positioned as a platform for sharing best practices in governance and fostering collaboration among city and district leaders across Africa and beyond.
According to the organisers, the forum also provides a closed setting for leaders to move from dialogue to action on key issues such as sustainable development, urban planning and inclusive growth.
Bwanika joins a select group of local government leaders recognised this year for what the organisers described as excellence in governance that touches communities at the grassroots level.
