By Nasser Kayanja
MBALE: The people of Bugisu have been urged to promote malewa, a traditional delicacy made from bamboo shoots, as a cultural and culinary product capable of attracting attention to the region locally and internationally.
The call was made by Agnes Kirabo, Director of the Food Rights Alliance, during a dialogue with community members, Mbale City Council officials, market vendors and the media at Mbale Northern Division City Hall.
Kirabo encouraged the Bagisu to take ownership of malewa and market it as one of the region’s unique cultural products, saying greater promotion could create economic opportunities for communities involved in its production and trade.
She warned that failure to promote and add value to the delicacy could allow outsiders to take advantage of the product, repackage it and sell it back to the Bagisu at higher prices.
Kirabo said there was already evidence of the potential of malewa beyond traditional consumption, noting that she was impressed to learn that the delicacy is being used as an ingredient in foods such as pizza in some supermarkets.
She also called on the Government to support scientific research into the production of malewa to ensure a sustainable supply and improve its commercial potential.
Meanwhile, Henry Kimera, Team Leader at the Consumer Centre, urged the community and media to advocate for clean air, warning against the effects of burning rubbish and leaving waste unattended.
Kimera said it was not enough for people to have access to clean and safe food while breathing polluted air.
He cited vehicle and motorcycle emissions, as well as smoke from burning waste, among the factors contributing to poor air quality and urged communities to adopt practices that protect the environment and public health.
Nakadama Maimuna, Town Clerk of Mbale Northern City Division, urged the Bagisu to promote malewa with the same enthusiasm they have shown in promoting the Imbalu circumcision ceremony, which has become widely recognised as an important symbol of Bagisu identity.
She said promoting malewa could help preserve Bugisu’s cultural heritage while creating opportunities for tourism, trade and local economic development.