Phiona Nyamutoro, Uganda’s State Minister for Energy and Mineral Development in charge of Minerals, has declared her intention to run for the Nebbi District Woman Member of Parliament seat in the 2026 general elections.
The 31-year-old made the announcement on Sunday through a message posted on her social media platforms to coincide with Mother’s Day. In the post, Nyamutoro paid tribute to her home district, describing Nebbi as a place that has “mothered many great and significant citizens for our nation.”
“It’s time for her to shine,” she wrote, sharing a campaign poster in the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party colours.
Nyamutoro, who currently serves in Uganda’s 11th Parliament as the National Youth Representative, will be challenging incumbent MP Agnes Acibu in what is expected to be a closely watched contest within the NRM.
Her bid has already attracted public endorsements, most notably from her fiancé, celebrated musician and Presidential Advisor on the Creative Industry, Edrisah Musuuza—better known by his stage name Eddy Kenzo. The couple became engaged during a private traditional ceremony on 29 June 2024, with Nyamutoro officially introducing Kenzo to her family that day.
“Your integrity, empathy, and wisdom make you an exceptional leader,” Kenzo wrote on X, formerly Twitter, adding: “Lero pa Nebbi, Team Zim Zim 2026,” using a popular phrase among his fans.
The Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, has also backed her bid, describing Nyamutoro as a “dear friend” and wishing her a “victorious outcome” in the upcoming campaign.
Nyamutoro’s entry into the Nebbi Woman MP race is likely to reshape the NRM’s political landscape in the West Nile sub-region, where internal contests within the party often determine the eventual parliamentary seat holders.
Born in Nebbi District, she holds a first-class degree in Development Studies and a Master’s in Public Administration from Makerere University. Her political journey began during her time at university, where she served as Vice Guild President from 2015 to 2016.
As the race heats up, observers say Nyamutoro’s campaign will test not only her political mettle but also the cohesion of the NRM in the West Nile sub-region.
