The International Community of Banyakigezi (ICOB) was founded out of an urgent need to promote the cultural, social and economic development of Banyakigezi in Uganda and in the Diaspora, and to pass on the importance of customs, language and wisdom handed down from our forefathers to our children. They teach those from the region that to lose one’s language, history and traditions, is to lose one’s identity.

Kigezi Education Fund (KEF) is a flagship initiative of ICOB. Launched in 2004, KEF supports vocational, business and technical training of young Banyakigezi, especially graduates of primary and secondary schools, to enhance their employability in the region.

 For more info, one can visit www.abanyakigezi.org

The following qualify to be members of ICOB:

• People born, raised, and/or educated in Kigezi as well as their spouses and children.
• People who lived or worked in Kigezi and adopted it as their “home”
• Individuals from other areas of Uganda and the African continent
• World citizens who just have an interest in Kigezi or want to support the initiatives of the Banyakigezi. The people of Kigezi comprise many ethnic groups such as Bafumbira, Bahima, Bahororo, Bakiga, Banyarwanda and Batwa. The groups are collectively called Banyakigezi. 
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A detailed history of ICOB can be found on the website’s events page.

The 19th annual conference will be held July 25th to July 29th, 2024 at the Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, Middlesex, United Kingdom.

This year’s theme is “Consolidating our gains, building towards a sustainable future.”

To Be Determined.

Yes, the ICOB contact in Uganda is Lillian Kamusiime and Evelyn Ninsiima they can be reached via email icobapex@gmail.com 

The focus of this year’s convention will be to assemble and regroup in order to refocus, recharge, reorganise and strategize for the future of ICOB.

The visa process involves completing an application form and paying the visa processing fee.  Please visit the UK embassy website for additional details.  https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk

Usually, 60 days is ample time to get a visa appointment.  Please check the UK embassy website for appointments https://www.gov.uk/apply-to-come-to-the-uk