By Siggy
As preparations gain momentum for the Twegaite Global Convention set to take place in Los Angeles from May 22–26, 2025, we sat down with D.W. Dhikusoka, one of the founding architects of Twegaite International, to discuss the state of the organization and the renewed efforts to revive its former glory. In this candid interview, Dhikusoka reveals the challenges that crippled Twegaite, his reasons for attending the Los Angeles convention, and his hopes for the future of the organization.
A Legacy of Impact and Growth
D.W. Dhikusoka traces the origins of Twegaite International to a desire by the Basoga Diaspora to make meaningful contributions to the development of Busoga. The organization, which saw its revival in 2007 in Houston, Texas, was built on a solid foundation of inclusiveness and a strictly apolitical agenda.
“In its prime,” Dhikusoka recalls, “Twegaite was a dynamic platform that went beyond social gatherings to implement impactful projects both in the United States and Uganda.” The organization spearheaded the establishment of a cancer treatment center at Jinja Hospital, renovated healthcare centers in Mayuge and Bugembe, and supported women farmers, microfinance initiatives, and rural development programs. Twegaite also facilitated international partnerships to foster sustainable development in Busoga.
With a registered nonprofit status in both Uganda and the United States, Twegaite quickly became a beacon of progress. However, all that changed when internal strife and leadership struggles derailed the organization’s mission.
A Decade of Decline: What Went Wrong?
According to Dhikusoka, the decline of Twegaite International began after a hostile takeover by a group of individuals who prioritized personal gain over the organization’s mission.
“Trouble started after the organization was hijacked by Mr. Tony Isubikalu, Mr. Victor Lukandwa, Ms. Juliet Aliyinza, and a one Situka from Texas,” he explains. “These individuals overturned the organization’s constitution, refused to hold elections, and diverted funds meant for community projects to their private ventures.”
Funds raised for the Jinja Cancer Treatment Center were allegedly misappropriated and used to finance private businesses, while other critical projects were abandoned. Within months, Twegaite’s once-vibrant programs ground to a halt, and subsequent conventions—whether in New York, Washington DC, New Jersey, or Dallas—failed to live up to the organization’s previous standards.
“The situation worsened in 2019 when leadership was handed over to Mr. Peter Mukunya, a truck driver with no knowledge or experience in running a nonprofit organization,” Dhikusoka laments. Under his leadership, Twegaite became dormant, losing its nonprofit and NGO status along with all international affiliations.
Why Los Angeles and Why Now?
Dhikusoka’s decision to attend the Twegaite Global Convention in Los Angeles is driven by a renewed commitment to restore the organization’s original mission and values.
“I am attending this convention because it marks a pivotal moment for Twegaite,” he says. “We are focused on rebuilding the programs and affiliations that were destroyed over the last decade. This is our opportunity to reclaim what we lost and create new initiatives that will benefit Busoga.”
Dhikusoka emphasizes that Twegaite Global, a new initiative led by concerned former founders and community leaders, is stepping in to fill the void left by years of neglect and mismanagement. “Our goal is to revive the true mission of Twegaite International, restore lost programs, hold rogue leaders accountable, and eventually reunite the organization under one umbrella.”
Rejecting the Minnesota Convention: A Statement of Principle
As Twegaite Global prepares to host its convention in Los Angeles, another faction is organizing a parallel convention in Minnesota to commemorate 25 years of Twegaite. However, Dhikusoka is unequivocal in his rejection of this event.
“What is there to celebrate after a decade of stagnation and mismanagement?” he asks. “How can we celebrate 25 years when the last decade has been marked by a total collapse of all programs, disunity, and a lack of accountability? Supporting the Minnesota convention would mean endorsing failure.”
Dhikusoka stresses that Twegaite Global in Los Angeles offers a more meaningful platform for dialogue, solutions, and tangible action. “We cannot celebrate the decay of an organization that once stood for progress. Los Angeles is where we will rebuild—Minnesota is where stagnation continues.”
A Call to Action: Rebuilding Twegaite Together
As Dhikusoka looks to the future, his message is clear: the revival of Twegaite depends on collective action.
“I am appealing to my family, friends, network, and all well-wishers to join us in Los Angeles from May 22–26, 2025, and be part of this journey to rebuild our organization,” he urges. “We understand that misinformation is being spread by those who want to tarnish the efforts of Twegaite Global, but I encourage everyone to ignore these distractions. Our focus is on restoring what was lost and ensuring that Twegaite becomes a platform for positive change once again.”
Dhikusoka remains optimistic that with the right leadership and community support, Twegaite can return to its original mission of serving the people of Busoga and beyond. “The future of Twegaite is in our hands. Let’s take this bold step together and restore the organization’s dignity and purpose.”
The Road Ahead: Hope for a United Future
As the interview concludes, Dhikusoka reflects on the potential for unity and collaboration in the years ahead.
“Our ultimate goal is to bring everyone back together once accountability and proper governance are restored. Twegaite was built on a foundation of inclusivity and community service, and I believe that spirit can be rekindled.”
With the stage set for the Twegaite Global Convention in Los Angeles next year, Dhikusoka’s call for action resonates as a beacon of hope for a community eager to reclaim its legacy.
“See you in Los Angeles!” he says with confidence.
Twegaite Global Convention 2025:
📅 Dates: May 22–26, 2025
📍 Location: Los Angeles, California
