Irene Nakasiita Takes the Helm at PRAU

The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) held its official leadership handover ceremony at Protea Hotel Kampala, ushering in a new chapter for Uganda’s premier professional body for communicators.

The outgoing Governing Council, led by President Tina Wamala, officially passed the baton to incoming President Irene Nakasiita, Director of Communications and Resource Mobilisation at the Uganda Red Cross Society.

The high-level event was attended by key stakeholders, including Hon. George William Nyombi, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, and featured a powerful keynote by Patrick Adengo, a renowned digital communications expert and strategist.

Over the past two years, the Wamala-led Council has achieved significant strides that enhanced PRAU’s strategic relevance, financial health, and national visibility.

Notable milestones included the revival of the PRAU Excellence Awards, the hosting of two National PR Symposiums, the launch of the PRAU Student Mentorship Programme, and Uganda’s hosting of the 2nd East Africa Public Relations Week.

“It has been an honour to serve alongside a passionate team dedicated to advancing our profession,” said Tina Wamala in her farewell speech. “The milestones we’ve achieved reflect the power of collaboration and commitment. I am confident that PRAU’s future is in great hands under Irene’s leadership.”

Under her leadership, PRAU established effective governance structures, diversified payment platforms including IFMS and FlexiPay, secured key partnerships, and grew membership across individual, student, SME, and corporate categories.

Key highlights from the outgoing Council’s term include: over 300 new and renewed members across all categories, the establishment of the PRAU Home at Ntinda Shopping Center, a 46% cut in operational expenditure — saving UGX 173 million through efficient cost management and continued progress on the PRAU Bill, now awaiting parliamentary tabling.

In her inaugural address, incoming President Irene Nakasiita outlined a vision rooted in continuity and progress:

“I step into this role with a deep appreciation for what has been built and a renewed sense of purpose,” she said. “Together with the new Governing Council, we’ll strengthen PRAU’s impact, expand professional development opportunities, and work to pass the PRAU Bill to formally anchor our profession in national law.”

As PRAU transitions into its new era of leadership, the association reaffirms its commitment to championing excellence, integrity, and professionalism in Uganda’s dynamic communications landscape.