Sub-county Chiefs of the Kabaka of Buganda participated in an intensive training session on the administration and management of royal honours, held at the Buganda Kingdom Headquarters in Bulange, Mengo.
The program, led by the Kingdom Minister of Local Government, Kabaka’s Tours and Diaspora Affairs, Joseph Kawuki, aims to strengthen oversight and proper distribution of royal accolades within the Kingdom.
Kawuki reminded the chiefs that since His Majesty the Kabaka was crowned at Naggalabi in 1993, the people of Buganda have a duty to honor their King.
“While the Kabaka does not personally manage the routine distribution of honours, Sub-County Chiefs are entrusted to oversee the process with diligence and integrity,” he said.
Chiefs were instructed to ensure that awards are given fairly, with each recipient properly vetted and recognized.
“The handling of royal honours must be done with care as it involves public funds and ceremonial resources. Chiefs must lead by example in managing these responsibilities responsibly and transparently,” Kawuki added.
He also encouraged chiefs to enhance leadership in their areas and prevent misinformation about the Kabaka’s activities.
Fred Katende, Treasurer of the Kabaka Foundation, called on all Sub-County Chiefs to participate actively in government initiatives of the Kabaka’s administration, reinforcing collaboration between local leadership and the Kingdom’s offices.
Douglas Mukiibi, the Kabaka’s Private Secretary, reminded the chiefs that the Kabaka supervises all activities and expects them to perform their duties in line with the Kingdom’s governance.
“Chiefs must carry out their work faithfully, supporting the leadership and operations of the Kingdom,” he said.
John Kitenda, Royal Treasurer of Nkuluze Treasury, commended the chiefs for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring that the processes of the Kabaka’s administration are respected.
He urged chiefs to engage communities, helping people understand the procedures and significance of royal honours.
Acting Katikkiro for Local Affairs, Wasswa Bukenya, outlined three key aspects of royal honours: the origin of the honours, the responsibilities of Sub-county Chiefs in administering them, and the standards governing their distribution.
He encouraged chiefs to educate those unfamiliar with these traditions.
The ceremony concluded with the senior chief of Kampala presenting honours, while Ssaabaddu Kira conferred awards for the previous year, recognising exceptional service to the Kingdom.
