The Buganda Minister of Local Government, Kabaka’s Tours and Diaspora Affairs, Joseph Kawuki, has urged the Buganda community to actively plan and implement initiatives aimed at educating and instilling Buganda culture and traditions in children and youth.
Kawuki emphasised that these efforts are crucial in preparing the younger generation to safeguard and advance the Kingdom of Buganda while fostering a strong understanding of their heritage.
The remarks were made in East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa, during celebrations of the region’s annual Buganda Day.
The event was organized by regional committees from Eastern Cape and Western Cape, alongside the Buganda Children’s Association, led by Levinson Kiggundu.
Minister Kawuki called on leaders present to act with diligence and responsibility in executing their community duties. He also warned members of the Kabaka’s community against undermining the Kingdom through divisive actions, stressing the importance of unity and collective accountability in all matters affecting Buganda.
Local Kabaka leaders encouraged community members to contribute financially to projects that support the Kingdom, enabling Buganda’s continued development.
The Kabaka’s Representative for Cape Province, Dennis Lugoloobi, explained that funds collected for various projects have already begun to yield tangible results.
He noted that two separate initiatives are underway: the Buganda Twezimbe Association has purchased land in Western Cape (Endeavor) for Shs 83.5 million (R400,000) and plans are in place to construct a community center, while women’s groups have raised Shs 420 million (R2,000,000) for similar development projects.
Lugoloobi further encouraged new leaders to actively promote Buganda culture and heritage among the population through all available channels.
The Kabaka’s Representative for Eastern Cape, Loyda Kateregga, highlighted the importance of unity, noting that the committees operate transparently and collaboratively, which enables the community to plan effectively across different cities.
The Chairperson of the Buganda Children’s Association in Eastern Cape, Levinson Kiggundu, reaffirmed that the association remains committed to supporting the Kabaka’s vision and will continue working to strengthen Buganda’s presence locally and internationally.
The event also drew participation from the Western Cape region, including Mariam Nandyosse Kavuma, Chairperson of Buganda Associations in South Africa, James Kamya Kasookaboogera from Gauteng, and over 200 members of the Buganda community.
The celebration underscored the enduring commitment of Buganda leaders and community members to promote cultural heritage, unity, and sustainable development among their people, both in South Africa and back home in Uganda.