The Kyabazinga of Busoga, His Royal Highness William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, has called for deeper national commitment to investing in Uganda’s children, describing them as the foundation of the country’s future prosperity.
He delivered the message while officiating at the 2025 World Children’s Day celebrations, where young innovators from across the country showcased practical solutions to community challenges.
Addressing the gathering, the Kyabazinga said Uganda’s children have demonstrated extraordinary potential, noting that their innovations prove that age is no barrier to transforming communities.
“As a father and cultural leader, I have witnessed first-hand the extraordinary potential that lies within Uganda’s children. The 24 young innovators gathered here have proven that when they are given tools, training and trust, they rise to every challenge,” he said.
He praised the young innovators—drawn from Arua, Soroti, Fort Portal, Kampala and other regions—for turning waste into gardens, building instruments that heal, and creating clean energy solutions.
The Kyabazinga said these ideas are not small achievements, but “foundations of a Uganda where innovation thrives, where the environment is protected, and where every child can learn and grow.”
The monarch emphasised Busoga’s long-standing belief that raising a child is a communal responsibility.
“In Busoga, we believe that raising children is a collective responsibility. Every child belongs to all of us—their success is our success, and their future is our future,” he said.
He commended the strong partnerships driving children’s programs in Uganda, highlighting collaboration between UNICEF, government ministries, the European Union, Sweden, the Netherlands, education institutions, districts and community organisations. Such unity, he said, ensures that initiatives for children are both sustainable and impactful.
The Kyabazinga also paid special tribute to children who travelled from refugee settlements in Adjumani and Kyaka II, noting their resilience and creativity despite the challenges they face.
“You inspire us. You have chosen to be solution makers productive, not just survivors,” he told the children.
“You have demonstrated that every region of Uganda has talented children ready to lead change.”
Encouraging the young innovators, the cultural leader reminded them that their ideas and voices matter. He urged them to keep dreaming boldly, designing solutions and taking action.
“At one point, I was just like you but here I am. Never give up. The world needs what you have to offer—your fresh perspectives and courage to try new things,” he said.
The Kyabazinga also appealed to parents, guardians, teachers and policymakers to create more spaces where children can learn, explore and innovate. Such support, he said, is crucial for nurturing their talents and preparing them for meaningful participation in Uganda’s development.
In officially launching World Children’s Day 2025, he called on the country to commit to the theme “Invest in Uganda’s Children for a Bright Future.” He described it as more than a slogan an urgent call to action requiring investment in education, health, protection and collective responsibility.
“When we unite for children, we build a nation that cannot fail,” he said.