As part of efforts to promote culture, traditional values, and tourism within the Buganda Kingdom, leaders in Ssingo County have intensified preparations for this year’s Miss Buganda cultural competitions by launching a cultural training camp aimed at equipping contestants with indigenous knowledge and traditional skills.
Ssingo County joins 18 other counties across Buganda participating in the annual cultural pageantry, which seeks to preserve the kingdom’s heritage while empowering young women with a deeper understanding of their identity, customs, and social responsibilities.
The cultural camp, locally known as “Akaalo Amatendo,” was officially launched in Butaami Village, Busimbi Sub-county. According to Gaudensia Nalumbuye, head of the women’s affairs office in Ssingo County, the initiative is designed to prepare contestants beyond physical appearance by instilling cultural values, discipline, and practical life skills.
“We want these young girls to understand their culture, values, and traditions so that they can become responsible ambassadors of Buganda,” Nalumbuye said. “The Miss Buganda competition is not only about appearance, but also about discipline, cultural knowledge, and character.”
During the training sessions, contestants were introduced to various traditional domestic and cultural practices, including food cultivation, proper food handling, preparation of traditional meals, and other household responsibilities considered important in Buganda society.
Participants also received hands-on training in skills such as mat weaving, tying traditional bundles locally known as empombo, and other cultural practices aimed at preserving indigenous heritage among the younger generation.
Some trainers commended the Nnaabagereka of Buganda for her continued support toward cultural camps and youth empowerment initiatives through the Ekisaakaate program, which they say has played a key role in reviving cultural values among young people.
“We are grateful to the Nnaabagereka for promoting programs that teach children and youth about their roots and cultural identity,” one trainer said. “Many young people today are growing up without a strong connection to their traditions, but these camps are helping to bridge that gap.”
Contestants also expressed excitement about the experience, noting that the training had deepened their appreciation of Buganda culture and traditions.
“I have learned many things about our culture and how to conduct myself responsibly as a young Muganda woman,” one contestant said. “This training has given us confidence and knowledge that will help us beyond the competition.”
Organizers confirmed that the Ssingo County Miss Buganda preliminary competitions will take place tomorrow at New Highway Hotel, where 10 contestants are expected to compete for the county title ahead of the main Miss Buganda cultural pageant.
Cultural leaders say such competitions continue to play a vital role in preserving Buganda’s heritage while promoting unity, discipline, and tourism across the kingdom.