The Buganda Bumu European Convention (BBECO) 2026 has officially opened in Berlin, Germany, bringing together Baganda living across Europe for a convention focused on unity, cultural preservation, and development.
The annual gathering, held under the theme “Preserving Culture and Advancing Development Abroad,” attracted members of the Buganda diaspora from different European countries, including representatives from the Rhinelands, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Scandinavia.
A message from Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was delivered by the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, who praised the continued organization of the convention and described it as an important platform for maintaining unity among Baganda living abroad.
“Such gatherings help Buganda’s people remain united and connected even while living abroad,” the Kabaka noted in his message.
The Kabaka urged Baganda in the diaspora to preserve and promote Buganda’s cultural heritage while respecting the traditions and cultures of the countries where they currently live.
“Protect and promote Buganda’s cultural heritage while respecting the cultures of the countries in which you live,” he urged.
He also encouraged members of the diaspora to engage in meaningful development initiatives aimed at strengthening the dignity and international image of Buganda.
“Engage in meaningful development initiatives both individually and collectively so as to uphold the dignity and image of Buganda abroad,” the Kabaka added.
The monarch further reminded his subjects abroad to maintain close ties with their families and the Buganda Kingdom.
“Maintain strong connections with your families and the Kingdom,” he emphasized.
The Kabaka thanked Kingdom representatives and leadership teams across Europe for mobilizing and uniting Baganda in the diaspora, and also expressed appreciation to the organizers of this year’s convention and the people of Germany for hosting the event.
During the convention, Katikkiro Mayiga officially installed Owek. Samuel Ssekajugo Musoke as the Kabaka’s representative for Rhinelands together with his deputy, Mrs. Lyndah Ssekayita. The newly appointed leaders took oaths of allegiance, pledging loyalty and dedicated service to the Kabaka and the Buganda Kingdom.
Uganda’s Ambassador to Germany, Steven Mubiru, accompanied by his deputy Danny Ssozi, attended the convention and praised the Kabaka’s leadership and contribution toward national unity and development.
“The Kabaka continues to contribute greatly toward the development and unity of both Buganda and Uganda,” Ambassador Mubiru said.
Addressing the gathering, Mayiga called on Baganda abroad to establish practical and sustainable programs that preserve Buganda’s culture while supporting development and addressing challenges faced by communities living overseas.
“Baganda abroad should establish deliberate programs that preserve Buganda’s culture while promoting development and overcoming challenges faced in foreign countries,” Mayiga said.
The Minister for Local Governments and Diaspora Affairs in Buganda Kingdom, Owek. Joseph Kawuki, cautioned Baganda against individuals seeking to divert the Kingdom from its vision and priorities.
“Be cautious of individuals who seek to divert Baganda from the Kingdom’s vision for selfish interests,” Kawuki warned.
On behalf of Kingdom representatives in Europe, Geoffrey Kibuuka, the Kabaka’s representative in the United Kingdom and Ireland, highlighted achievements registered across Buganda’s administrative regions in Europe.
The convention also featured cultural entertainment, music, and celebrations, with Kamalabyonna officially opening the entertainment session while musician Julie Heartbeat Ssekajugo entertained attendees.
The convention continues with discussions and presentations focusing on Buganda’s development progress and strategies for preserving cultural identity among Baganda living abroad.
