Buganda Kingdom Kabaka (King), Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has Monday celebrated his 30th coronation anniversary at Lubiri in Mengo, Kampala.
This year’s coronation anniversary was marked under the theme “Supporting our clans in order to entrench our Kingdom”.
The 30th coronation anniversary celebrates the enthronement of Mutebi II since 1st July 1993.
It is a key calendar event within the Kingdom which showcases the milestones, culture, and traditions that have been preserved by the Kingdom since its establishment.
Kabaka arrives
The King arrived at the Palace at 12 pm and was welcomed by the Katikkiro (Prime Minister), Charles Peter Mayiga.
He first started by looking at the gifts brought to him from the different provinces and then headed to the venue of the ceremony.
He waved to the masses who gathered in large numbers to celebrate him.
He was carried by members of the Buffalo clan. Upon arrival at the ceremony, he sat on the Throne.
He was then entertained and given traditional drinks.
The service was led by Archbishop, Paul Ssemogerere.
Kabaka roots for federalism
The King thanked God for protecting and enabling him to reach 30 years of rule in Buganda.
He thanked all the people who have served Buganda at various times, especially those who have fought tirelessly to protect Buganda during the times when the Kingdom was banned, including the chiefs, princesses, the clergy, and all the other people who had a part.
He urged the youths not to leave the villages for the city and to avoid selling their land but to learn patience.
The King explained the importance of federalism to the people and said that in the federal system, every region will be able to develop so that Uganda as a country can also develop together.
He warned people to avoid complaining, saying “Although we love the Kingdom, there are those who do not”.
Mayiga preaches hope
In his speech, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, quoted the words of Pastor Adrian Kivumbi Ddungu who preached hope 30 years ago, when he prayed for the Kabaka, at the inauguration in Nnaggalabi.
He defended the struggle of what has been achieved in 30 years, including the establishment of royal institutions such as CBS, Kabaka Foundation, BUCADEF, Majestic Brands and many others that have provided jobs to the youth.
“The King promotes the Luganda language; health care; education and advocacy for training,” he said.
He reassured the people saying they should be hopeful because the King is still on the throne.
Speaking at the event, Airtel Uganda Managing Director, Manoj Murali, committed to participate in socio–economic activities championed by the Kingdom that are intended to improve the livelihood of its people.
“We are pleased to be part of this celebration which is not only a historic event, but an occasion that signifies the exemplary leadership of His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda,” he said.
Over the last 10 years, in partnership with Airtel Uganda, Buganda Kingdom has conducted a number of social corporate initiatives that in development.
“Yesterday, we officially activated our first 5G site at Bulange, Mengo as part of the Coronation Anniversary activities and we will continue to roll the fast-speed network across the country so that we give people in Buganda and beyond A Reason to Imagine. We pledge to continue supporting the Kingdom as well as innovate products and services like the 5G network so that our people can harness their full potential,” Manoj added.
The 30th Kabaka Coronation anniversary celebration featured cultural displays, traditional performances, and various activities showcasing Buganda’s rich heritage.
At least 3,000 people were invited to the event and unlike the previous year when the Coronation Anniversary was attended by a limited number of people due to the Covid-19 restrictions, this year’s celebration was open to all the Kabaka’s subjects, among other dignitaries and community leaders.
