The Premier of the Buganda Kingdom, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, has issued a passionate call to Ugandans to resolutely defend and preserve their cultural identity in the face of fast-spreading global cultural influences, warning that no society should sacrifice its heritage under the guise of embracing modernity.
Addressing a high-profile congregation during the Buganda Kingdom’s annual coronation thanksgiving service held at Watoto Church Central in Kampala, Mr Mayiga emphasized that culture remains the indispensable foundation of a people’s dignity, historical continuity, and sense of belonging.
The thanksgiving service was organized as part of the main events marking the 33rd coronation anniversary of the Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
Reflecting on this year’s anniversary theme, ‘Fortitude as We Promote Our Cultural Values,’ the Katikkiro noted that the contemporary world increasingly pressures local communities to discard their distinct traditions, languages, and belief systems in pursuit of a standardized global culture.
“Culture is a set of beliefs and values that define a people. Since the biblical era of the Tower of Babel, God ordained different languages, tribes, and communities. Therefore, being a Muganda, an Englishman, or any other nationality is a God-sanctioned occurrence, not an accident of history,” Mr Mayiga declared.
He added: “Globalization tends to turn the human race into one uniform entity. Advocates of globalization often tell you that your native language is not universal and that your local way of life lacks global appeal. We must cultivate the moral and intellectual fortitude to preserve and promote what defines us.”
To illustrate that adherence to tradition is not at variance with modern living, the Katikkiro cited the deeply rooted cultural rituals observed in the United Kingdom following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. He pointed to centuries-old traditions such as the formal ceremony of informing the royal bees of the monarch’s passing and the symbolic Broken Wand ceremony performed at St George’s Chapel.
“If the global community regards the English as modern, yet they meticulously observe such centuries-old traditions, then culture remains vital for any civilized society,” Mr Mayiga remarked. “Modernity is simply what is currently trending, but culture is deeply rooted in a people’s permanent heritage.”
Clarifying the core theme of the celebration, Mr Mayiga cautioned against misinterpreting fortitude as an invitation to confrontation or social division.
“Fortitude is not synonymous with physical fights, aggressive outbursts, or hostile political exchanges,” the Katikkiro explained. “It requires a firm, unwavering belief in one’s values, the conviction to speak the truth without fear, and the commitment to embrace formal education, spiritual devotion, and a sophisticated understanding of the world around us.”
Government pledges partnership
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, President Museveni extended warm congratulations to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II upon reaching his 33rd coronation milestone. The President offered prayers for the monarch’s continued health, wisdom, and stable stewardship of the kingdom over the past three decades.
“I congratulate Your Majesty upon your 33rd Coronation Anniversary and thank Almighty God for the 33 years of your reign since your historic coronation at Naggalabi, Buddo in 1993,” President Museveni stated.
The President reiterated that the decision by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government to restore traditional institutions in 1993 was guided by a commitment to strengthen national cohesion and preserve Uganda’s rich socio-cultural fabric.
“This historic restoration was born out of a shared vision between the NRM government and traditional institutions to restore cultural heritage as a vital pillar of identity, morality, and social cohesion,” Mr Museveni noted, adding that cultural institutions remain essential partners in driving national development.
“The NRM government has always maintained that cultural institutions are not an obstacle to modernity, but indispensable partners in national transformation,” the President observed.
He praised the Buganda Kingdom administration at Mengo for its grass-roots mobilization capacity, particularly in supporting government initiatives aimed at public health and poverty alleviation.
“Your Majesty’s leadership has been central in mobilizing our people for critical development initiatives,” President Museveni said. “We particularly commend the Kingdom’s active participation in public health campaigns, especially the fight against HIV/AIDS, maternal health awareness, and poverty eradication.”
The President noted that Mengo’s socio-economic campaigns directly complement government wealth-creation initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM). To support the anniversary activities, President Museveni contributed Shs 40 million towards the organization of the coronation events.
A historic milestone for the Church
The hosting of the annual thanksgiving service at Watoto Church marked a historic departure from tradition, representing the first time an Evangelical Pentecostal church hosted the Buganda Kingdom’s official annual coronation service.
Welcoming the royal delegation, the Senior Pastor of Watoto Church, Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, expressed gratitude to the Kingdom leadership for selecting the sanctuary for the national prayer service.
“My wife, Vanita, and I are deeply honored that the Buganda Kingdom chose Watoto Church to host this important celebration,” Pastor Rwotlonyo said. “We are committed to ensuring that this thanksgiving service glorifies God and honors His Majesty the Kabaka and the people of Buganda.”
Pastor Rwotlonyo commended Kabaka Mutebi for his fatherly guidance and unifying leadership, noting that his reign has continued to inspire citizens across ethnicity and denomination.
Context and background
Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was crowned the 36th King of Buganda on July 31, 1993, at Naggalabi, Buddo in Wakiso District-the traditional site where Buganda kings have been crowned for centuries. His coronation followed the constitutional amendment by the NRM government that restored traditional kingdoms, which had been abolished in 1967 under the government of President Apollo Milton Obote.
Over the past three decades, the Kabaka’s reign has prioritized economic empowerment, education, youth development, and healthcare. Mengo’s health drives, such as the Kabaka Birthday Run, have raised funds and public awareness for campaigns against fistula, sickle cell disease, and HIV/AIDS.
Dignitaries Present
The thanksgiving service brought together high-ranking leaders from government, traditional leadership, and the clergy.