Baganda in Southern California, Hawaii and Arizona have marked Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 33rd coronation anniversary with a borehole initiative and renewed calls for unity.
Baganda living in Southern California, Hawaii and Arizona have marked the 33rd coronation anniversary of the Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, with a contribution towards a borehole project aimed at improving access to clean water in underserved communities.
The initiative was organised to honour the Kabaka’s leadership while promoting unity, community service and collective responsibility among his subjects in the diaspora.
The project contribution was handed over to Fred S. Makubuya, the Kabaka’s representative for Southern California, Hawaii and Arizona.
Speaking at the event, Makubuya thanked members of the Baganda community for their generosity and commitment to improving the welfare of fellow Ugandans.
“We thank all our people who have contributed towards this initiative. Celebrating the Kabaka’s life and leadership through an act of service is a meaningful way of demonstrating our love for him and our commitment to helping communities in need,” Makubuya said.
He also commended community members for supporting health-related initiatives and other programmes intended to improve livelihoods.
The fundraising drive was organised according to clans, with the Mbogo clan emerging as the leading contributor, followed by Engabi in second place and Ennyonyi in third. All participating clans received recognition for their contributions towards the project.
In a recorded message, Joseph Kawuki, the Minister for Local Government, Kabaka’s Tours and Buganda Affairs Abroad, reflected on developments during the Kabaka’s 33 years on the throne, while acknowledging that challenges remain.
“The Kabaka’s 33 years of leadership have been marked by important achievements for the Kingdom and its people. As we celebrate this milestone, we must also recognise the work that remains and continue supporting initiatives that improve the lives of our people,” Kawuki said.
He thanked Baganda living in Southern California, Hawaii and Arizona for maintaining their connection to the Kabaka and supporting the Buganda Kingdom through financial and material contributions.
“We are grateful to our people in the diaspora for their continued love for the Kabaka and their unwavering commitment to the Kingdom. Your contributions demonstrate that distance does not diminish our responsibility to our heritage, our people and our institutions,” he added.
The celebrations highlighted the importance of maintaining ties between Baganda living abroad and those at home, with the borehole initiative serving as a practical expression of solidarity and community service.
Organisers said the contribution reflected a commitment to honouring the Kabaka’s leadership through initiatives that address community needs, rather than celebrations alone.
The event concluded with renewed calls for unity, continued support for the Buganda Kingdom and greater participation in community development projects aimed at improving the welfare of Ugandans.