Kabaka Urges Buganda to Embrace Self-Reliance

The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has issued a clarion call to the people of Buganda, both at home and in the diaspora, to shift their focus from dependency on external aid to self-reliance, innovation, and direct involvement in initiatives aimed at uplifting their communities.

Delivering the king’s message on his behalf, Prince Crispin Jjunju Kiweewa addressed a packed audience during the official inauguration of the new leadership committee of the Kabaka Foundation UK and Ireland branch.

The ceremony, held at the Royal National Hotel in London, was attended by dignitaries, members of the Buganda Kingdom in the diaspora, and friends of the Foundation.

In his message , the Kabaka emphasized that Buganda must become a beacon of progress and development through unity, hard work, and self-determination.

“It is time for Buganda to stop looking outward for help and instead begin to invest our energy in building systems and solutions that arise from within. True development starts from the people themselves,” read the message.

He commended the unwavering efforts of Baganda living abroad who have tirelessly supported the Kabaka Foundation’s mission to improve the social and economic well-being of the kingdom’s people. He acknowledged their contributions as instrumental in transforming lives and sustaining cultural heritage.

“The diaspora continues to play a critical role in mobilizing resources, expertise, and partnerships necessary to drive the Foundation’s goals forward,” the Kabaka noted, as he applauded the establishment of Foundation branches in various parts of the world.

The Kabaka Foundation Executive Director, Mr. Edward Kaggwa Ndagala, shed light on the Foundation’s strategic expansion and the growing impact of its programs.

He highlighted that the Foundation now boasts active branches in Sweden, USA, California, Boston, and Canada — all of which have been inaugurated under the Kabaka’s guidance to extend the foundation’s reach and effectiveness.

“These branches serve not only as hubs for fundraising but also as vital centers for community engagement and cultural preservation,” Ndagala said.

Ssalongo Geoffrey Kibuuka, the Kabaka’s representative in the UK and Ireland, delivered a heartfelt tribute to the Kabaka for the vision and leadership that continue to inspire the Baganda people globally.

He lauded the foundation’s accomplishments in areas such as health, education, and social welfare, which have significantly contributed to the upliftment of the Buganda Kingdom.

In a show of commitment and renewed dedication, Mr. Henry Mutumba , the newly appointed head of the UK and Ireland branch, pledged on behalf of the board to honor the responsibilities assigned to them by the Kabaka.

“We are ready to serve and execute the Foundation’s mission with diligence, transparency, and accountability,” Mutumba affirmed.

The event marked a significant milestone in the Kabaka Foundation’s journey, reinforcing the importance of unity among Baganda in the diaspora and the power of homegrown solutions in community development.