The vibrant celebration took place at the Nob Hill Banquet Center in Los Angeles, bringing together Buganda Kingdom dignitaries, cultural leaders, and members of the Ugandan diaspora from across the United States. Organized by Buganda Kingdom representatives in the US, the event honored the Kabaka's 33 years on the throne and explored the role of Ugandans abroad in contributing to their country's development. Owek. Fred Makubuya, the Kabaka's Representative, and Owek. Hudson Joloba, Deputy Representative of the Kabaka, were in attendance.
Ambassador-at-Large Abbey Walusimbi, Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, represented President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and delivered a congratulatory message to the Kabaka and the people of Buganda. Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, also attended the celebration with his children, showcasing the event's non-partisan nature. The gathering was described as a celebration of cultural heritage, unity, and nation-building.
The Mayor of Los Angeles, Hon. Karen Bass, was represented by Tylor Redick, Head of International Relations, who acknowledged the contributions of Ugandan residents to the region's social and economic life. Ambassador Walusimbi reaffirmed the government's commitment to collaborating with traditional institutions and Ugandans in the diaspora on national development projects. He highlighted efforts to create opportunities for diaspora investment, skills transfer, and knowledge exchange in sectors like education, health, and infrastructure.
In his address, Ambassador Walusimbi encouraged Ugandans abroad to maintain strong ties with their homeland and view their cultural diversity as a source of strength. He urged them to "come home" and bring their skills, knowledge, and investments to contribute to Uganda's development. Walusimbi also emphasized the importance of unity among Ugandans, calling for citizens to work together despite their differences.
The celebration featured traditional performances, speeches, and the launch of Amatikkira Magazine, a publication dedicated to Buganda's history, culture, and contemporary affairs. Community leaders described the magazine as a long-term investment in cultural continuity, particularly for young Ugandans growing up abroad. The anniversary attracted Ugandans from different regions and cultural backgrounds, reflecting the organizers' effort to make the celebration a national occasion.
Speakers emphasized that Uganda's cultural diversity is a source of strength and called for continued dialogue and cooperation among Ugandans in the diaspora. Attendees welcomed the presence of both government representatives and opposition figures, describing it as an example of how cultural occasions can unite Ugandans despite political differences. Buganda Kingdom dignitaries and elders paid tribute to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, who was crowned on July 31, 1993.
The celebration concluded with prayers and blessings for Uganda, the Kingdom of Buganda, and its people. Organizers and attendees expressed gratitude to the volunteers, partner organizations, and local authorities who contributed to the event's success. The anniversary celebrations are expected to be followed by continued engagement with diaspora groups on projects in education, mentorship, and business.
Key points
- The 33rd Coronation Anniversary of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was celebrated in Los Angeles, promoting cultural heritage and national unity among Ugandans in the diaspora.
- The event featured the launch of Amatikkira Magazine, a publication dedicated to Buganda's history, culture, and contemporary affairs.
- The celebration brought together government representatives, opposition figures, and members of the Ugandan community, showcasing the event's non-partisan nature.
