Bweyogerere, Wakiso — Buganda Kingdom on Friday staged a colourful and historic thanksgiving service to mark the 33rd coronation anniversary of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, drawing thousands of subjects, cultural leaders, government officials, opposition figures, and religious leaders to Watoto Church in Bweyogerere.The #Amatikkira33 celebrations, held for the first time at an evangelical church, highlighted the Kabaka’s enduring leadership, the kingdom’s cultural vibrancy, and growing inter-faith and inter-political unity around traditional institutions. Kabaka Mutebi II ascended the throne on 31 July 1993 at Naggalabi Buddo, restoring the Buganda monarchy after decades of abolition. Over the past 33 years, he has guided the kingdom through restoration, development initiatives, and advocacy on land, education, health, and youth empowerment.

High-Profile Attendance Underscores Unity

The service attracted a broad spectrum of leaders. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja represented the central government, while Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi also attended, signalling cross-party respect for the Kabaka. Nnabagereka Sylvia Nagginda arrived in elegant traditional attire, drawing warm applause from the congregation. Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga and other kingdom officials led the royal delegation. Religious leaders from various denominations, including Pastor Martin Ssempa whose distinctive attire captured attention, joined the prayers and thanksgiving.President Yoweri Museveni sent a message of goodwill, hailing the Kabaka’s leadership and extending best wishes on the milestone anniversary.

Watoto Church Hosts Landmark Service and Supports Kingdom Project

Watoto Church, under Senior Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, hosted the main thanksgiving for the first time — a significant gesture of inter-denominational harmony. The church presented a contribution of Shs 38 million towards the Kabaka’s Floating Clinic initiative, aimed at delivering medical services to the Ssese Islands and other hard-to-reach lake communities.The service featured prayers for the Kabaka’s continued good health and wisdom, traditional and contemporary music, poetry tributes, and messages of loyalty from subjects. Artist King Saha and poet Dr Irene Esther Mutuzo were among those who offered cultural performances and spoken-word pieces.

A Reign Defined by Stability and Development

Observers note that Kabaka Mutebi II’s 33-year reign has been marked by relative calm, institutional rebuilding, and practical programmes through the kingdom’s structures. Initiatives in education (including scholarships), health, agriculture, and environmental conservation have touched millions of lives across Buganda and beyond.The choice of Watoto Church as this year’s venue was widely praised as reflecting the Kabaka’s inclusive approach — welcoming all faiths while remaining rooted in Buganda’s cultural heritage.

Looking Ahead

As the Amatikkira33 celebrations continue with various community activities across the kingdom, focus remains on the Kabaka’s vision for a prosperous, peaceful, and culturally grounded Buganda. Subjects used the occasion to reaffirm their loyalty with the traditional cry of “Kabaka Awangaale!”King Musah Media congratulates His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II on this historic milestone. May the next chapter of his reign bring even greater progress and unity.Long live the Kabaka!