The Organising Committee presenting their report.
Kabaka has sent a message to his people living in the United Kingdom, thanking them for the work they continue to do. His greetings and appreciation to the Baganda in the UK and Ireland were delivered by the First Deputy Katikkiro, Hon. Prof. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo, who attended the Buganda Dinner UK 2025.
For many years, Baganda living in the UK have organised an annual dinner where they gather to strengthen unity, build relationships and discuss important matters. This event has traditionally been held in London, but this year it took place in Manchester.
Hon. Kaawaase delivered greetings from Katikkiro, Hon. Charles Peter Mayiga, and thanked the community for warmly receiving him and for their ongoing efforts to improve their lives while contributing to the development of Buganda and a united Uganda. He praised their enthusiasm for Kingdom activities, saying it represents the unending spirit of Buganda.
“No one is going to build Buganda for us except ourselves, because we are its rightful owners; we are the ones who handle its challenges. I thank you for your commitment to the various Kingdom programmes, and I have been informed that even your oluwalo contributions are genuine. Thank you,” said Owek. Kaawaase.
Prof. Kaawaase explained that Buganda is over 900 years old and has had 36 Kings who have made it a prosperous and admirable nation, once even referred to as the “Pearl of Africa.” However, the 1966 crisis—when the Lubiri was attacked and traditional leadership was abolished—pushed Buganda backwards. He added that the restoration of the Kingdom in 1993 by Kabaka Mutebi II brought hope and returned Buganda to its rightful path.
Guests enjoying dinner at the Buganda UK 2025 event.
From this background, he called upon every Muganda to contribute in their own capacity to support the work of the Kabaka’s Government, so that Buganda can regain its historic greatness. Referring to the theme of this year’s dinner, “Self-development as Nations Through Unity,” Prof. Kaawaase praised the choice, saying it aligns perfectly with the Kingdom’s major goal: restoring Buganda to the Top.
He noted that Buganda is progressing—with money being raised, poverty reducing, diseases being fought, and people accessing modern and meaningful education. These, he said, are some of the Kingdom’s key objectives, which Kabaka Mutebi II continues to champion to improve his people’s welfare. He added that unity around the Throne is essential in strengthening the Kabaka’s efforts.
Prof. Kaawaase also challenged those who travel to the UK to make money but later become selfish, urging them instead to work together. “If you get £10 alone, it may not help you much, but if a thousand of you combine effort, you can achieve great things. Let us work together so we can reach greater heights.”
Hon. Prof. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo addressing Kabaka's subjects.
He encouraged diaspora leaders to be transparent, to combine knowledge and experience, and to innovate by identifying meaningful investment opportunities. He advised them to invest both in the countries where they live and back home. However, he cautioned them to trust the right people when investing in Uganda so that they do not lose money through fraud, as has happened with some “Bankubakyeyo” funds.
Ssalongo Geoffrey Kibuuka, the leader of the Buganda community in the UK and Ireland, thanked the Deputy Katikkiro for attending the 2025 dinner. He also thanked other Ugandan communities—including those from Bunyoro-Kitara, Lango, Acholi, Tooro, Gisu and others—who participated in the event.
Hon. Kibuuka appreciated the Baganda in Europe who continue serving the Kingdom even while abroad, saying their commitment is vital. He emphasised that Buganda remains their cultural foundation.
He also thanked those who have joined the community savings fund established to support members during difficult times such as bereavement. By the day of the dinner, the fund had grown to more than 1,000 members, and he encouraged more people to join.
Officials enjoying a joyful moment, led by Hon. Kaawaase Kigongo.
Hon.Kibuuka further called upon educated and skilled Baganda to join the service of the Kingdom regardless of whether they hold leadership positions.
The event also featured the awarding of prizes to participants in the Luganda language competitions held within the community.