MENGO, KAMPALA
The Buganda Kingdom has organized the annual birthday events for the Kabaka in 2026, marking the 13th edition of these prestigious celebrations. The official ceremony took place today at Bulange in Mengo, setting the stage for festivities in honour of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, who turns 71 this year.
The 2026 events also highlight unity and the promotion of health across Uganda, led by the First Deputy Katikkiro and Chairperson of the Kabaka’s Birthday Events Committee, Owek. Prof. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo.
Royal Preparations
The atmosphere at Bulange was one of anticipation and cultural pride as top kingdom officials gathered for the opening of the events. Attendees included the Speaker of the Buganda Parliament (Lukiiko), the Kabaka’s cabinet ministers, and leaders of various administrative departments.
The events also received significant support from kingdom-affiliated organizations, including lead sponsor Airtel Uganda. This collaboration aims to strengthen the impact of the events, ensuring health messages and social welfare initiatives reach communities across Uganda and beyond.
Focus on Health
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Owek. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo emphasized the importance of the 13th edition of the birthday events. While the festivities celebrate the Kabaka’s 71st birthday, their central mission remains the promotion of public health.
In past years, the events have focused particularly on combating harmful traditional practices such as female genital mutilation, aligning with global health targets set for 2030. Today’s ceremony reaffirmed the kingdom’s commitment to this cause, encouraging citizens and well-wishers to support and participate actively.
Global Participation: From Mengo to New York
The kingdom has expanded the reach of its activities internationally. The “Birthday Run” initiative will also be observed in the United States. As celebrations continue in Mengo, supporters in New York and other locations worldwide will participate, marking the 13th edition as a global exercise in unity and well-being.
How to Participate
Kingdom officials encouraged the public to join the events promptly. Materials and kits for the birthday run are expected to be available at various Airtel Uganda service centers and other designated locations.
As preparations for the main celebrations continue, the official hashtag #KingBirthdayRun2 has already begun trending online, symbolizing the presence of the Kabaka in the hearts of participants everywhere.