The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has closed Ekisaakaate 2026, urging children to embrace Buganda’s cultural values, locally known as Obuntubulamu.
Mayiga said Obuntubulamu represents Buganda’s traditional wisdom and remains central to shaping disciplined and responsible citizens.
He made the remarks on January 10, 2026, while closing the 19th Ekisaakaate, a nine-day programme held at Hormisdallen School in Gayaza, Wakiso District. A total of 250 children and youth participated in this year’s edition.
Previous Ekisaakaate sessions ran for 14 days, but the duration was reduced to nine days due to preparations for the country’s forthcoming general elections.
Mayiga noted that the theme of this year’s Ekisaakaate, “Roots of resilience embracing obuntubulamu for mental wellness,” called on society to return to cultural norms that promote respect and emotional well-being.
He said participants learnt that obuntubulamu begins at home and that open communication about personal challenges helps young people receive guidance and support.
He was accompanied by Nnabagereka Sylvia Nagginda, the first deputy Katikkiro, Prof. Twaha Kaawaase Kigongo, the speaker of Buganda Lukiiko, Patrick Luwaga Mugumbule, the minister in charge of the Nnabagereka’s Office, Cotilda Nakate Kikomeko, Robert Sserwanga Ssaalongo, Mariam Nkalubo Mayanja, among others.
Like it has been in the previous year ,the Ekisaakaate 2026 brought together boys and girls aged between five and 18 from diverse backgrounds. Over the nine days training , participants engaged in activities designed to blend cultural education with modern life skills.
Katikkiro Mayiga thanked parents and guardians for entrusting their children to the programme, saying their decision reflected a commitment to raising children grounded in good values.
“I thank the guardians and parents who brought the children to Kisaakaate 2026; this shows that you are proud of raising the children well.”
He further emphasised that Obuntubulamu starts from home and urged parents to be mindful of their words and the time they dedicate to their children.
He noted that poems, songs and stories presented during Ekisaakaate reflected children’s longing for greater parental presence and guidance.