In an era when global influences, social media and modern lifestyles are steadily reshaping children’s values, the Ekisakaate kya Nnabagereka has positioned itself as a cultural anchor for young people in Buganda.
Founded by the Nnabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, the annual children’s camp was established to equip learners with cultural knowledge and moral grounding alongside practical life skills.
Through lessons in Luganda, social etiquette, home economics, catering and vocational skills, the Ekisakaate seeks to raise a generation that is confident in its identity while navigating a rapidly changing world.
The 2026 Ekisakaate, hosted at Hormisdallen Primary School in Gayaza, Wakiso, brought together pupils from various primary schools under the theme “Roots of resilience: embracing humility for mental wellness.”
Over a 10-day period, the children were immersed in Buganda’s cultural traditions, values and discipline, with an emphasis on character formation.
While visiting the camp, the Katikkiro Peter Mayiga, commended the Nnabagereka Development Foundation for prioritising moral education at a time when many children are increasingly shaped by external influences.
“These values personal hygiene, patience, resilience and disciplineare essential for a child’s future success. You need hope because hope helps you to prosper. You need hope to succeed at different stages of life, and that is why understanding our cultural history is important as we move forward,” Mayiga said.
Mayiga praised the programme for blending tradition with contemporary realities. He noted that, in addition to learning about clans, Luganda and public speaking, the children were also introduced to cyber security to help them protect themselves from online abuse and digital exploitation.
He further reflected on Buganda’s cultural uniqueness, recalling conversations during his travels abroad.
“Many people in the West admire Buganda’s cultural organisation. Some confess that they grew up disconnected from culture. This reminds us why we must preserve and pass on who we are,” he said.
Kotilda Natate Kikomeko, the minister for Social Services in the office of the Nnabagereka, described the Ekisakaate as a timely intervention against cultural erosion. She credited Lady Sylvia Nagginda for envisioning a programme that empowers children morally and culturally alongside formal education.
“These children are a new army that will restore Buganda’s dignity and values at a time when cultural decay, western influence and unchecked modernisation threaten our traditions,” she said.
The host school’s headteacher, Godfrey Kimbugwe, welcomed the partnership with Mengo, noting that Hormisdallen Primary School had hosted the Ekisakaate since 2024. Established in 1986, the school has since expanded to branches in Kiteezi, Kyebando, Gayaza and Kamwokya.
Kimbugwe said the institution embraces holistic education, combining academics with practical skills such as poultry farming, fishing and agriculture.
“These initiatives improve nutrition for our learners and prepare them for life beyond the classroom. I am confident this programme will positively shape their future,” he said.
The camp concluded with the awarding of medals to participants who took part in sports competitions organised along Buganda county lines, including Kyaggwe, Bulemeezi, Buwekula, Kyadondo, Busujju and Butambala.
In a symbolic moment, Mayiga led the children and guests in singing the Buganda anthem, encouraging them to take pride in their heritage.
