Buganda has reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the central government to improve service delivery and promote development across the country.
Speaking during a meeting between leaders of the Buganda and the central government, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga said the Kabaka welcomed the renewed engagement and was pleased to see both sides strengthening their relationship.
“The Kabaka was very happy to hear about this engagement with the Government of Uganda. We believe this is a new assignment from God, and we are ready to work together,” Mayiga said.
He said the kingdom was eager to cooperate with the government, particularly in areas that directly improve the lives of ordinary people.
Mayiga noted that Buganda and the government have already been working together in several sectors, including public health campaigns such as the fight against HIV/AIDS and improving education.
“We have already been working with the central government in promoting good health, including the fight against HIV, education, and other programmes. We are ready to do even more,” he said.
Mayiga also proposed that Uganda’s education system should give greater attention to the country’s cultural heritage.
He said history lessons should include the histories of different cultural institutions and communities, while learners should also be encouraged to appreciate the country’s diverse languages.
Turning to corruption, Mayiga described it as one of the biggest obstacles to national development, saying it continues to undermine government programmes.
“Corruption is evil. In Buganda, if someone was found stealing, their hand would be broken. Today, the president should deal firmly with both big and small corrupt officials if we are to reduce corruption,” he said.
He also urged the government to prioritise public transport as a lasting solution to traffic congestion, especially in Kampala.
“Public transport is the way to go. Even ministers can use public transport if the system is made efficient and given priority,” he said.
Vice President Jessica Alupo thanked Buganda for supporting government programmes aimed at improving household incomes, particularly the promotion of coffee growing among ordinary Ugandans.
She said the government remained committed to supporting all recognised cultural institutions and welcomed continued dialogue with the Buganda.
Alupo revealed that President Museveni intends to meet Buganda chiefs through Mayiga to hold direct discussions on development and national issues.
She said that after meeting the Buganda chiefs, the president also plans to engage leaders of other cultural institutions across the country to strengthen cooperation for Uganda’s development.
The minister for the Presidency, Milly Babalanda, said collaboration and coordination between the government and Buganda are essential for the successful implementation of government programmes.
Babalanda said the government is currently focusing on four key pillars: patriotism, democracy, social transformation, and improving the welfare of citizens.
Besides Babalanda, Alupo was accompanied by ministers Judith Nabakooba (Lands), Haruna Kasolo (Foreign Affairs), Minsa Kabanda (Kampala), Robert Migadde (State-Fisheries) and Justine Nameere (State-Local Government).
