President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for Lwattamu Mall in Mengo, a project spearheaded by Buganda’s Abalangira and Abambejja (Princes and Princesses), under the Bukesa Abalangila n’Abambeja SACCO.
The President used the occasion to highlight the importance of preserving Uganda’s traditional cultures, particularly the rich heritage of Buganda. Reflecting on Uganda’s past struggles, President Museveni paid tribute to the roles played by the Bataka (clan elders), Balangila (princes), and Bambeja (princesses) in supporting the liberation efforts against the regimes of Idi Amin and Milton Obote.
“In our struggles against Amin and Obote, the Bataka, Balangila, and Bambeja rallied behind us. That historical unity must not be forgotten,” the President said.
He emphasized the need for the Bataka to work in close collaboration with religious leaders to safeguard the cultural foundations of society, particularly language and indigenous food systems.
“Clans are the foundation of our nation. They give us identity and promote unity. But we must be careful not to let our languages disappear or our traditional foods be replaced. Culture must evolve, yes, but it must also survive,” Museveni urged.
The President commended the initiative by Buganda’s royals to undertake an economic development project that merges culture with modern enterprise. As a token of support, he announced a financial contribution of UGX 100 million towards the SACCO overseeing the Lwattamu Mall project.
The mall, once completed, is expected to house commercial spaces, offices, and cultural centers aimed at boosting economic activity while preserving traditional values.
The event drew participation from key Buganda cultural leaders, religious figures, and local government officials. The President concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to supporting community-led initiatives that promote unity, economic self-reliance, and cultural preservation.
