Amaato ga Kabaka: Buganda Revives Traditional Boat Races to Mark Kabaka’s 33rd Coronation Anniversary

What the report says

Buganda Kingdom has revived its traditional boat races on Lake Victoria as part of activities marking Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s 33rd coronation anniversary. According to Nile Post, the regatta took place at Bunjako White Beach in Mawokota County and drew youth representatives from several counties across the kingdom. The event was organised by the Kingdom’s Ministry of Youth, Sports and Talent Development and was presented as both a celebration and a way to safeguard Buganda’s cultural heritage.

The ceremony was led by Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, who said water sports are deeply rooted in Buganda’s history and should be maintained for future generations. He linked the lake to the kingdom’s royal past, while also suggesting that renewed water-based activities could support local communities that depend on the lake for work and trade. Buganda’s Minister of Sports, Robert Serwanga, thanked participants and supporters from across the kingdom and said the competition will be held annually.

The article also notes that the boats used in the races were traditionally made from mkebu wood, a durable timber associated with lakeside areas. Organisers and clan leaders urged young people to stay engaged in preserving Buganda traditions. Mawokota was announced as the overall winner, with Buweekula placed second.

Beyond the competition itself, the revival of Amaato ga Kabaka reflects a broader effort to reconnect younger generations with Buganda’s historic relationship to Lake Victoria, where boat building, royal travel and ceremonial activity once played an important role.