Buganda Unveils Official Revised Anthem Ahead of Kabaka's 33rd Coronation Anniversary

What the report says

Nile Post reported that Buganda Kingdom has unveiled a revised and standardised official version of its anthem, “Ekitiibwa kya Buganda,” as the kingdom prepares for the Kabaka’s 33rd Coronation Anniversary. The new version, recorded by the St. Charles Lwanga Choir of Lubaga, was launched at Bulange, Mengo, on Wednesday.

Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga said the update was intended to address years of differing and sometimes inaccurate performances of the anthem since the Kabaka’s restoration to the throne in 1993. According to the report, the anthem was composed in 1939 by Rev. Canon Polycap Kakooza and has five stanzas. The Kabaka had directed that all stanzas be performed at three major annual kingdom events: his birthday celebrations, the Coronation Anniversary and the opening of the Buganda Lukiiko.

Kizito Mayambala, who chaired the review committee, said the process focused on restoring wording that had often been misrendered. Mayiga said music specialists spent about five years examining the lyrics and musical arrangement before the official choir recording was selected. He urged wider distribution of the revised version, including through digital platforms, and encouraged schools and event organisers to promote correct performance.

The launch is part of activities ahead of the anniversary celebrations, which Nile Post said will be held under the theme, “Let us be courageous in preserving our cultural heritage.” The development matters culturally because the anthem is treated by the kingdom as a marker of Buganda identity, values and continuity, especially at formal events involving the Kabaka and kingdom institutions.