Katikkiro Calls for Recognition of Cultural Icons While They Are Still Alive

What the report says

Buganda Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has called on government to honour cultural icons while they are still alive, arguing that medals, awards and financial rewards are more meaningful when recipients can benefit from them directly. The remarks, reported by Nile Post, came during a visit to the family of the late cultural figure Alex Mukulu Kigoonya, who died at the end of last week.

Mayiga expressed condolences to Mukulu’s relatives, friends and fellow cultural figures, and praised him as a committed public figure who valued the communities and activities he was involved in. He also said Mukulu remained loyal to the Kabaka and kept a close interest in Buganda Kingdom affairs. According to the report, the Katikkiro said recognition should not be delayed until after death, when it is mainly received by families rather than the individuals who earned it.

He also used the occasion to call for greater unity and trust among cultural icons, urging them to support one another and work together. In addition, he criticised some unnamed cultural figures for allegedly taking money belonging to colleagues, saying such conduct should stop. Gwendolyn Mukulu, the late thespian’s daughter, told mourners that he died after an abdominal illness. The family’s gathering was described as a tribute to Mukulu’s contribution to sports and cultural life.