Kabaka Mutebi II celebrates 70 years of glory

14 April 2025, 11:40 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

On 13th April 1955, the Kingdom of Buganda received news that a prince had been born at Mulago Hospital in Kampala. He was named Ronald Edward Frederick Kimera Muwenda Mutebi by his parents, His Majesty Edward Frederick Muteesa II, the then Kabaka of Buganda, and his wife, Ms Sarah Nalule. Since that day, the Kingdom has celebrated his birthday. In 1993, when he was crowned King of Buganda, his birthday celebrations became a public event.

It is against this background that, yesterday at Lubaga Cathedral in Kampala, hundreds gathered to attend the Kabaka’s thanksgiving mass, which was led by the Archbishop of the Catholic Church, Paul Ssemogerere. In his sermon, the Archbishop thanked God for the life He has granted the Kabaka and congratulated him on reaching 70 years of age. Archbishop Ssemogerere went on to commend the Kabaka for uniting the kingdom and prayed for God’s continued protection over him for many more years.

The Katikkiro of the Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, read the Kabaka’s message to his people. “The Kabaka has thanked the kingdom for always praying for him, which has enabled him to overcome the many challenges he has faced in life,” he said.

The King of Tooro Kingdom, His Majesty Oyo Nyimba, extended birthday wishes to his counterpart. “Extending birthday wishes to His Majesty the Kabaka. Wishing him many more years of good health. Tooro and Buganda share a cordial relationship,” he said.

The King of Busoga Kingdom, His Majesty Wilberforce Gabula, also sent his birthday message. “His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Edward Frederick Kimera Muwenda Mutebi II, in solidarity with the people of Buganda and all Ugandans, we commemorate your life, leadership, and enduring legacy. May your leadership continue to inspire a culture of unity and prosperity both within the borders of Buganda and beyond. Wishing you a lifetime of happiness and glorious years,” he said.

Similarly, the Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda, Rt Hon. Annet Among, joined others in congratulating the Kabaka. “I join all Ugandans in congratulating His Majesty, Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, on the significant occasion of your 70th birthday. Long live the King,” she said.

She was joined, on behalf of Parliament, by the Deputy Speaker, Rt Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, in celebrating the Kabaka’s life. “Kabaka, allow me to congratulate you on reaching 70 years of glory. I pray that the Good Lord protects you so that you may continue to perform your duties,” he said.

The President of the National Unity Platform, Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, joined other leaders in congratulating the Kabaka. “We thank God for the glorious 70 years of His Majesty and pray for many more years of good health and wisdom as he leads his people,” he said.

The Headteacher of Sheehan Standard Day and Boarding Primary School in Lubaga Division, Kampala District, Mr Kizito Joseph, on behalf of the entire school, congratulated the Kabaka on reaching 70 years and expressed gratitude for his support towards the education sector.

Similarly, the Headteacher of Good Hope Primary School, Nabulagala in Kampala, Mr Seruwu Alex John, sent a congratulatory message on behalf of the school, expressing appreciation and offering prayers to the Almighty to continue blessing the Kabaka with many more years.