BWEYOGERERE, UGANDA – July 31, 2026 – In a historic first for the Buganda Kingdom, the 33rd coronation anniversary of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was celebrated with a special thanksgiving service at Watoto Church in Bweyogerere on Friday. Thousands of worshippers, cultural leaders, government officials, and distinguished guests filled the church to honor the monarch's more than three decades on the throne.

The service, which began at 10:00 a.m., was led by the Team Leader of Watoto Church Ministries, Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo. In his sermon, Pastor Rwotlonyo emphasized the importance of gratitude, stating, “To be thankful is good manners, it pleases God and magnifies God,” and noted that "thanksgiving attracts God’s blessings". He also led prayers for the Kabaka's continued good health and peaceful reign.

The event drew a host of high-profile dignitaries. The Nnaabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda, was in attendance alongside the Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga. Representing the central government was Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, who delivered a message on behalf of President Yoweri Museveni. Also present were the Leader of the Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, as well as various ministers, members of parliament, clan leaders, and religious leaders from different faiths.

Although the Kabaka did not attend the service on the advice of his doctors as he continues to recover from a long illness, his presence was felt throughout the ceremony. In a recorded message, Watoto Church founder Pastor Gary Skinner congratulated the Kabaka, saying, “God chose Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II and blessed him to lead his people with peace, justice and compassion for the vulnerable”.

 A major highlight of the service was the Watoto Church's donation of Shs 38 million (approximately USD 10,000) to the Kabaka's Floating Clinic Project. The initiative aims to extend healthcare services to the hard-to-reach communities on the Ssese Islands in Lake Victoria. Pastor Rwotlonyo presented the donation to Katikkiro Mayiga, who commended the church for organizing what he described as "a wonderful and worthy prayer ceremony".

 The Katikkiro also used the platform to deliver a passionate call for the preservation of cultural heritage, speaking under this year's theme, "Be Courageous in Preserving Our Culture". He warned against the pressures of globalization, stating, "We must cultivate the moral and intellectual fortitude to preserve and promote what defines us".

Prime Minister Nabbanja, speaking on behalf of President Museveni, extended warm congratulations to the Kabaka and reaffirmed the government's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the Buganda Kingdom. The President also contributed Shs 40 million towards the anniversary celebrations.

The celebrations concluded with Nalinnya Lubuga Agnes Nabaloga cutting the anniversary cake, which was shared among the guests and worshippers. The event marked a significant moment of unity, bringing together the community in a spirit of thanksgiving, cultural pride, and national harmony.