Rubaga Cathedral was filled with joy, reverence, and gratitude on Sunday during the 70th celebration of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi’s 70th birthday was marked with a solemn thanksgiving mass led by Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere.
In his homily, Archbishop Ssemogerere thanked the Lord for preserving the life of the Kabaka, describing 70 as a biblical and glorious age.
“We thank God for the life of the Kabaka. 70 years is indeed a glorious age, as the Bible reminds us,” the Archbishop said, drawing from scripture to highlight the significance of the milestone.
He also thanked God for the Kabaka’s healing and for overcoming difficult times that tested the strength of both the monarch and the kingdom.
He emphasized divine intervention in silencing critics who had attacked Buganda during challenging moments.
Beyond spiritual gratitude, the Archbishop praised the Kabaka for his contributions to the social fabric of Uganda especially in promoting health, education, and economic transformation for his people.
The Kabaka’s religious tolerance and inclusiveness were a key focus of the Archbishop’s message.
“We thank the Kabaka for his love and support for all religions in Uganda, and for accommodating them within Buganda. This is exactly the same path your grandfather, Ssekabaka Muteesa I, walked,” Ssemogerere said, linking the Kabaka’s legacy to the historical values upheld by Buganda’s past leaders.
In a touching gesture of solidarity among religious leaders, the Archbishop also conveyed warm congratulations to the Kabaka from Cardinal Emmanuel Wamala, who himself is preparing to celebrate a remarkable 99th birthday this year.
The service was attended by a wide range of dignitaries including the Naabagereka Sylvia Nagginda, government officials lead by former vice president Ssekandi, religious leaders, political figures like NUP president Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, subjects of the kingdom, Royal family and well-wishers each gathered to honor a king whose leadership has been described as “glorious and blessed with wisdom.”
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, who delivered the Kabaka’s message during the Mass, conveyed the monarch’s heartfelt appreciation for the prayers and support offered by his people during trying times.
“His Majesty the Kabaka directed me to thank all of you for your constant prayers that have seen him through challenging times,” Mayiga said.
The Kabaka also acknowledged the dedication of his medical teams both in Uganda and abroad.
“The father directed me to appreciate his medical teams here and abroad for their constant care and attention,” added the Katikkiro.
Looking ahead, the Katikkiro reaffirmed vision for Buganda to be at the forefront of social and economic well-being, anchored in cultural pride and unity.
“That vision is attainable,” said Mayiga, “if we appreciate our cultural heritage, if we strive to attain a federal system of government, if we protect our lands and kingdom boundaries, if we work hard and remain united.”
As Rubaga Cathedral echoed with prayer and praise, the event stood not only as a celebration of the Kabaka’s 70th birthday, but also as a declaration of resilience, unity, and a forward-looking vision for Buganda Kingdom.
