By Ncaba Ntshakala
Following a productive week in Uganda for the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and G77 Summits, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, Russell Dlamini concluded his visit with a courtesy call to the Buganda Kingdom Bulange Mengo on Tuesday.
The Buganda Kingdom is a historical and cultural powerhouse in Uganda. Warmly received by Buganda’s Prime Minister also referred to as Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, the Eswatini delegation, led by the Prime Minister, engaged in private discussions followed by a press briefing.
Mayiga outlined Buganda’s rich history and highlighted its successful joint investments with the Ugandan government, emphasising the benefits these initiatives have brought to the Ugandan people.
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He further noted that while valuing this collaborative spirit, Buganda remains steadfast in its pursuit of a federal system, believing it will empower the Kingdom to better serve its people.
During the press briefing, Buganda Premier Charles Peter Mayiga said the two leaders engaged in fruitful discussions that explored opportunities for collaboration between the two kingdoms and Uganda as a whole. The meeting highlighted the deep-rooted connection between the kingdoms, woven together by shared customs and traditions.
He shared that the two kingdoms share a strong bond. Mayiga was speaking on behalf of His Majesty Kabaka Mutebi II. He further encouraged the Kingdom of Eswatini to consider investment opportunities within Uganda, leveraging the existing cultural affinities and strong bilateral relations.
In response, Prime Minister Russell Dlamini acknowledged the importance of cultural ties and shared values but emphasized the critical role African kingdoms play in promoting peace and stability across the continent. He said that even though we may be willing to compromise on other matters on the issue of peace, African kingdoms must stand firm. He emphasized that Africans have a responsibility to our people and to the future of our continent to advocate for unity and harmony.”
Prime Minister, Russell Mmiso Dlamini, made a compelling call for Ugandans to join forces with other African nations in promoting peace and upholding dignity across the continent. His visit to Buganda’s administration offices at Mengo served as a platform to reiterate the importance of collaboration and respect in fostering strong African partnerships.
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The Premier expressed Eswatini’s deep appreciation for Buganda and emphasized the critical role of lasting relationships in Africa’s progress. He urged Ugandans to contribute to lasting peace and development across the continent, highlighting the power of collective efforts in overcoming challenges and achieving shared goals.
Both Dlamini and Mayiga painted a vision of a future where African nations collaborate freely, sharing knowledge and tackling global challenges with a united front.
This vision lies at the heart of the strong relationship between Eswatini and Buganda, with leaders from both sides regularly exchanging knowledge and experiences.
The Buganda Kingdom is a Bantu kingdom within Uganda. The kingdom of the Baganda people, Buganda is the largest of the traditional kingdoms in present-day East Africa, consisting of Buganda’s Central Region, including the Ugandan capital Kampala.
The 14 million Baganda make up the largest Ugandan region, representing approximately 16% of Uganda’s population.
