President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Friday presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of Lwattamu House, a monumental six-storey cultural complex that will serve as the official headquarters for the Bataka (clan leaders) of Buganda.
The project, valued at Shs 58 billion, is being constructed on 2.7 acres of land near the Lubiri in Mengo, which the President personally acquired for Shs 9.7 billion following a commitment he made to the Bataka during a meeting at State House in June 2024.
“I’m very happy to support the Bataka,” President Museveni said during the ceremony. “We shall organize the funds needed for this project, and I will assign the UPDF Construction Brigade to take charge of the construction.”
Once completed, the building will feature 52 offices for clan leaders, commercial spaces including banking halls, a museum, conference facilities, and accommodation units. It is expected to be completed within three years.
President Museveni highlighted his longstanding relationship with the Buganda Kingdom, recounting his first meeting with Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi in London in 1981. He emphasized that traditional institutions, including clan systems, play a critical role in preserving culture, identity, and promoting unity.
“I told Kabaka Mutebi that I saw no problem between the new forces and traditionalists if we’re clear on our roles. I’ve always supported cultural institutions, even during the liberation struggle,” Museveni said.
He added that clan leaders also play a scientific and societal role by helping prevent inbreeding through their regulation of marriage customs. “Clan structures discourage inbreeding and promote genetic diversity. While the government builds roads and electricity, who preserves our genetics and languages? It is the clan leaders.”
Museveni also pledged additional support to strengthen the Bataka institution, including:
- Shs 100 million for the Bataka Mutindo SACCO, which has over 700 members
- Shs 22 million for a retreat for Balangira and Bambejja
- Plans to buy land in Nakasongola for a goat farming project
- An inspection to assess restoration needs for the ancestral tombs (Masiro) in Wakiso
- Provision of a vehicle for the Bataka’s official use
Minister of State for ICT, Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, was praised for her role in reconnecting the Bataka with central government initiatives.
“My sister Nabbosa Ssebugwawo came and talked about the Bataka—like Omutaka Kibaale Nadduli, Omutaka Namuguzi, and Omutaka Kaita. I’ve known them well,” said Museveni. “These structures exist, with or without kings—as seen in Karamoja and Ankole.”
The head of the Nvuma clan, Omutaka Kyaddondo Kasirye Mbag’elamula, expressed appreciation for what he called “unprecedented direct support” from the President.
“No President has ever supported us directly apart from you,” said Kasirye. “Your purchase of land at Mengo and support for the Lwattamu House project is historic and will be remembered by generations.”
The event was attended by government and cultural dignitaries including Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda (Minister for Presidency), Hajat Minsa Kabanda (Minister for Kampala), Hon. Judith Nabakooba (Minister for Lands), Eng. J.B. Walusimbi (former Katikkiro), Eng. Dr. Fred Kateregga (Deputy Ssaabalangira), Princess Ndege Teyeggala Hawa, and several other clan heads.
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