The Royal Regatta returns

Kabaka Ronald Mutebi has revived one of his kingdom's most popular sports activities.

The Royal Regatta starting next month resumes after a decade. The event ceased in 2006 due to organizational constraints.

The regatta has competitors from the Buganda's 18 counties competing in various water sports.

Mutebi will preside over the closure of the May 19 to 21 event at Munyonyo on the Lake Victoria shores.

"Reclaiming Buganda's Heritage through Water Sports," is the theme of this year's event.

SC Villa head Ben Misagga heads the committee that will organize the event.

"This is a big task that I am confident we shall successfully execute. It is also a royal call that I had to diligently accept," stated Misagga.

The committee of 12 that includes Solomon Muwonge as Misagga's deputy and Navtam Gosai in charge of sponsorship, was launched by Buganda Sports Minister Henry Sekabembe at Bulange.

"The kingdom is aware of the potential that water sport has in community mobilization and socio-economic development," stated  Sekabembe.

Canoe and kayak sprints, rowing, dragon boating, para rowing and long distance swimming will be some of the activities.

Other committee members: Deo Lukyamuzi (secretary), Mukedi Nsubuga (treasurer), Henry Kasacca (coordination and publicity), Abbas Sebandeke (technical advisor), Musa Ssemambo (Member), Adam Ssematiko (ex-officio), Mark Golooba (ex-officio) and two women yet to be confirmed.

Outlining the benefits of the regatta, Sekabembe said it promotes recreation and Olympic values.

He also cited the spirit of fair play, cooperation and competition. It will also attract local and international investors to invest in water sport.

The activities will ultimately also start the process of developing Kabaka's landing site as a water sport center of excellence.

Besides the competition, the regatta also used to be a major social event attracting huge crowds.