Over 300 children to attend Kisaakate

By Juliet Lukwago 

More than 300 children are expected to take part in this year's children cultural retreat dubbed Kisaakate at Seeta Green Campus Secondary School in Mukono district.

According to Joanita Kawalya Muganga, who is the vice-chairperson of the retreat organized by the Office of the Nabagereka (Buganda Queen), the programe will start on Monday – January 6.

The retreat, whose local name means a royal enclosure, is under the Nnabagereka Development Fund aimed at revitalizing and strengthening moral values, leadership roles, domestic duties, spiritual and practical skills for the children and youth in Buganda.

It is an all-inclusive event, regardless of one’s origin or religious affiliation, for children aged between six and 18.

The Buganda kingdom has been organizing the annual retreat since 2007 on a school rotational basis.

Schools that have hosted the Kisaakate are: St. Agnes Naggalama, Seeta High School Mbalala Campus, Mbogo High School, Katikamu SDA in Luweero, Gayaza High School, St. Mary`s Kitende and Trinity College School Nabbingo.

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Some of the children left for Seeta from Bulange-Mengo on Sunday. PHOTO/Juliet Lukwago

According to the spokesperson of the Kisaakaate, Suzan Nalwoga, this year’s edition will run for two weeks under the theme: “Integrity, a pre-condition to development and excellence”.

The Nabagereka, who is expected to open the retreat on Monday, will also participate in the training of the children.

Some 50 trainers will be a part of the event which ends on January 19.

The participants on Sunday left Bulange-Mengo in Kampala for the event’s venue in Seeta.

The retreat is expected to inculcate ethical standards and spiritual growth among the participants.

It will also provide psychological support that children need to cope with the different delicate stages of their lives. Issues to be taught during the retreat include responsibility, economic development and prosperity, personality development.

Lessons will be taught on Buganda kingdom history, nutrition and health, justice in society, conflict resolution and talent development.