450 children to attend Kisaakaate

By Juliet Lukwago                  

Over 450 children aged between eight and 18 years are to participate in this year’s Buganda Kingdom’s Kisaakaate.

The Kisaakaate spokesperson, Susan Nalwoga, said the Kisaakaate is aimed at promoting cultural and moral values among children of all tribes.

She said the Kisaakaate was started by Buganda’s Nabagereka Sylvia Nagginda in 2007.

 The cultural retreat, that is an annual training camp, is funded by the Nabagereka Development Fund.

This year’s Kisaakaate will be held at St. Mary’s Kitende Secondary School in Wakiso district.

Nalwoga said participants would be drawn from all parts of the country.

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

A total of 70 trainers will run the retreat that will close on January 15.

The participants on Monday left Bulange-Mengo for Kitende aboard buses offered by St. Mary’s Kitende SS, Muteesa One Royal University and Budo Junior School. 

 This year’s retreat will be held under the theme: “Culture is critical for development”.

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.

Kabuuza-Mukasa, Buganda Kingdom’s minister in charge of Royal visits and tours, said the children needed to cherish their background and be proud of Africa.

Several companies, including Centenary Bank, Shoprite, Coca-Cola, South African Airways and Oscar Industries are sponsoring for this year’s  Kisakaate.

It was disclosed that about sh300, 000 would be spent on the upkeep of each participant.

Issues to be taught during the retreat include responsibility, economic development and prosperity, personality development   and sexuality.

Others are Buganda Kingdom history, nutrition and health, justice in society, conflict resolution and talent development.