Owek. Katikkiro addressing the conference
The Buganda Kingdom held its second Men’s Convention at Bulange, Mengo, under the theme “Strengthening the role of men in the family for sustainable development.” The event brought together senior clan heads, Kabaka’s chiefs, ministers, county leaders, and families to discuss the crucial role of men in building strong households and a stronger nation.
Katikkiro Calls for Responsible Fatherhood
While opening the conference, the Katikkiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, stated that the 1990s were a time of great change for the country and criticized husbands who have abandoned the responsibility of caring for their families.
“The dignity of a family starts with the way a man handles the affairs of that family. For the country to prosper, it must have stable families,” he said.
He noted that many men pretend to be busy or use the excuse of working far away to neglect their duties as husbands and fathers. This has, he said, left children without proper guidance, leading to indiscipline and wasted potential.
Owek. Mayiga urged men to stop being lazy, stop blaming themselves, and instead fulfill their responsibilities. He called on them to protect the dignity of their families, spend time guiding their children, and contribute to building the nation of tomorrow.
Guest of Honour’s Message
The special guest was Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, who conveyed his message through Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka.
Tayebwa praised the Buganda Kingdom for the program, noting that it would help awaken men to their responsibilities. He urged husbands to maintain peace in their homes, stressing that stable families are a foundation for national development.
The Katikkiro of Buganda and invited guests pose during the Men’s Convention 2025
He condemned men who neglect their responsibilities, failing to provide education and healthcare for children, which he described as a root cause of underdevelopment.
“Every man should take care of his family and the lives of his children, support his wife, set a good example, and ask for help where necessary, rather than remaining silent or running away from his responsibilities,” he said.
Fathers as Role Models
Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka urged men to set a positive image in their families, citing the proverb “What you sow, you reap.” He said that fathers have six important things to pass on to their children: appearance, morals, education, prayer, health, and development, including vocational and life skills. He emphasized that all men should pay attention to these areas to nurture responsible future generations.
Buganda Leaders Weigh In
The Buganda Minister for Gender, Owek. Mariam Nkalubo Mayanja, said men must rediscover their role in the family to help shape a stronger nation. She explained that the convention’s theme focused on the image of men in society, highlighting the importance of their guidance and presence in households.
Hajj Ahmed Magandaazi Matovu, the Kaggo of Kyaddondo and host county chief, emphasized that boys should be raised with the same care as girls. He said neglecting boys leads to irresponsible men, while balanced parenting contributes to stable families and national development.
Expert Guidance
The convention featured several facilitators who addressed key family issues.
Rev. Neithan Balirwana Mugalu, a family counselor, warned that teenage pregnancies and young fathers result from men failing to take responsibility at home. He urged parents to focus equally on raising boys, as neglected boys often grow into undisciplined men.
Pookino Jude Muleke, a former teacher, encouraged men to reclaim their dignity the right way. He said men cannot earn respect through fear but through fulfilling their responsibilities as fathers and husbands.
Gratitude and Attendance
Attendees thanked the Buganda Kingdom for organizing the convention, saying it would help stabilize families. They pledged to implement the teachings in their homes.
The conference was attended by clan heads, Kabaka’s chiefs at various levels, the Speaker of the Buganda Lukiiko, ministers, county leaders, heads of departments, men, women, and children. Participants actively shared their thoughts on family values and the lessons offered during the program.