The Ugandan community in California has celebrated the 33rd coronation anniversary of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, with government representatives paying tribute to the monarch's role in bringing people together.
The celebrations were held at Nob Hill Banquet Center in Los Angeles and brought together Buganda Kingdom dignitaries, cultural leaders, community organisations, elders and members of the Ugandan diaspora.
Among those who attended were Owek. Fred Makubuya, the Kabaka's representative in California and Hawaii; Owek. Hudson Joloba, chairperson of the organising committee and deputy representative of the Kabaka; and representatives of the City of Los Angeles.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass was represented by Tylor Redick, head of international relations in the Office of the Mayor.
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Abbey Walusimbi, Senior Presidential Adviser to the President on Diaspora Affairs, represented the Government of Uganda at the event.
Walusimbi called for unity, peace and development among Ugandans in the diaspora, saying the cooperation demonstrated during the celebrations showed the importance of preserving Uganda's cultural identity and heritage.
"Although we may come from different cultural backgrounds, the spirit of cooperation, love, respect and unity demonstrated throughout the preparations and celebration was truly inspiring. This must be upheld by preserving our identity, heritage and values," Walusimbi said.
He also reflected on his previous service as chairman of the Ugandan community in California, saying he was pleased to see initiatives established during his tenure continuing.
Walusimbi, who said he served as chairman for about 10 years, said the continuity of the initiatives was a reflection of the collective efforts of the Ugandan community.
He also paid tribute to Kabaka Mutebi for his role in bringing people together and strengthening ties among the people of Buganda both in Uganda and abroad.
Walusimbi urged Ugandans in the diaspora to promote unity, mutual respect, cooperation, cultural preservation and peaceful coexistence.
"Our different cultural traditions should not divide us; rather, they should enrich our common Ugandan identity," he said.
He commended the Ugandan community in California for working together and encouraged other Ugandan communities abroad to strengthen cooperation for the benefit of present and future generations.
The celebrations brought together representatives and members of organisations including Basoga Twegaite, Banyakole Kweterana, Buganda Eyenkya and the Kabaka Foundation.
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The event reaffirmed the commitment of Ugandans in California to preserving their cultural heritage, strengthening community ties and promoting unity among Ugandans in the diaspora.
