President Yoweri Museveni has presided over the groundbreaking ceremony of Lwattamu Mall in Mengo, a development he hailed as both a commercial and cultural milestone.
Addressing guests at the event, the President reflected on the historical role of Buganda’s traditional leaders — the Bataka, Balangila, and Bambeja — in supporting liberation struggles against past regimes, including those of Idi Amin and Milton Obote.
“In our past struggles, it was the Bataka, Balangila, and Bambeja who stood with us. We must not lose that spirit of unity and cultural rootedness,” Museveni said.
He called on the Bataka of Buganda to partner with religious leaders to preserve the region’s traditional culture, particularly focusing on reviving indigenous languages and safeguarding traditional food practices.
“Clans are fundamental to our identity as a nation and play a key role in fostering unity,” the President noted, emphasizing the importance of cultural institutions in national development.
In a show of support, Museveni announced a contribution of UGX 100 million to the Bukesa Abalangila n’Abambeja SACCO, a savings and credit cooperative aimed at empowering traditional leaders and their communities.
The Lwattamu Mall project is expected to boost local commerce while serving as a cultural hub. Museveni praised the collaborative efforts between the Balangila and Bambeja clans in driving development rooted in tradition.
“This mall is not just about business—it is a symbol of our pride, heritage, and collective strength,” he concluded.