MENGO, Uganda — More than 600 children from across Uganda have today started their cultural and values-based training as the Buganda Kingdom officially flagged off the 2026 Ekisaakaate camp at Bulange Palace in Mengo.
The children, aged between 6 and 18, boarded buses headed to Hormisdallen School in Gayaza, where they will take part in a nine-day residential program running from Jan. 2 to Jan. 10. The transport was sponsored by MTN Uganda.
Parents and guardians gathered early at Bulange, waving and cheering as the children, carrying backpacks, began the journey. Buganda flags lined the venue, adding color to the send-off ceremony.
The Kingdom’s Minister for Youth, Sports and Arts, Choltilda Nakate Kikomeko, presided over the event. She urged parents to ensure their children are enrolled and encouraged timely registration in future editions.
“This world requires children who are grounded in humanity so they can make the right decisions,” Nakate said, stressing the importance of values, discipline and mental well-being.
This year’s camp is held under the theme “Ensibuko y’Obulamirivu: Okweyamba obuntubulamu mu kutebenkeza obwongo.” The theme focuses on mental health, self-reliance and moral responsibility.
Ekisaakaate, which means “Royal Enclosure,” was founded by Queen Sylvia Nagginda, the Nnabagereka of Buganda, to nurture discipline, leadership and cultural identity among children. What began as a small holiday camp has grown into one of Uganda’s most recognized youth development programs.
At the camp, children are taught practical life skills such as personal hygiene, cleaning, cooking and teamwork. They also take part in cultural activities including traditional music, dance, storytelling and learning the Luganda language.
The program blends tradition with modern lessons. Children are introduced to basic financial literacy, health education and simple technology skills, helping them adapt to modern life while preserving cultural values.
Buganda Kingdom officials say the camp aims to address moral challenges facing young people, including declining respect, loss of cultural identity and mental health pressures.
Former participants and parents say Ekisaakaate helps children grow more confident, responsible and respectful. Kingdom leaders, including the Kabaka, have previously attended camp activities, signaling royal support for the initiative.
While some families cite challenges such as cost and distance, the kingdom has expanded online registration and bursary support to reach more children, including those in rural areas and the diaspora.
As the 2026 campers settle in at Gayaza, Buganda Kingdom officials say Ekisaakaate remains a key pillar in preparing children to face the future while staying rooted in their culture.
