Katikkiro Mayiga defends kingdom fund-raising drive

KAMPALA.

The Katikkiro (prime minister) of Buganda Kingdom has said the fund-raising drive dubbed ‘Ettoffaali’, which he initiated after he was appointed in May 2013, is not meant for begging for money per se but to show Ugandans that help can come from within.

Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga said despite the wide perception that he is after money, the drive is intended at dispelling the notion that aid comes from only overseas.

“It is about dispelling the notion of (always) calling upon government or donors for help,” Mr Mayiga said.

The Katikkiro was speaking during an event where Post Bank Uganda Ltd donated Shs20m to support Buganda Kingdom development projects.

Of the money, Shs10m is the bank’s contribution towards the Kabaka (king’s) annual birthday charity marathon while the balance is the bank’s contribution towards the construction of Masengere building, a commercial building for the kingdom. Proceeds from the marathon will go towards the treatment of fistula.

At the inaugural Kabaka’s Birthday Run last year, at least 10,000 people took part. Part of the proceeds (Shs50m) was donated to Kitovu Hospital for treatment of fistula cases. This year’s run will be held on April 12.

Mr Mayiga urged the private sector to partner with the kingdom for mutual benefit. “Corporate power is good if it benefits and promotes the common good,” he said.

The Post Bank managing director, Mr Stephen Mukweli, asked Ugandans to adopt a saving culture.

Obstetric Fistula
Obstetric fistula is a hole between the birth canal and the bladder or rectum caused by prolonged, obstructed labour without treatment.
It leaves women leaking urine, faeces or both, and over time, it leads to chronic medical problems. Sufferers also often endure depression and social isolation. Every year Uganda registers 1,900 new cases.

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