Eng. Ben Misagga, the chairman organising committee of the Kabaka royal boat regatta 2019 is impressed with the level of preparations and excitement ahead of the first outing due March 30 at Kiyindi landing site. The Katikiro (Premier) of Buganda Owek Charles Peter Mayiga will flag off the competition before planting trees as a symbol to encourage forestation and re-forestation. “I am pleased with the organising committee down in Kiyindi where the first competition outing is going to be held. We expect to have good number of participation and we also expect the Katikiro to plant trees as a symbol of encouraging preservation of the environment. He will also lead HIV/Aids sensitization,” Misagga revealed on Wednesday during his first official visit at hosting venue in Kiyindi. According to Salongo Lawrence, the Buvuma county chief (Mbuubi) 1st deputy they also want Katikiro to visit Buvuma. “We are excited to host Katikiro and the teams have already kicked off training. We expect a good turn up and competition,” he said. Vincent Ntege, the Kiyindi town council Speaker, the town leadership will work hand in hand with the organisers to stage the best competition. “We shall ensure a hygienic environment, security and also ensure that we have enough marines on the waters during the competition to ensure that we stage accident free festivals,” he noted. All Buganda Kingdom counties have confirmed participation –with each presenting a team of 9 competitors to the competition revived in 2016. Misagga explained that this year’s competition will be held at three different venues in order to spread the sport. With the first outing set for March 30 at Kiyindi landing site where the Katikiro will grace the event, the second outing will be at Mulungu in Munyonyo on April 17 where the last edition was held in 2017. The third and last outing will be held at Nabugabo sand beach on May 25 and the Kabaka (King) His Majesty, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi will be in charge. Revelers will enjoy festivities including boat, canoe and kayak competition as men and women battle for different prizes from the Kabaka.
