Fundraising for
The Reconstruction of Twekobe

Introduction

Twekobe is the official residence of the Kabaka within the palace grounds (Lubiri). The Twekobe is one of only three existing physical structures (the two others being the Bulange and the Kasubi Tombs) that are symbols of Buganda's past power and glory. As such the Twekobe embodies the history, aspirations and achievements of the people of Buganda. During the 1966 political crisis, the Twekobe was one of the buildings that were badly damaged by the troops of the central government. Read about Ssekabaka Mutesa II's flight into exile. Subsequently, the palace was turned into an army barracks and the troops that occupied the Lubiri inflicted more damage on the buildings as well as neglected the necessary maintenance.

The Twekobe after it was evacuated by the army

Historically the Twekobe, and its enclosed surrounding area, the Lubiri, have traditionally been the centers of Buganda's civilization. Historical accounts of explorers such as John Speke and Henry Morton Stanley who visited Buganda, and local folklore confirm this. The best musicians, dancers, instrumentalists and poets were nurtured there to the highest levels of refinement. Conventions of proper etiquette and dress were disseminated from the palace. Clan disputes and other cultural matters were settled there.

In 1966, Obote's army led by Idi Amin shelled the Lubiri, and destroyed the Twekobe, an edifice central to the proud history of Buganda's 600 year monarchy, one of the oldest in the world today. As you can see, the army left the Twekobe and the rest of the Lubiri grounds in a dilapidated state. To redress this situation in time for His Majesty, the Kabaka's wedding, the Katikiro has appealed to Baganda, friends and well wishers of Buganda in North America to contribute at least $50,000 towards this noble cause. Our contributions will supplement the monies contributed so far inside Uganda, by Ugandans of all nationalities.

The Twekobe had to be gutted completely for the reconstruction

This is our chance to contribute to the history of a great kingdom. Through the spirit of Bulungi Bwansi, our forefathers in Buganda, who had less means than us, contributed their land, money and sweat to build such institutions like Makerere University, Namirembe Cathedral, Rubaga Cathedral, Kibuli Mosque, Bulange, and the Twekobe that was destroyed by Milton Obote. It is time we Baganda take pride in our heritage, preserve and nurture it, not only through nostalgia and words, but also, like the Europeans and Americans, through concrete action. Other races and people will only respect us if they can see the results of our proud history. Respect is earned not bestowed. The responsibility to maintain our institutions is on us; neither the Central Government nor any other organization will preserve them for us.

Althoughthe reconstruction was completed successfully, the full costs of the project have yet to be paid off.

Twekobe in final stages of reconstruction

The Finance Committee and Mengo officials are very concerned about accountability and the channels through which money is raised for this project. Cognizant of their lack of control over individuals in foreign lands, they asked Ggwanga Mujje of New York/New Jersey, which has implemented several projects in Buganda, to spearhed this effort on their behalf in North America. (GM-NY/NJ) accepted this responsibility and decided to work hand in hand with other Baganda organizations, and individuals in various parts of the United States. After consultation with various eager parties, Ggwanga Mujje formed a committee of 25 people to carry on the task of fundraising and publicizing the effort.

Please contribute generously. All checks and money orders should be made out to Ggwanga Mujje of New York/New Jersey. Please send your check or money order to:

Att. Mr. Fred Yawe
Ggwanga Mujje of New York / New Jersey
7 Babbit Way
Allentown, NJ 08501

You can also hand your check or money order to any of the committee members below to pass on to the Treasurer. If you have any question or do not receive acknowledgement of your contribution from Ggwanga Mujje within two weeks after you send it, please get in touch with any one of the following committee officials:

Chairman: Wycliffe Lule-Musoke Lam5jc@aol.com O(212)552-9913 / H(908)753-6513
Vice-Chairman: Micheal Muganga Fkcny@aol.com H(201)662-1833
Secretary: Joseph Senyonjo Fenyo45@hotmail.com O(212)657-4602 H(212)864-2592
Treasurer: Fred Yawe Yawef@hotmail.com O(212)639-3539

A list comprised of names of all contributors, and the amounts of their contributions, will be prepared for each state and forwarded to the Katikiro, and to all the contributors. Totals contributed from each state in the union will also be reported. Those who wish to remain anonymous must notify us, and we will respect their requests.