Kabaka’s Possible Attendance Adds Excitement to Buganda Royal Regatta Final

By Kayiira Jackson 

Eng. Ben Misagga, the Chairperson and the Organizers of the 2026 Buganda Royal Regatta declared the readiness to host the grand finale of the annual Coronation Regatta at Bunjako Beach on August 22, with thousands of spectators expected to witness the competition involving all 18 counties of Buganda.

Speaking during an inspection and preparation exercise at Bunjako Beach on Monday, the Chairperson of the Buganda Royal Regatta, Eng. Ben Misagga, urged the public to turn up in large numbers for what he described as a memorable event.

“We’re encouraging everyone to come for the final Royal Regatta. Everything is set here at Bunjako for the 18 counties of Buganda to compete,” Misagga said.

Although he stopped short of confirming the attendance of the Kabaka of Buganda, Misagga revealed that the organizers are hopeful the monarch will grace the event.

“We can’t confirm it, but we expect His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda to grace the 2026 final,” he said.

To enhance the fan experience, Misagga announced that spectators who arrive early will have an opportunity to participate in a treasure hunt, with prizes including brand-new motorcycles, mobile phones and other gifts.

He also assured the public that logistical arrangements have been finalized, noting that the venue has parking space capable of accommodating at least 1,000 vehicles and that two entrance gates will be operational to ease access.

Buganda Youth Chairperson Derrick Kavuma called upon young people across the kingdom to attend the event and celebrate Buganda’s cultural heritage.

“It’s a day to enjoy, discover and connect with others, so I ask all the youths in Buganda to join us. I thank the organizers for the great organization,” Kavuma said.

The preparation exercise brought together members of the organizing committee, who spent the day inspecting and finalizing arrangements at Bunjako Beach.

According to the organizers, the event will feature the traditional boat races, entertainment, a treasure hunt for early arrivals, and prizes for winning teams. Security arrangements will be coordinated under Collins Ssemanda, while technical preparations are being overseen by Nakisozi Batenga of the Uganda Rowing Federation.

The 2026 Buganda Royal Regatta final will take place on Saturday, August 22, at Bunjako Beach, Buwama. Gates will open at 8:00 a.m., with the main activities scheduled to begin at 9:00 a.m. Entry has been set at UGX 10,000.