KAMPALA, Uganda — Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda, today lauded Kansai Plascon Uganda for its donation of 50 million shillings in paint and supplies for the refurbishment of Bulange Mengo, the Buganda Kingdom’s central administrative building and cultural landmark.
The Katikkiro praised Plascon’s consistent support and integrity, which he said are increasingly rare in today’s business landscape.
“Companies like Plascon are key to the future of our nation,” Mayiga said during the official handover ceremony. “Uganda’s population is largely made up of young people, and when responsible businesses like Plascon thrive, they create employment, expand opportunity, and contribute significantly to our economy. This is one of the few companies that continue to faithfully meet tax obligations, and that speaks volumes about its character.”
The donation, part of Plascon’s ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, was formally presented at a ceremony attended by kingdom officials and the Plascon Uganda team, led by Managing Director Santosh Gumte.
Mayiga emphasized the importance of mutual respect and goodwill in sustaining partnerships that benefit the wider community. “A company with empathy and a sense of purpose will always stand the test of time,” he remarked. “Plascon has demonstrated that they care, not only through product quality and brand consistency but also through their willingness to invest in the heritage of Buganda. From painting our buildings to supporting Masaza football, they have positioned themselves as a true friend to the Kingdom and its people.
Now in its seventh year, the partnership between Plascon and the Buganda Kingdom continues to focus on projects aimed at uplifting communities, preserving heritage, and investing in the future. This year’s contribution includes not only the high-quality paint but also the provision of a professional painting team to restore Bulange Mengo’s structure to its original beauty.
Gumte expressed his appreciation for the Kingdom’s trust in Plascon, emphasizing the broader meaning behind the gesture. “It is a great privilege for us to contribute to the refurbishment of Bulange Mengo, a building that is not only central to the Kingdom’s administration but also deeply symbolic of Buganda’s history and culture,” Gumte said. “We view this not merely as a donation, but as a meaningful contribution to safeguarding our shared heritage. When we help preserve landmarks like Bulange, we’re helping future generations to connect with their identity.”
He also reiterated Plascon’s long-term vision of working with cultural institutions to deliver sustainable impact. “Our partnership with Buganda goes beyond business,” he added. “We are proud to be aligned with an institution that values development, tradition, and its people. Through continued support in health, education, agriculture, and sports, we are determined to give back to the communities that have helped us grow.”
Plascon’s involvement in the refurbishment of Buganda’s landmarks extends far beyond Bulange. Over the years, the company has contributed to the refurbishment of Twekobe, Butikkiro, and other important structures within the Kingdom, ensuring these symbols of history remain intact and vibrant. Their support also extends to sports development, with ongoing sponsorships of initiatives like the Masaza Cup and Buddu FC, which provide platforms for young talent across the region.
