Jinja — The Busoga Kingdom was awash with colour, culture, and celebration as His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Isabirye Nadiope IV, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, marked his 11th Coronation Anniversary with a series of events reflecting the kingdom’s deep cultural heritage and aspirations for unity and progress.
The day’s festivities began with a vibrant traditional dance performance by pupils of Victoria Junior School, Namutumba, who warmly welcomed the Kyabazinga with energetic dances and songs. The display highlighted both the talent of Busoga’s young generation and the region’s commitment to preserving its cultural roots.
As His Majesty set off from the palace on a thrilling journey, accompanied by enthusiastic bikers to the Kingdom’s Headquarters, the celebrations captured the spirit of Busoga pride and identity. Upon arrival, the Kyabazinga performed the ceremonial act of striking the royal drum, a symbolic tradition marking the official start of the anniversary celebrations.
The event was graced by prominent religious leaders, who offered prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity for both Busoga and the entire nation of Uganda. Among the key dignitaries present were members of the Busoga Royal Chiefs Council, UN delegates partnering with the kingdom, and distinguished cultural leaders, including HRH Samuel Zirabamuzaale Nkuutu, Menha of Bugweri, and Owek Professor Waswa Balunywa, former Katukiiro of Busoga Kingdom.
The Rt Hon Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, read President Yoweri Museveni’s speech and congratulated the Kyabazinga for welcoming the two Royal Princes in his Royal Family.
“We all have a part to play in making the NRM vision come to pass and we should master our might without compromise to work hard in the government eradication programmes like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and other Wealth Creation initiatives,” Museveni said.
Nabbanja praised the kingdom for promoting cultural pride and unity.“I am always pleased to witness the efficiency and pride with which Ugandans and fellow Africans showcase our rich and unique cultures,” she said. “It is during such functions that we are reminded of our shared heritage and values — true pillars of peace, unity, and progress.”
She later handed over Shs20m to add on the Shs60m he sent earlier as his contribution towards organising the Kyabazinga 11th Coronation Anniversary.
In his address, the Kyabazinga urged his people to unite in the fight against malaria, poverty, and ignorance, emphasising the need for a stronger foundation for health and development across the sub-region.
“Our aim is not just to fight malaria, but to build a strong foundation to tackle other diseases, poverty, and ignorance so that Busoga can thrive in health, education, and development,” said His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Isabirye Nadiope IV.
He also appealed to the Basoga, emphasizing the importance of unity in achieving significant community development. “Unity is the key to Busoga’s transformation,” the Kyabazinga said, urging Basoga to work together and actively participate in tackling challenges like malaria and teenage pregnancies.
He called on fathers, brothers, and community leaders to “protect our girls and embrace government programs that improve household incomes and uplift the quality of life for all.”
The singing of national and kingdom anthems, coupled with colourful cultural performances, crowned the day as people from all walks of life gathered to honour 11 years of Kyabazinga leadership, cultural revival, and social progress in Busoga.
