Hoima City — President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni on Wednesday officiated the 31st Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, the Omukama of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, during a colourful ceremony held at Karuzika Palace in Hoima City.
In his address, President Museveni congratulated the Omukama and the people of Bunyoro on this important milestone, praising the Kingdom for its contributions to regional and national development.
The President expressed concern about Omukama’s health, calling on Ugandans to remember him in their prayers.
Reflecting on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government’s decision to restore cultural institutions in 1993, President Museveni said the move was intentional, recognising the vital role kingdoms play in the cultural and socio-economic fabric of society.
“While the government is responsible for legislation, administration, and economic planning, there are aspects of national life that are better handled by cultural institutions—particularly the preservation of indigenous languages and traditions,” he said.
President Museveni identified four key areas where cultural institutions should focus: the preservation of indigenous languages, the promotion of traditional foods, the safeguarding of rational customs, and supporting socio-economic transformation. These, he said, were the reasons behind the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda.
“Cultural institutions must focus on preserving indigenous languages because modern governments mostly use English and Kiswahili. If you don’t take it up, who will teach your people their languages?” he challenged.
The President underscored that culture extends beyond marriage customs, encompassing food, language, tools, and lifestyle. He attributed his own good health at age 80 to traditional foods like cassava, mingled millet, and milk, noting that he avoids processed foods such as bread and rice.
President Museveni advised cultural leaders to refrain from engaging in partisan politics, emphasising their responsibility as unifying figures. He urged them to leave electoral processes to the people and focus instead on their core mandate.
He reaffirmed the government’s continued support for the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom in its development efforts and encouraged stronger collaboration between cultural leaders and the state.
Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa, Minister of State for Public Service, also congratulated the Omukama and the Kingdom and thanked President Museveni for his longstanding support to Bunyoro.
The celebration was attended by Kingdom officials, government representatives, and thousands of jubilant subjects, marking the occasion with traditional music, dance, and a display of cultural heritage.
