The Nnaabagereka of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, on Thursday launched her autobiography titled “The Nnaabagereka Queen Sylvia Nagginda Luswata” at the Sheraton Hotel in Kampala.
The book contains a real-life narrative of Queen Mother Nnabagereka as she shares her life journey as a royal.
It explores her transition to this big position and how she has decided to use her influence to reach the disadvantaged, especially with her work at the Nnabagereka Foundation.
“I would like to start by appreciating His Majesty the Ssabasajja of Buganda, for having allowed me to do both my roles. To be his wife and an involved Queen of the people of Buganda as well,” she said in her speech.
The Nnaabagereka further appreciated her husband (the Kabaka) for having allowed her to lend a hand to the progress and development of the region and people.
“In the process of telling your story, you may inadvertently affect other people…..If I have disappointed or hurt anyone in the process; I ask that you forgive me because it was never the intention,” she noted.
Speaking at the launch, Robert Kabushenga, the CEO of Rugyeyo Farm and former CEO of Vision Group, said: “This book speaks to any man in here and outside there who is a father of a daughter and is an incredible window to the challenges she goes through without you ever knowing.”
On her part, Makerere Law School lecturer and lawyer, Dr Maria Nasali, said the book shows a Nnaabagereka that is transformative in all she does.
“One of the things is that you can’t give who you’re not. I was very shocked, amazed, overwhelmed at her and her love for life and others,” she pointed out.
Dr Nasali further responded to an excerpt read from page 223 of Her Majesty’s book.
“It is an honour to have read your book. I received it around 6 pm and by morning I had finished it. You cannot give who you are not. I went through a rollercoaster of emotions,” she added.
Speaking on the same occasion, the CEO of MTN Uganda, Sylvia Mulinge, said MTN is offering a 15% discount for the first 100 people to buy the autobiography using MTN MoMo Pay.
“MTN remains a committed friend of Buganda and we commit to continue finding opportunities for partnership with the office of the Nnaabagereka because we strongly believe that when we work together, we are unstoppable,” she said.
She added: “Thank you for taking the time to pen this book and for letting us in on your life’s story which I truly know shall inspire and encourage many people as they tap from the fountain of your knowledge and experiences.”
The U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, Natalie Brown, in her speech, said like so many Ugandans who have travelled in the U.S., the Nnaabagereka has a unique perspective on shared values.
“In the spirit of obuntubulamu-the promotion of well-being, togetherness, unity and in looking for common ground /seeking a peaceful co-existence, I joined her launch,” she said.
She said the Queen’s story provides insight into her unique perspectives of holding on to and cherishing the history, traditions, and culture of the Buganda kingdom, and working across kingdoms with an eye to the future.
“In a period fraught with challenges and division, the Nnaabagereka’s experiences with equity and inclusion brought a diverse group of Ugandans from all sectors and friends of Uganda together in support of education, integrity, and service,” noted Brown.
She added: “I am delighted HRH chose to share her story. She has inspired so many. I wish you every success as you continue the good work you are doing for your community and your country, and the building bridges toward friendship and understanding, not hate.”
The ceremony was presided over by Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.
Notables from Buganda Kingdom who attended the event included; Kabaka’s uncle, Ssaabaganzi Emmanuel Ssekitoleko, the Ssaabalangira Godfrey Musanje, Owekitiibwa Joyce Nnabbosa Ssebugwaawo, also the paternal aunt of the Nnaabagereka, Omutaka Namwama, Owekitiibwa Christine Mugerwa Kasule, and Owekitiibwa Kabuuza Mukasa, among others.
Princess Elizabeth Bagaya of Tooro Kingdom, Joyce Mpanga, Rhoda Kalema, the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala, and State Minister for Higher Education, Mr Chrysostom Muyingo; Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, and Kampala Capital City Council Authority executive director Dorothy Kisaka, also attended the event.
