Museveni congratulates Bunyoro king on 31st coronation anniversary

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ROYALS

The 31st coronation anniversary (Empango) of the king of Bunyoro Kitara, Omukama Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, took place on Wednesday (June 11) at Karuziika Palace in Hoima City.

President Yoweri Museveni attended the ceremony as the chief guest.

In his message, he congratulated the Bunyoro king, aged 76, on his coronation anniversary and wished him a swift recovery. 

"Thanks to all committees, along with the Omugo, for supporting the kingdom. Kingdoms are vital for preserving language, food, customs (rational ones) and socio-economic aspects," said Museveni.

"We must focus on our customs to raise strong children. I am pleased with our progress and our positive relationship with Bunyoro. Let’s keep politics at bay."

This year's ceremony returned from the Kingdom Chambers — where previous coronations were held — to Karuziika Palace.

Since 2019, Gafabusa had not attended coronation ceremonies due to his ill health.

This year's coronation was held under the theme: "Embracing unity in diversity to promote culture and heritage".

Gafabusa ascended the throne in 1994, and he has been the reigning king of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom since then.

He is the 49th Omukama and the 27th under the Babiito, the third dynasty to have ruled Bunyoro.

 THE CEREMONY IN PICTURES 

📸 All photos by Wilson Asiimwe

Upon arrival, President Museveni was led to the Kingdom chambers where he greeted the king.

Several dignitaries graced the event.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba, was among those who attended.

Pupils of Maisha Primary School put on a vibrant performance to entertain guests.

Omugo Margaret Karunga Adyeri, the Queen of Bunyoro, arrived for the ceremony, accompanied by members of the royal family. 

In his speech, Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Kirungi Byakutaaga urged the people of Bunyoro to continue supporting the kingdom, noting that there is still a financial gap that needs to be filled.

Byakutaaga told Omukama's subjects that they had already set up coffee demonstration gardens in Kikuube and Kiryandongo districts and appealed to President Museveni to support the kingdom with tractors.

"We appreciate the President for the support towards our kingdom, and we are requesting that Murchison Falls National Park be renamed Kabalega National Park."