Yet another clandestine incursion into our culturritage has transpired, shrouded in mystery and concealed from the populace of Kigezi, the Banyakigezi. In stark contrast, the 2019 visit of the King OYO of Toro was transparent and well-publicized, courtesy of the government through Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda and the Governor of the Bank of Uganda, facilitated by the International Community of Banyakigezi (ICOB). The King received a warm welcome in Kigezi.
Thereafter , the Kabaka of Buganda’s visit, represented by Katikiri Mayiga, was openly declared, and I recall receiving him at White Horse Inn before his al herelocation to Kabale University for a meeting with Enkombazambogo. The purpose of his visit was clearly communicated.
This surreptitious visit by another monarch, however, raises questions. Is this an attempt to supplant the former King of Kigezi, Rukirabashaija Rutakirwa? Why does Kigezi seem to be facing disdain from various quarters? It appears that when an individual or community is vulnerable, others are eager to exacerbate their downfall.
The actions of these external forces undermine the rich cultural legacy of Kigezi, exemplified by its vibrant traditions. Moreover, the region’s socioeconomic development, championed by organizations like ICOB, is potentially being compromised.
The above opinion was written by Friday Rwamahe is a lecturer at NTC-Kabale
fridayrwamahe@gmail.com
HIS HIGHNESS JUDE MUDOMA THE BAMASABA’s UMUKUKA EXPECTED IN KIGEZI ON 18th OCT. 2024.*
His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, the Umukuka III of Bamasaba Cultural Institution is expected in Kigezi on the 18th of October 2024.
Information coming from the Kingdom officials indicate that this week the officials from the Kingdom will be in Kigezi to prepare for this official visiti. They shall interface with the district officials including political and religious leaders on how the preparation for the Umukuka III ‘s visit can be arranged.
*Below is the tentative program for the King’s visit.*
Tentative Program for the royal Visit of the UMUKUUKA III to Kigezi Region (Kabale district)
Friday 18th October
• Welcoming parade: 2:00Pm
• Entrance and Procession in kabale town: 3:00pm
• Invite only high-level networking dinner (White Horse Inn): 5:00pm
Saturday 19th October
• Invite only Breakfast with Bishops: 9:00am
• Church service, memorial and laying foundation stone: 10:00am
• Lunch and networking: 3:00pm
Sunday 20th October
• Visiting Katuna Border: 9:00am
• Visiting Presidential
Initiatives and local Businesses: 10:00am
Visiting L. Bunyonyi Tourism Centers: 12:00pm.
