Museveni pledges continued support as Bunyoro marks 31 years of Omukama Iguru’s reign

Hoima City, Uganda: President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, as the cultural institution marked the 31st Coronation Anniversary of Omukama Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I at Karuzika Palace.

Speaking as chief guest at the anniversary celebrations in Hoima City on Wednesday, June 11, President Museveni congratulated the Banyoro and commended the Kingdom for its enduring contributions to Uganda’s cultural heritage and national development.

The President expressed concern over the Omukama’s health and called upon Ugandans to keep him in their prayers. “We thank God that the Omukama has served his people with dedication for 31 years. Let us pray for his health and long life,” Museveni said.

He reminded the audience that the NRM government’s decision in 1993 to restore cultural institutions was a calculated effort to preserve indigenous identity, noting that kingdoms safeguard vital aspects of heritage such as language, traditional food, tools, and customs.

Museveni also cautioned cultural leaders against engaging in partisan politics, urging them to instead champion socio-economic transformation among their people. He emphasized the need for cultural institutions to promote development programs that uplift communities.

“We restored these institutions to help guide society, not to cause division. Cultural leaders must remain above political affiliations,” the President noted.

State Minister for Public Service and Bunyoro affairs, Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa, thanked President Museveni for his long-standing support to the Kingdom and pledged continued cooperation in advancing government initiatives in the region.

The 31st coronation anniversary was attended by dignitaries, cultural leaders, government officials, and residents from across the Bunyoro sub-region.