Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom has confirmed plans to commemorate the 32nd coronation anniversary of Omukama Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, scheduled for June 11, 2026.
The Kingdom Prime Minister, Andrew Byakutaga, said preparations for the annual Empango celebrations are underway under the theme: “Promoting Cultural Heritage and Diversity for Social Economic Development.”
Speaking during a media briefing, Byakutaga revealed that the kingdom has allocated a budget of Shs300 million for the celebrations, which will be held at Rukurato Hall in Hoima City.
Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I ascended to the throne on June 11, 1994, during a coronation ceremony held at Karuziika Palace in Hoima. The kingdom has since marked the anniversary annually, although the Omukama has not personally attended the celebrations since 2019 due to ill health.
Byakutaga said a series of activities have been lined up ahead of the main celebrations. These include the Empango Marathon scheduled for June 6, 2026, a Runyoro language competition, a boxing tournament, and the Empango Golf Tournament to be held at Masindi Golf Course in Masindi Municipality.
The kingdom will also host a business and cultural expo at Booma Grounds in Hoima City as part of efforts to promote tourism, culture, and local enterprise.
The celebrations will climax with a royal thanksgiving service at St Peter’s Cathedral Duhaga on June 10, 2026, ahead of the official coronation anniversary.
Byakutaga called upon the people of Bunyoro, cultural institutions, development partners, and well-wishers to support and participate in the celebrations.
