The unveiling of a monument honouring Isaya Mukirania, the first king of the Rwenzururu, marks a significant milestone in celebrating the cultural heritage and unity of the Bakonzo people.
Kasese Woman Member of Parliament, Florence Kabugho, officially handed over the monument to the Kingdom's leadership, describing it as a profound symbol of identity, pride, and vision for the people of Kasese and beyond.
King Mukirania is revered as a pivotal figure in the Rwenzururu Kingdom’s history. His leadership and advocacy for cultural recognition and autonomy shaped the Kingdom’s identity and inspired its people.
Mukirania, known by his royal title Kibanzanga I, was the leader of the Rwenzururu movement and the first Omusinga (king) of the Kingdom of Rwenzururu.
He was enthroned on June 30, 1963, a year after he declared independence from Tooro Kingdom.
Mukirania, who died on September 2, 1966, was formally succeeded by his son Charles Mumbere over 43 years after his death, on October 19, 2009.
The government only officially recognised the kingdom's legitimacy on March 17, 2008.
The monument, a pledge made by Ms Kabugho during her 2021 campaigns, serves as a tangible reminder of the Kingdom’s rich history.
“This sculpture is a tribute to a leader whose vision and sacrifices laid the foundation of who we are today as a people,” Kabugho stated during the ceremony.
More than just a homage to the past, the monument seeks to inspire future generations.
Prince Christopher Kibanzanga, son of the late king, underscored its importance in promoting ideals such as literacy, poverty eradication, peace, and coexistence, values that his father championed.
“This is a call to action for all of us to uphold my father’s mission. Let this monument remind us of his dream for a united, educated, and prosperous Rwenzururu Kingdom,” Prince Kibanzanga remarked.
Strategically proposed for placement at the main roundabout along the Fort Portal–Bwera–Mbarara road, the monument is expected to attract tourists, boosting Kasese's local economy.
The Rwenzururu Kingdom Minister for Culture, Aganatia Katya, expressed optimism about its potential to drive cultural tourism and regional development.
“This monument will not only honour our history but also promote cultural tourism, which is a key driver of development in our region,” Mr Katya said.
Ms Kabugho praised the Kingdom’s leadership, the Royal family, and the people of Kasese for their unwavering support in making the project a reality despite its significant costs.
“It was a challenging project, but it was worth every effort. This is for the people of Kasese and the generations to come,” she noted.
The final decision on the monument’s exact placement remains pending discussions with Kasese Municipality leadership and the Uganda National Roads Authority.
However, the kingdom has identified the Fort Portal–Bwera–Mbarara road roundabout as the most suitable location to maximise visibility and impact.
The unveiling of this monument is a testament to the enduring legacy of King Mukirania and the resilience of the Rwenzururu people.
It stands not just as a structure but as a beacon of hope, unity, and progress for the people of Kasese, preserving their cultural identity while charting a path toward a brighter future.
The monument is more than a tribute—it is a powerful reminder of the Bakonzo’s journey, their struggles, and their aspirations, ensuring that the legacy of King Mukirania continues to inspire for generations to come.
