The anniversary, scheduled for September 13 at the Kingdom’s headquarters in Bugembe, Jinja, is expected to be a momentous occasion, celebrating both the rich traditions of Busoga and the leadership milestones of Kyabazinga Gabula since ascending the throne in 2014.
In a statement, Andrew Ntange, the Kingdom’s Head of Protocol and Spokesperson, made it clear that the Kyabazinga’s role is above partisan politics.
“This is a cultural celebration, and we want to preserve its integrity,” Ntange said. “No individual shall be allowed to dress in party colours or regalia at the function.”
The directive comes at a time when Uganda’s political climate remains highly charged. By drawing a strict line, the Kingdom seeks to ensure the coronation celebrations remain a symbol of unity rather than division.
“We know it is a politically tense time, but the Kyabazinga is apolitical,” Ntange stressed.
This year’s anniversary will run under the theme “A Malaria-free Busoga for the Generations to Come”, reflecting the Kingdom’s renewed focus on public health.
Malaria, Uganda’s leading cause of morbidity, remains a major concern in Busoga. The Kyabazinga, also a UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador, has been a vocal advocate for combating malaria, teenage pregnancies, and other social challenges.
His recent appointment by government to spearhead the national anti-malaria campaign has further cemented his image as a champion of people’s welfare.
Richard Mafumo, the Minister for Culture and Chairperson of the organizing committee, highlighted that several pre-anniversary activities have already been undertaken.
These include community sensitization drives on malaria prevention and the distribution of insecticide-treated mosquito nets across Busoga.
“Our goal is to ensure that future generations in Busoga grow up in a malaria-free environment,” Mafumo said.
Beyond the health agenda, the event will also reflect on Kyabazinga Gabula’s achievements during his 11-year reign.
When he took over, the Kingdom was still grappling with disunity following the death of Kyabazinga Waako Muloki.
Today, Mafumo noted, Busoga has achieved unprecedented cohesion and stability under Gabula’s stewardship.
The monarch’s legacy also includes initiatives aimed at uplifting education, reducing poverty, and addressing health challenges. Through bursaries and scholarships, thousands of children from disadvantaged backgrounds have accessed education.
These social interventions have positioned the Kyabazinga not only as a cultural leader but as a driving force for Busoga’s social and economic transformation.
The coronation anniversary is expected to attract dignitaries, subjects of the Kingdom, and well-wishers from across Uganda and beyond.
A strict cultural dress code will be enforced to preserve tradition and highlight Busoga’s heritage.
As the Kingdom prepares to mark over a decade of Gabula Nadiope IV’s reign, the celebrations will be more than a commemoration of the past—they will point to a shared vision of a healthier, united, and prosperous Busoga.