The Second Deputy Katikkiro and Minister for Finance and Planning in the Buganda Kingdom, Robert Waggwa Nsibirwa, has urged Ugandans to uphold traditional funeral rites, describing them as vital cultural practices that promote healing, unity and continuity within families after the loss of a loved one.
Nsibirwa made the remarks during the okwabya olumbe ceremony for the late Fred Nakabaale Mugarura in Kabalungi, Lwengo District. Mugarura was the father of Deogratious Ssali, a security officer serving in the Buganda Kingdom.
He highlighted that funeral rites play a crucial role in identifying and installing an heir, who assumes the responsibilities of the deceased and provides guidance to the family. Nsibirwa noted that succession traditions date back centuries and are even reflected in Biblical teachings.
He cautioned those who use religion to undermine cultural heritage, emphasizing that Buganda values its customs—including the traditional one-year mourning period before funeral rites are performed.
Congratulating the newly installed heir, Jeremiah Ssentongo Nakabaale Mugarura, Nsibirwa encouraged him to lead with fairness, humility and integrity. He also commended Ssali for embodying these virtues, praising his discipline, calmness, reliability and respectful nature.
Nsibirwa expressed satisfaction with the widespread embrace of the Kabaka’s call for increased coffee farming, observing flourishing coffee gardens along his journey. He urged families to prioritise saving for children’s education and strengthening household stability, adding a light-hearted appeal for men to save early for Christmas gifts—including clothing for their wives.
Third Deputy Pokino Dick Muwanga thanked Nsibirwa for supporting Ssali throughout the difficult period following his father’s death. Speaking on behalf of the orphaned children, Ssali pledged to uphold his father’s values and asked the newly installed heir to care for the family with diligence and respect.
The ceremony concluded with the formal installation of Jeremiah Ssentongo Nakabaale Mugarura as heir, alongside his consort Rose Nassali. The event drew attendance from Rev. Fr. Francis Mukasa, former Buganda Minister of Tourism Ritah Namyalo Waggwa, local leaders, family members and community residents.