President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today officiated at the 31st Coronation Anniversary of His Majesty Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, the Omukama of Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom, at Karuzika Palace in Hoima City.
Addressing the gathering, President Museveni congratulated Banyoro upon reaching this significant milestone and commended the Kingdom for its role in the development of both Bunyoro region and Uganda at large.
The President expressed concern over Omukama’s ill health, calling upon Ugandans to keep him in their prayers.
Reflecting on the restoration of cultural institutions by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government in 1993, President Museveni said the decision was deliberate because of the important role kingdoms play in the cultural and socio-economic development of society.
“The Government is responsible for legislation, administration, and economic planning, but there are things that modern governments cannot do. Cultural institutions, for example, should take the lead in preserving and promoting indigenous languages, with support from the government,” he explained.
President Museveni emphasized that culture encompasses more than just customs surrounding marriage; it includes food and tools that define people. He attributed his good health at 80 years of age to traditional foods such as cassava, mingled millet, and milk, adding that he avoids foods like bread and rice.
He further cautioned cultural leaders against involvement in partisan politics, urging them instead to leave electoral processes to the people.
President Museveni identified four key areas where cultural institutions should focus: the preservation of indigenous languages, promotion of traditional foods, safeguarding rational customs, and supporting socio-economic transformation. These, he said, were the reasons behind the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda.
“Cultural institutions must focus on preserving indigenous languages because modern governments mostly use English and Kiswahili. If you don’t take it up, who will teach your people their languages?” he challenged.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom in its development efforts.
The Minister of State for Public Service, Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa also congratulated the Kingdom and thanked President Museveni for his continued support to Bunyoro-Kitara.
The celebrations were attended by Kingdom officials, government officials, and thousands of jubilant subjects.