The Banyala community is preparing to mark the 18th coronation anniversary of their cultural leader, Ssabanyala Maj (rtd) Baker Kimeze Mpagi Byarufu II, amid unresolved challenges that continue to slow the kingdom’s cultural and social development efforts.
The commemoration is scheduled for August 16 at Ibaale Palace in Bbaale Town, Kayunga District. President Museveni is expected to be the chief guest.
Ssabanyala Kimeze ascended to the throne in 2008 following the death of his father, Nathan Mpagi, the first Ssabanyala.
On Sunday, August 9, the Banyala held a thanksgiving service at Eden Revival Church in Kyerima Village, Kitimbwa sub-county. The service, presided over by Kingdom Premier Rev. Wilson Galimaka, was attended by hundreds of subjects, religious leaders and local leaders.
Speaking during the service, Rev. Galimaka cautioned the Banyala against hiding their ethnic identity, saying pride in one’s tribe is key to preserving culture and history.
He also dismissed claims that the Bunyala Kingdom was created by President Museveni and the NRM government.
‘There is documented history evidence that the Banyala existed as far as 1889,’ Rev. Galimaka said.
He further addressed reports of a “new” Ssabanyala, describing them as mere ‘drama.’
‘The Ssabanyala is one and he is Baker Kimeze Byarufu II and he is still on the throne. Treat such claims that there is a new Ssabanyala with contempt,’ he said.
‘You should embrace unity and co-existence with other tribes. No tribe is superior than the other, we are all equal,’ he added.
Stalled Projects and Asset Disputes
Among the key challenges facing the kingdom, Rev. Galimaka cited lack of funds to complete a Shs 2 billion kingdom office block. Construction started seven years ago but has since stalled.
‘Currently, the kingdom officials lack office space to transact the cultural institution’s business. This, in a way affects service delivery and mobilization of the Ssabanyala’s subjects,’ said Mr. Samuel Bukenya, the kingdom spokesperson.
In 2004, Bunyala cabinet ministers briefly occupied Mengo buildings at Ntenjeru for offices before they were removed by security and Mengo loyalists who said the buildings belonged to Buganda Kingdom.
Mr. Bukenya also said the failure by Buganda Kingdom to hand over assets like land and buildings in Bugerere County, as stipulated in the 2013 Memorandum of Understanding signed with the central government, is affecting planned activities aimed at the socio-economic transformation of the people.
Mr. Joseph Ouma, chairperson of the organizing committee for the celebrations, called on Ssabanyala subjects to turn up in large numbers.
He said this year’s event is expected to be the most memorable celebration yet.