The Omukama of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, made an emotional return to his palace in Hoima after three weeks of medical treatment in Kampala, bringing joy and relief to his subjects.
A UPDF helicopter, courtesy of President Yoweri Museveni, flew the revered monarch back home, where hundreds of Banyoro subjects gathered at Booma Grounds to welcome him back. The sight of the chopper in the skies over Hoima sparked waves of excitement and anticipation, as loyal subjects awaited the return of their king.
Looking frail but resolute, Omukama Iguru was assisted from the helicopter by aides, joined by his wife, Queen Margaret Karunga. Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga and Kabagambe Kaliisa, chairman of the Royal Commission, were among the first to greet the Omukama, expressing profound gratitude for his recovery. Crowds erupted into cheers and ululations, gathering in such numbers that security struggled to contain the growing crowd.
The procession from Booma Grounds to Karuziika Palace became a lively celebration, with traditional dancers and an escort of cars and walking crowds accompanying the Omukama’s convoy through Hoima town. The journey was a slow, triumphant march to the palace, where subjects voiced their joy and gratitude for their king’s recovery and safe return.
Prime Minister Byakutaga praised the calm and patience shown by Banyoro during the Omukama’s absence, and he urged continued prayers for the king’s full recovery. “I thank God, the President who sent his helicopter, and the Banyoro people for staying calm in this trying moment,” he said. “I call on all religious institutions to join us in praying for the king’s complete healing so he can lead our kingdom forward.”
For many Banyoro, the Omukama’s return signals hope for unity and progress. Juliet Kebirungi, a local salon owner who closed her business to witness the moment, expressed her wish for the Omukama to help address divisions within the kingdom. “It’s painful to see our kingdom divided,” she said. “I pray he recovers fully so he can guide us and bring harmony.”
As the people of Bunyoro rejoice, the Omukama’s return symbolizes resilience and unity in a time of uncertainty. His subjects continue to pray for his recovery, hopeful that he will soon be fully restored to health and resume his role as the guiding light of the kingdom.
