The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi, addressed his health status on Monday, providing reassurance and hope to his subjects and well-wishers.
In a video released by the Buganda Kingdom, the Kabaka appeared relaxed, wearing a navy blue suit. He shared that his health is improving and expressed hope to return to Uganda soon.
“I greet you all, people. I am Ssabasaja Kabaka, speaking from where we came to seek treatment and rest, following doctors’ instructions. We had spent time without communicating and hearing from you, following doctors’ orders that put us away from our normal work. Our health is slowly improving, and we hope we shall be back soon,” the Kabaka said.
He thanked God for protection and expressed gratitude to the people of Buganda for their prayers and support during this difficult time.
Earlier this year, in March, Kabaka’s doctors in Germany advised him to take a rest, citing that work was affecting his health. They recommended further rest and treatment in Namibia with other specialists monitoring his progress.
While many of his subjects knew about the Kabaka’s health issues, his absence from public events, such as his Birthday Run, fueled speculation. Some people even planned to visit him to check on his well-being.
Kingdom officials have repeatedly asked the public to respect the Kabaka’s privacy, stating that it is the Katikkiro who is authorized to provide updates on the Kabaka’s health. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Buganda Kingdom’s Premier (Katikkiro), has consistently requested the public to respect the Kabaka’s privacy and assured that he is receiving the best medical care.
During the presentation of the kingdom’s budget for the 2024/25 financial year at Bulange in Mengo, Mayiga highlighted that the Kabaka appreciates his subjects’ refusal to be misled by those seeking to exploit his health situation for personal gain.
“We have opportunists who think that the Kabaka’s health situation will help them achieve their selfish interests. When they see the Kabaka is here, they tell me to take him abroad for treatment. When he goes for treatment, they tell me to bring him back, saying I am hiding him. I hope you see this kind of opportunism,” Mayiga told Lukiiko members.
In his message, the Kabaka did not disclose the hospital where he is receiving treatment but thanked the Katikkiro, Mengo ministers, and clan heads for managing the kingdom’s affairs in his absence.
He also commended those who have shown good discipline, patience, and calmness during this period. The Kabaka urged his subjects to continue demonstrating unity and love for the kingdom.
“We are following everything that is going on in the country. We thank our people who have maintained their culture and norms during this season. As we always say, our power is in unity. I encourage all of you to be united. May God bless you,” said the Kabaka.
Concerns about the Kabaka’s health have been widespread among his subjects and kingdom leaders. Some leaders feel they have been kept in the dark, leading to anxiety and mistrust.
The Kabaka’s message has brought relief to many, and the kingdom is reinforcing the importance of unity and patience as he continues his recovery.
