Her Royal Highness Queen Jovia Mutesi of the Busoga Kingdom appeared before her subjects on February 23, marking her first public appearance since her royal wedding. This notable occasion took place at Igenge Palace situated atop Igenge hill in Jinja North City Division, drawing attention and enthusiasm from locals.
The union between Queen Mutesi and King William Gabula Nadiope, solemnized on November 18, 2023, at Christ Cathedral Bugembe in Jinja City, had stirred anticipation among the populace. Thus, her emergence after three months was met with eager anticipation and reverence.
At the heart of the event, Queen Mutesi, in a gesture of hospitality and solidarity, personally served lunch to her subjects gathered at Igenge Palace. Prior to this, accompanied by the Neyendeire Women Initiative led by Ms. Dorothy Kisaka, Executive Director of Kampala Capital City Authority, the Queen engaged in cultural rituals, including tending to a garden within the palace premises.
Engaging directly with the agricultural traditions of her people, Queen Mutesi participated in various activities, such as planting potatoes and harvesting matooke, evoking jubilant reactions from onlookers. These actions not only symbolized her integration into the fabric of Busoga society but also underscored her commitment to its cultural heritage.
Returning to the palace, Queen Mutesi, joined by King William Gabula Nadiope IV, extended greetings to her subjects, reaffirming their bond with the royal family. Addressing the gathering, she emphasized the significance of familial structures, advocating for respect for parental authority and adherence to household laws.
In her discourse, Queen Mutesi emphasized the importance of self-sufficiency within households, stressing the need for food security and economic stability through surplus production for sale. Furthermore, she highlighted the imperative of sanitation, advocating for the provision of essential amenities such as toilets and adequate kitchen facilities.
Expressing concern over interpersonal conflicts, Queen Mutesi admonished against discord, citing its contradiction to Busoga’s cultural ethos. She championed unity and mutual respect as essential pillars for societal progress, urging women to embrace diligence and discipline in fostering development.
Moreover, Queen Mutesi unveiled plans for collaboration with institutions such as the Uganda Hotel and Tourism Institute to empower women, youth, and girls with vocational skills. These initiatives, aimed at alleviating poverty and promoting literacy and healthcare, reflect her commitment to uplifting her subjects.
Echoing her sentiments, King William Gabula Nadiope IV emphasized the imperative of unity in fostering development within Busoga. Acknowledging the support received during the royal wedding, he called upon his subjects to sustain this spirit of unity for the collective advancement of the region.
However, amidst these aspirations, Prime Minister Joseph Muvawala issued a stern warning against encroachments on Kyabazinga land, emphasizing the need for adherence to legal protocols. He underscored the kingdom’s authority in regulating land usage, vowing to enforce strict measures against unauthorized construction.
Looking ahead, plans are underway for a royal tour, affording Queen Mutesi and King William Gabula Nadiope IV the opportunity to connect with their subjects across various locales.
