(Hoima) – Large crowds lined the streets of Hoima City on Tuesday afternoon to celebrate the return of King Solomon Gafabusa Iguru, the Omukama of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, following his medical treatment in Kampala. The Omukama’s return was met with cheers from the people of Bunyoro who had been eagerly awaiting his arrival after he spent several weeks receiving care.
At exactly 4:40 p.m., a helicopter carrying the Omukama landed at Booma Grounds, where hundreds had gathered from early in the day. Kingdom officials and government dignitaries were also present, including Bunyoro Kingdom Prime Minister Andrew Byakutaga, Hoima City Mayor Bryan Kaboyo, Dr. Kabagambe Kaliisa (the presidential advisor on oil and gas and the chairperson of the kingdom’s royal commission), and many other officials.
As soon as the Omukama emerged from the helicopter, the crowd erupted into cheers. Security personnel worked hard to manage the large crowd, which blocked the king’s motorcade as he made his way from Booma Grounds to the royal palace. Some subjects showed their devotion by lying on the tarmac to honor their king. The streets remained lively as people continued to celebrate, many expressing relief and joy at his safe return.
The Omukama was accompanied by Queen Margret Karunga Adyeeri, who waved to the crowds alongside him, smiling as they traveled from Booma Grounds to the palace. There, special prayers were held to give thanks for the king’s recovery. The atmosphere was festive, as Bunyoro residents felt hopeful and united in their celebration.
In a statement, Prime Minister Byakutaga shared his happiness over the king’s return. “We are happy that today we have received back our king to his kingdom,” he said. Byakutaga expressed his gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni, who had arranged for a military helicopter to transport the Omukama to Kampala when he first became unwell.
Omukama Gafabusa had been receiving medical treatment since October 17. After his discharge from the hospital on October 22, he remained at his Kampala residence for three weeks under close monitoring by his medical team. His recent treatment followed a four-year period in which his public appearances were restricted due to health issues. His illness had also prevented him from performing the traditional empango rituals, significant annual ceremonies in Bunyoro culture.
The return of Omukama Gafabusa was made possible by President Museveni, who had sent his personal doctor to assess the king’s condition on October 14. The doctor reported that the Omukama was stable, though he had been experiencing symptoms of flu and cough.
