Bugabula Chiefdom scales down Gabula Day to mourn Tooro King

The annual Gabula Day, celebrated by the Bugabula Chiefdom comprising Kamuli and Buyende districts, will proceed on September 9th but with significantly scaled-down festivities. This decision has been made to formally mourn the passing of the King of Tooro, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

The Deputy Katukkiro of Bugabula, Mr. Ronald Watongola, explained that the celebrations will serve as a tribute to the late Tooro King, emphasizing the deep historical connections between Busoga and Tooro. “We are mourning our ancestral King. The Basoga came from Bunyoro and have a rich history with Tooro,” Watongola stated, noting that the main Gabula Day events would take place at Kitaidhumba Primary School in Buyende District.

Further demonstrating solidarity, the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Nadiope Gabula IV, has directed that both Busoga Kingdom and Bugabula Chiefdom flags be flown at half-mast until the Tooro King is laid to rest. Kyabazinga Day celebrations have been postponed.

Gabula Day was established to reinforce cultural identity, preserve history, and acknowledge the contributions of Busoga’s ancestors to Uganda’s independence. The occasion also aims to revitalize Bugabula’s socio-economic potential and promote cultural values.

This year’s event will feature the commissioning of a community school upgraded by the Kyabazinga. The project, which transformed a grass-thatched structure into a modern educational facility with classrooms and proper sanitation, was initiated after the Kyabazinga learned about the school’s condition while pursuing his master’s degree. His involvement stems from a passion for child protection and education.

The Kyabazinga is also actively promoting agricultural development in the region through cocoa farming, irrigation techniques, and enhancing local cattle breeds.

Gabula Day was officially recognized on September 9, 2013, by the Kamuli District Local Government to commemorate the coronation of Prince Gabula IV as the Gabula of Bugabula. The event seeks to foster unity, dignity, and pride within the Bugabula community, showcasing its rich heritage.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)