Eswatini King Mswati III Visits Busoga Kingdom in Uganda, Fosters Cultural Ties
The ceremony was attended by members of the royal families of Eswatini and Busoga, chiefs, clan leaders, government officials, and other dignitaries.
KAMPALA, Uganda - King Mswati III of Eswatini, on a state visit to Uganda, spent his second day in the Busoga Kingdom, immersing himself in its rich culture and exploring developmental initiatives, writes Winston Mwale.
Accompanied by Queen Inkhosikati Make Lamashwama and a high-level delegation, the Eswatini King was warmly welcomed by the Kyabazinga (King) of Busoga, William Wilberforce Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, Queen Jovia Mutesi, and other dignitaries, including the First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga.
King Mswati III highlighted the purpose of his visit, emphasizing the importance of strengthening cooperation and fostering ties between the two kingdoms.
"We are here to look at possible opportunities on both sides and work together," he stated, adding that his visit was a gesture of reciprocation for the Kyabazinga's visit to Eswatini and a celebration of shared cultural heritage.
The King expressed his delight at witnessing the diverse cultural practices of the Busoga Kingdom, noting that his visit was an opportunity to learn and appreciate the unique traditions.
He also extended gratitude to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni for the invitation to visit, stating that the trip would further strengthen relations between Uganda and Eswatini.
King Mswati III further emphasized the importance of welcoming rain as a blessing for prosperity, urging his subjects on both sides to view it as a symbol of abundance rather than a disruption.
In a symbolic gesture of brotherhood, King Mswati III gifted land in Eswatini to the Kyabazinga for the cattle he had received during the Kyabazinga's visit to Eswatini.
The Kyabazinga, in turn, welcomed his guest and conveyed the greetings of the people of Busoga Kingdom.
He expressed gratitude to President Museveni for forging strong ties between the two nations and lauded King Mswati III for his exemplary leadership in preserving African culture and heritage.
The Kyabazinga highlighted the shared cultural and societal values between the two kingdoms, emphasizing the potential for joint development programs through collaboration.
The First Deputy Prime Minister, Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, expressed appreciation for King Mswati III's visit to Uganda and the Busoga Kingdom, acknowledging it as a significant step towards a fruitful and lasting relationship.
The ceremony was attended by members of the royal families of Eswatini and Busoga, chiefs, clan leaders, government officials, and other dignitaries.