Bunyoro kingdom hails Princess Nabiryo Gafabusa’s cultural devotion
The prime minister of the Bunyoro Kingdom, Andrew Byakutaga, conveyed the kingdom’s heartfelt condolences to Omukama Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I following the loss of his younger sister.
The children of the late Princess Sarah Nabiryo Gafabusa Akiiki lay a wreath. (Credit: Wilson Asiimwe)
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The Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom paid glowing tribute to Princess Sarah Nabiryo Gafabusa Akiiki, the younger sister of Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, as she was laid to rest on July 5, 2026, at Kabalikera, Nyamirima Palace in Hoima district.
Princess Nabiryo, a biological daughter of Omukama Sir Tito Gafabusa Winyi IV, passed away on July 3, 2026, at the age of 78.
The prime minister of the Bunyoro Kingdom, Andrew Byakutaga, conveyed the kingdom’s heartfelt condolences to Omukama Dr Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I following the loss of his younger sister.
Byakutaga also extended sympathies to the entire royal family, the Babiito clan and the people of Bunyoro-Kitara, describing Princess Nabiryo as a principled, reserved, humble and soft-spoken woman.
He commended the late princess for dedicating many years to the preservation and maintenance of Nyamirima Palace, describing her commitment as a symbol of loyalty to the Kingdom’s cultural heritage.
Kabagambe Kaliisa, the chairperson of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom royal commission and the kingdom's prime minister Andrew Byakutaga, lay tree seedlings on the casket containing the remains of the late Princess Sarah Nabiryo Gafabusa Akiiki. (Credit: Wilson Asiimwe)
"Nabiryo loved her culture and dedicated most of her time to serving the kingdom; she maintained Nyamirima Palace, one of the important historic sites in our kingdom," Byakutaga said.
Byakutaga further applauded the principal private secretary to the Omukama, Prince Richard Kitehimbwa Atwooki, for his unwavering support to the princess over the years, including overseeing the construction of a modern house for her within the Nyamirima Palace premises.
"The kingdom should explore possibilities of restoring the Ikingura Sir Tito Winyi house to preserve its historical and cultural significance for future generations," Byakutaga added.
The head of the Babiito royal clan, Eng. Fred Mugenyi, noted that Princess Nabiryo was born in the same year as the Omukama, highlighting the close bond they shared throughout their lives.
Mugenyi called upon all members of the Babiito clan to remain united, emphasising that unity has consistently been the Omukama's message over the years.
He also expressed gratitude to Prince Richard Kitehimbwa Atwooki for the exceptional care and support he extended to the late princess and for his continued efforts in maintaining Nyamirima Palace.
Describing the deceased as a unique pillar within the royal family, Mugenyi said Nabiryo’s legacy of humility, dedication and commitment to the Kingdom would continue to inspire generations.
Isaac Irumba, the son of the deceased, paid an emotional tribute to his mother, describing her as a loving and selfless parent who sacrificed greatly to ensure that her children and grandchildren grew into responsible and accomplished individuals.
He recalled that his mother had a remarkable appreciation for excellence in everything she did and thanked everyone who stood with the family during her illness and final journey.
Rev. Canon Francis Barongo, the Bunyoro Kitara diocesan secretary, described Princess Nabiryo as a Christian who departed this life spiritually prepared.
"I am urging mourners to emulate the late Princess's values of humility, faith, and service," he said.