Kyabazinga urges UAE diaspora to preserve Busoga values, invest back home
“I commend you for working hard to earn a living, for loving your culture as shown by your enthusiasm and cultural attire, and for supporting your families,” the Kyabazinga told the gathering of Basoga and friends.
Kyabazinga of Busoga William Gabula Nadiope IV (middle) with presidency minister Milly Babalanda in a group photograph with Basoga in the UAE at his 12th Coronation Anniversary in Dubai on September 26th. (Courtesy Photos)
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Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, has hailed Basoga and Ugandans living in the United Arab Emirates for their industriousness and love for their culture, urging them to uphold values such as responsibility, obuntu bulamu, discipline and hard work as tools for success both abroad and at home.
The monarch delivered the message on September 26, 2026, while celebrating his 12th coronation anniversary with subjects in Dubai, UAE.
The gathering took place at the Mövenpick Jumeirah Hotel under the theme, “Inspiring a new generation to carry the values, vision and legacy of Busoga forward.”
“I commend you for working hard to earn a living, for loving your culture as shown by your enthusiasm and cultural attire, and for supporting your families,” the Kyabazinga told the gathering of Basoga and friends.
He urged them to uphold cultural values of responsibility, obuntu bulamu, discipline and hard work to promote development in the diaspora and at home.
The Kyabazinga assured the guests of the kingdom’s support, saying its doors remained open to any possible assistance.
He also encouraged them to plan long-term investments back home, particularly in coffee and cocoa growing, to secure future incomes upon their return.
The monarch highlighted kingdom initiatives in education through scholarships, poverty reduction through agriculture, efforts to end teenage pregnancy, as well as sports and tourism.
Due to travel restrictions linked to the Ebola outbreak, the full kingdom delegation led by the Katuukiro, deputies, ministers and other prominent Basoga could not travel with him.
The UAE has since announced that it is easing the precautionary entry measures introduced in June 2026 for Ugandan nationals.
The Kyabazinga was accompanied by presidency minister Milly Babalanda, permanent secretary in the gender ministry, Dr Aggrey David Kibenge, and officials from the Kyabazinga Initiatives led by Samuel Niiwo.
A delegation of Basoga in the UAE, led by Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE, Zaake Wanume Kibedi, welcomed the monarch.
The event was organised by Busoga community members under the BUSOGA YAIFFE UAE Chapter, chaired by John Mugabi. Participants received the Kyabazinga with Kisoga cultural dances and traditional dress.
Amb. Zaake thanked the Kyabazinga for agreeing to mark the anniversary with subjects in the UAE.
He noted the contributions of professionals, skilled and casual workers among the diaspora to Uganda’s economy and development.
“There is a ready market in the different cities of the UAE, especially in agriculture. The Embassy is ready to assist those intending to export products such as avocados and sweet potatoes, which are in high demand,” Amb. Zaake said.
He cited investments by UAE companies such as Modern Group in Uganda that have created employment, and requested the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development to expedite insurance policies for diaspora members.
Dr Kibenge informed the gathering of the efforts by the ministry to put in place laws and guidelines for all workers, including those in the diaspora.
He encouraged voluntary saving with the National Social Security Fund as preparation for the future and old age.
“I thank all members for contributing to the economy of the country through their different enterprises and support back home,” Dr Kibenge said.
Minister Babalanda conveyed greetings from President Yoweri Museveni, the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Museveni, the Secretary to the Office of the President Yunus Kakande, and staff of the Office of the President.
She described the Kyabazinga’s presence in Dubai as a powerful gesture that the institution of Obwakyabazinga Bwa Busoga transcends geographical boundaries, uniting Basoga at home and abroad.
“While you are from Busoga, Busoga must never be far from you. Preserve your identity, culture, values and kingdom by speaking Lusoga, teaching children Busoga history and traditions, and remaining proud of your unique values,” Babalanda said.
She called for unity, networks and mutual support for the development of Busoga and Uganda.
The minister urged diaspora members to acquire skills, knowledge, experience and professional networks, save and invest wisely, and never lose sight of the mission that took them abroad.
“East or West, home is the best. No matter how comfortable life abroad may be, do not forget the land that gave you identity. Be good ambassadors of Busoga and Uganda,” she said.
The Dubai celebrations followed the main 12th Coronation Anniversary event held on September 19, 2026, in Bunha chiefdom, Mayuge district, under the theme “Strengthening our cultural values and norms for development.”
The Kyabazinda was enthroned on September 13, 2014, at the Busoga kingdom headquarters in Bugembe, Jinja city.