His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, recently hosted a delegation of acclaimed researchers and scholars at the royal palace, emphasizing the Kingdom’s commitment to archiving its rich history and fostering cultural preservation.
Kyabazinga hosted the researchers and scholars, who were led by Prof. Wasswa Juma Balunywa at his Igenge Palace in Bugembe, Jinja City. They included Prof. David William Cohen a born of Washington DC, Prof. Richard Lubogo a retired lecturer at MUBS and Dr. Isaac Christopher Lubogo a prolific writer.
The event highlighted a significant cultural exchange, marking the return of a veteran historian and celebrating the efforts of both local and international academics dedicated to Busoga Studies.
A central focus of the royal engagement was the presence of Professor David William Cohen, a specialist in Busoga’s history who first conducted his PhD research in the region over 50 years ago, in the late 1960s.
Kyabazinga Nadiope IV warmly welcomed Professor Cohen, noting that his return was a testament to the hospitality he experienced in Busoga, a sentiment the King believes is crucial for strengthening international relationships.
The King specifically thanked Cohen for his decades-long dedication to studying African history, particularly concentrating on Busoga’s pre-colonial history.
“When we see professors like you doing this kind of work, we’re really delighted and happy,” the King remarked, underscoring the Kingdom’s active mission to archive information for future generations.
Professor Cohen, who taught history at institutions like Johns Hopkins University and the University of Michigan, reflected on the depth of Busoga’s past.
He noted that the pre-1900 history is very rich, and that historical knowledge is actively used by the people in their daily lives, including in naming children, burial rites, and marriage ceremonies.
“History is something that doesn’t go away, it grows,” he affirmed.
William Samba, a history lecturer from Makerere University, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to introduce Professor Cohen to His Royal Highness.
Samba highlighted Cohen’s foundational contributions to the understanding of pre-colonial Busoga history, noting that his work serves as the starting point for emerging scholars in the field.
Also present was Dr. Isaac Christopher Lubogo, an award-winning legal scholar and prolific author who has written approximately 70 books on Busoga’s history.
Dr. Lubogo presented the King with a 100-year-old book penned by his grandfather Y.K Lubogo, a historical figure who served as the first black mayor in East and Central Africa particularly in Jinja.
The presentation underscored the ongoing legacy of Busoga’s historical narrative.
Present at the event was Busoga Busoga Kingdom’s Finance Minister Owek. Ivan Kiirya, Busoga Kingdom’s Constitutional Affairs Minister Owek. Alex Luganda, Busoga Kingdom’s Permanent Secretary Samanya Godfrey Sajjabi and visiting students from Netherlands who are doing internships at the Leadership academy in Iganga.
