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Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II has returned to Buganda after months of medical treatment in Namibia. The Buganda royal family has requested the public to respect his privacy and dignity. The Kabaka remains under medical care and requires further rest and treatment.

Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s arrival at the Entebbe International Airport

Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II has returned home after several months in Namibia, where he sought medical care.

The Buganda royal family has requested the public to respect the Kabaka’s privacy and dignity.

Upon his arrival at Entebbe International Airport’s VIP lounge, he was welcomed by Nabagereka (his wife) Sylvia Nagginda, Katikkiro (Premier) Charles Peter Mayiga, his eldest son Prince Crispin Jjunju, daughter Victoria Nkinzi, and Naalinya Lubuga Agnes Nabaloga.

“I greet you all, well done,” a jovial Kabaka said as he waved to a few people in the lounge. He then moved forward to hug his daughter and sister and shook hands with a few subjects who knelt to welcome him.

He was later driven in his official car, bearing the Buganda royal flag, with visible smiles from the Katikiro and others around him.

Statement from Prince Crispin Jjunju

“On behalf of my siblings and the royal family, we express our gratitude. First, we thank Almighty God for His healing hand, which has enabled the Kabaka to return to Buganda. We continue to dedicate his life to God for continued healing while in Buganda. We appreciate the prayers from the people of Buganda and the entire world for the Kabaka’s recovery. God’s mercy is evident in his improved health.

We extend our sincere thanks to the medical team in Germany, Switzerland, and Namibia who treated the Kabaka. May God reward them, and we thank them from the bottom of our hearts.

To the Government and people of Namibia, who hosted the Kabaka for the past three months, we are deeply grateful for the care and security provided. Namibia is a hospitable country with many opportunities, which is why the Kabaka chose it for his continued treatment and rest.

We regret that a few individuals spread rumors and engaged in actions that misrepresented Namibia, which is contrary to Buganda’s values (obuntu bulamu). As the royal family, we sincerely apologize to the government of Namibia for these actions.

Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of the Kingdom of Buganda together with Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II

We thank the Government of Uganda for its cooperation with the government of Namibia during the Kabaka’s stay. Our gratitude also goes to the Katikkiro, Mengo ministers, and all servants in the Kabaka Government for managing the affairs of Buganda in his absence.

We commend those who have closely supported the Kabaka during this time.

Although the Kabaka has returned to Buganda, he remains under medical care and requires further treatment and rest until he fully recovers. As his family, we will continue to support him until he is fully recovered. We appeal to the people of Buganda to remain calm, patient, and respectful, ensuring the King is accorded his dignity during this period. Thank you.”

Background

On Friday, July 19, 2024, Namibia declined to extend Kabaka Mutebi’s visa for medical treatment following rumors of his abduction. These rumors sparked protests that, according to the Namibian government, endangered their diplomatic staff abroad. Kabaka Mutebi had been granted a 90-day visa upon arrival in April for a private medical visit. Some of his supporters alleged that the Namibian and Ugandan governments conspired to abduct him, according to the ministry.