KAMPALA - The Rwandan monarchy may have been destroyed by colonialists about half a century ago, but the country’s culture and norms remain deeply rooted in its people.

It’s in that vein that members of Umubano, a socio-cultural association bringing together Banyarwanda community living in Uganda, recently visited Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi, the King of Buganda, in effort to resurrect long-time cultural ties between the Kingdom and the ancient Rwanda which dates way back to the pre-colonial days.

A delegation led by Umubano chairman Donald Kananura, presented a paper to the Lukiiko (Buganda Kingdom Parliament) in which he highlighted the historical cultural ties between the ancient Rwandan and Buganda kingdoms. He sought to revive the cordial relations between the Rwandan people and Buganda.

The group also requested for a piece of land that Kabaka Edward Muteesa II had given to King Mutara Rudahigwa as a gift, on which they intend to construct a museum which will be used to display Rwandan culture.

While addressing the Umubano delegation, Kabaka Mutebi said that Rwanda and Buganda still maintain strong cultural ties that are not discriminatory and that both sides would continue with their relations despite the setbacks their cultural institutions suffered due to colonialists and past tyrannical regimes.

The Kabaka (King) promised to get another piece of land to replace the initial plot that was located in Kibuye, Kampala and has since been occupied.

He also warned those who are perpetrating hate and discrimination based on tribal differences saying that such people were uncivilized.

He urged them to follow his example of non-discriminatory policies citing his appointment of Dr Higiro Ssemajege- a Munyarwanda and member of Umubano- as Bulange (Kabaka’s palace) Deputy Speaker.

Kabaka Mutebi presented a certificate of recognition to Umubano members.

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