When William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV ascended as Kyabazinga of Busoga in 2014, few could have predicted the scale of his impact eleven years later. On September 13, 2025, his 11th coronation anniversary at Igenge Palace became more than a celebration—it was a call to action for health, unity, and cultural renewal in Busoga.
Thousands of Abasoga flocked to Bugembe in Jinja under the theme “A Malaria-Free Busoga for Generations to Come.” The event came just weeks after the Kyabazinga and Inhebantu welcomed twin princes, a moment that many saw as a blessing for the kingdom.
The ceremony drew national leaders, including Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Minister for the Presidency Milly Babirye Babalanda. Ahead of the festivities, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba sent a congratulatory message to the Kyabazinga, delivered by Hon. Moses Magogo (MP, Budiope East) and Hon. David Kabanda (Kasambya County MP and Secretary General of the Patriotic League of Uganda).
Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa also joined the nation in celebration.
“I take this opportunity to wish His Majesty @KingNadiopeIV and the entire Obwa Kyabazinga bwa Busoga a joyous 11th Coronation Anniversary,” Tayebwa said. “His Majesty has been a champion of good agriculture, quality education, and improved health, all of which continue to transform the Busoga region.
I particularly thank him for dedicating this year’s coronation to the fight against malaria. Malaria remains one of Africa's deadliest diseases, especially for children under five, and we must redouble our efforts to combat it, particularly as scientists warn that climate change will make it even worse. Congratulations, Your Majesty. Congratulations to Busoga Kingdom.”
Born on November 1, 1988, Gabula’s story is one of triumph over adversity. He lost both parents early, endured financial hardship, and faced ridicule from peers. Yet, through education at Busoga College Mwiri, Kyambogo University, and Coventry University in the UK, he developed the resilience and leadership that would later define his reign.
Ascending the throne at only 25, Gabula inherited a kingdom divided by deep clan rifts. His message of “One Busoga” has since guided efforts to reconcile factions and promote unity. Under his stewardship, Busoga has seen growth in education, women’s cooperatives, access to clean water, and youth-led cultural and sporting initiatives, such as the Kyabazinga 7s rugby tournament.
Still, challenges remain. Poverty, teenage pregnancies, weak infrastructure, and land disputes continue to hold back progress. The Kyabazinga has used his platform to advocate for solutions, especially in health. This year’s malaria-focused theme underscores his commitment to mobilizing Busoga in the fight against one of Uganda’s most persistent killers.
For many Basoga, the 11th coronation anniversary was more than pomp and tradition. It was a reaffirmation that a kingdom once fractured is charting a future of unity, purpose, and service — with the Kyabazinga at its heart.
