By Samuel Mwesigwa 1 Sept. 2025Kamuli — Busoga Kingdom has been thrown into celebration after the official unveiling of twin princes at Budhumbula Palace. His Majesty Kyabazinga William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV and Her Royal Highness Inhebantu Jovia Mutesi presented their sons — Prince William Ethan Nadiope and Prince Arnold Eli Nadiope — born on 27th August 2025, in what many have described as a rare and historic royal blessing.
The news has drawn nationwide excitement, with messages of congratulations flowing from royal chiefs, Busoga Kingdom ministers, political leaders, and the central government. For many Basoga, the birth of the twin heirs is not only a family blessing but also a profound symbol of continuity and stability for the throne.
Prime Minister Confirms the Development
Speaking to this newspaper, the Katuukilo of Busoga (Prime Minister), Owek. Dr. Joseph Muvawala Nsekere, confirmed the joyous news and called on all Basoga to join in united celebration.
“This is a memorable blessing to His Majesty and the people of Busoga. It is a moment of renewal and assurance that the future of the throne is secure. Generations will forever look back on this milestone with pride,” he said.
Dr. Muvawala further disclosed that at the forthcoming 11th Coronation Anniversary of the Kyabazinga, set for 13th September 2025, the Kingdom has officially invited the President of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, to grace the occasion as Chief Guest.
“The President played a fundamental role in enthroning His Majesty 11 years ago, and his attendance this year will symbolize both loyalty to tradition and national recognition of Busoga’s heritage,” he added.
A Royal Lineage of Twins
The Isabalangira of Bugabula, Omulangira Woira Kitimbo, while congratulating the royal family, noted that twin births are not entirely new to the Gabula lineage.
“His Majesty William Wilberforce, the grandfather of the reigning Kyabazinga, fathered two pairs of twins, though they were all girls. This time it is an extraordinary blessing that the Kingdom has been gifted with boys,” he remarked, adding that this year also coincides with 25 years of Kyabazinga Gabula’s reign as Chief of Bugabula.
Speaker of the Lukiiko Clarifies Succession
The Speaker of the Busoga Lukiiko, Rt. Hon. George Mutyabule, expressed gratitude for the safe delivery and prayed for the princes’ good health. On the sensitive question of succession, he offered clarity based on Busoga tradition.
“When twins are born, the heir is determined by the one who arrives first. In this case, it is the Waiswa who carries the traditional right,” he explained.
He further commended the parents of Inhebantu Jovia Mutesi and the medical team for ensuring a smooth and successful delivery.
Upcoming Celebrations
Preparations are already underway for Gabula Day, scheduled for 9th September 2025, ahead of the coronation anniversary. According to Eng. Patrick Batumbya, who chairs the organizing committee, this year’s theme will be “Preserving the Environment.”
“We are mobilizing all subjects of the Kingdom and well-wishers to embrace the conservation campaign. We also recognize the efforts of former Kamuli District Chairperson, Hon. Salamu Musumba, who pioneered Busoga’s greening initiative,” he said.
The twin blessing is expected to give both Gabula Day and the coronation anniversary a heightened sense of significance, uniting the Kingdom in joy and celebration.
National and Cultural Symbolism
The birth of twin princes has been widely hailed as a divine signal of continuity and prosperity. In a region that treasures royal traditions, many see this as God’s favor not only upon the royal family but upon the Kingdom of Busoga as a whole.
As preparations continue for the coronation festivities, all eyes now turn to Budhumbula Palace, the home of the Kyabazinga, where the young princes will be nurtured.
For Uganda at large, this historic event underscores the enduring role of cultural institutions in strengthening unity, identity, and heritage.
Key Facts about the Royal Twins
- Royal Birth: Twin princes, William Ethan Nadiope & Arnold Eli Nadiope, born 27th August 2025
- Parents: HM Kyabazinga Gabula Nadiope IV & HRH Inhebantu Jovia Mutesi
- Historical Note: Last royal twins born to Gabula’s grandfather, though female
- Upcoming Events:
- Gabula Day: 9th September 2025
- 11th Coronation Anniversary: 13th September 2025
A Kingdom Rejoices
From the royal palace to the remotest villages, Busoga celebrates not only the safe arrival of its future princes but also a new chapter in the Kingdom’s rich heritage.
“Busoga Okwisania — The Kingdom Rejoices.”
