The Buganda Kingdom is the largest traditional kingdom in Uganda, with deep cultural and historical roots dating back centuries. Its monarch, known as the Kabaka, is a central figure in the cultural identity of the Baganda people and remains widely respected both within the kingdom and across Uganda. The Kabaka’s official residence is Twekobe, located inside Lubiri Palace on Mengo Hill in Kampala a site of enormous symbolic and cultural significance.
Connecting Lubiri to Bulange (the administrative seat of the Buganda Kingdom) is a ceremonial avenue known as the Royal Mile, historically a straight and sacred road the Kabaka takes on state and cultural occasions. According to tradition, this route symbolizes the Kabaka’s direct authority and connection with his people, and is revered as part of the kingdom’s heritage.
Sacred Intersections and Cultural Protocol
Within Buganda, there are special sites including ceremonial intersections and enclosures that are more than mere road junctions; they carry cultural and historical weight. These pathways are usually only opened or traversed under specific traditional circumstances, such as when the Kabaka is traveling to perform official cultural duties, including presiding over major kingdom events. On other days, travel through these routes is regulated so as to respect their solemnity and avoid disrupting the daily movement of the public.
This adherence to custom reflects centuries-old protocols that emphasize reverence for the monarch’s role, and the belief in his spiritual and judicial authority among the Baganda people.
Recent Incident Blockade, Diversion and Public Reaction
In mid-December 2025, the Kabaka of Buganda’s convoy was caught up in an unexpected and deeply controversial security blockade near Bulange, Mengo, following a visit by National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi Sentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, who had gone to meet the Katikkiro of Buganda.
During the visit, security operatives descended heavily on the area, blocking roads, conducting arrests, and allegedly harassing NUP leaders and supporters. In the process, the Kabaka’s convoy was also blocked, forcing a diversion on a route traditionally reserved for the monarch a development widely viewed as shameful, disrespectful, and culturally insensitive.
The incident sparked strong criticism from cultural custodians, political leaders, and members of the public, who questioned how state security operations could interfere with the movement of the Buganda monarch within his own cultural domain. Security agencies, including the police and military, later stated that the road closures were part of traffic management and security measures for a political engagement.
However, critics argue that no political activity should override Buganda’s cultural protocols, especially when it results in obstructing the Kabaka’s passage along his royal route. The episode has since reignited debate about respect for traditional institutions, the balance between state security operations and cultural authority, and the growing tension between politics and heritage in Uganda.
The blockade reportedly involved roads traditionally used as part of the royal route, including the Kabaka Anjagala Road. As a result, the Kabaka’s convoy was forced to divert, temporarily blocking his passage and preventing the customary straight transit along this symbolic route.
Cultural Impact and Criticism
This event sparked commentary from various leaders:
Buganda cultural institutions reiterated the historic importance of the royal routes and lamented the disruption of a traditional practice seen as a sign of authority and continuity.
Several public figures criticized the security operation as insensitive to Buganda cultural norms and undermining the dignity of the monarchy.
Opinions expressed by commentators suggested that forcing a diversion on such a route, especially one with traditional pet names like “Lukoma Nantawetwa” symbolizing a direct, unwavering path was inappropriate and disrespectful given the Kingdom’s heritage and the Kabaka’s status.
Supporters of the Kabaka and culture advocates argued that secular security protocols should respect cultural symbols and functioning, especially in a space as significant as the Buganda royal precinct.
The incident took place against a backdrop of heightened political activity in Kampala and across Uganda, with increased security deployments accompanying political events and campaigns. While authorities frame such measures as necessary for public order, cultural and civic voices have raised concerns about how these intersect with respect for traditional institutions.
The Kabaka’s Role in Contemporary Uganda
Despite changes in Uganda’s political landscape, the Kabaka of Buganda remains a symbolic and cultural leader for millions. His involvement in social, cultural, and even indirectly community development initiatives ensures that the kingdom’s traditions continue to influence national identity and discourse.
The recent blockade incident has reignited broader conversations about how traditional authority and modern state mechanisms interact particularly when security and cultural protocol intersect in shared public spaces.
