Recently Brian’s tribe experienced a cultural loss. In this newsletter we would like to share with you a bit of the history and about what happened.
Brian and his family are from a tribe called Buganda. Buganda is one of the largest and most influential tribes in Uganda. Kampala, the capital of Uganda is located right in the middle of Buganda territory. Brian’s family and ancestors have a close history with the royal family. Many of the Kabakas (kings) have come from Brian’s clan, the Mmamba s. Throughout the reign of many different kings in their history the Kanyike family were the grounds keepers and palace gardeners for the Kabaka.
This was considered a very honorable position and was rewarded with much land throughout the kingdom. The Kanyike family is very proud of their culture and their heritage. On March 15th at approximately 8:30pm the most historical site of their tribe was burned maliciously by arsons. The Kasubi Tombs were established in 1881 and housed the remains of 4 former Kings. The first kabaka to be buried there was Muteesa1, the 35th king of Buganda.
He was succeeded by Mwanga 2. After Mwanga 2’s death and burial Muteesa 1’s son, Daudi Chwa succeeded him in power then was buried at the tombs in 1939. He was succeeded by his son Edward who when Uganda gained its independence from the British, became the first president. He was buried at the Tombs in 1971.The Tombs were declared a world heritage site in 2001. Photo: Kasubi Tombs
Since that time it has drawn many tourists who are interested in Uganda’s history. Photo:
In the days following the burning of the Royal Tombs Kampala was filled with tension and riots due to uncertainty and grief.
The Buganda did not and still do not know who committed this crime. As tensions calmed down the Buganda decreed a week of mourning. Some very traditional people wore only bark cloth which is traditional burial clothes and closely associated with or symbolic of death. Other Buganda’s chose to where Long white robes or all black. Those who held jobs that required them to wear a uniform or suit wore armbands made from bark cloth to show their mourning. Photo: The burning of the Royal Tombs Kampala
On the last day of mourning the current Kabaka, Mwenda Mutebi 2 visited the tombs to show his respects and to comfort the people of his kingdom.
Hundreds, if not thousands, came to the tombs to participate in the final day of mourning. It turned out to be a very emotional day and even the Kabaka was moved to tears. Traditionally this is unheard of as the Kabaka is never supposed to cry.
Please pray for the people of Brian’s tribe as they look to the future now that their past has been burned. Pray that there would be no more violence or riots as some seek vengeance. Pray that the police would catch who did this. Photo: Mourners
We are very thankful for your continuous prayer and support.
In Him,
Brian and Jill Kanyike
Email: jillwiencke@gmail.com
Photo: Mourners in Bark Cloth
