Prince Nyaika of Bunyoro laid to rest

Summary:

• Prince Samuel Nyaika Amooti of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, who died from diabetes, was laid to rest at Mparo royal tombs in Hoima City.

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Prince Samuel Nyaika Amooti, a member of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, passed away due to diabetes earlier this week. His funeral ceremony occurred yesterday at Mparo royal tombs in Hoima City, attracting hundreds of mourners from Bunyoro and neighboring kingdoms.

The 56-year-old prince succumbed to diabetes at Mengo Hospital in Kampala on Tuesday after several days of admission. Born to a different mother than the Omukama of Bunyoro, Dr. Solomon Gafabusa Iguru I, Prince Nyaika was laid to rest at Kyamongi village, approximately 10 km from Hoima City.

After speeches and tributes in Kyamongi village, Prince Nyaika’s body was transported to Mparo royal tombs in Hoima City for the final rites. Princess Joan Gafabusa, representing Nyaika’s siblings, fondly remembered him as a wise counselor, saying, “He would make us sit and listen to his advice whenever we went wrong. All the people would listen to his advice. His death has left a big gap in the kingdom and Babiito clan.”

Ms. Winyi Mabone, the mother of Prince Nyaika, expressed gratitude for the support her son received and thanked the Babiito clan for nurturing him. She revealed that the deceased prince is survived by three sons studying abroad, unable to attend their father’s burial.

Dr. John Lukwago, one of Prince Nyaika’s doctors, disclosed that the prince had been battling diabetes since 2018, leading to the amputation of one of his limbs due to the condition. Despite efforts to save his life, the situation worsened after an accident, ultimately resulting in a fatal outcome.

Chief Prince Owek Mugenyi Fred Ruchunya shared memories of Prince Nyaika, describing him as someone who valued honesty. “He would not hide anything from you; he would tell you directly,” remarked Chief Prince Ruchunya. Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister, Mr. Andrew Byakutaga, praised the late prince for his adept advisory skills.

Prince Nyaika’s educational journey included Magwa Primary School in Jinja, Iganga College, and Mwiri College, both in Jinja. He later graduated with a diploma in electrical engineering from Kyambogo.

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