Woman who hid Kabaka Muteesa laid to rest

A sombre mood engulfed Residents of Nsambya Village, Sembabule District, Monday afternoon as mourners gathered to give Angelina Nabakooza, a woman who was much-admired for hiding the Kabaka at the height of the 1966 Buganda crisis, a befitting send off.

Nabakooza has been considered a heroine among the Baganda until her death. Having been born on February 19, 1912, Nabakooza celebrated her 110th birthday early this year.

During the requiem mass, sorrow and grief were evidently written on the faces of relatives, Buganda loyalists and government representatives.

Rev Fr John Paul Ntambazi of Sembabule Catholic Parish, who led the mass, said the deceased was very humble, jolly and above all loved his kingdom.

 “Nabakooza has been selfless and brave, that is why we are all here. I implore you to emulate her by being trustworthy to people as she did to Sir Edward Muteesa II,” he said.

Speaker after speaker applauded the deceased for her courage and noble qualities.

Buganda Katikkiro (Premier) Mr Charles Peter Mayinga, who was the chief mourner, said the deceased decided to protect her King without expecting any reward.

“People can be heroes or heroines in different ways. Nabakooza has been a true lover of the kingdom and a patriot, her name is deeply engraved in the history of Buganda and we will always remember her,” he said.

Mawogola North Member of Parliament, Ms Shartsi Kuteesa thanked the late for setting a good example by protecting the Kabaka as a woman and mother.

Nabakooza was born on February 19, 1912, in Buyinja Village in Kibinge Sub County, Bukomansimbi District and got married to the late Simon Kayongo and produced 12 children.

At age of 54, she decided to be brave and hid sir Edward Muteesa II who was being hunted by Obote’s soldiers.

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