Buganda Kingdom Standardizes Anthem After 90 Years of Mispronunciation

The Buganda Kingdom has undertaken a significant revision of its official anthem, a song that has been a cornerstone of its identity since its composition by the late Rev. Polycarp Kakooza in 1939. This move comes after nearly 90 years, prompted by persistent issues of mispronunciation, incorrect musical tones, and inconsistent renditions by various choirs and groups.

Katikkiro (Prime Minister) Charles Peter Mayiga announced the revision, emphasizing that the anthem is a vital symbol of Buganda’s heritage, values, and aspirations, not mere entertainment. He highlighted that the original composition spoke profoundly to the daily lives and future generations of Baganda, but its message had been diluted by inaccurate performances.

The process to standardize the anthem was initiated partly by the varied versions that emerged after the return of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. Some stanzas were being sung too slowly or incorrectly, weakening the anthem’s intended patriotic and strong message.

To address these discrepancies, a dedicated team of music experts, composers, and performers, led by Minister Noah Kiyimba, spent approximately five years scrutinizing the anthem’s performance across different platforms. The St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Church Choir of Lubaga Cathedral was chosen to record the official, revised audio rendition.

Minister Mayiga clarified that the revision’s goal was not to alter the composer’s original intent or message but to preserve its integrity. Specific protocols, directed by Kabaka Mutebi II, have also been established for its performance at state functions. The full five stanzas will be sung at major events like the Coronation and Kabaka’s birthday, while three stanzas will be used for other official gatherings attended by the Kabaka.

Kizito Mayambala, who led the technical review, confirmed that the focus was on rectifying tonal and pronunciation errors. “We have come up with the correct audio rendition, with the right pronunciation and musical notation, to ensure that the message of the anthem is clearly communicated,” he stated. Notable corrections include words like “Lyamanyibwanyo,” which was frequently mispronounced, and structural adjustments to phrases such as “Okwetorola Ensi” and “Balwaana nyoo Muntalo.” This revised version is intended to serve as an educational tool, standardizing the anthem’s delivery and protocol for all official functions.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)