Rashid Kalema, also known as Kalema of Buganda, was the 33rd Kabaka of the Kingdom of Buganda, reigning from October 21, 1888, to October 5, 1889. He was the son of Kabaka Mukaabya Walugembe Muteesa I and Ndibuwakanyi from the Mamba clan.
Kalema’s rise to power was facilitated by the Muslim forces that deposed his elder brother, Kabaka Kiweewa Mutebi. During his reign, Kalema maintained his capital at Mengo Hill and married several wives, including Nabikukuzi, Sofia Kabakalongoosa, and Nakibuuka.
His children included notable figures such as Prince Kiweewa Zzimbe, Prince Edmond Alamanzaani Ndawula, and Prince Yozefu Musanje Walugembe, who served in World War I and was decorated with several medals.
Kalema’s reign was marked by turmoil and religious persecution. He was eventually forced to step down by British imperial forces and was offered an ultimatum: convert to Christianity or remain Muslim and lose the throne. Kalema chose Islam and was deposed.
