By Dean Lubowa Saava
Kabaka Muteesa II’s historic meeting with Emperor Haile Selassie in 1964 at Bulange marked a significant moment in Ugandan history. This visit not only strengthened the friendship between the two leaders but also had a lasting impact on the infrastructure of Kampala.
As a result of this visit, the Kabaka’s roundabout on Kabaka Anjagala Road was redesigned to include a special drive-through for the Kabaka, adopting the Ethiopian norm where the king doesn’t go around a roundabout. This unique design feature was a testament to the cultural exchange and mutual respect between the two leaders.
Kabaka Muteesa II, also known as King Freddie, was a prominent figure in Ugandan politics, serving as the Kabaka of Buganda from 1939 to 1969 and the first President of Uganda from 1963 to 1966. His meeting with Emperor Haile Selassie, the last emperor of Ethiopia, highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between Uganda and Ethiopia during that era.
The redesigned roundabout stands as a lasting legacy of this historic meeting, symbolizing the enduring friendship and cultural exchange between Uganda and Ethiopia.
