In a colorful ceremony filled with cultural pride, the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, praised Prince Edward Fredrick Walugembe for writing a book that calls Ugandans back to the values of patriotism and national unity. The book launch at Pope Paul Memorial Hotel in Ndeebe became more than just a literary event – it turned into a celebration of Uganda’s identity and a call to action for its citizens.

The Kabaka’s message, delivered by Prince Nakibinge Jjuuko Mulyazaawo and signed by private secretary Douglas Mukiibi, recognized Prince Walugembe’s deep research and commitment to this important cause. “I want to thank Prince Edward Fredrick Walugembe for authoring this book, and for the expertise and time you dedicated to researching this important subject,” read the Kabaka’s special message. The king expressed confidence that the book would inspire many Ugandans to love their country more deeply.

Titled Patriotism: A Core Principle to National Development, the book serves a dual purpose – as both an educational tool and one of the special “amakula” (gifts) marking the Kabaka’s 70th birthday celebrations. The launch brought together royals, cultural leaders, and distinguished guests in a show of support for the book’s timely message.

Buganda’s Katikkiro (Prime Minister), Charles Peter Mayiga, stood before the gathered guests to commend Prince Walugembe’s work in promoting national unity. “This book is essential for championing national unity and responsibility,” Mayiga stated, thanking the prince for his wisdom and dedicated efforts. His words echoed through the hall, reinforcing the book’s central message about Ugandans working together for their country’s future.

Among the notable attendees was Dr. Victoria Ssekitooleko, former Minister of Agriculture, who used the occasion to call upon Ugandans – especially the youth – to tell positive stories about their nation. She emphasized the crucial need to document Uganda’s heritage so future generations could learn from it and take pride in their roots.

In an exclusive interview, Prince Walugembe shared what moved him to write this important book. He explained how watching young people become increasingly disconnected from national values, especially on social media platforms, stirred him to action. “Many youth today seem disengaged from our national values,” the prince observed. “Through this book, I hope to reignite a sense of pride, responsibility, and patriotism in every Ugandan.” His words carried the weight of both royal duty and genuine concern for his country’s future.

Guests at the event didn’t hold back their praise for the prince’s work. Many described the book as not just informative but perfectly timed for Uganda’s current needs. Several speakers encouraged young people across the nation to follow Prince Walugembe’s example and take active roles in shaping Uganda’s destiny. The atmosphere buzzed with discussions about how to bring the book’s lessons into schools, communities, and homes nationwide.

The book itself represents more than just words on paper – it stands as a bridge connecting Uganda’s proud past to its promising future. By focusing on patriotism as the foundation for national development, Prince Walugembe tackles one of the most pressing issues facing modern Uganda: how to maintain national unity and purpose in changing times.

As guests mingled after the formal program, conversations kept returning to how the book’s message could reach every corner of Uganda. Some suggested school reading programs, others proposed community discussions, but all agreed the timing was perfect for such an important national conversation. The event became more than a book launch – it transformed into a rallying point for Ugandans committed to building a stronger nation.

For Prince Walugembe, the warm reception confirmed that his message resonated deeply with his fellow citizens. The royal author moved through the crowd, signing copies and engaging in thoughtful discussions about how to implement the book’s ideas in practical ways. His visible passion for the subject reminded everyone present that patriotism isn’t just an abstract concept – it’s a daily commitment to one’s country and fellow citizens.

As the celebration wound down, guests left with more than just signed copies – they carried home a renewed sense of purpose. The Kabaka’s endorsement, combined with the thoughtful content of the book itself, created a powerful moment in Uganda’s cultural life. Patriotism: A Core Principle to National Development now begins its journey into the hands and hearts of Ugandans everywhere, carrying the potential to shape the nation’s future one reader at a time.

The event successfully blended royal tradition with modern concerns, showing how Uganda’s cultural heritage can guide its path forward. In honoring both the Kabaka’s birthday and the values that sustain nations, Prince Walugembe’s book may well become a turning point in how Ugandans see themselves and their role in building their country. As the last guests departed, the sense of possibility hung in the air as tangible as the books they carried – a reminder that sometimes, the right words at the right time can inspire a nation.