Wamala Tombs
The Wamala tombs, which are located on the hill in Nabweru sub-county, Wakiso district, about 13 kilometres from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, are a reminder of the Buganda kingdom’s rich cultural legacy and regal past. Kabaka Suuna II, the 29th monarch of Buganda who ruled from 1832 until he died in 1856, is buried at this hallowed location. In addition to serving as a place of burial, the tombs serve as a hub for customary rites and events that uphold the legacy of the kingdom’s kings.
On the hill, there are small shiny rocks, just like stars in the moonlight. The small rocks are locally known as “Emunyenye” This is why the place was named Wamunyenye. The King had her mother in the neighbouring area, Kagoma (a small drum). In the early years, the drums were used to communicate. Whenever the king’s mother wanted to communicate with her son, she would hit the drum. Immediately, the king would send a servant to her mother in response, and communication between the two was effected. Thus, the place was named Kagoma as a result of the continuous communication (drumming) by the king’s mother.
Historical Significance
An important period in Buganda history was the reign of kabaka suuna II. He was the first monarch to allow outside influences to enter Buganda. The security and prosperity of the kingdom during his rule were facilitated by his leadership, which was marked by both power and strategic relationships
In keeping with the polygamous customs of the day, Suuna II had 148 women and fathered 218 children in his private life, which was equally noteworthy. He was the final monarch to be interred in his palace after passing away, a custom that highlighted the close ties between the monarch and the land. Moreover, he was the final king to have his jawbone removed after death, a ritual believed to preserve the king’s spirit, which was then placed in a royal shrine for ancestral communication.
Like many other historical sites in Uganda, there is a story behind the name Wamala Tombs. It is said that while Ssekabaka Ssuna was leaving his initial palace in Mulago (a suburb in Kampala central), he embarked on a search for a new palace to settle. He landed on this strategically located hill, he loved the views and the area in general and commanded his kinsmen to stop. In saying this, he remarked that “Wano Wamala”, which translates to “Here is enough or let’s stop here.”
From then on, the place was named Wamala, and the king constructed his palace in the very area, which happens to be his resting place.
Architecture
The shrine is built with traditional building materials like grass and reeds. It is thatched with some building materials, some of which are symbols of Buganda’s cultural heritage. You will see the reeds representing all the clans in the Buganda kingdom while you visit the shrine at Wamala Tombs.
Inside the tombs, visitors can find various artefacts, including primordial spears, shields, calabashes, and backcloths. A particularly striking feature is the ‘eternal forest’ display, symbolising the journey of the deceased king into the afterlife. These elements offer a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices that have been integral to Buganda’s royalty.
Cultural and Spiritual Importance
The Wamala Tombs hold profound cultural and spiritual significance for the Buganda Kingdom. They are not only a place of rest for the deceased kings but also a living centre for the kingdom’s spiritual life. Traditional ceremonies and rituals continue to be performed at the site, reinforcing the connection between the living and their ancestors. These practices ensure the perpetuation of Buganda’s cultural identity and the maintenance of its royal traditions.
Visitor’s experience
Wamala tombs provide visitors with diverse arrays of traditional Spears, drums, shields, royal artefacts and many more. The tombs are very accessible from Uganda’s capital, just about a 30-minute drive, and you can reach the tombs. The Wamala tombs have a very rich history and fascinating stories that entice you to visit the royal tombs. The shields and Spears are said to guard the bark cloth, which is believed to protect the forest where he went to live a new ending new life.
At the Wamala Tombs, you will learn about the coming of the Arabs in Uganda. You will also learn about the coming of Islam in Uganda. This marked the beginning of industrialisation in Uganda since most of the Arabs were major traders. Up to now, the area is dominated by Muslims.
Additionally, you will learn about the social life of Buganda kings, like the number of wives each king is supposed to marry. At Wamala Tombs, you will visit the graves of all the wives of King Ssuna II. You will get a chance to interact with his present wife since the Baganda do not believe that their kings die but rather disappear. Once the king disappears, it is mandatory to keep giving him wives from different clans in Buganda.
Conclusion
The Wamala Tombs are more than just a historical site; they are a symbol of the enduring legacy of the Buganda Kingdom. Through ongoing preservation efforts and continued cultural practices, the tombs remain a vital link to the past, offering insights into the traditions, beliefs, and history of one of Uganda’s most influential kingdoms. As such, they stand as a testament to the resilience and continuity of Buganda’s royal heritage.
