Busoga's Royal Legacy Enters a New Chapter With the Birth of Prince Ezra Josiah

By Barasa Richard

JINJA, Uganda — The Busoga Kingdom has welcomed a new member of its royal family following the birth of Prince Nadiope Ezra Josiah, the third son of His Majesty the Kyabazinga of Busoga, William Gabula Nadiope IV, and Her Royal Highness the Inhebantu, Jovia Mutesi.

Prince Ezra Josiah was born on November 1, 2026, sharing his birthday with his father, the Kyabazinga, in a remarkable coincidence celebrated by the royal family and well-wishers.

The royal birth was formally announced on Thursday, November 5, by Prince Arnold Nadiope, the Kyabazinga's younger brother, during a press briefing at Igenge Royal Palace in Jinja City.

In a statement delivered on behalf of the royal family, the palace confirmed that both the Inhebantu and the newborn prince were in excellent health. The family also expressed gratitude to the people of Busoga and other well-wishers for their prayers, goodwill and messages of congratulations.

The Kyabazinga had earlier shared the news through his official X account before the formal palace announcement.

The arrival of Prince Ezra Josiah adds to the royal household, joining his twin elder brothers, Prince William Ethan Nadiope and Prince Arnold Eli Nadiope, who were born on August 27, 2025, in the United States.

Beyond the celebration surrounding his birth, the new prince's name carries historical significance within the Busoga royal family.

Speaking during the palace briefing, Prince Wilson Nadiope explained that the young prince was named after their illustrious grandfather, Josiah Nadiope, a respected historical figure remembered for being among the earliest educated members of the Busoga royal family.

Josiah Nadiope attended King's College Budo during the colonial period and is also remembered for his association with the historic Budhumbula Palace in Kamuli District.

The choice of name therefore connects the newborn prince to an important chapter in the kingdom's history, reflecting the royal family's desire to preserve family heritage and recognise figures whose contributions remain part of Busoga's historical identity.

Richard Mafumo, the Isabakungania (Head of the Clans Council) and Minister of Culture in Busoga Kingdom, described the birth as a symbol of continuity for the institution.

He observed that the arrival of the prince represents more than a family celebration, highlighting its significance for cultural heritage, community hope and unity within the Busoga tradition.

The announcement was made in the presence of several members of the royal family and kingdom officials, including Prince Richard Gabula, Prince Daniel Joshua Kitimbo, Minister of State for Finance Ivan Kiirya and Princess Grace Namuwaya from Kigulu Chiefdom.

The royal family also drew inspiration from Psalm 127:3, which describes children as a heritage and reward from God.

The birth of Prince Nadiope Ezra Josiah marks another memorable moment for the Busoga royal household, while the choice of his name brings renewed attention to the kingdom's historical figures and the importance of preserving its cultural legacy for future generations.