Itaaba Kyabanyoro is a very important cultural site the history of the Ankole kingdom. This spot is exactly where the very last king of the great Bachwezi empire, Wamala crafted the sacred Bagyendanwa royal drum from. This Uganda safari attraction has a lot of history.
The sacred Bagyendanwa royal drum is looked at as a source of power, dominance and the right to command. It is claimed that it is one of the greatest requirements for recognition of Ankole kings.
No Omugabe (King of Ankole) is recognized by the locals without the possession of this sacred drum. It is treasured no different from a person who has, blood in their veins and feelings of delight, sadness and despair in their hearts.
The most interesting bit of the Bagyendanwa and other royal drums is that they can beat themselves in case something bad has happened in the kingdom, could be an abomination, violations or discontent.
The drums can only stop beating until the main cause of the abomination is discovered, brought to light and dealt with by the kingdom officials who may decide to carry out some traditional rituals and occasions from any of their sacred places.
Itaaba Kyabanyoro is situated just a few kilometers from Mbarara town, along the Mbarara – Kabale road at a place called Kinoni Rwampara. In case you are visiting any of the south western Uganda tour attractions, you can ask your guide to pass by this cultural landmark for a visit.
