Long ago, in the beautiful land of Uganda, there lived a man named Nagamba. He was a cheerful man with a smile that could brighten anyone’s day. However, he was also famously absent-minded as a chicken trying to remember where it laid its eggs. His friends joked that if his head wasn’t attached, he would probably forget it somewhere.
Nagamba lived in a small village surrounded by beautiful trees and fertile soils called Nakaseke, where life was simple and the community was close-knit. He spent his days tending to his banana plantation and helping his neighbors with various tasks. Despite his forgetfulness, everyone loved Nagamba for his kind heart and infectious laughter.
One weekend, Nagamba decided it was time to find a wife. He traveled to a nearby village called Wobulenzi and met a beautiful young woman named Kyate. She was known for her cooking skills and her gentle nature. Nagamba was smitten and soon asked her to marry him. Kyate agreed, and they set a date for the wedding.
The wedding day was a grand affair. The whole village turned out to celebrate. Women in colorful gomesis carried baskets of food, while men drummed and danced. The air was filled with the aroma of traditional dishes like matoke, luwombo, and roasted goat. Children played games like Kwepena and Dulu, their laughter adding to the festive atmosphere.
After the ceremony, it was time for Nagamba and Kyate to go to their new home. As they walked, they passed through the village of Bukolwa, where one of Nagamba’s friends lived. “Wait here, my sweet cassava,” Nagamba said to Kyate, “I’ll fetch us a drink to cool our throats.”
Nagamba headed to his friend’s house, where he found a lively party. There were people dancing the Kiganda dance, singing traditional songs, and enjoying the feast. Nagamba, being Nagamba, soon forgot all about Kyate waiting under the mango tree. He joined the celebration, chatting and laughing with old friends.
As the sun set and the stars began to twinkle, Nagamba was still at the party. He enjoyed some roasted maize and watched a performance of traditional storytelling. It wasn’t until the first light of dawn that Nagamba suddenly remembered his bride. “Oh my goodness gracious me!” he exclaimed, “I completely forgot! My bride is waiting for that drink!”
Nagamba and his friends rushed to find Kyate. But by then, she had grown tired of waiting. She had packed up her things and returned to her father’s house in Wobulenzi. When Nagamba arrived and begged her to come back, she shook her head and said, “No way, sebo!”
From that day on, Nagamba remained a bachelor. In Uganda, whenever someone forgets their socks or their keys, people say, “Be careful, or you’ll end up like Nagamba, the absent-minded groom!” And everyone has a good laugh, except maybe Nagamba. But he never forgot to smile, even if he forgot everything else. His story became a lesson for all, reminding everyone of the importance of remembering what truly matters.
