Fort Portal City is taking on a festive appearance ahead of Tuesday's ceremony, with traditional arches locally known as 'akakomo' erected at several entry points into the city. The arches, made from traditional royal reeds and thatched with grass, have been put up in Kisenyi, Harubaho, Mpanga, and Kachwamba. This is a traditional expression of happiness and joy, signifying the kingdom's welcome to its new traditional ruler.
Zebidayo Mwesige, a former Tooro Kingdom Minister of Culture, explained that the arches are traditionally constructed to welcome important visitors to an area. He noted that the erection of the arches is a significant aspect of the kingdom's culture and is a way of showing respect to the new king. The arches are a symbol of the kingdom's rich cultural heritage.
The festive mood was heightened on Sunday when traditional dancers from the Home of Talents Cultural Troupe took over the main roundabout, entertaining residents and visitors. The troupe performed cultural songs, known as orunyege, to get people in the coronation mood. Rodgers Ayesiga, the troupe leader, said the group had organized the performances as an activation exercise to encourage people to embrace the coronation.
Residents of Fort Portal are excited about the coronation and are looking forward to the historic ceremony. Charles Balinda, a resident, expressed his happiness that the kingdom was getting a new king and hoped the new reign would revive the kingdom and contribute to its development. He noted that people's involvement in kingdom activities during the preparations was a positive sign.
Hindu Mugisa, a resident, said the mood surrounding this coronation is different from previous coronation anniversaries. Although residents are still hurt by the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, they are also happy that the kingdom is preparing to welcome another ruler. Immaculate Kabarokole is excited because this will be her first opportunity to witness a coronation in her lifetime.
The excitement in the City increased when Omukama Nyabongo passed through Fort Portal and waved to residents who had gathered along the streets. The coronation will take place on September 29, beginning with a coronation service at St John's Cathedral in Fort Portal before the main ceremony at Karuziika Palace. President Yoweri Museveni is expected to be the chief guest at the ceremony.
Residents and visitors are looking forward to the event, which is expected to showcase and appreciate Tooro culture. Anita Neema said the decorations and activities in the city show that people are prepared and excited about the cultural event. The coronation is seen as a source of comfort for the kingdom after a month of mourning Oyo.
Key points
- The coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I is set to take place on September 29 at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal.
- Traditional arches have been erected at several entry points into Fort Portal City to welcome the new king.
- President Yoweri Museveni is expected to be the chief guest at the coronation ceremony.
