President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presided over the coronation of His Royal Highness Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as the 15th Omukama of Tooro on September 29, 2026. The ceremony took place at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal, attracting thousands of Batooro and guests from across Uganda and beyond. This event marks a new era for the Tooro kingdom following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on August 27, 2026, after a 31-year reign.
The coronation ceremony followed a thanksgiving service at St John’s Cathedral, led by Bishop Reuben Kisembo. At the palace, royal drums that had been silenced during the mourning period were sounded again, and lion statues were unveiled, symbolizing the restoration of the monarchy. President Museveni paid tribute to the late King Oyo, commending him for his contribution to Tooro and Uganda. He expressed his sadness upon finding a letter written by King Oyo on June 15, 2026, just before his death.
President Museveni congratulated the new Omukama, recalling his previous career as a news anchor and editor. He emphasized his support for cultural institutions, citing their role in preserving aspects of society that may not be adequately addressed by the modern political system. The President highlighted the importance of indigenous languages, culture, and indigenous knowledge and science, areas where cultural institutions can complement the modern system.
The President explained that his position is rooted in Pan-Africanism while recognizing the importance of culture. He noted that the major challenge arose when hereditary leaders sought to retain political authority. President Museveni identified indigenous languages, culture, and indigenous knowledge and science as three areas where cultural institutions can complement the modern system. He cited the preservation of Ankole long-horned cattle as an example of traditional knowledge that should not be dismissed.
During his address, President Museveni warned against practices that could expose Ugandans to health risks, including the use of polythene materials in food preparation. He showcased wooden household products produced by Matongo Limited as an example of indigenous products, saying modern products had overshadowed some aspects of Uganda’s traditional culture. The President gifted the new Omukama 100 cows and blessed his reign.
Omukama Nyabongo I, in his maiden address, welcomed the people of Tooro and paid tribute to his predecessor, the late King Oyo. He thanked President Museveni for standing with Tooro throughout the transition and pledged an inclusive reign, promising to serve all people without discrimination while preserving the culture, traditions, and ways of life of the Batooro. The new Omukama outlined his vision for the kingdom, which includes promoting peace and wealth creation in partnership with religious leaders and elders.
Leaders present at the coronation hailed the peaceful transition, with Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, describing the event as a historic occasion for both Tooro and Uganda. The Omujwera Musuuga, Charles Kamurasi, welcomed President Museveni and thanked him for his consistent support. The coronation marks a significant milestone for the Tooro kingdom, with the new Omukama vowing to work closely with the central government to advance national development.
Key points
- President Museveni presided over the coronation of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as the 15th Omukama of Tooro, marking a new chapter for the kingdom.
- The coronation ceremony followed a thanksgiving service at St John’s Cathedral, led by Bishop Reuben Kisembo.
- Omukama Nyabongo I pledged an inclusive reign, promising to serve all people without discrimination while preserving the culture, traditions, and ways of life of the Batooro.
