The organising committee for the coronation of Tooro's new king, Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, has initiated a Shs 925 million fundraising campaign to cover expenses for the upcoming ceremony on September 29. Msgr Isaiah Mayombo, chairperson of the organising committee, appealed to the people of Tooro, friends of the kingdom, and well-wishers to contribute generously. Preparations for the coronation are reportedly progressing smoothly.
An account has been opened at Centenary Bank to receive contributions towards the ceremony, and members of the public can also make contributions through mobile money, according to Alex Ruhunda, head of the finance committee. This move aims to facilitate easy donations from various stakeholders. The committee is optimistic about meeting the fundraising target to ensure a successful coronation ceremony.
The coronation rituals will begin on the night of September 28, when Nyabongo will leave Rwengoma Palace accompanied by a procession and proceed to Karuziika Palace. The procession will pass through Mugabante, the main gate of the palace. According to Mayombo, the king will engage in a traditional mock battle at the entrance of the palace, where he is expected to emerge victorious before entering the palace and taking his seat on the throne.
President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend the coronation as the chief guest, and invitations have been extended to traditional leaders from Uganda and other countries, political leaders, members of the business community, academia, and the general public. Richard Rwabuhinga, a member of the organising committee, confirmed that the event will be attended by a diverse group of dignitaries.
Nyabongo was selected by the Babiito ruling clan as the successor to the late Oyo Nyimba Kabamba, who died in August at the age of 34. The selection process was carried out in accordance with the kingdom's traditions and customs. The new king's coronation is expected to be a grand ceremony, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom.
The main programme on September 29 will begin with a church service at St John's Cathedral in Fort Portal, followed by the coronation ceremony at Karuziika Palace. Various traditional rituals will be performed during the ceremony, including the turning upright of the royal drums that were turned upside down following the death of the previous king.
The coronation committee is working tirelessly to ensure that the event is successful, and the fundraising drive is a crucial part of the preparations. With the support of the people of Tooro and well-wishers, the committee is confident that the target will be met, and the coronation ceremony will be a memorable one.
Key points
- The coronation committee has launched a Shs 925 million fundraising drive to meet expenses for the September 29 ceremony.
- President Yoweri Museveni is expected to attend the coronation as the chief guest.
- The coronation rituals will begin on the night of September 28, with a procession from Rwengoma Palace to Karuziika Palace.
