President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called on traditional leaders to champion the preservation of African heritage, indigenous dialects, and cultural identity while rallying the people of Tooro to unite behind their newly crowned monarch.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, while attending and addressing the coronation of the 13th Omukama of Tooro, His Majesty Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, at Karuziika Royal Palace in Fort Portal City.
Congratulating King Edward upon his enthronement, President Museveni announced a royal gift of 100 head of cattle to support the palace and cement the cordial partnership between the central government and the kingdom.
Reflecting on the king's professional background in media, President Museveni commended the monarch's eloquence and public communication experience, expressing confidence that his disciplined career as an anchor will serve the kingdom well.
"I have been watching the Omukama on TV reading news; he’s a good news reader in English, and I’m sure he will do a good job as Omukama," President Museveni noted, commending the King’s articulate public persona.
Prior to ascending the throne, King Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, formerly known as Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma, served for years as a senior journalist, prime-time television news anchor, and editor with the national broadcaster, Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC TV), having earlier worked with Rwanda Television (RTV).
President Museveni underscored the constitutional remit and historical necessity of traditional institutions, urging cultural leaders to focus on language preservation, moral upbringing, and customs that guard African societies against cultural erosion.
He cautioned against the neglect of native languages, reminding the assembly that indigenous tongues carry vital wisdom, philosophical depth, and identity that cannot be replaced by foreign languages.
The President also addressed the administrative frictions that preceded the coronation, touching upon communications surrounding the succession and the registered will of the late monarch.
He advised the royal family and clan custodians to maintain harmony, adhere to established institutional mechanisms, and direct their collective focus toward community development and wealth creation.
Context of the Coronation
The coronation ceremony marks the culmination of traditional succession rites following the sudden passing of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on August 27, 2026, in Dallas, Texas, and was laid to rest at the Karambi Royal Tombs on September 12.
Following King Oyo’s demise, the Babiito Royal Clan Succession Committee, headed by the Musuuga (head of the royal clan), Charles Kayondo Kamurasi, selected Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as the successor.
The decision was subsequently ratified by the Tooro Kingdom Supreme Council (Orukurato rw’Obukama bwa Tooro), paving the way for Tuesday's traditional coronation rituals, royal drum ceremonies, and public enthronement at Karuziika Palace.
