FORT PORTAL — Newly crowned Omukama of Tooro Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I has pledged to unite the people of the kingdom, promote economic development, preserve its cultural heritage and work with government and other institutions to improve the welfare of his subjects.
Nyabongo pledged on Tuesday in his maiden address after he was crowned the 13th Omukama of Tooro at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal. He succeeds the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on August 27, 2026.
“The kingdom of Tooro belongs to the people and must work for the people of Tooro,” Nyabongo said.
He said his reign would be inclusive and would not discriminate against people on the basis of religion or other differences.
“The Constitution of Uganda bars traditional kingdoms from crossing into government affairs. Therefore, the Kingdom of Tooro must not segregate people based on religion or other aspects,” he said.
Nyabongo said the kingdom would work with the central government by guiding communities on government programmes aimed at development, income generation and reducing household poverty.
He also pledged to bring together people with different skills and expertise to help shape the future of the kingdom.
“I will bring together our people, especially those who have knowledge and skills in different fields, to brainstorm on how to take forward Tooro with God on our side,” he said.
The new Omukama said education and youth development would be among the priorities of his reign.
He pledged to encourage parents to keep their children in school and instil good behaviour in them, while also supporting young people who require further education.
“We shall ensure that our children who have finished university are employed and those who need further studies will be supported,” he said.
Nyabongo also pledged to work with religious leaders, elders and clans to promote peace and development, while strengthening relations with other traditional kingdoms.
“We shall work with other kingdoms just like our fathers and forefathers did,” he said.
He said the kingdom would also work with religious leaders, elders and clans of Tooro in advancing its programmes.
Environmental protection also featured prominently in his agenda, with Nyabongo calling for the preservation of forests, wetlands and rivers.
He further urged communities to raise children responsibly and avoid practices that could undermine their future.
The new King said cultural preservation would remain a central responsibility of the kingdom. “We have a great task of preserving our culture and traditions,” he said.
He urged the people of Tooro to support the kingdom as it begins the new reign. “The kingdom will encourage people to work together because togetherness is strength. Support the kingdom and the kingdom will support you,” he said.
Nyabongo concluded by opening Karuziika Palace to the people of Tooro and calling on them to participate in building the kingdom. “Karuziika is open, come let us build Tooro,” he said.
