President Yoweri Museveni is set to preside over the coronation and enthronement of Tooro’s new Omukama, Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal on September 29, 2026.
The confirmation was made on Tuesday by Minister of State for Gender and Culture and Mwenge South Member of Parliament, Hon. Mary Kuteesa Kamuli, who communicated the development to the Tooro Coronation Organising Committee.
According to the minister, Museveni has accepted an invitation to attend the ceremony as Chief Guest, adding a significant government presence to the formal installation of Nyabongo I.
The coronation date was previously announced by Omujwera Musuuga Charles Kamurasi, head of the Babiito Royal Clan, after the Tooro Kingdom Supreme Council endorsed Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as successor to the late King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on August 27, 2026.
The September 29 ceremony is expected to feature religious proceedings, traditional royal rituals and the formal enthronement of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.
The organising committee has indicated that the programme will begin with a church service at St John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal before proceeding to Karuziika Palace. Traditional activities are expected to begin on September 28, when the King-designate moves from Rwengoma Palace to Karuziika Palace as part of the enthronement rituals.
Preparations for the ceremony are intensifying, with the organising committee reportedly setting a budget of Shs925 million. Traditional leaders, government officials, political leaders, business representatives, members of academia and other dignitaries have also been invited.
Museveni’s expected attendance comes amid the continuing debate surrounding Tooro’s succession following King Oyo’s death. The September 29 event is expected to formally mark the beginning of Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I’s reign and bring together the kingdom’s traditional institutions and national leadership.
Related posts:
