New King for Tooro: Prince Nyabongo to be crowned September 29
By Emmanuel Jumaah
FORT PORTAL, UGANDA - A new chapter in the history of the Tooro Kingdom is set to begin on September 29, 2026, when Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo 1 is expected to be crowned and enthroned as the new Omukama of Tooro.
The date was announced by Omusuuga Charles Kamurasi, as preparations for the royal ceremony get underway.
Nyabongo I was selected to succeed the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on August 27, 2026, bringing to an end a reign that had lasted for decades.
The upcoming coronation is expected to be held at Karuziika Royal Palace in Fort Portal, the traditional seat of the Tooro monarchy.
The announcement follows the endorsement of Nyabongo I by the Tooro Kingdom Supreme Council and comes after the Babiito Royal Clan selected him through the kingdom's traditional succession process.
The transition, however, has not been without controversy. Questions have been raised by some members of the royal family over the succession, including claims concerning the wishes of the late king and who should inherit the throne.
Despite the disagreements surrounding the succession, preparations for the September 29 ceremony are moving forward.
For the people of Tooro, the coronation will be more than a royal ceremony. It will mark the beginning of a new reign and a significant moment for a kingdom whose cultural institution remains deeply connected to the identity and heritage of the people of the Tooro region.
As the date approaches, attention is now turning to the preparations, traditional rituals, and dignitaries expected to attend the historic occasion.
The eyes of Tooro will be on Fort Portal on September 29 as Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo. I take the next step toward the Tooro throne.
