Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I Ascends Tooro Throne in Traditional Ceremony

Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I has been installed as the new Omukama of Tooro, following a comprehensive series of traditional ceremonies at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City.

The installation process began with an overnight procession that commenced at Rwengoma Palace on Monday evening. Nyabongo, accompanied by thousands of his subjects, embarked on a nearly three-kilometer journey through Fort Portal City, guided by the flickering light of traditional reed lamps.

Participants chanted and expressed their praise for the incoming king throughout the night. Kingdom officials noted that women were excluded from this specific overnight trek as part of the ancient customs, though they were permitted to attend subsequent public events, including a church service and the coronation.

Upon reaching Karuziika Palace around 3 am, Nyabongo participated in a symbolic mock battle at the palace’s main entrance, Mugabante. This ritual involved a confrontation with an army led by Musuuga Charles Kamurasi, representing the new king’s assertion of his royal seat, and also included a symbolic fight with a bull that was eventually subdued.

Emerging victorious, Nyabongo proceeded into the palace for private ceremonies with royal ritualists. Key among these was the presentation of the royal drums, including the principal drum, ‘Butwarane,’ which was sounded nine times, eliciting cheers from the crowds gathered outside and signifying the formal transfer of power.

Nyabongo was then presented with other royal regalia, such as spears and a shield, completing his traditional installation. The ceremonies also involved restoring royal artifacts, like drums and regalia, which had been turned upside down following the passing of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/edward-rukidi-nyabongo-installed-as-new-omukama-of-tooro