Tooro Kingdom prepares to enthrone Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I at Karuziika Palace.

Tooro Kingdom is preparing to enthrone Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as Omukama at Karuziika Palace on September 29, following the death and burial of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru IV. Fort Portal has been decorated for the occasion, while the king-designate completes traditional preparations and is expected to travel from Rwengoma Palace to Karuziika. The ceremony, known as Okujuumura Engoma, will use expressions from the Tooro palace’s traditional language to mark the king’s appearance and accession. A viral screenshot claiming Nyabongo I had declined the throne is fake: it came from a parody account, and his spokesperson said he had not made the post.
The ruling Babiito clan leader, Musuuga Charles Kamurasi, declared Kijanangoma the successor on September 9, 2026; the Tooro Kingdom council later confirmed him as the next king.
Cultural scholar Rtd Maj David Rusa said Okujuumura Engoma is a one-time accession rite held after a king’s death; later observances are coronation anniversaries. He added that the ceremony will use kingship-specific expressions rather than necessarily being conducted continuously in Rutooro.
The accession journey is expected to begin around midnight on September 28 at Rwengoma Palace. Rusa described the move to Karuziika as symbolizing the king-designate’s entry into public life, where his kingship will be recognized through traditional rites.
Before the final preparations at Rwengoma, Nyabongo I had visited the Karambi Royal Tombs to perform traditional rituals. A convoy carrying him through Fort Portal drew crowds and prompted royal dancing, according to the report.
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