The Head of the Ababiito Clan, Omujwera Prince Musuuga Charles Kayondo Kamurasi Akiiki has crowned Prince Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as the new king of Tooro after the sudden death of former King, Kabumba Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV.

The event that started with a traditional trek from Rwengoma Palace ended with a  mock battle as the king entered the Palace gates for the first time after he was announced as crown prince to seat on the throne and be crowned as king.

In the early morning hours of Tuesday, September 29th, 2026, the king crossed over to St. John’s Cathedral Church of Uganda in Fort Portal for service and then after joined his subjects and visitors for the coronation event at the Karuziika Palace, which was attended by the President of Uganda Yoweri Kaguta museveni, government officials, cultural leaders from various institutions, and religious leaders.

While addressing guests, the Chairperson Central Organizing Committee, Msgr Isaiah Mayombo thanked Musuuga for standing for the truth.

“When Tooro needed a leader in times of crisis,  Musuuga stood on his legs and steered Tooro Kingdom to where we are now, and as Tooro we are proud of him,” Msgr Mayombo said.

In his speech, Omujwera Musuuga thanked the President Museveni for the massive support rendered to Tooro Kingdom.

“On behalf of the people of Tooro, we welcome you and thanks for all the support you gave our son the late Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru when still alive and when he passed on. We also thank you for  restoring Tooro Kingdom and for coming to crown our new king,” Musuuga said.

Musuuga also thanked the people of Tooro for the massive support and love shown to the new king and promised that all people of Tooro will stand and support the king in all endeavors.

“As the head of the Babiito clan I promise you that all Tooro is behind you and we shall work together to take Tooro Kingdom forward,” Musuuga pledged.

King Nyabongo I who is a son to the late Prince Christopher Kijanangoma is a grandson to the late king George David Kamurasi Rikiidi III and a cousin to the late king Oyo who passed on at the age of 34 in August 2026. With the crowning of King Nyabongo I as the new king of Tooro it means that he becomes the 13th King of Tooro Kingdom and ensures continuity of the cultural institution.