Tooro witnesses royal procession ahead of Nyabongo I coronation

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Excitement swept through Tooro as the king-in-waiting Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I prepared to be crowned on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

On Monday, he began his journey from Karuziika Palace to Rwengoma Palace ahead of an overnight traditional procession that culminated in his return to the royal seat.

At about 5:00 pm, Nyabongo left Karuziika Palace in a convoy, sending hundreds of residents lining the streets into celebration.

As the convoy made its way through the tourism city, people surged towards the roadside to catch a glimpse of their new king.

Some subjects dropped to the ground, lying on their bellies as a traditional gesture of respect, while others waved and cheered as the royal motorcade passed.

Dressed for the occasion, he was at one point prompted to step out of his official vehicle and wave to the enthusiastic crowds. He did so amid a tight security ring as the excitement around him grew.

The journey to Rwengoma Palace, about three kilometres from Karuziika, is part of the traditional transition rituals marking the beginning of Nyabongo I's reign following the death of his predecessor, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, on August 27.

The most dramatic part of the transition happened later in the night, when Prince Kijanangoma left Rwengoma at about 10:00 pm and walked toward Karuziika Palace. By tradition, he was expected to arrive at Karuziika at 3:00 am.

Many people accompanied him through Fort Portal, many carrying reed torches.

At Mugabante, the main entrance to Karuziika, the procession encountered a traditional mock battle symbolising the transfer of authority.

For the royal guards, known as Baduma, the night was not simply a procession.

Julius Twikirize, one of the royal guards, said the king must traditionally demonstrate his worth through a mock fight before he is formally enthroned.

The king-in-waiting was accompanied by nine royal guards, with another guard serving as a substitute.

As the royal procession drew crowds into the streets, activity inside and around Karuziika Palace was equally intense.

Last-minute preparations

Cattle were being prepared for the first meal to be served to the king's subjects and dignitaries.

Ali Sulaiman, one of those who slaughtered cattle behind the palace on Monday, said he had already slaughtered 15 bulls and had another 15 to go.

Around the palace, workers and volunteers were raising tents to provide shelter for the thousands expected to attend the celebrations.

Students from different schools had also joined the preparations, eager to witness an important moment in Tooro's history.

Sound technicians tested speakers and public-address systems from different parts of the palace grounds.

The kingdom expects thousands of people to attend the coronation and luncheon on Tuesday.

The official programme indicates that the public ceremony will begin in the morning, followed by the formal crowning of Nyabongo I at Karuziika Palace.

Security around Karuziika Palace was visibly tight, with personnel from the Special Forces Command (SFC) and other security agencies deployed at strategic points.

Men in uniform and plain clothes were stationed at several locations, some carrying firearms, as preparations continued for the arrival of President Yoweri Museveni, who is expected to attend the coronation.