Fort Portal City — The Tooro Kingdom on Friday celebrated the 30th Coronation Anniversary of Rukirabasaija Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, with His Majesty using the occasion to unveil an ambitious plan for health, youth empowerment, ICT, agriculture, tourism, and land reform in the kingdom.
Speaking at the Karuzika Royal Palace in Fort Portal Tourism City, King Oyo expressed gratitude to the people of Tooro, his mother Queen Best Kemigisa, and President Yoweri Museveni for their support throughout his reign.
“Looking back since I took the throne, it wouldn’t have been possible without the grace of God,” King Oyo said. “I made history here at home and internationally for becoming king at such a young age, and I thank my mother for raising me and guiding me all these years. I also thank President Museveni for supporting me throughout my reign.”
The King emphasised that good leadership remains central to Tooro’s progress. “Good leadership is the backbone of peace and prosperity,” he said, urging aspiring leaders to be intentional so people can elect the right candidates.
A 25-Year Vision for Tooro
King Oyo outlined a 25-year development plan that will transform key sectors in the kingdom. He announced plans for a youth skills centre in every sub-county, an ICT Centre under the King Oyo Foundation, and the establishment of demonstration farms to promote modern agriculture and livestock farming.
“We want our youth to acquire practical skills to transform their lives,” he said.
On land issues, the King appealed to Parliament for support in securing land titles for his people, stressing that the era of illegal evictions must end.
“Our people must work with the kingdom land board to get land titles. No more evicting people from their land,” he emphasised.
The King also pledged to strengthen tourism, citing initiatives such as Ekyoto Ha Mpango, launched to showcase Tooro’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. He thanked the Ministry of Tourism, Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for their support in boosting tourism across the region.
Leaders Pledge Support
Representing President Museveni, Speaker of Parliament Anita Among congratulated King Oyo on his 30-year reign and commended the kingdom’s contribution to Uganda’s cultural and economic development.
“When His Excellency appointed me to represent him, he offered me his helicopter to facilitate my travel here. However, after learning about the poor condition of the Mityana–Mubende–Kyegegwa–Kyenjojo road, I decided to travel by road to see the situation for myself,” she said. “It is clear that the road urgently needs rehabilitation. I have instructed the Minister of Finance to secure the necessary funds within two weeks so that we can begin work on the road without further delay.”
The celebrations drew dignitaries from across Uganda and beyond, including Bunyoro-Kitara Kingdom Prime Minister Owek. Andrew Byakutaga Ateenyi, corporate leaders from MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda, and thousands of Tooro subjects.
MTN Uganda CEO Sylvia Mulinge and Airtel Group CEO Sunil Taldar both congratulated King Oyo, pledging continued partnership in supporting development initiatives in the kingdom.
A Call for Unity and Responsibility
King Oyo also urged his subjects to observe the rule of law during election campaigns, fight HIV/AIDS in partnership with health agencies, and protect the environment.
“Let us choose leaders who support the kingdom’s vision and protect our future. Let us also safeguard our health and our environment as we work for prosperity,” he said.
The anniversary celebrations concluded with traditional dances, cultural exhibitions, and prayers for continued peace and prosperity in Tooro.
