Preparations for the coronation of Tooro’s new King, Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, are underway, with organisers estimating that the September 29 ceremony will cost about Shs925 million.
The organising committee has launched a fundraising campaign to raise the money needed for the coronation and related traditional ceremonies.
Isaiah Mayombo, the chairperson of the organising committee, said preparations were progressing well and appealed to people in Tooro, friends of the kingdom and other well-wishers to contribute towards the event.
“We appeal to everyone who can support us to contribute towards the preparations and ensure the coronation is successfully held,” Mayombo told journalists at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal on Saturday.
Alex Ruhunda, who heads the finance committee, said an account had been opened at Centenary Bank to receive contributions.
He added that members of the public can also contribute through mobile money.
Ruhunda urged people in Tooro and their friends across the country to support the fundraising drive and take part in the celebrations.
The coronation rituals will begin on the night of September 28, when Nyabongo will leave Rwengoma Palace and head to Karuziika Palace accompanied by a procession.
On reaching the main entrance, known as Mugabante, the King will take part in a traditional mock battle. He is expected to emerge victorious before entering the palace and taking his place on the throne.
Several other traditional rituals will follow inside Karuziika Palace, including the turning upright of the royal drums that were placed upside down after the death of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
The main coronation programme will take place on September 29, beginning with a church service at St John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal before the celebrations move to Karuziika Palace.
