Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV used the 29th Empango celebration at Karuziika Palace, Fort Portal, to address pressing issues affecting his people.
The Omukama urged the Ugandan government to expedite support for flood victims in Ntoroko District, emphasizing that many of his subjects are currently homeless and in urgent need of relief. He expressed deep concern for their well-being, calling on the central government to intervene swiftly.
King Oyo also addressed rising land grabbing in Tooro, allegedly led by politicians. He advised his people to collaborate with his land department to safeguard their property.
In his broader message to the youth, the monarch pledged to combat unemployment by providing skills to prevent young people from engaging in activities that fuel the spread of HIV/AIDS.
During the same event, Bishop Reuben Kisembo of Rwenzori Diocese urged King Oyo to consider marrying, emphasizing that a suitable wife would offer much-needed support in royal duties and contribute to the kingdom’s stability.
The bishop also called for unity amidst recent political tensions regarding the appointment of Steven Kiyingi as Prime Minister, encouraging all to respect the king’s decision.
Tooro’s Prime Minister, Steven Kiyingi Amooti, lauded the Buganda Kingdom and other partners, including the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) and the Uganda Tourism Board, for their collaborative efforts in promoting health and tourism initiatives within the kingdom.
The Buganda Kingdom was represented by the Chief of Kooki, Patrick Luwagga Mugumbule, who urged unity among the Tooro people and emphasized the importance of addressing land-related issues.
The Uganda Tourism Board, represented by Gessa Simplicious, reaffirmed its commitment to working with Tooro and other traditional leaders to boost local tourism, reduce the need for overseas travel, and promote cultural heritage.
The Empango ceremony commenced with a prayer service at St. John’s Cathedral, where Bishop Kisembo called for better waste management and urban planning to facilitate environmental sustainability.
This year’s Empango celebration was marked by calls for unity, development, and closer collaboration between the kingdom and national stakeholders to address Tooro’s most urgent needs.