Prince Edward Kijanangoma Rukidi has been designated as the next Omukama (King) of the Tooro Kingdom, following the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. King Oyo died on August 27 in the US at the age of 34 after reigning over Tooro for more than three decades.
The announcement was made this evening by the 19-member Babiito Clan succession committee. Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma is the son of the late Prince Christopher Paul Kijanangoma and the grandson of former Tooro King, Omukama Sir George David Rukidi Kamurasi III.
For many Ugandans, he is a familiar face in the media industry, having worked as a television journalist and news editor. He is best known for his time at the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), where he has been anchoring television news.
The designation of Prince Edward Kijanangoma as the new Omukama now paves the way for the next stages of the traditional succession process, including preparations for his formal installation and enthronement in accordance with Tooro customs.
As the new King, Edward is expected to uphold and preserve the cultural heritage of the Tooro Kingdom while providing leadership and serving the interests of his subjects.
His succession comes as the kingdom prepares to lay King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV to rest. The late King’s burial is scheduled for September 12 at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal.
