By KT Reporter
The Tooro Kingdom has launched a comprehensive campaign to rehabilitate its Royal Tombs as part of a broader effort to preserve the Kingdom’s cultural heritage. The tombs, which serve as the final resting places for the Kingdom’s royals, have deteriorated over the years—some have cracked, while others have caved in, raising concerns over the loss of valuable heritage.
The initiative was unveiled on Monday by the Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Calvin Armstrong Rwomire Akiiki, who emphasized the importance of honoring Tooro’s ancestral lineage by restoring the royal burial sites and transforming them into vibrant cultural heritage museums.
“It is essential to honor our ancestors by restoring their resting places as we celebrate our rich heritage,” Prime Minister Rwomire stated at the launch. A key component of the initiative is a robust resource mobilization campaign that will engage schools, religious institutions, and local communities across Tooro.
The Kingdom also seeks support from Batooro and friends of Tooro in the diaspora. Rwomire underscored the power of collective action, urging the public to contribute generously toward the cause. He said the restoration of the tombs will ensure future generations can continue to learn from and take pride in Tooro’s cultural wealth.
Tooro has had twelve kings, eleven of whom were buried in various locations within Kabarole District. King Nyaika Kasunga was buried at Burongo in Rubona, Kaboyo Kasunsunkwanzi Olimi I at Kagoma in Kibito Sub-county, Mukabireere Olimi II in Buheesi Sub-county, and Nyamuyonjo Kakende in Kiboha.
The main royal burial grounds are located at Karambi in Fort Portal City, where three kings—David Kasagama Kyebambe, who died in 1929, George Kamurasi Rukidi, who died in 1965, and Patrick Olimi Kaboyo, who died in 1995—were laid to rest.
Each mausoleum also houses royal regalia used by the respective kings. In addition to the monarchs, several Tooro princes and princesses are also buried at Karambi. The Kingdom hopes the rehabilitation effort will elevate these sites into preserved symbols of history and learning, serving as cultural landmarks for both locals and tourists-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
