By KT Reporter
The King of Tooro, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, has urged his subjects to embrace peace and unity, calling on them to rise above political and tribal divisions. While addressing residents from Ntoroko County at St. Andrew Church of Uganda in Karugutu Town Council on Monday, the King appealed to the people of Ntoroko to live harmoniously and accommodate each other despite the area’s ethnic diversity.
He also called on political leaders and voters to foster cooperation and harmony as the country approaches the 2026 general elections, warning that divisive politics and ethnic tensions weaken communities, slow development, and erode the values that bind people together. The King emphasized that peace and unity are critical for development, noting that a harmonious society attracts investment, tourism, and opportunities for youth.
Residents welcomed the King’s visit. Getrude Mbabazi thanked him for coming to their county and prayed for his protection and long life, while Victory Mukwasa said the visit shows that the King has his people at heart and encourages youth to love and respect their kingdom.
Omukama Oyo’s visit is part of a broader tour of kingdom counties to reconnect with subjects, promote development programs, and reinforce social cohesion. Ntoroko District, at the foothills of Mt. Rwenzori, is one of Uganda’s most ethnically diverse areas, home to communities including the Batooro, Bakonjo, Batuku, and Bamba.
The Batuku, traditionally pastoralists, inhabit the plains, while the Bakonjo, primarily agriculturalists, occupy the mountainous border areas with Bundibugyo District. Historically, Ntoroko has experienced ethnic friction, often over land, grazing rights, and political representation.
In 2009, disputes between the Batuku and Bamba over the location of the district headquarters triggered violent clashes, resulting in loss of lives and property. Peacebuilding efforts led by cultural leaders, local authorities, and religious institutions have since restored calm, making the King’s message of unity particularly significant.
In 2010, over 250 people were displaced following a clash between the Abachwamba and Abaihango over the murder of a clan member. Although Ntoroko is part of Tooro Kingdom, some tribes remain loyal to other kingdoms: the Bamba to Obudingiya bwa Bwamba of Bundibugyo, the Bakonzo to Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu, and fishing communities around Lake Albert have ties to chiefdoms in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
