Toro Kingdom’s Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru is in Kigezi region to strengthen social-cultural relations between the Batooro and Bakiga ethnic groups.
The cordial relations between the two date from the time of his grandfather, Sir George Rukidi the third in 1955, when he welcomed the Bakiga into his Kingdom as they sought land to settle on.
Oyo’s visit was organized by the International Community of Banyakigezi (ICOB), Uganda Chapter, an association of people from the greater Kigezi region in the diaspora and the Banyakigezi-Rwenzori Association.
There was excitement in Rukiga District on Thursday when the King of Tooro, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV visited the area.
King Oyo who was accompanied by Tooro Kingdom officials arrived at the border of Kigezi and Ankole at Rutobo in Ntungamo district, amidst jubilation from residents and leaders.
The King first toured Satellite Hotel Rwahi before he drove in a procession led by traditional dancers and a brass band, to the home of the late Paul Ngorogoza in Kitaburaza village, Muhanga town council, Rukiga district.
The late Paul Ngorogoza is a Munyakigezi elder who was a close friend to King Oyo’s grandfather, the late King Sir George David Matthew Kamurasi Rukidi III.
In 1954 King Rukidi invited the Bakiga to settle in Tooro and offered them free land.
At the deceased’s home, King Oyo planted a tree.
King Oyo is expected to deliver a key message on prevention of HIV/AIDS and responsible living. He would later be hosted to a cultural interaction, also known as ekigaaniiro, involving elders and youngsters from Kigezi and Toro.
Oyo and his delegation are also expected to visit Lake Bunyonyi to appreciate its unique beauty.