Cultural institutions are for preserving & promoting cultural heritage – Museveni

By Patson Baraire Mushaija 

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has told the people of Tooro that he personally defended the restoration of cultural institutions in Uganda in order to preserve and safeguard precious cultural values whose vacuum could not be adequately addressed through political means.

President Museveni made the remarks today while speaking as a Chief Guest at the coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I that took place at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City, marking the beginning of a new reign following the demise of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died in August.

The President highlighted the preservation of indigenous languages and cultural practices, as well as traditional safeguards surrounding marriage that discouraged incest, promiscuity, and other practices he said could undermine the values of society.

The President narrated how contradictions between cultural leaders, Pan-Africanists and nationalists led to clashes among the groups, eventually resulting in the abolition of cultural institutions in the 1960s and said that upon assuming power, the NRM Government, took the initiative to restore cultural institutions, with their role focused on preserving and promoting cultural heritage.

 President Museveni has saluted the late King of Tooro, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing him as a focused leader who attracted several socio-economic development opportunities to his kingdom and contributed significantly to its growth.

 He said that he is optimistic that the new King of Tooro, Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I, will make a significant contribution to the development of the region through his support for the government’s socio-economic empowerment initiatives.

He referred to the Omukama’s recent experience as an astute news anchor at the national broadcaster, Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) Television.

President Museveni donated 100 cows to Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as he embarks on his reign as the new King of Tooro Kingdom.

Museveni has called on cultural leaders to champion what he termed a “cultural code” aimed at promoting practices that protect communities from life-threatening health risks.

The President said that this should include supporting the improvement and modernisation of indigenous medicines, as well as promoting the use of healthy wooden utensils as alternatives to plastic and ceramic utensils that he says may pose health risks.

He revealed samples of “Obujjaja” products, showcasing woodwork that he said demonstrates how indigenous skills can be developed into sustainable products while supporting healthier lifestyles.

The Omukama of Tooro Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I pledged to coordinate government socioeconomic empowerment initiatives for the benefit of his people, while calling for unity among the people of Tooro.

While addressing hundreds of enthusiastic people at his coronation ceremony, the Omukama has outlined key areas of focus for his reign, including wealth creation, improvement of people’s welfare, environmental conservation and tourism, as well as the promotion of education for all children. 

He called on the people of Tooro to unite and collectively support these initiatives for the development of the kingdom as he paid tribute to his predecessor, the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV and commended his significant leadership and the transformation he brought to Tooro Kingdom during his reign.

The new Omukama has also expressed appreciation to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni the former Queen Mother of Tooro, Best Kemigisa, Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the entire UPDF fraternity, among other key pillars, for their contribution to the growth and development of Tooro Kingdom

The Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon Tom Butime, who spoke on behalf of Tooro residents, described the enthronement of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I as a fundamental change for the Tooro Kingdom, saying that the kingdom is at peace and well-positioned to pursue further development under the new reign.

The Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Lt Gen Henry Tumukunde, has cautioned cultural institutions against diverting from their core roles and mandates.

Gen Tumukunde reminded cultural institutions of President Museveni’s attachment and commitment to their restoration, noting that the President’s judicial notice paved the way for their return. He has urged cultural leaders to uphold their cultural mandate and avoid actions that could undermine peace and stability.

Minister Tumukunde has also recounted the achievements of the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV during his reign, commending his contribution to the development of Tooro and further commended the cooperation of all stakeholders whose efforts have contributed to the successful coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I.

The Chairperson of the Central Organising Committee for the coronation of Omukama Edward Rukidi Nyabongo I Rev Fr Isaiah Mayombo acknowledged government’s contribution and support to the coronation including the Ugx 800 million.