Culture
Tooro Kingdom Taps Culture and Innovation to Empower the Next Generation
In a bold blend of tradition and innovation, Tooro Kingdom has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, using culture as both a guiding compass and a springboard for progress. During the Tooro Annual Youth Conference held on July 18, 2025, at the Kingdom headquarters in Fort Portal, the message was clear: the future belongs to culturally rooted, digitally skilled, and socially conscious youth.
Held under the theme “We Lead: Cultural Voices Driving Change,” the high-impact event attracted hundreds of young people from across Uganda and brought together leaders in governance, technology, and civil society to chart a progressive path for the Kingdom’s youth.
Presiding over the conference, His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV delivered a stirring call for youth to lead with courage and vision.
“As I often remind our youth, you are never too young to lead. Leadership is central to progress. It inspires vision and provides strategic direction,” said the Omukama
The monarch spotlighted a number of youth-oriented initiatives already in motion under the Kingdom’s development strategy which are; model agricultural farms, skilling centres, sports tournaments, health campaigns, and an upcoming ICT hub aimed at boosting digital literacy and tech access across Tooro.
“Soon, we shall unveil a new ICT centre designed to equip our young people with the skills they need to thrive in a tech-driven world,” he announced.
The conference illustrated Tooro’s unique approach: embracing cultural values while preparing youth for modern challenges such as digital transformation, sexual and reproductive health advocacy, and climate action.
Organised in partnership with Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU), the event featured youth-led discussions on economic empowerment, SRHR, environmental sustainability, and innovation. The integration of cultural institutions with new-age thinking stood out as a model for youth inclusion.
Humphrey Nabimanya, CEO and founder of RAHU, was recognized by the Omukama for his ongoing support of youth programmes. Six schools were awarded certificates under the RAHU Peer Educators Academy, celebrating their excellence in peer-led health education.
Tooro Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Owek. Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire, challenged leaders to avoid symbolic youth inclusion and instead involve young people in core decision-making processes.
“Youth involvement must be intentional and strategic. We must create systems where their voices shape outcomes,” Rwomiire said
Rwomiire also shared updates on development projects including a partnership with Habitat for Humanity to provide affordable housing and ongoing discussions with Uganda Development Bank to transform historical Kingdom assets into economic and cultural landmarks.
Beyond economics, the conference addressed harmful cultural practices and how tradition can serve as a protective force. Moses Musinguzi, Deputy Minister for Culture and Clan Mobilisation, explained efforts to eliminate early and unregulated marriages through the issuance of traditional marriage certificates endorsed by clan leaders and the Prime Minister.
“These measures ensure both parties are above 18 and consenting, and help safeguard our youth from exploitation,” Musinguzi said.
MP Richard Sebamala (Bukoto Central) rallied young people to pursue their dreams with boldness and resilience. “Every big change starts with a small but intentional step,” he said.
The conference culminated in vibrant cultural performances from students, adding colour and rhythm to the day’s serious themes. The highlight came with an electrifying performance by musician Ykee Benda, who brought the crowd to its feet with a high-energy set celebrating youth potential.
As the conference closed, Omukama Oyo invited all attendees to mobilize for a major cultural milestone: 30 years of his coronation, to be celebrated in September.
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