Tooro Kingdom’s Empango celebrations are upon us once again.
Tomorrow, September 12, the youngest reigning monarch, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV, will mark 29 years of rule.
These festivities begin with the sighting of the new moon—a symbol of thanksgiving and a renewal of vows between the king and his people.
In Tooro and Bunyoro Kitara culture, kings are seen as more than just mortals; they are considered partly spiritual. This belief is reflected in the Empango, a series of rituals and celebrations that pay homage to the kingdom’s sacred history and customs.
The royal drums
The Empango is not just a celebration; its name derives from the royal drums of the Tooro Kingdom, which have roots in the ancient Chwezi dynasty of the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom.
Each king who ascends the throne receives a uniquely named drum, signifying his sovereignty. The drums are not only ceremonial instruments but also symbols of the spiritual and cultural continuity of the kingdom.
Rev. Clovis Kyalimpa, a retired clergyman from the Bayisaza clan who served the kingdom for 16 years, shares insights into these traditions.
“I was there when Omukama Oyo became king. I served until he came of age at 18, and now I serve as an advisor,” he says.
Only the Basiita clan is entrusted with the sacred duty of sounding these drums and announcing the sighting of the new moon, a role steeped in historical significance.
“The Basiita were confidants of the Bachwezi dynasty,” Rev. Kyalimpa explains. “When the Bachwezi left, they left behind two drums with their Basiita friends, hoping to return. When the Babito came from Lango, they convinced the Basiita to handle the drums, which are believed to sound only for the true rulers.”
Rituals at Kaswa
A day before the main festivities, at 3 p.m. sharp, the Basiita sound the Empango at a sacred site called Kaswa within the Karuzika, the main palace of Tooro Kingdom.
This area is cordoned off with reeds, and only a select few, including the chief priest (Omusuna), are permitted to enter. Women are expressly forbidden.
“Kaswa symbolizes the beginning of the king’s authority,” says Rev. Kyalimpa.
“One of the king’s roles is to defend his kingdom.”
The ritualistic procession follows, with men dressed in bark cloth, carrying royal regalia, and chanting praises to past and present kings of Tooro.
Women, however, are required to sit far away, covering themselves as the men perform the sacred rites.
“If you disobey, you could face consequences,” warns Deputy Culture Minister Mwesige Zebidayo. “If you’re in your period and don’t follow the rules, you might even become barren.”
The Empango also has strict rules for men.
“All who handle the royal regalia must abstain from women for nine days and sleep in separate beds,” says Mwesige.
The king’s role
The climax of the Empango occurs when the royal regalia is presented to Omukama Oyo at the Musanga.
Once he approves, the celebrations begin, including a meeting with his chiefs (Orukurato), the milking of cows, and a feast where cattle are slaughtered for meat.
A campfire, known as Ekyoto ha Empango, is also lit.
“The campfire, or Kyoto mukayiririzi, is like a blackboard where we educate people on various community issues,” Zebidayo adds. “It’s believed the smoke through the nostrils enhances brain alertness, and the heat helps with blood flow.”
A Myth unveiled
As the festivities unfold, curiosity lingers about the myth surrounding Omukama Oyo’s birth—that he was born with a spear and drum in his palm.
Rev. Kyalimpa dismisses it with a smile.
“I don’t know about that, but I was there when Oyo was baptized. There was a massive thunderstorm when his name was announced. Then we knew he was destined to be king.”
As the Empango of Tooro unfolds, it serves as a testament to the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage and the continuity of its ancient traditions, reminding everyone that Tooro is at peace—“Mirembe Nzaire karamare enzaire twino Obusinge.”