Deputy Speaker commends King Oyo’s youthful leadership and vision

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa has expressed his admiration for King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV and his dedication to preserving traditional African values and the Tooro culture. He said this during the 28th Coronation Anniversary celebration of at Karuzika Hill in Fort Portal City.

Tayebwa commended King Oyo for his exemplary role as a mentor to the youth and a symbol of hope for the Tooro Kingdom. He noted the king’s efforts in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention and environmental conservation, particularly his goal of planting 10 million trees.

The Deputy Speaker further pledged parliamentary support for King Oyo’s tree-planting initiative and announced his personal commitment to join the cause on his birthday. He emphasized the importance of commercial agriculture in lifting the kingdom out of poverty and called upon King Oyo to collaborate in this endeavor, emphasizing the need for a sustainable kingdom.

Quoting data from the 2022 Global Wealth Report by Credit Suisse, Tayebwa pointed out the alarming income inequality worldwide, with over half of the global population owning less than 1.25% of the world’s wealth. He stressed the urgency of addressing this issue and expressed confidence that King Oyo’s involvement in the parish development model could help reduce income inequality.

Tayebwa also noted the pressing problem of land fragmentation in the kingdom, which has hindered government efforts in modern agricultural projects and posed a threat to food security and economic stability. He urged King Oyo and his leadership to educate the people about the negative consequences of land fragmentation.

He further announced the government’s completion of the establishment of an industrial park in the Tooro Kingdom, promoting economic growth and development.

King Oyo, who became the youngest reigning monarch globally (at 4 years) following his father’s passing, shared the kingdom’s 25-year development plan. His priorities include combating HIV/AIDS, promoting education and youth skills development, advancing commercial agriculture, and implementing a kingdom land titling program. He also emphasized the significance of tourism and sports as key areas for development in the Tooro Kingdom.

Tooro Kingdom, founded in 1822 by Omukama Kaboyo Olimi I, has a rich history rooted in the Babiito dynasty, dating back to the 16th century.