On Tuesday, September 23rd, 2025, history unfolded at the Reach A Hand Uganda (RAHU) headquarters in Lungujja. The organisation welcomed His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the King of Tooro Kingdom, and Her Royal Highness Princess Ruth Nsemere Komuntale Akiiki for a courtesy visit that united culture, advocacy, and youth leadership in a powerful celebration.
In his warm opening, Humphrey Nabimanya, the Founder and CEO of RAHU, welcomed the King and Princess with gratitude and pride. He congratulated King Oyo on his 30th coronation anniversary, describing the milestone as a testament to the King’s resilience and vision. Humphrey spoke passionately about Reach A Hand Uganda’s mission to ignite the potential of young Ugandans, affirming how the Tooro Kingdom has been a steadfast partner since 2017 in championing health, education, and livelihood opportunities for youth.
Humphrey highlighted remarkable milestones: from hosting intergenerational dialogues in Tooro to launching initiatives like the Leesu Initiative, which empowers young women through culture and creativity, and Impact Forge, a new platform for young innovators and social entrepreneurs. His words painted a picture of a partnership deeply rooted in cultural values yet forward-looking in vision.
Princess Komuntale took to the stage with a heartfelt address. Her message resonated deeply: advocacy, she said, is the force that turns silence into voices and awareness into action. She acknowledged harmful cultural practices that have held communities back but reminded the audience that culture, when embraced positively, provides unity, pride, and identity.
She emphasised that Tooro Kingdom stands for dignity, education, and youth empowerment. “Young people are the heartbeat of Tooro,” she declared, noting that partnerships like the one with Reach a Hand Uganda ensure the future of both the Kingdom and Uganda. Her words offered both challenge and hope, urging leaders and cultural custodians to walk hand in hand with organisations like RAHU.
When Omukama Oyo addressed the gathering, his message carried the weight of both tradition and vision. He celebrated the long-standing partnership between Tooro and RAHU, acknowledging the organisation’s tireless work in empowering Uganda’s youth.
The King highlighted the launch of Impact Forge as a historic milestone, calling it an engine of transformation that will equip young people with tools, networks, and opportunities to design innovative solutions. In his words, “Culture is not static, it is alive, dynamic, and youthful.”
The day also carried international weight with the presence of UNESCO representative Charles Drachebo, who praised Omukama Oyo for his role in environmental conservation and cultural preservation, emphasising how these efforts boost tourism and empower communities.
The visit wasn’t only about speeches. It was also a celebration. Ugandan artists Tonix and Geosteady graced the stage with powerful performances, blending music with the day’s message of unity, hope, and cultural pride.
As the sun set on Lungujja that evening, the echoes of music, laughter, and powerful words lingered. Uganda had witnessed not only a royal visit but also the strengthening of a movement determined to give young people the voice, space, and confidence they need to transform society.
