Isingoma Labongo Rukidi

Isingoma Rukidi Mpuga, also called Labongo,Template:Efn was the first Biito king () of Bunyoro-Kitara in present-day western Uganda. In Nyoro tradition, he is considered to be the twin brother of Kato Kimera, the first king of Buganda.

Early life

Nyoro tradition

In Nyoro tradition, Isingoma Mpuga Rukidi was born in Bukidi as the second son of Kyomya, a member of the Chwezi dynasty, and Nyatworo, the daughter of a Lango man called Labongo,Template:Efn of the Mukwonga clan. He was the younger brother of Nyarwa, the twin brother of Kato and the older brother of Kiiza. Isingoma is derived from the Nyoro phrase , meaning "father (of the) drum(s)". 'Mpuga' comes from the name of a black-and-white cattle, , referencing Rukidi's mixed ancestry. The name 'Rukidi' references his birthplace.

Rukidi and his brothers are said to have been hunters who were loved by the people of Bukidi. One day, a diviner called NyakokaTemplate:Efn, also from Bukidi, approached them and told them to go to Kitara, because then the country lacked a king, and they did so. Nyakoka accompanied them on the journey.

Acholi tradition

In Acholi tradition, Labongo was a son of Olum and a brother of Gipiir and Tiful.