Rwanda history: The resurgence of Rwanda under Ruganzu II Ndoli

In this segment of the serialized narrative, Ruganzu Ndoli spearheaded Rwanda's revitalization, initiating a series of strategic conquests and reforms that shaped the kingdom's history. His endeavor to reclaim Rwanda began with confrontations against his father's disloyal kin and a local chief, Rubingo. The determined reconquest continued as Ndoli successfully regained control over Nduga, formerly under King Mashira before being annexed by Mibambwe I. ALSO READ: Rwandan history: The revival of Rwanda under the leadership of Ruganzu II Ndoli Notably, Ndoli introduced two significant royal drums, Karihejuru and Bariba, and led military expeditions that annexed territories like Bunyambiriri, resulting in the demise of Gisurere Suti, the local chief of Kaduha, now part of Nyamagabe district. Numerous notable figures, including Nyakarashi, Mpandahande, Nyaruzi, and chief Burwi, met their fate during these expansions, solidifying Rwanda's annexation of their territories. Expanding beyond Rwandan borders, Ndoli's influence extended to Bugoyi in Rubavu district, Byahi and Bwishya in DR Congo, and Bufumbira in Uganda, near the volcanoes. Moreover, Ndoli fostered friendly relations with Rwagitare, the king of Bugesera, leading to a coalition that triumphed over Ntare Kibogora of Burundi during a border conflict. ALSO READ: The challenge to royal succession of Ndahiro II Cyamatare His conquests transcended Rwanda's boundaries as he raided Bunyabungo in Bukavu and confronted adversaries like Ntsibura Nyebunga, who orchestrated attacks against Ndahiro Cyamatare, Ndoli's father. Victorious, Ndoli expanded his conquests to include Ijwi Island and Ubugara, the latter covering present-day Burera, Musanze, and parts of Ndorwa and Bufumbira. Additionally, he targeted neighboring kingdoms such as Buhoma, securing their royal drum, Nkandagiyabagome, while strategically appointing chiefs to govern conquered territories, ensuring governance and tax collection on his behalf. Economically, Ndoli's reign witnessed progress through advancements in animal and crop husbandry, leveraging cattle rearing to reclaim lost territories and integrate neighboring regions. Notably, cattle exchanges played a pivotal role in the integration of territories where cultivation was practiced. ALSO READ: Rwandan history, Part 7: The Ascendancy of Mibambwe I Ndoli's reign was marked by significant achievements, including the restoration of monarchy, the establishment of key institutions like Itorero and Ubuhake, promoting national service and a social contract centered around cattle ownership. Tragically, Ruganzu Ndoli met his demise in 1543 when ambushed by Bitibibisi, a servant of his father, Ndahiro Cyamatare. Bitibibisi's arrow fatally wounded Ndoli, leading to his burial at Butangampuntu in what is now Rulindo district, as per the tradition that dictated a monarch's burial place based on the manner of their death.

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Rwanda history: The resurgence of Rwanda under Ruganzu II Ndoli