Uganda and the people of Tooro Kingdom are mourning the death of His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on Thursday, 27 August 2026, at approximately 10:00 p.m. He was 34 years old.
The sad news was officially announced by the Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki. He described the King’s passing as an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and Uganda as a whole.
The Prime Minister called upon the people of Tooro to remain peaceful, united and prayerful as the kingdom prepares for the official mourning and funeral ceremonies.
A King Who Ascended the Throne at Three
King Oyo was born on 16 April 1992 to the late Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa.
He ascended the Tooro throne on 12 September 1995, when he was only three years old, following the death of his father. His extraordinary coronation attracted international attention and earned him recognition as one of the world’s youngest reigning monarchs.
King Oyo ruled Tooro Kingdom for nearly 31 years. During his reign, he became an important symbol of unity, cultural identity and continuity among the Batooro people.
Despite assuming the throne at such a young age, he grew into a respected cultural leader who promoted education, health, environmental conservation and the preservation of Tooro’s traditions.
Champion of Tooro’s Culture and Tourism
King Oyo played an important role in promoting the culture and heritage of Tooro Kingdom. Through ceremonies such as the annual Empango coronation anniversary, he helped preserve the kingdom’s customs while introducing them to younger generations and international visitors.
His reign also contributed to the promotion of Fort Portal and the wider Tooro region as major tourism destinations. The region is renowned for its crater lakes, tea plantations, royal heritage, beautiful landscapes and proximity to Kibale National Park, Semuliki National Park and the Rwenzori Mountains.
His Majesty frequently supported initiatives intended to protect Uganda’s natural environment and improve the livelihoods of young people within his kingdom.
Tooro Throne’s Continuity Assured
The Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister stated that King Oyo left behind a prince who will succeed him. However, the identity of the heir will be formally announced at an appropriate time in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom. (monitor.co.ug)
The kingdom is expected to issue further official information concerning the mourning period, funeral programme, repatriation and burial arrangements.
Members of the public are encouraged to rely upon official communication from the Royal Family and Tooro Kingdom authorities as additional details become available.
A Profound Loss to Uganda
King Oyo’s death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of Tooro Kingdom. His life connected the kingdom’s ancient traditions with a modern generation, making him one of Uganda’s most recognizable cultural leaders.
His passing will be deeply felt not only throughout Tooro but also across Uganda and among admirers of African culture and traditional leadership around the world.
Ngoni Safaris Uganda extends its heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the people of Tooro and all Ugandans during this difficult period.
May His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV rest in eternal peace.
Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire.
