FORT PORTAL, UGANDA — September 27, 2026: Today marks exactly one month since the passing of His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the former King of Tooro, whose death on August 27 left the Tooro Kingdom and many Ugandans mourning the loss of a monarch who spent almost his entire life on the throne.
King Oyo passed away at approximately 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, in the United States, at the age of 34, while receiving medical treatment. The Tooro Kingdom announced his death with a call for the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during the difficult period.
Born on April 16, 1992, to the late King Patrick David Matthew Rwamuhokya Kaboyo Olimi III and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, Oyo ascended the Tooro throne at just three years old following the death of his father in 1995. He was subsequently crowned on September 12, 1995, beginning a historic reign that lasted more than three decades.
His childhood and early years as monarch were closely watched both in Uganda and internationally. His accession at such a young age earned him recognition as the world’s youngest reigning monarch, while regents and members of his family helped guide the kingdom during his formative years. As he grew older, Oyo gradually assumed greater responsibility for the affairs and public representation of Tooro.
Beyond his traditional role, King Oyo became associated with initiatives focusing on youth empowerment, health awareness, agriculture, environmental conservation and tourism. In 2016, UNAIDS appointed him a Goodwill Ambassador and Champion for HIV/AIDS awareness among young people in Eastern and Southern Africa. He also promoted agricultural innovation through the King Oyo Model Farm in Kyenjojo and used his public profile to promote tourism and environmental awareness.
Oyo was also remembered by family members and public leaders for his personal character, faith and relationship with his people. During his funeral, President Yoweri Museveni described him as a good leader and champion of culture, while Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu urged the people of Tooro to preserve the unity and peace that characterised the mourning period.
After his death, the King’s body was returned to Uganda on September 4, where the nation and the people of Tooro began the final stages of the mourning and burial ceremonies. He was laid to rest at the Karambi Royal Burial Grounds in Fort Portal on September 12, 2026, bringing to a close 16 days of official mourning.
One month later, the memories of King Oyo remain deeply rooted among the Batooro. From the three-year-old prince who inherited a historic throne to the adult monarch who served for 31 years, his life was inseparable from the modern history of Tooro Kingdom.
Today, as we mark one month since his departure, we remember His Majesty not only for the crown he carried, but for the years he dedicated to his kingdom, his people, culture and causes close to his heart.
May his soul continue to rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy live on in the hearts of the people of Tooro and beyond.
Rest in peace, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV. Your reign may have ended, but your memory and legacy remain. 🕊️
