Tooro Kingdom confirms death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV

28 August 2026, 1:57 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, has confirmed the death of the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

In a statement issued on Thursday night, the Prime Minister said the King died at approximately 10.00 p.m., describing his death as an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and Uganda as a whole.

“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro Kingdom, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, at approximately 10.00 p.m. this evening. This is an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and the nation of Uganda. I call upon the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this difficult time,” Rwomiire said.

The Prime Minister also assured the people of Tooro that the continuity of the kingdom’s monarchy is guaranteed, saying the late King left behind a prince who is his heir.

“The continuity of the Crown is assured. His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom,” he added.

Further details about the burial arrangements and other official programmes will be communicated in due course.

King Oyo ascended to the throne in 1995 following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III, becoming the world’s youngest reigning monarch at the age of three. He was 34 at the time of his death.

He went on to reign over Tooro for nearly 31 years, during which he championed initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of his subjects, promoting youth empowerment and supporting education, health and environmental conservation.

King Oyo was also known for his Christian faith and frequently spoke publicly about his belief in God. His death marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of Tooro Kingdom and has prompted widespread mourning across Uganda.