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FORT PORTAL, Uganda —The Kingdom of Tooro is mourning the death of its King, His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on Thursday evening at the age of 34.
The announcement was made at about 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, by the Prime Minister of Tooro Kingdom, Omuhinkira Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, at approximately 10:00 p.m. this evening,” Mr. Rwomiire said in a statement.
“This is an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro, and the nation of Uganda. Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire.”
Mr. Rwomiire called on the people of Tooro to remain united, calm, and prayerful during what he described as a difficult time for the kingdom.
He also assured the public that the institution of the throne would continue, revealing that the late monarch leaves behind a prince as his heir.
“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,” the Prime Minister said.
The official announcement followed hours of widespread speculation about the King’s reported death, with various sources circulating unconfirmed information. Earlier reports had reportedly been dismissed by members of the Royal Family before the death was officially confirmed by Tooro Kingdom officials and the Minister for Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara.
King Oyo was born on April 16, 1992. Following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Koboyo Olimi III, on September 12, 1995, Oyo ascended to the throne at the age of just three.
His enthronement at such a young age earned him international recognition as one of the youngest reigning monarchs in history, according to Guinness World Records.
During his reign, King Oyo was associated with initiatives promoting education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and youth empowerment within the Tooro Kingdom.
His death marks the end of a reign that began when he was still a toddler and leaves the Kingdom of Tooro, the Royal Family, and the country at large in mourning.
Further details regarding the funeral and burial arrangements are expected to be announced as the kingdom continues to release its official programme.