The Tooro Kingdom is in mourning following the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who passed away on Thursday evening at the age of 34.
The King died at about 10pm, according to an announcement by Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who described his death as an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and Uganda.
“It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro,” Rwomiire said, calling on the Abatooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during the difficult period.
The announcement came after weeks of uncertainty surrounding the King’s health. On August 3, kingdom officials had dismissed reports that he was unwell, saying he was abroad for studies and other engagements. On Thursday, however, kingdom authorities and Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara confirmed that the King was critically ill and receiving treatment in the United States.
Born on April 16, 1992, to the late King Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, Oyo became Omukama on September 12, 1995, following the sudden death of his father.
He was only three years old when he was crowned, making him the youngest reigning monarch in the world at the time, according to Guinness World Records.
Because of his young age, the kingdom was managed under a regency involving Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, Princess Elizabeth Bagaaya and Prince James Desmond Mugenyi, with President Yoweri Museveni serving as a guardian.
King Oyo assumed full operational control of the kingdom when he turned 18 in April 2010, beginning a new chapter in a reign that would span more than three decades.
Over the years, he became particularly associated with youth empowerment, education, environmental conservation and health advocacy. He also served as a global ambassador for HIV/AIDS awareness and spearheaded the Tooro Kingdom Vision 2045 development framework.
His reign also placed a young face on Uganda’s traditional institutions, with Oyo frequently speaking about the role of young people in leadership and development.
As the kingdom begins the mourning process, questions surrounding the succession will now take centre stage. In his statement, the Prime Minister said the King leaves behind a Prince who is his heir, although the identity of the heir will be formally revealed at an appropriate time in accordance with Tooro traditions and customs.
“The continuity of the Crown is assured,” Rwomiire said, urging the people of Tooro to maintain peace and unity.
Detailed funeral and mourning arrangements are expected to be announced by the Royal Family and the Tooro Kingdom administration.
Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire.
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