Tooro Kingdom has officially announced the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV at the age of 34, bringing to an end an extraordinary reign that began when he ascended the throne as a three-year-old child.
The announcement was made late Thursday by the Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who said King Oyo died at approximately 10:00 p.m. on 27 August 2026.
“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.”
Rwomiire described the King’s death as an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and Uganda, and appealed to the Abatooro to remain united, calm and prayerful as the Kingdom enters a period of mourning.
The announcement came only hours after Tooro Kingdom had issued an official statement confirming that the 34-year-old monarch was in critical condition and asking the public to avoid speculation and the circulation of unverified reports about his health.
Earlier on Thursday, State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara had said King Oyo was unwell and receiving medical care in the United States. He called on Ugandans to pray for the King and the medical team attending to him.
Tooro Kingdom has not officially announced the cause of the King’s death.
A reign that began at the age of three
King Oyo was born on 16 April 1992 to the late Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa.
Following the death of his father on 26 August 1995, the young Prince ascended the Tooro throne on 12 September 1995 at just three years of age.
His childhood accession attracted international attention and made him widely recognised as one of the youngest reigning monarchs in the world.
Because of his age, the early years of his reign were conducted with the support of a regency until he was old enough to assume full responsibility for the affairs of the Kingdom.
In September 2025, Tooro Kingdom marked King Oyo’s 30th coronation anniversary, celebrating three decades of his leadership.
During his reign, the King became associated with programmes and advocacy in youth empowerment, education, health, environmental conservation, agriculture, tourism, culture and the development of Tooro Kingdom.
He also used his position to encourage young people to take up leadership and participate in development, frequently advancing the message that young people should not regard age as a barrier to leadership and service.
Kingdom says continuity of the Crown is assured
In announcing the King’s death, the Prime Minister also addressed the question of succession, saying the continuity of the Tooro Crown was 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.”
The statement means the Kingdom is expected to announce further information concerning the succession process in accordance with its royal customs and traditions.
Rwomiire said an official statement would follow with additional details, including funeral and mourning arrangements.
King Oyo’s death closes a reign of nearly 31 years and marks a major moment for one of Uganda’s historic cultural institutions.
Further official information from the Royal Family and Tooro Kingdom administration is expected as mourning arrangements are announced.
