Defence Minister Kiryowa Kiwanuka has joined the people of Tooro and Ugandans in mourning the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing the late monarch’s life as a painful reminder of how unfair life can be.
In a condolence message, Kiwanuka paid tribute to King Oyo’s contribution to Uganda, particularly his work in youth empowerment, tourism, education and culture.
“I join the people of Tooro and all Ugandans in mourning the passing of His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV,” Kiwanuka said.
He recalled that King Oyo made history in 1995 when he ascended the Tooro throne at the age of three, becoming the world’s youngest reigning monarch.
Kiwanuka said the King’s commitment to serving his people and promoting causes affecting young people would ensure that his legacy remained alive for generations.
“From becoming the world's youngest monarch at age 3 to his dedicated service for youth, tourism, education and culture, his legacy will endure for generations,” the minister said.
King Oyo died on August 27, 2026, in the United States at the age of 34 while undergoing medical treatment. President Yoweri Museveni later disclosed that the monarch had been battling an aggressive form of cancer and that the government had supported efforts to secure specialised treatment in Germany and subsequently the US.
The King’s death came three decades after he inherited the Tooro crown following the death of his father, King Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III. He was officially crowned in 2010 after reaching adulthood.
Kiwanuka also reflected on the difficult circumstances surrounding King Oyo’s life, noting that he lost his father at a young age and had himself died relatively young.
“He was orphaned young and has died young - how unfair life can be, as Mzee said. It’s very sad!!” he said.
King Oyo’s remains were flown back to Uganda on September 4 and received at Entebbe International Airport by President Museveni and other dignitaries.
The casket was draped in the Ugandan and Tooro Kingdom flags before being transported by military helicopter towards western Uganda for the next stage of the funeral rites.
The late monarch is expected to be buried at the Karambi Royal Tombs on September 12, as Tooro begins a period of mourning and prepares for the succession process.