Tooro kingdom confirms Oyo’s death, says Omukama has left behind a heir apparent
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at the age of three, following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.
Tooro Kingdom Thursday night, 27th August 2026, announced the death of its monarch, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, according to a statement attributed to Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki.
The statement says 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.
“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,” the statement says.
The Prime Minister called on the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during the period of mourning.
“Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire,” the statement added.
The announcement comes days of growing concern over the health of the 34-year-old monarch.
Earlier on Thursday, Tooro Kingdom had confirmed that King Oyo was in a critical condition and appealed to his subjects and well-wishers around the world to pray for him.
Succession assured
In the reported death announcement, Rwomiire said the continuity of the Tooro Crown was assured, revealing that the late King leaves behind a Prince who will be his heir.
The identity of the Prince, he said, will be formally revealed at an appropriate time in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom.
The Prime Minister said a further official statement would be issued detailing funeral and mourning arrangements.
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at the age of three, following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.
He subsequently became one of the world’s youngest reigning monarchs.
The official Tooro Kingdom website identifies him as the reigning Omukama and records his accession to the throne in 1995.
For more than three decades, King Oyo presided over the cultural institution of Tooro, championing initiatives in youth empowerment, education, health, environmental conservation and cultural preservation.
The reported death marks a major moment for the Tooro Kingdom and its people, with attention now expected to turn to the royal succession, funeral arrangements and the traditional ceremonies surrounding the transition of the Crown.
