The body of the late Tooro King, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, has arrived in Uganda as the Kingdom begins a solemn period of mourning and preparations for his burial.The 34-year-old monarch died in the United States on August 27, 2026, after a reign that lasted nearly 31 years. He became king in 1995 at just three years old following the death of his father, making him the world’s youngest reigning monarch at the time.
The King’s remains arrived at Entebbe International Airport on Friday morning, September 4. President Yoweri Museveni was scheduled to receive the body and pay his final respects before the remains are taken to Tooro.According to the official programme, the casket will be taken by helicopter from Entebbe to Kyegegwa. From there, it will be transported by road to Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal, where the late King will lie in state as mourners gather to pay their respects.The journey from Kyegegwa to Fort Portal is expected to attract large numbers of mourners, with members of the public allowed to gather along the route to honour the fallen monarch.
The hearse will slow down as it passes through towns, giving people an opportunity to see the King’s final journey home.The return of King Oyo’s body marks the beginning of nine days of official mourning in Tooro. His burial is scheduled for September 12 at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal, where the final cultural and royal funeral rites will be conducted.King Oyo’s death has triggered widespread mourning across Uganda.
During his long reign, he became a well-known figure beyond Tooro and Uganda, having taken on the responsibilities of the throne from childhood and later growing into a monarch who championed issues including youth empowerment and development.As his body returns home, Tooro now prepares to give its fallen King a final farewell, with the royal family, government officials, cultural leaders and thousands of his subjects expected to take part in the funeral ceremonies.May his soul rest in peace. #RIPKingOyo
