FORT PORTAL / KAMPALA. I am saddened as the Tooro Kingdom mourns the death of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who died on Thursday evening, August 27 2026 at the age of 34.
An official statement was released after 10:00 p.m. By Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki announcing the death of the monarch with profound sadness and a heavy heart.
The Prime Minister said, “This is a loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and the nation of Uganda.” He used mourning words— “Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire”—and urged the people of Tooro to stay united, calm and prayerful.
The Omukama died while receiving care in the United States. Sources close to the kingdom and independent reports say he had been fighting cancer. Nilepost and other outlets reported that he had been diagnosed with brain cancer and had been in a coma for several days before he died. The kingdom statement did not give details of the illness. Earlier in the day officials and Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara confirmed that the Omukama was critically ill and was under medical care in the US.
Omukama Oyo was born on April 16 1992. Became king on September 12 1995 at the age of three after his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III died suddenly. He was one of the world’s kings and ruled for 31 years growing from a child king into a respected cultural leader.
During his reign the Omukama supported education, health care protecting the environment, tourism and youth empowerment in Tooro. His quiet dignity and devotion to culture earned him respect across Uganda.
The kingdom tells its people that the Crown will continue. “His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be announced at the time in line with the traditions of the Tooro Kingdom ” said Rwomiire. More information about funeral and mourning plans will come in an official message.
This month the kingdom denied reports that the king was ill saying he was abroad for official trips and further studies. Rumours grew, leading Thursday to a confirmation that the king was in condition and then to the announcement that he had died.
Political, cultural and religious leaders across Uganda have begun to send condolences. The death ends a chapter in Tooro’s history—a young king who carried tradition for more than thirty years.
As the Batooro get ready to mourn their Omukama the kingdom urges calm and unity. A full statement, with arrangements will come soon.
May His Majesty rest in peace.