By Mike Rwothomio

The Aringa Kingdom has mourned the death of the Tooro King, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing his passing as a profound loss to the people of Tooro and Uganda’s cultural institutions.

In a condolence message dated August 28, 2026, the Prime Minister of the Aringa Kingdom, Hon. Lemeriga Fadhil Kujo, conveyed the kingdom’s sympathies to the Tooro Royal Family, Prime Minister, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the cabinet, clan leaders and the people of Tooro.

The message, issued on behalf of His Royal Highness Opi Adnan Ingamile Doka Charaka III, King of the Aringa Kingdom, said King Oyo’s death at the age of 34 was particularly painful because he had ascended the throne at only three years old.

The Aringa Kingdom described King Oyo as a symbol of continuity who grew up alongside his people and dedicated his reign to education, youth empowerment, environmental conservation and the dignity of his subjects.

The statement noted that his nearly 31-year reign had connected Tooro’s past with its future, while demonstrating the importance of cultural institutions in serving ordinary people.

The Aringa Kingdom welcomed assurances that the Tooro Crown remains secure through an heir and prayed for strength and patience for the Royal Family during the transition.

The kingdom also asked to be informed of the funeral arrangements, saying it wished to be represented and was ready to offer any assistance that could comfort Tooro during the mourning period.

“May the Almighty grant His Majesty a peaceful rest, and grant the Royal Family and the people of Tooro the patience and fortitude that such a loss demands,” the message stated.

The Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, confirmed that King Oyo died at around 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, describing his death as an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and Uganda.

Born on April 16, 1992, King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne on September 12, 1995, at the age of three, following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.

He reigned for nearly 31 years and became one of Uganda’s longest-serving cultural leaders.

The Tooro Kingdom has assured the public that the continuity of the crown is guaranteed, noting that the late King left behind a Prince who will succeed him.