RismadarVoice Reporters
September 5, 2026
Thousands of mourners lined the streets of Kyegegwa in Uganda as the body of Tooro Kingdom’s King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV arrived in the country, marking the beginning of his final journey home after his death.
The remains of the 34-year-old monarch were received by mourners and kingdom officials after being transported from the United States, where he died while undergoing medical treatment. His coffin, covered with national and kingdom flags, was flown to Kyegegwa before a procession continued towards the royal palace in Fort Portal.
Residents gathered along roadsides, many holding kingdom symbols and paying their respects as the funeral procession passed through communities. The atmosphere was marked by grief as people came out to honour the monarch who had led the Tooro Kingdom for more than three decades.
King Oyo, who became monarch in 1995 at the age of three following the death of his father, gained international recognition as one of the world’s youngest reigning kings. He remained a cultural figurehead in Uganda’s Tooro Kingdom, which continues to hold traditional influence despite the country operating as a republic.
The late king’s body arrived at Humura Primary School in Kyegegwa by military helicopter before being transferred to a hearse for the road journey to Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal. Security personnel were deployed to manage crowds and traffic along the route.
The remains will lie in state at Karuziika Palace, allowing members of the public and dignitaries to pay their respects ahead of the burial ceremony scheduled for September 12 at the Karambi Royal Tombs.
King Oyo’s death has triggered widespread mourning across Uganda, with government officials, cultural leaders and residents joining tributes to the late monarch.
