Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the King of Tooro, has died at the age of 34, hours after Minister Balaam Barugahara dismissed earlier reports of his death and confirmed that he was alive but unwell.
The Tooro Kingdom announced that the monarch died at approximately 10:00pm on Thursday, August 27, 2026, after reportedly spending days in a coma while receiving medical treatment in the United States.
“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, at approximately 10:00 p.m. this evening,” Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki said in a statement.
King Oyo was born on April 16, 1992, and died just a day after the 31st anniversary of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III, who passed away in 1995.
King Oyo Leaves Behind Prince Heir
The Kingdom has confirmed that the continuity of the Tooro Crown is assured, revealing that Oyo leaves behind a Prince who will inherit the throne.
However, the identity of the heir will be formally announced later in accordance with Tooro's traditions and customs.
“This is an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and the nation of Uganda,” Rwomiire said.
The Prime Minister called upon the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful as the Kingdom mourns its monarch.
Reports of Cancer Treatment
Sources close to the royal family have indicated that King Oyo had been in a coma for several days while receiving treatment at a hospital in the United States.
The sources further claimed that he had been diagnosed with advanced-stage brain cancer, although the Tooro Kingdom has not officially confirmed the diagnosis.
His death comes after a dramatic turn of events on Thursday when social media reports claimed the King had died.
Minister Balaam subsequently dismissed the reports, saying Oyo was still alive but receiving medical care in the United States and calling for prayers for his recovery.
A King Who Ascended the Throne at Three
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at just three years old, following the death of his father, becoming the world's youngest reigning monarch at the time.
He later assumed full administrative responsibilities after turning 18 and was formally crowned in 2010.
During his nearly 31-year reign, Oyo became associated with campaigns focused on HIV/AIDS awareness, environmental conservation and youth empowerment.
Although he was never officially married, the Kingdom has confirmed that he fathered a Prince who is now recognised as his heir.