The late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV has been eulogised as a monarch who symbolised unity, continuity of his kingdom and cultural identity for the people of Tooro while providing exemplary leadership for modernising kingdoms.
While moving a motion to pay tribute to the fallen monarch on Thursday, 03 September 2026, the Prime Minister, Rt Hon. Robinah Nabbanja commended Oyo’s promotion of the education sector through the King Oyo Foundation, where many underprivileged youths benefitted from primary and secondary education scholarships.
She also lauded late king’s initiatives in reviving agriculture in the Kingdom as well as supporting government initiatives in child health and nutrition.
“Omukama Oyo Nyimba was a dedicated champion of the youth in the fight against HIV and AIDS, having been designated in 2016 as champion among young people in Eastern and Southern Africa by UNAIDS. In this capacity, he consistently advocated for the prevention of new HIV infections, the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and the engagement of men and boys in the response to HIV and AIDS,” Nabbanja said.
She added that he served as a practical custodian of the environment and a climate action advocate who spearheaded a campaign to plant over 10 million trees and save the heavily polluted River Mpanga.
“As a global tourism ambassador, King Oyo climbed the Rwenzori Mountain in full royal regalia to Margherita peak and also tracked mountain gorillas which helped to showcase Uganda’s tourism potential,” the Prime Minister added.
The Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi in a statement presented by Hon. Patrick Oshabe, commended Oyo for complimenting his commitment to Tooro culture with his conviction to the Christian faith.
“He did not see these responsibilities as conflicting. His faith informed the way he served as a cultural leader while his role as Omukama remained firmly rooted in the traditions of his people. Throughout his reign, he demonstrated that Christian conviction and respect to the Tooro heritage could co-exist,” Oshabe said.
Mwenge County North MP, Hon. Lawrence Akugizibwe said that the departed king promoted healthy living by advocating for preventive healthcare and safeguarding his people against the growing threat of non-communicable diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart diseases.
“After the loss of His Majesty, we must transform his personal battle into a lasting public contribution. I therefore, urge this House and government to support the establishment of King Oyo Nyimba Cancer Institute in Fort Portal to strengthen our national response to cancer,” Akugizibwe said.
Hon. Spellanza Baguma (Indep., Kyenjojo District) observed that the king pushed for the development of child healthcare facilities.
“The King of Tooro started a fundraising drive to construct a children’s hospital at Nyatungo in Kyenjojo District because he loved children so much, having ascended the throne as a child. I request that government carries this project forward,” Baguma said.
MPs also commended the regents who acted as caretakers of the late king, including President Yoweri Museveni, Buganda’s Kabaka Ronald Mwenda Mutebi II and his mother, Queen Best Kemigisha.
“As the people of Tooro, we would like to thank the President of Uganda for raising a son and a king. He walked with him through school and military training and prepared him to be the great leader we have lost,” said Hon. Mary Kuteesa, the state minister for Gender and Culture.
She also revealed that the late monarch will be laid to rest on Saturday, 12 September 2026, a day that would have marked his 31st coronation anniversary.
Fort Portal City MP, Hon. Irene Linda and Hon. Joseph Mugyenyi (NRM, Burahya County) commended Oyo for availing land for the construction of the proposed Buhinga Football Stadium and urged government to advance its development and rename it to King Oyo International Stadium.
Hoima City Woman MP, Hon. Asinansi Nyakato urged government to support the revival of cultural sites in Tooro to promote tourism in the districts taken under the kingdom-Ug. Parliament.
