Alupo pays tribute to King Oyo

What the report says

Vice President Jessica Alupo has paid tribute to the late Tooro Kingdom monarch, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing him as a figure who helped uphold cultural heritage, unity and community development. According to Nile Post, she spoke on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at Karuzika in Fort Portal during a public mourning ceremony attended by President Yoweri Museveni, members of the royal family and other mourners.

Alupo extended condolences to Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the Babiito Royal Family, the people of Tooro and others affected by the king’s death. She said King Oyo, who became king at age three, grew into a respected leader whose reign was associated with cultural preservation as well as support for youth empowerment, health, education, tourism, environment and community initiatives.

The Vice President urged Ugandans to remember the impact of his leadership rather than the length of his reign. She also called on people in Tooro to remain peaceful and united during the mourning period, saying his legacy should encourage respect for cultural institutions and a shared commitment to a stable and prosperous Uganda.

Nile Post reported that King Oyo died on August 27 in the United States, where he had been receiving medical treatment, and that his remains were returned to Uganda on Friday ahead of burial planned for Saturday, September 12. The tribute comes as the kingdom and the wider country reflect on the role traditional leaders continue to play in Uganda’s social and cultural life.