Sombre mood as body of King Oyo brought home

What the report says

The Independent Uganda reports that the body of the late Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, arrived in Uganda at Entebbe International Airport at 12:08 p.m., beginning nine days of official mourning. The casket came in on a chartered aircraft and was received by President Yoweri Museveni, who had arrived earlier at the airport. It was then taken from the Tooro Kingdom flag to a waiting UPDF helicopter for transport to Tooro.

The reception was described as emotional, with mourners, dignitaries, and officials reportedly struggling to hold back tears. Those present included ministers, Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong, and other government and kingdom representatives. The arrival of the body formally starts the mourning period and sets in motion preparations for succession to the Tooro throne.

According to the article, King Oyo had ruled for more than three decades after ascending the throne in 1995 at age three, following the death of his father, King Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III. The report says he was due to mark 31 years as king this year. It adds that burial is expected on September 12, 2026, the same day the new Omukama is to be installed. The broader significance is the transition for one of Uganda’s traditional kingdoms, alongside public mourning and state ceremonies.