UNICEF Representative in Uganda condoles with the people of Tooro on the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV

Kampala, 3 September 2026 – UNICEF joins the people of Uganda in mourning the passing of His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, King of Tooro.

King Oyo came to the throne in 1995, at the age of three. He grew up in full view of a nation, and he reigned for almost 31 years. Few leaders have carried such responsibility for so long, or from so young an age.

That beginning shaped the King he became. He understood, in a way that needed no explanation, that children and young people are not citizens in waiting. Throughout his reign, he used his throne to champion their education, health, and future in Uganda.

As a UN Child Rights agency working with cultural institutions, we know the deep trust they hold in communities. Across Uganda, they have been vital partners in keeping girls in school, protecting children from violence and harmful practices, connecting families to health services, and safeguarding the environment children will inherit. His Majesty's voice strengthened this work and will be deeply missed.

In Tooro, UNICEF has worked closely with the Government, district authorities and communities to support immunisation, nutrition, safe water and sanitation, early learning, girls’ education and child protection. We have also supported emergency preparedness and response along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, reaching refugee children and host communities.

During our engagement, we have depended on parents, teachers, health workers, village leaders and a Kingdom that took the welfare of its youngest people seriously. When His Majesty spoke about a child's right to learn, or a girl's right to finish school, families listened in a way that no campaign can replicate. That is the measure of what has been lost, and the reason his example must be carried forward.

On behalf of UNICEF in Uganda, I extend our deepest condolences to Her Royal Highness the Queen Mother, the Royal Family, the Tooro Kingdom, and all Ugandans whose lives were touched and inspired by the King. We share in their grief, and we stand with them.

May His Majesty rest in eternal peace.