KING OYO TO BE BURIED SEPTEMBER 12

The body of Uganda’s King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV has been returned to the country ahead of his burial on September 12.

King Oyo, who ruled the Tooro Kingdom, died in the United States last week at the age of 34 after receiving treatment for cancer. He became widely known after ascending the throne in 1995 at just three years old, earning recognition as the world’s youngest reigning monarch.

His remains arrived in Uganda on Friday and were received by government and royal officials, including President Yoweri Museveni, as the kingdom began formal mourning activities.

The burial is scheduled to take place at the royal mausoleum in Karambi, where members of the royal family, traditional leaders and other dignitaries are expected to gather.

The Tooro Kingdom has commenced a nine-day mourning period leading up to the burial, with various ceremonies planned to honour the late monarch.

King Oyo’s death has attracted widespread mourning in Uganda, where he remained an important cultural figure despite the largely ceremonial role of traditional monarchs.

His reign lasted more than three decades, during which he became known internationally for his youth-focused initiatives and involvement in health and community development efforts.