Georgia’s President Mikheil Kavelashvili has joined a growing chorus of international leaders mourning the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of Tooro, extending condolences to the late monarch’s family, the people of Tooro and Uganda.
Kavelashvili expressed his sympathy in a message following the death of the Tooro monarch, who passed away on August 27, 2026, at the age of 34.
“I extend my sincere condolences on the passing of His Majesty King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of Tooro. My heartfelt sympathies go to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and the people of Uganda,” the Georgian President said.
The message adds a diplomatic voice from Georgia to the growing international tributes following the death of a monarch whose extraordinary life placed Tooro firmly on the global cultural map.
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in September 1995 at just three years old following the death of his father, King Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Rwamuhokya Olimi III. His accession made him the world’s youngest reigning monarch, a distinction that brought international attention to the young king and the Tooro Kingdom.
He remained on the throne for nearly 31 years, eventually assuming full royal responsibilities as an adult and becoming a prominent cultural figure in Uganda.
The Tooro Kingdom confirmed that King Oyo died at approximately 10 p.m. on August 27. His death was described by the kingdom’s Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, as an “immeasurable loss” to the Royal Family, Tooro and Uganda.
The kingdom has also confirmed that the continuity of the Tooro Crown is assured, with the late king leaving behind a son who is heir to the throne. His identity and the succession arrangements are expected to be formally announced in accordance with Tooro traditions and customs.
Beyond his royal status, King Oyo became associated with efforts to promote the cultural identity and development of Tooro. He maintained relationships with national institutions and supported causes including youth development, education, environmental conservation and sport.
His passion for football was particularly visible. The Federation of Uganda Football Associations described him as a strong supporter of the Uganda Cranes and football development in Tooro, while noting his support for the FUFA Drum, a competition built around football and Uganda’s cultural diversity.
Kavelashvili’s tribute comes as Uganda enters a period of national mourning for a monarch whose reign began in childhood and ended unexpectedly at the age of 34.
The outpouring of condolences—from Uganda’s political and cultural leadership to international figures—reflects the reach of King Oyo’s public life and the significance of his death to the people of Tooro.
For a kingdom that watched its king grow from a three-year-old heir into an adult monarch, his death marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Tooro’s modern history.
Omukama Atulize. Enkuba Etutire.
