Thursday night, August 27th, 2026, the Kingdom of Tooro announced the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi, the 13th reigning King of the Kingdom. The institution also announced that King left behind a heir to the throne who will be brought forward at an appropriate time.
In Tooro, when the Omukama dies, it’s called “Enkuba Etutire – Omukama Atulize” – the clouds have covered us, the King has rested.
Here is what happens according to Tooro custom:
1. Announcement of death
The Prime Minister (Omuhikirwa) officially announces it. Like now, Prime Minister Calvin Rwomiire Akiiki announced Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV died at about 10pm on 27th August 2026. 461d
The people are asked to remain calm, united and prayerful.
2. Royal regalia turned upside down
Immediately, all instruments of power – the royal drum (Nyalebe), royal stool, spears – are turned upside down. It shows the throne is empty. They are only turned upright again when a new King is crowned. cf02
3. Nine days of mourning
The Babiito elders and royal clan prepare the burial. The mourning journey lasts 9 days. During this time the body is prepared and taken to the Karambi royal tombs (Ha’gasani) where all Tooro kings are buried. cf02
4. Succession is assured but secret
The continuity of the Crown is always assured. The King leaves behind a Prince as heir, but his identity is formally revealed at the appropriate time according to tradition. This is what has just happened now – the Kingdom confirmed King Oyo left a Prince heir. 461d
5. Enthronement rituals (Emirwa y’Obuhangwa)
When the new Omukama is installed:
– He is carried from his father’s house to Karuziika Palace
– At the palace gate (Mugabate), there is a mock battle between a “rebel” prince and the royal army
– The Omusuuga (head of royal clan) calls on the gods to strike him dead if he is not of royal blood – a test of divine right
– If he passes, he is allowed to sound the sacred Nyalebe drum, the Chwezi drum of his forefathers
– He is crowned at around 4am and given his first meal as king – millet dough 8a86
Tooro does NOT do the old Bunyoro jaw-burial ritual anymore. That ended in 1869.
May his soul rest in peace.
