President Yoweri Museveni on September 4, 2026, received the body of Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV at Entebbe International Airport as the late monarch began his final journey to Fort Portal City.
The remains arrived at the old airport terminal aboard a chartered Embraer 120 RT aircraft operated by Nairobi-based Freedom Airline Express.
President Museveni laid a wreath before signing a condolence book.
The ceremony was attended by Queen Mother Best Kemigisa Akiiki, members of the Royal Family and government officials.
They included Tourism Minister Tom Butime, Gender Minister Henry Tumukunde, Local Government Minister Balaam Barugahara, NRM vice chairperson Moses Kigongo and presidential adviser Proscovia Nalweyiso.
In his remarks, Museveni expressed regret that efforts to save King Oyo from aggressive cancer in Germany and the United States had failed.
He said the Queen Mother informed him about the King’s illness around the election period and told him that doctors had diagnosed aggressive cancer.
Museveni said he provided financial support for the King’s treatment in Germany and later the United States, but doctors could not save his life.
He described King Oyo as a good and restrained leader who kept the kingdom focused on its traditional role.
The President also appealed to the people of Tooro to remain calm as discussions on the kingdom’s next steps continue.
The arrival of the body marked the start of King Oyo’s final journey to Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City.
King Oyo will be buried at the Karambi Royal Tombs on September 12, 2026. The date would have marked his 31st coronation anniversary.
