Today, September 12, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV celebrates 29 years on the throne as the reigning monarch of the Tooro Kingdom.
The cultural event is taking place at the kingdom’s royal palace, Karuziika, in Fort Portal, and marks a significant milestone in his reign.
Omukama Oyo, born on April 16, 1992, to the late King Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III and Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, ascended to the throne at the tender age of three, following his father’s death in 1995.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of Omukama Oyo’s reign, highlighting his achievements, contributions to the kingdom, and challenges he has faced over the past three decades.
Early Life and Ascension to the Throne
Born into the royal clan of Babiito, Omukama Oyo is the 12th ruler of the Tooro Kingdom, which separated from the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom in 1830.
Following his father’s untimely death, Oyo assumed the role of king at the age of three, officially ascending the throne on September 12, 1995.
Due to his young age, the kingdom was governed by regents until he turned 18 in 2010, at which point he assumed full administrative duties.
The head of the Babiito Royal Clan, Omujwera Musuuga Charles Kayondo Kamurasi, played a pivotal role in nurturing the young king and overseeing the kingdom’s affairs during this period.
The regency council, comprising prominent figures such as Mr. John Katuramu, Rev. Can James Rabwoni, and Prof. Oswald Ndolereire, managed the kingdom’s day-to-day operations until Omukama Oyo came of age.
Major Achievements
Health Initiatives and HIV/AIDS Advocacy
Throughout his reign, Omukama Oyo has been a vocal advocate for various causes, including health, education, and environmental conservation.
In 2016, he was appointed the UNAIDS Goodwill Ambassador, where he actively engaged in combatting the spread of HIV/AIDS.
To strengthen the kingdom’s health infrastructure, he signed a five-year memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Health in 2020.
This partnership aims to address critical health challenges in Tooro, including maternal mortality, malnutrition, and HIV/AIDS.
Omukama Oyo has also facilitated numerous annual health camps in the week leading up to the Empango (coronation anniversary).
These camps provide free medical services to the kingdom’s residents, offering treatments such as orthopedic surgeries, eye care, cancer screenings, and HIV/AIDS testing.
The king collaborates with international medical experts, inviting doctors from the United States to work alongside local health professionals.
In a further effort to improve healthcare, the kingdom plans to construct a children’s health facility in Kyenjojo District, although partners for this project are still being sought.
Environmental Conservation
Environmental protection is another pillar of Omukama Oyo’s leadership. In 2019, he initiated a campaign to plant 10 million trees across the kingdom, emphasizing the need to combat deforestation and preserve natural resources.
He has also led efforts to protect River Mpanga, a critical water source that stretches over 200 kilometres and serves three districts and the city of Fort Portal.
Cultural and Economic Development
Promotion of Cultural Heritage and Tourism
In 2021, Omukama Oyo launched a 25-year development plan for the kingdom, with a focus on promoting, preserving, and protecting the rich cultural heritage of Tooro.
The plan also seeks to empower youth with essential vocational and digital skills, alleviate poverty, and boost tourism.
One of the key projects in this area is the establishment of a youth centre in Muchwa, which provides free vocational training in skills such as sewing.
Additionally, an ICT centre, nearing completion in Fort Portal, will provide young people with advanced digital training to help them succeed in the digital economy.
This project, supported by partnerships with organizations like the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will play a vital role in preparing the youth for future opportunities.
Agricultural Innovations
Omukama Oyo has also prioritized agricultural development within the kingdom.
He established a model farm in Kyenjojo District, offering local farmers the opportunity to learn modern agricultural techniques.
This farm features nine different agricultural enterprises, including dairy farming, fish farming, coffee production, and mango cultivation.
Plans are underway to establish more model farms in each county of the kingdom, to boost agricultural productivity and self-sufficiency.
Also Read: Tooro Kingdom Partners with NARO to Boost Agricultural Development
Challenges Faced During His Reign
Resistance and Internal Struggles
Despite his numerous achievements, Omukama Oyo’s reign has not been without challenges.
In 2013, three years after he assumed full leadership at the age of 18, he faced a significant challenge from his cousin, Prince David Kijjanangoma.
Prince David accused the king of incompetence and absenteeism, garnering support from some members of the royal family and local leaders.
His attempts to stage a rival coronation were blocked by security forces, and the conflict ultimately culminated in Prince David’s arrest in 2015.
In response to the unrest, President Yoweri Museveni formed a committee led by Bishop Reuben Kisembo to investigate and resolve the disputes within the kingdom.
By 2019, Prince David sought a peaceful resolution and declared peace with Omukama Oyo after requesting dialogue.
Struggles Over Land and Resources
Another key challenge facing the kingdom is the delay in the return of its properties by the central government.
Despite the signing of an MoU between the Tooro Kingdom and the Ugandan government in 2019, the kingdom is still awaiting the return of assets that were confiscated during the abolition of monarchies in 1967.
The head of the Babiito Royal Clan, Musuuga Kamurasi, emphasized that regaining these properties would greatly enhance the kingdom’s ability to develop and expand its programs.
The Future of Tooro Kingdom Under Omukama Oyo
As Omukama Oyo marks 29 years on the throne, he remains committed to his vision of a prosperous and united Tooro Kingdom.
His leadership has brought significant advancements in health, education, environmental conservation, and economic development.
The king’s dedication to empowering the youth through skills training and his ongoing efforts to address pressing health and environmental issues reflect his commitment to ensuring a better future for the people of Tooro.
Looking ahead, the kingdom’s 25-year development plan, coupled with its focus on cultural preservation and technological innovation, promises to solidify Tooro’s place as a key player in Uganda’s social and economic landscape.
Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV’s 29-year reign has been one of progress, resilience, and innovation.
Despite facing internal conflicts and external challenges, he has remained steadfast in his commitment to the well-being of his people and the advancement of the Tooro Kingdom.
As the king looks to the future, his focus on health, environmental protection, and youth empowerment will undoubtedly shape the next phase of his reign, ensuring that Tooro continues to thrive for generations to come.
