By Ben Musanje
UNICEF has joined Ugandans in mourning the death of the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing him as a longstanding champion of children’s rights, education and wellbeing.
In a condolence message issued Thursday, UNICEF Uganda Representative Dr Robin Nandy said King Oyo’s nearly 31-year reign was marked by a strong commitment to improving the lives and prospects of children and young people.
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at the age of three, growing up under public scrutiny while carrying the responsibilities of one of Uganda’s most prominent cultural institutions.
Nandy said the experience shaped the King into a leader who understood that children should not be treated as “citizens in waiting”, but should have their rights protected and their opportunities supported from an early age.
Throughout his reign, King Oyo used his influence to advocate for children’s education, health and future, according to UNICEF.
The UN children’s agency said cultural institutions play an important role in advancing children’s rights because of the trust they command within communities.
“His Majesty’s voice strengthened this work and will be deeply missed,” Nandy said.
In Tooro, UNICEF has worked with the government, local authorities and communities on programmes including immunisation, nutrition, safe water and sanitation, early childhood learning, girls’ education and child protection.
The organisation has also supported emergency preparedness and response along Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, including assistance to refugee children and host communities.
Nandy said the organisation’s work in the region has relied not only on formal institutions but also on parents, teachers, health workers, village leaders and the wider Kingdom’s commitment to children’s welfare.
He said the King’s advocacy carried particular influence among families.
“When His Majesty spoke about a child’s right to learn, or a girl’s right to finish school, families listened in a way that no campaign can replicate,” Nandy said.
He described that influence as an important part of the King’s legacy and urged that his example of advocating for children be carried forward.
“On behalf of UNICEF in Uganda, I extend our deepest condolences to Her Royal Highness the Queen Mother, the Royal Family, the Tooro Kingdom, and all Ugandans whose lives were touched and inspired by the King,” Nandy said.
“We share in their grief, and we stand with them.”
King Oyo’s death marks the end of a reign that began in childhood and spanned almost three decades and one year, during which he became one of Uganda’s most recognisable cultural leaders.
UNICEF said his contribution to the welfare and rights of children would remain an important part of his legacy.
May His Majesty rest in eternal peace.
