Written By | Joshua Nahamya
Dr Robin Nandy, UNICEF Representative in Uganda
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KAMPALA
UNICEF Uganda has joined the nation and Tooro Kingdom in mourning the passing of His Majesty Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, reflecting on the monarch's lifelong dedication to advocating for the health, education, and protection of children and young people across Uganda.
King Oyo ascended the throne in 1995 at the age of three, growing up in the full view of the nation and reigning for nearly 31 years. In a formal condolence statement released on Thursday, UNICEF Representative to Uganda Dr. Robin Nandy noted that the King's unique upbringing profoundly shaped his leadership style and vision.
"King Oyo came to the throne in 1995 at the age of three. He grew up in the full view of a nation, and he reigned for almost 31 years. Few leaders have carried such responsibility for so long or from so young an age," Dr. Nandy stated. "That beginning shaped the King he became. He understood, in a way that needed no explanation, that children and young people are not citizens in waiting. Throughout his reign, he used his throne to champion their education, health, and future in Uganda."
Throughout his reign, Tooro Kingdom served as a pivotal partner for UNICEF and government stakeholders in driving community-based interventions, including routine immunization, child nutrition, safe water access, early childhood education, and child protection. The partnership also proved instrumental in emergency preparedness and humanitarian response initiatives along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, extending vital relief to both refugee children and host communities.
"As a UN child rights agency working with cultural institutions, we know the deep trust they hold in communities. Across Uganda, they have been vital partners in keeping girls in school, protecting children from violence and harmful practices, connecting families to health services, and safeguarding the environment children will inherit. His Majesty's voice strengthened this work and will be deeply missed," Dr. Nandy reflected. "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. That is the measure of what has been lost, and the reason his example must be carried forward."
Expressing solidarity with the Kingdom during this period of national mourning, UNICEF reaffirmed its commitment to honoring the late King's legacy by continuing to advance the welfare of children across the country.
"On behalf of UNICEF in Uganda, I extend our deepest condolences to Her Royal Highness the Queen Mother, the Royal Family, Tooro Kingdom, and all Ugandans whose lives were touched and inspired by the King. We share in their grief, and we stand with them. May His Majesty rest in eternal peace," Dr. Nandy concluded.
