The Mwami of Bukumu Kingdom in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has mourned Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, describing his death at the age of 34 as premature.
Mwami Butsitsi Kahembe IV Isaac, whose kingdom is located in Nyiragongo Territory, said he had received the news with profound sadness.
“It is with bitterness that we have just learned of the premature death of my brother and friend, His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV of the Kingdom of Tooro,” Kahembe said.
He extended condolences to Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, the Babiito Royal Family and the people of Tooro.
“Our most heartbroken condolences to the Queen Mother, to the Royal Family of Babiito and to the Batooro people. Rest in peace, my friend,” he said.
Photographs shared by Kahembe showed the two traditional rulers together during an earlier engagement, highlighting personal and cultural ties between leaders in the Great Lakes region.
Bukumu Kingdom is based in Nyiragongo Territory in North Kivu Province, near the Congolese city of Goma. Traditional authorities remain influential in the area, particularly in cultural affairs, land administration and community mobilisation.
King Oyo died in the United States on Thursday after reportedly battling cancer. His death was announced by Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who said the monarch passed away at about 10:00 p.m.
Born on April 16, 1992, Oyo ascended the throne on September 12, 1995, aged three, following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick David Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.
He led Tooro for nearly 31 years and promoted education, healthcare, environmental conservation, tourism, cultural preservation and youth empowerment.
Rwomiire said King Oyo had left behind a prince whose identity would be disclosed at an appropriate time in accordance with Tooro traditions.
The kingdom is expected to release details concerning official mourning, the return of the King’s remains and burial arrangements.
