King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, who became the world’s youngest reigning monarch after ascending the throne at the age of three, has died in Uganda at 34.
The traditional ruler of the Tooro Kingdom in western Uganda died on Thursday, according to the kingdom’s Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, who announced his death on Friday.
The cause of death was not immediately disclosed.
However, Ugandan media reports quoted a government minister as saying the monarch had been critically ill and receiving treatment in the United States.
In a statement announcing his death, Akiiki described the monarch’s passing as an “immeasurable loss” to the royal family and the people of Tooro.
“I call upon all the people of Tooro to remain united, calm and prayerful during this profoundly difficult time,” he said.
“May His Majesty the King rest in eternal peace.”
Oyo became king in 1995 following the death of his father, King Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Rukidi III. At just three years old, he was too young to rule independently, prompting the establishment of a regency that included the queen mother.
He was formally crowned when he turned 18 in 2010.
Guinness World Records recognised Oyo as the world’s youngest reigning monarch, a title he earned after inheriting the throne as a toddler.
The Tooro Kingdom, also known as Toro, is one of Uganda’s traditional kingdoms. While the country is governed by an elected president and its traditional kingdoms have no constitutional political authority, they retain significant cultural influence.
Oyo was the 13th monarch of Tooro, a kingdom founded in the early 19th century.
During his 31-year reign, he became a prominent cultural figure in Uganda and supported causes including youth empowerment, education, climate conservation and HIV/AIDS awareness.
Although Oyo was not officially married, the Tooro Kingdom said the royal succession would continue.
Akiiki disclosed that the late monarch left behind a son who would serve as his heir.
“The continuity of the Crown is assured,” he said.
“His Majesty leaves behind a Prince as his heir, whose identity will be formally revealed at the appropriate time, in accordance with the traditions and customs of Tooro Kingdom.”
The Tooro Kingdom follows a hereditary system of succession.
Following the announcement, other traditional institutions in Uganda paid tribute to the late king. The Buganda Kingdom, the country’s largest and most influential traditional institution, expressed condolences to the people of Tooro and described Oyo as a valuable figure to Uganda.
Oyo’s death brings to an end a 31-year reign that began when he was a three-year-old child and continued into his adulthood.