Away from the grandeur of royal protocol, cultural functions, and the heavy responsibilities of the throne, the late Omukama of Tooro, Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, found a unique sanctuary in the high-octane world of motorsport.
To many of his subjects, he was the revered traditional leader of Tooro Kingdom. But to motorsport enthusiasts, King Oyo was a passionate fan, an active participant, and a familiar face who loved the roar of engines and the thrill of speed.
His deep connection to the sport went far beyond casual interest. The young monarch closely followed national rallying events, regularly attended competitions, and frequently served as a guest of honor to officially flag off races. Among rally circles, he was often associated with his well-known blue Subaru, a vehicle that came to symbolize his personal love for driving whenever he stepped outside his royal duties.
One of his most memorable moments on the track came during the United Motor Club (UMC) Fort Portal Tourism City Rally on August 9, 2024. Organized as part of the buildup to the annual Ekyoto Ha Mpango celebrations, the three-day event brought together top drivers and spectators, seamlessly blending the kingdom’s cultural festivities with extreme sport.
During the event, King Oyo was initially taken on a demonstration drive in a Ford Fiesta Proto by three-time national rally champion Ronald Ssebuguzi. However, the thrill of the ride quickly awakened the king’s competitive spirit. Wanting to test his own skills behind the wheel, King Oyo requested the organizers to allow him to drive the vehicle himself.
With his request granted, Ssebuguzi’s co-driver, Anthony Mugambwa, stepped into the navigator’s seat to guide the monarch through the super special stage. Mugambwa later expressed his excitement at the rare honor of co-driving for the king, as crowd members cheered watching their traditional leader navigate the course with precision. For a brief moment, the formalities of the kingdom fell away, leaving behind a young man fully immersed in the joy of the sport.
The monarch’s sudden passing was officially announced on August 27, 2026, by the Prime Minister (Omuhikirwa) of Tooro Kingdom, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki.
‘It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I announce the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, at approximately 10:00 p.m. this evening. This is an immeasurable loss to the Royal Family, the people of Tooro and the nation of Uganda,’ Akiiki stated in a message published on X.
Akiiki called upon the people of Tooro to remain calm, united, and prayerful, reassuring the kingdom that the continuity of the throne remains intact.
‘The continuity of the Crown is assured. 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,’ Akiiki added, noting that official details regarding funeral and mourning arrangements would follow.
As Tooro Kingdom and the country mourn the loss of King Oyo, he will be remembered not only as a dedicated traditional leader, but also as a monarch who bridged the gap with his people through his shared passion for motorsport.