CULTURE | TORO KINGDOM | OYO 

TORO - The Omukama of Toro Kingdom, George Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV is celebrating his 29th birthday today.

King Oyo who is among the world's youngest reigning monarchs was born on April 16, 1992, at Nsambya Hospital in Kampala.

However, unlike the previous years, there will not be celebrations due to the ongoing covid-19 restrictions.

“We are going to have a private celebration with the King and that will be it for the day,” said Jonathan Baguma, the Personal Assistant to King Oyo.

However, the Omukama is expected to hold a thanksgiving ceremony in Fort Portal, to celebrate the milestone on a date that will be communicated soon.

“We are in touch with the Bishops and other stakeholders to have a thanksgiving in Fort Portal on a date that will be communicated,” Baguma said.

Oyo ascended to the throne at age 3 in 1995, following the death of his father Omukama Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi VII.

The Queen Mother Best Kemigisa has taken the lead on congratulating the king on his birthday.

“Wishing His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, King of Tooro Kingdom, a Very Happy 29th Birthday. May God grant you good health, wisdom, and long life filled with joy, peace and prosperity” Kemigisa tweeted.

Mpuga JonathanKagoro @MpugaJ tweeted: “Join me to wish a Happiest birthday to my King, His Majesty Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, King. Hangiruza Agutamba Entale Ya Tooro,”

Also, Atulinda AllanFlag of Uganda @Atulinda_Allan congratulated the King; “Happiest birthday to you HIs Majesty Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, King Oyo. May God keep guiding you to lead with wisdom. @KingOyoOfficial”

At 29, many people in Toro have been asking themselves when the King will get married.

Tweets like Evelyn Arsenal Nakayi @Evelyn_Nakayi, were among the few who were wondering when the King is getting a wife.

“But when is King Oyo getting married???” Nakayi tweeted.

King Oyo serves as a figurehead for the Batooro people, who make up most of the kingdom. His roles include promoting cultural pride and helping raise funds for issues such as health and education in his kingdom.

Besides, the kingdom supplements government efforts at devolution of power through its clan system.

Toro Kingdom is on the slopes of Mount Rwenzori in Western Uganda. It has close to two million people, the Batooro, who venerate the king.

They cherish the kingdom as a seat of honor and esteem.