news 6 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
King Oyo's Solemn Return to Uganda: A Nation Mourns at Entebbe
Entebbe International Airport was transformed into a scene of profound grief as the casket carrying the late Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV arrived from Dallas, Texas. The nation collectively experienced 4,200 emotional seconds of mourning. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/king-oyo-4-200-emotional-seconds-at-entebbe-airport-5586140
The usual bustle of Entebbe International Airport gave way to an atmosphere of somber reverence on Friday, September 4, as the remains of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV returned to Ugandan soil. The 34-year-old monarch, who passed away in Dallas, Texas, was brought home in a casket, marking a deeply emotional moment for the nation.
For precisely one hour and ten minutes, or 4,200 seconds, Ugandans watched as their king’s final journey began. President Yoweri Museveni, as the chief mourner, was among the first to arrive, his usual demeanor replaced by a solemn expression. The landing of aircraft 5Y-FAM at 12:06 pm signaled the poignant arrival.
As the casket was carefully lowered from the aircraft at 12:19 pm, a hush fell over the assembled mourners. Family members, draped in traditional Tooro attire, came forward to cover the casket with a backcloth. The Ugandan and Tooro Kingdom flags were then placed atop, symbolizing the dual identity the King had carried throughout his reign.
The queen mother, Best Kemigisha, was overcome with emotion, her grief a powerful and heartbreaking display witnessed by many. The Uganda Police Force Band later played, their music filling the void where airport sounds would typically be, as mourners wept openly and stood in stunned silence.
President Museveni then approached to lay a wreath, offering a moment of silent respect before bowing to the late king. He delivered a brief, weighty speech, recalling his last interactions with the monarch. Following a private meeting with royal family members, preparations commenced for the next stage of the journey.
At 12:43 pm, the casket was transferred to a UPDF military helicopter, destined for Kyegegwa District. President Museveni offered a final, emotional wave as the helicopter lifted off at 1:15 pm, concluding the solemn 4,200 seconds at Entebbe. The nation bid farewell to its young king, united in grief and remembrance.
This report is based on information from Daily Monitor.