Friends Recall King Oyo's Humility, Love for Animals, and Passion for Football

Beyond the regalia and royal duties, Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was remembered by those closest to him as a man shaped by simple joys: family, friendship, adventure, and a profound affection for animals.

Isaiah Rwanyekiro, who began as a journalist and became a confidant, recalled Oyo as “down-to-earth, never carried himself with airs and was very humorous.” This warmth extended beyond the king, with his mother, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, also known for her kindness and humor.

Oyo’s love for animals was particularly notable. His cousin and personal aide, Ronald Akiiki, shared that the king adored cows and dogs. “He really loved being around them, with his omwigo (stick) like a real herdsman,” Akiiki stated, suggesting a potential career as a vet or game warden had Oyo not been king.

Football was another significant passion. Despite the impracticality of playing professionally while ruling, Oyo was an avid supporter of Arsenal. Akiiki and another cousin, Jonathan Baguma, were instrumental in fostering this allegiance, making “Oyo an Arsenal fan” through constant engagement.

Even within the confines of his royal role, Oyo maintained a playful spirit. Akiiki recounted how he and other cousins would playfully bet with Oyo on whether he could resist smiling on the throne, a game Oyo often lost, finding joy in the camaraderie.

Patrick Mpuuga, a paternal cousin, highlighted Oyo’s ability to balance his royal responsibilities with his personal relationships, stating, “Yes, we had fun together; but it was never lost on us that he was our king. And we always respected him.”

Oyo also demonstrated a keen sense of duty and positivity. “He was a very positive man and if you came with your negative energy you couldn’t get his attention,” Mpuuga observed. He encouraged proactive problem-solving, preferring constructive criticism over mere complaints.

Friends believe that had he not ascended to the throne at such a young age, Oyo might have pursued a career in animal conservation, public relations, or tourism, given his interests and his work on a model farm initiative.

His aspirations extended to settling down and finding spiritual fulfillment, with plans for his kingdom and a desire for God’s presence to be more manifest in his life and realm.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)