- By Joseph muyingo
FORT PORTAL — Behind the 31-year reign of the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV was a childhood shaped not only by royal duties, but also by the support of individuals who helped him prepare for life beyond the throne.
Among those remembered for their contribution is businessman and philanthropist Dr Sudhir Ruparelia, whom Queen Mother Best Kemigisa has credited with supporting the young monarch’s education and personal development.
Speaking during King Oyo’s burial service at St John’s Cathedral in Fort Portal, Queen Mother Kemigisa revealed that Ruparelia was among those who helped finance Oyo’s high school education.
The Queen Mother also recalled that Ruparelia opened the doors of the gym at Speke Resort Munyonyo to the young King, allowing him to pursue his interest in physical fitness.
The gesture, she noted, went beyond financial assistance, placing Ruparelia among the people who provided encouragement and support as Oyo transitioned from a child monarch into an adult cultural leader.
King Oyo ascended the Tooro throne in 1995 at just three years old following the death of his father, Omukama Patrick Matthew Kaboyo Olimi III.
His unusual position meant that his upbringing combined the ordinary challenges of childhood with the extraordinary expectations of a reigning cultural leader.
Over the years, Oyo became increasingly involved in initiatives focused on youth empowerment, education, health, conservation, tourism and investment, while continuing to represent the Tooro Kingdom nationally and internationally.
Queen Mother Kemigisa’s tribute therefore highlighted a lesser-known aspect of the late monarch’s journey — the role played by people outside the formal royal establishment in supporting his education, interests and personal growth.
The relationship between the Ruparelia family and the Tooro royal family also extended beyond Oyo. The Queen Mother later expressed condolences to the Ruparelia family following the death of Dr Sudhir’s son, Rajiv Ruparelia.
King Oyo was laid to rest at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal, closing a chapter that began with his installation as Uganda’s child monarch and ended with a 31-year reign.
