FORT PORTAL, Uganda — Princess Ruth Nsemere Komuntale, sister of the late Tooro King Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV, has revealed that the monarch’s battle with cancer began in October 2025, as she paid an emotional tribute to her brother during his funeral on Saturday.

Komuntale said King Oyo initially sought medical attention from physicians in Uganda, but his condition was not fully diagnosed until he travelled to the United States, where he underwent further medical assessment and treatment.

She said the King’s condition deteriorated in July 2026, as his health challenges worsened.

Speaking during the funeral service, Komuntale used her brother’s experience to urge members of the public to take their health seriously and undergo regular medical check-ups.

She encouraged people not to wait until they are seriously ill before seeking medical attention, stressing the importance of early detection and regular health monitoring.

Komuntale also expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Museveni for standing with and supporting the royal family during the King’s illness and following his death.

She paid tribute to her mother, Queen Mother Best Kemigisa, whom she credited with raising the royal children well and instilling values that shaped their lives.

Reflecting on her relationship with King Oyo, Komuntale said that despite his position as monarch, he never stopped being her younger brother.

She praised Oyo’s strong development-minded approach to leadership, highlighting his commitment to the advancement of the Tooro Kingdom.

For Komuntale, however, the crown never erased the family bond.

She described Oyo as a King who carried the responsibilities of his office while remaining, in her eyes, her “little brother.”

King Oyo is being laid to rest today at the Karambi Royal Tombs in Fort Portal City following a national send-off service at St. John’s Cathedral.

His burial marks the end of a reign that began when he was a child and spanned nearly three decades, making him one of Uganda’s longest-serving traditional rulers.