news 31 August 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Tooro Kingdom Eyes Shs 2 Billion for King Oyo's Funeral Expenses
A proposed budget for the funeral and burial events of the late Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV outlines a significant expenditure of approximately Shs 2 billion, including Value Added Tax (VAT). The detailed financial plan has been submitted to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. Source: https://observer.ug/news/king-oyo-burial-budget-shoots-to-cost-shs-2bn
The organizing committee for the funeral and burial of the late King Oyo has presented a substantial budget proposal nearing Shs 2 billion once Value Added Tax (VAT) is factored in. The initial budget, submitted on August 29, 2026, itemizes event management costs at Shs 1.724 billion before VAT, with an additional 18% VAT expected to push the total figure significantly higher.
The comprehensive plan details expenditures across various key locations crucial to the royal ceremonies. These include the airport reception, Buziga Royal Palace, Karambi Tombs (the royal burial grounds), Kabarole Church, and Karuziika Royal Palace.
Significant allocations are designated for infrastructure and technical setup at the Karambi Tombs, such as a large dome tent costing Shs 60 million, VIP area flooring at Shs 30 million, and a public-address system for 4,000 people amounting to Shs 15 million. Additionally, Shs 16 million is budgeted for LED screens to broadcast events live, alongside funds for cultural decorations, entertainment, and security.
Preparations at Karuziika Royal Palace also involve considerable costs, including a VVIP over-deck terrace estimated at Shs 98 million and substantial sums for tents, lighting, and flooring. A notable expense is Shs 168 million for six large LED screens to be installed at the palace.
The budget also addresses logistics, with provisions for transport, accommodation, and upkeep for various support teams. Media and publicity efforts are allocated significant funds, covering a 14-day content team for videography and photography, printing, and the production of programme booklets and tribute videos.
Smaller, yet detailed, allocations are made for the airport reception, including tents, a red carpet, and cultural reception elements, as well as for the Buziga Royal Palace and Kabarole Church, covering tents, decoration, and public-address systems. While the final VAT-inclusive total is not explicitly stated in the document, the outlined pre-VAT costs indicate a total expenditure exceeding Shs 2 billion after tax.
This budget was submitted to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.