Queen Mother Best Kemigisa Vows to Uphold King Oyo's Legacy Through Community Projects

Queen Mother Best Kemigisa has extended her heartfelt thanks to the people of Tooro, Uganda, and the global community for their unwavering support during the recent period of mourning and the burial of her son, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.

Describing the loss as one of the most painful experiences of her life, Kemigisa found strength in the solidarity shown by the public. King Oyo, who passed away at 34 after battling cancer, reigned for 31 years, ascending to the throne as a child monarch. His burial at the Karambi Royal Tombs occurred on September 12, exactly 31 years after his enthronement.

The Queen Mother conveyed her gratitude to everyone who participated in welcoming her son’s remains home, attended the palace, offered prayers, or sent messages of condolence, stating, “You stood by me when I could hardly carry myself.”

She specifically acknowledged President Yoweri Museveni for his long-standing support of King Oyo, from his childhood through his reign and illness. The President’s agreement to serve as Patron and Founding Chairman of the King Oyo Memorial Foundation was met with appreciation, offering encouragement as the family commits to preserving and building upon the late King’s legacy.

Alongside her daughter, Princess Ruth Nsemere Komuntale, Kemigisa is dedicated to transforming grief into action. The proposed King Oyo Memorial Foundation will serve as a platform for practical initiatives aimed at benefiting Ugandans, reflecting King Oyo’s values and interests. Planned projects include a museum to preserve his life and Tooro’s history, an international stadium to foster youth talent, a research and teaching hospital focused on cancer and HIV, and the development of the King Oyo farm into an agricultural education center.

“These projects are not simply monuments bearing King Oyo’s name. They are his legacy put to work for the people,” Kemigisa stated. She also encouraged young Ugandans to believe in their potential, regardless of age, drawing inspiration from her son’s early ascension to leadership. The Queen Mother urged parents to cherish family moments and emphasized a commitment to peace and service over conflict, ensuring that King Oyo’s story continues to inspire future generations.

Source: Nile Post