Ntale Lions League Mourns King Oyo Ahead of Star-Studded Season XVI Finale

The Ntare Lions League has paid tribute to the late King Oyo, recalling the light moments shared with the young monarch at last year’s Season XV finale in Fort Portal, as President Museveni prepares to grace the Season XVI grand finale in Kasangati.

As the Ntare Lions League prepares for a major celebration of football, brotherhood and alumni pride, the competition is also taking a moment to remember a royal figure who shared a special connection with the tournament.

The Ntare Lions League has mourned the passing of Omukama Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV, the King of Tooro, who died at the age of 34.

In a heartfelt message, the league expressed its sadness over the loss, recalling the lighter moments it shared with the young monarch during the culmination of Ntare Lions League Season XV in Fort Portal last year.

“We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of His Majesty the Omukama of Tooro, King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV,” the league said. “We had a chance to share some light moments with King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV at the culmination of #NLLXV last year in Fort Portal.”

The late Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV King of Toro at the grand finale of Ntale Lions League in fortportal last year — The picture of late his royal highness Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV King of Toro with finalists of the Ntale Lions League yesterday.jpg

The message extended condolences to the Tooro Royal Family and the people of Tooro, describing the King's passing as a profound loss.

The tribute comes as the Ntare Lions League gears up for another big chapter, with President Yoweri Museveni expected to grace the Season XVI grand finale on Saturday, August 29, in Kasangati, Wakiso District.

The finale promises to be more than just a football showdown. Thousands of Ntare School alumni, corporate partners, sports enthusiasts and members of the wider Ntare fraternity are expected to gather for a day blending football, networking, nostalgia and celebration.

There will also be a significant milestone off the pitch, with a groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed first dedicated Ntare Lions League home in Kampala. The development is expected to give the alumni competition a permanent base and further cement its place on Uganda’s sporting and social calendar.

On the pitch, defending champions TY Omujuma will face Machando FC in the championship final. The two sides finished first and second respectively during the regular season, setting up what should be a closely watched battle for the Season XVI crown.

With the tournament moving from memories of a young King in Fort Portal to a new chapter in Kasangati, the weekend carries both celebration and reflection.