FORT PORTAL CITY: 11 September 2026– Joint security agencies have deployed heavy personnel and implemented strict access controls and traffic diversions across Fort Portal City ahead of the official burial ceremony of the late Omukama of Tooro, His Majesty Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV, scheduled for Saturday, September 12, 2026.
Police Spokesperson ACP Rusoke Kituuma announced the comprehensive security and traffic plan, noting that the measures aim to protect the high volume of dignitaries, royal family members, and mourners expected to attend the final rites, which conclude a nine-day official mourning period.
Tightened Access and Security Zones
Strict screening checkpoints and restricted access controls have been established around three core venues:
Karuziika Palace, St. John’s Cathedral Church of Uganda, and Amagasani (Royal Burial Grounds) in Karambi.
Members of the public are required to undergo security screening at designated access points and are strictly prohibited from carrying dangerous or suspicious items.
Security officials also urged caregivers to keep close watch over children and vulnerable persons due to large crowd surges. Any lost children, missing persons, or unattended property must be reported immediately to nearby police officers, while the public is warned not to touch or move suspicious items.
Traffic Diversions and Parking Restrictions
Traffic Police have deployed along major transit routes into Fort Portal City to manage traffic flow, warning motorists to expect intermittent diversions and closures.
Key Traffic Adjustments:
Restricted/Closed Junctions: Maguru Junction, Virika Junction, Kasusu Junction, and the Kachwamba stretch will face restricted access or temporary closures based on ground conditions.
Road Closures & Diversions: Kibogo Road will be closed to through traffic. At Mpanga Market, traffic may be diverted toward Kamwenge Road, while traffic near St. Stephen’s Church in Karambi will be diverted toward the Buteebe–Bundibugyo Road.
Designated Parking: Public parking is restricted to Buhinga Stadium and the Kabarole Hospital parking area. Parking at Karuziika Palace is strictly reserved for authorized vehicles and invited guests. Emergency lanes and access routes must remain clear at all times.
Emergency and Media Guidelines
Designated medical response teams will be stationed across the venues. Security agencies advise mourners with underlying health conditions to carry their prescribed medications and attend with a companion if possible.
Journalists covering the event are required to carry valid credentials accredited through the Uganda Media Centre.
ACP Kituuma noted that while the security situation across the Rwenzori Region remains calm, mourners must remain vigilant against petty crime, pickpocketing, and impersonation. Security agencies expressed their condolences to the Royal Family and called on the public to cooperate with security personnel to ensure a dignified and peaceful send-off for the late King.
