By Spy Uganda
Fort Portal City will come under heightened security and traffic control on Saturday as thousands of mourners gather for the burial of Tooro King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukiidi IV.
The Joint Security Agencies have announced strict access controls, road diversions and designated parking areas as authorities prepare for the large gathering at Amagasani burial grounds in Karambi.
The measures will cover key locations linked to the burial programme, including Karuziika Palace, St John’s Cathedral Church of Uganda and the Amagasani burial grounds.
Security agencies said the arrangements are intended to protect mourners and dignitaries, manage crowds and ensure the ceremony proceeds peacefully.
Although the security situation in the Rwenzori region remains calm during the nine-day mourning period, authorities have warned that the large crowds expected in Fort Portal could attract criminals involved in theft, pickpocketing, robbery, impersonation and public disorder.
Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner of Police R. Kituuma urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security officers and the organising committee.
Mourners entering the main venues will pass through designated screening points and will be required to comply with access control procedures. The public has been warned against carrying dangerous, prohibited or suspicious items.
Authorities have also urged mourners to report suspicious people, unattended items or unusual activity to the nearest security officer.
Traffic Police will deploy officers along major routes leading into Fort Portal and areas connected to the burial ceremony. Motorists have been advised to use designated parking areas and avoid blocking roads, entrances, exits and emergency lanes.
Buhinga Stadium will serve as a public parking area, while the Kabarole Hospital parking area will also be available. The road leading to the Royal Palace will remain restricted to invited guests and authorised vehicles.
Kibogo Road may be closed to through traffic, while motorists around Mpanga Market could be diverted towards Kamwenge Road depending on traffic conditions.
Additional traffic restrictions may affect St Stephen’s Church of Uganda, Maguru Junction, Virika Junction, the Kachwamba stretch and Kasusu Junction. At Karambi, motorists may be redirected towards the Buteebe-Bundibugyo Road.
Authorities said the traffic arrangements may be adjusted depending on the volume of people and vehicles in the city.
Medical response teams and emergency points will be available throughout the ceremony. People with medical conditions have been advised to carry their prescribed medication and, where possible, attend with someone who can assist them.
The public has also been urged not to obstruct ambulances, medical teams or emergency routes.
Journalists covering the burial have been reminded to obtain accreditation through the Uganda Media Centre and carry valid identification.
King Oyo died on August 27, 2026, aged 34, after a period of illness. His burial at Amagasani in Karambi will mark the end of nine days of mourning and provide thousands of mourners with an opportunity to give the late Omukama a final farewell.
Security agencies have appealed to residents, motorists, business operators and visitors to follow official instructions and cooperate with officers to ensure the burial takes place peacefully and with dignity.
