Prince David Kijanangoma Dies After Battle With Cancer
Prince David Kijanangoma, a member of the Tooro royal family, has died after a prolonged battle with cancer.
The death of the Tooro prince comes at a sensitive time for the kingdom, which is already dealing with a major succession dispute following the death and burial of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV.
Prince David had reportedly been battling stage-three throat cancer for more than a year. His condition had attracted public attention earlier this year after his family and friends appealed for financial assistance to help him access specialised treatment.
Prince David Kijanangoma’s cancer battle
In April 2026, reports emerged that Prince David was seriously ill and needed financial support for cancer treatment.
His family reportedly said he had exhausted his personal savings while seeking treatment in Uganda and needed about Shs700 million to access specialised treatment in India.
The appeal attracted attention from members of the public and well-wishers who sought to support the prince during his health battle.
Despite efforts to secure specialised medical care, his condition reportedly continued to deteriorate.
Prince David’s death comes amid Tooro succession dispute
His death comes only days after Tooro Kingdom buried King Oyo, who died in the United States on August 27, 2026, aged 34, following a battle with cancer.
King Oyo’s death triggered a contentious succession dispute after the Babiito royal clan selected Prince Edward Rukidi Kijanangoma as his successor.
The decision has been challenged by members of the late king’s family, including Princess Ruth Komuntale, who has disputed the selection and argued that the late king had a son who should be considered in the succession process.
Prince Edward Kijanangoma was subsequently presented as the new king-designate, although the succession controversy remains unresolved.
Who was Prince David Kijanangoma?
Prince David Kijanangoma was a member of the Babiito royal family of Tooro and had remained connected to the kingdom’s royal circles.
His death adds another loss to the Tooro royal family shortly after the passing of King Oyo, whose death has generated widespread mourning across Uganda.
The Tooro Kingdom has been at the centre of national attention in recent weeks because of the debate over who should succeed the late monarch.
Tributes expected
News of Prince David Kijanangoma’s death is expected to trigger tributes from members of the Tooro royal family, friends, cultural leaders and members of the public.
Further details regarding his burial arrangements and official communication from the royal family are expected to follow.
Prince David’s death marks another painful moment for the Tooro royal family, coming at a time when the kingdom is navigating both bereavement and an unresolved succession dispute.
