Media fraternity pays final respect to Joseph Sseruwooza

22 June 2026, 12:52 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Following the death of BBS Television parliamentary reporter and program host Joseph Sseruwooza last week, he was laid to rest yesterday in Rakai District. Hundreds of mourners, including Members of Parliament, attended the burial.

Speaking on behalf of the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Kalungu West MP Joseph Ssewungu described the deceased as a committed journalist and urged parents to prioritize educating their children.

“I want to thank my fellow Joseph for being committed to his work. We Josephs are very wise. I thank his parents for educating him. I therefore urge you all to educate your children. Whatever you wish to achieve, you will achieve through your children. Whatever has been said about Sseruwooza reflects who he truly was. Let me now read the message from the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa,” Ssewungu said.

In his condolence message, Tayebwa appreciated the role Sseruwooza played as a parliamentary reporter, describing him as not just an ordinary journalist but a passionate professional. He prayed for eternal rest for the deceased and contributed financial support to the bereaved family, although the amount was not disclosed.

Charles Mugerwa Kiggundu, a former colleague of Sseruwooza, narrated how the late journalist rose through the ranks to become a parliamentary reporter.

“Towards the end of 2021, as I was preparing to leave CBS FM for further studies and new responsibilities, my supervisor asked me to recommend someone suitable to fill the gap and cover Parliament. It seemed like a simple task, but it was one of the hardest assignments I ever received. It took me almost two months to identify someone who met CBS standards,” Kiggundu said.

He explained that his first choice, Godfrey Ssali of Radio Akaboozi, respectfully declined the opportunity. His second option was Joseph Sseruwooza, who at the time worked for Impact Radio and Dream TV.

“At the time, Joseph Sseruwooza was a reporter for both Impact Radio and Dream TV. He was also a camera operator, a political analyst and a host of current affairs talk shows at both stations. One may wonder how one person managed all these responsibilities, but that was Sseruwooza. I cannot recall a day when he failed to fulfill all his duties. He was often among the first journalists to arrive at Parliament, spending time in committee meetings, following proceedings and filing stories,” he added.

Kiggundu further revealed that by the grace of God, he was able to discuss Sseruwooza’s potential with Peter Muweesi. During their discussion, Hon. Kayemba Solo, a renowned talent developer and agent, called Muweesi and recommended Sseruwooza as a suitable replacement for Yuda Musisi, who had left the position. Following consultations with the company’s top management, Sseruwooza was eventually recruited as a parliamentary reporter.

“Covering Parliament is one of the most demanding assignments in journalism. It is not simply about conducting interviews and vox pops with MPs, ministers and committee witnesses. It requires extensive reading of committee reports, budget documents, bills, motions and petitions. It demands continuous consultation, commitment and a willingness to learn and understand issues before filing stories. As Ecclesiastes 7:1 says, ‘A good name is better than fine perfume,'” Kiggundu concluded.

Ninsiima Doreen, the widow of the deceased, described her husband as a loving, caring and committed father. She thanked everyone, especially his employers, for the support extended to the family. She also expressed gratitude to her mother-in-law for treating her well throughout their marriage.

Other Members of Parliament who attended the burial included Kyotera District Woman MP Fortunate Nantongo, Kampala Woman MP Shamim Malende, Kira Municipality MP George Musisi and Lubaga South MP Aloysius Mukasa, commonly known as Lubowa Sebina, who criticized the country’s health system during his remarks.

BBS Television Managing Director Patrick Ssembajjwe, speaking on behalf of the station’s management, praised Sseruwooza for his hard work and dedication since joining the station in 2023 from Impact Media Consortium. He noted that the late journalist rarely emphasized salary increments and remained focused on his work.

A condolence message from Apostle Joseph Serwadda was delivered by one of the station’s leaders. Parliamentary reporters, led by their president Ibanda Mugabi, also delivered a tribute in his honor.

Hakim Mubiru, speaking on behalf of non-parliamentary reporters and other well-wishers, announced a contribution of more than Shs 2.6 million from their group. This was added to other contributions, including Shs 6 million raised by parliamentary reporters.

Joseph Sseruwooza died at the age of 36 due to complications arising from ulcers while receiving treatment at Mulago Hospital. He belonged to the Kasimba Clan and is survived by two young daughters.