A dark cloud has fallen over Uganda’s media industry following the sudden death of BBS Terefayina journalist Joseph Sseruwooza.
The respected parliamentary reporter and host of Zuukuka N’Ensonga reportedly passed away at around 4 a.m. on Friday after suffering a heart-related complication at the Uganda Heart Institute in Mulago. Early reports indicate that what was initially suspected to be severe ulcers later turned out to be a myocardial infarction, commonly known as a heart attack.
Friends and colleagues say Sseruwooza had complained of intense stomach and chest pain before being rushed for medical attention. Subsequent examinations reportedly revealed a serious cardiac emergency, and he was transferred to the Heart Institute for specialized care. Sadly, he did not survive.
Known for his calm delivery and deep understanding of parliamentary affairs, Sseruwooza had become a familiar face to viewers across the country. As BBS Terefayina’s Parliament correspondent, he covered key debates, political developments and legislative proceedings, helping bring national issues closer to Luganda-speaking audiences. He also hosted Zuukuka N’Ensonga, one of the station’s flagship current affairs programs.
His death comes as a shock to many who had seen him actively conducting interviews and covering parliamentary business in recent days. Fellow journalists described him as hardworking, disciplined and passionate about the profession.
Tributes quickly flooded social media on Friday morning, with colleagues, politicians and members of the public expressing disbelief and grief. Many remembered him as a humble journalist who maintained professionalism even in Uganda’s often heated political environment.
For many in the media fraternity, Sseruwooza’s passing is not only the loss of a talented reporter but also a painful reminder of the health pressures and demanding schedules faced by young journalists working on the frontline of Uganda’s fast-moving news cycle.
As family, friends and colleagues come to terms with the tragedy, Uganda has lost a voice that helped connect Parliament to ordinary citizens, one story at a time. Funeral arrangements are expected to be communicated by the family and BBS Terefayina.