Salongo John Jones Sserwanga, believed to be Uganda’s oldest practicing journalist, has died at the age of 102. He passed away on Saturday evening at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, where he had been hospitalized for two weeks following health complications. According to Jude Ssonko, a presenter at Masaka’s Radio Buddu—where Sserwanga hosted the Saturday evening historical program Ebirwaawo Byerabirwa for 14 years—the veteran journalist had been battling appetite loss for over a month, which likely contributed to his declining condition.
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“Mzee John Jones had been struggling with stomach issues and wasn’t eating properly, which made it difficult for him to recover, especially given his age,” Ssonko noted. “We’re still awaiting a post-mortem report.”
Sserwanga, fondly remembered across Masaka as “John Jones,” was known for his sharp memory and vivid recollections of events from half a century ago. Remarkably active for his age, he continued walking unaccompanied around Masaka and even climbed stairs to studios housed in multi-story buildings like Buddu Plaza, home to Radio Buddu.
Farish Magembe, president of the Greater Masaka Journalists Association, described him as a pillar in the journalism community and a mentor to many.
“John Jones embodied lifelong dedication to journalism. His death is a major loss. He was a beacon for younger journalists, proving one could commit to the profession for life,” Magembe said.
Veteran journalist Michael J. Ssali, who worked alongside Sserwanga for over 30 years, paid tribute to his storytelling skills, integrity, and stylish presence.
“He was a true gentleman, always in a suit and tie. He’d joke about my casual dress. He loved sharing stories from his time riding in the Kabaka’s motorcade alongside Ssekabaka Edward Mutesa II’s Rolls-Royce. His honesty and reliability, especially in financial matters, stood out,” Ssali recalled.
Sserwanga’s last interview with Daily Monitor was in November 2024, when he reminisced about his long-time friend, 99-year-old former magistrate Hussein Ssengendo.
A vigil is ongoing at his residence in Kyawuunyi-Kanyogoga Ward, Masaka City. He will be laid to rest on Thursday at the family’s ancestral home in Kikungwe Village, Kimaanya-Kabonera Municipality.
A full tribute will follow tomorrow.
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