MASAKA – Uganda has lost one of its most iconic historical figures, Ssalongo John Jones Sserwanga Yaakuze, a celebrated journalist, former Press Secretary to Kabaka Muteesa II, and Uganda’s first cartoonist.
He breathed his last on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at the remarkable age of 102 after a brief illness.
Born in 1922, John Jones hailed from Nabinene, Masaka, and was the son of the late Yowana John Yaakuze Mukasa, a former Buvuma County Chief and loyal servant of the Kabaka.
Inspired by his father’s devotion to the Buganda Kingdom, he traded a budding career in medicine to pursue journalism in order to serve his King and country more directly.
A pioneer in Uganda’s media landscape, John Jones was among the early staff of Taifa Empya and various colonial and post-independence newspapers.
He gained prominence in the 1960s as the Press Secretary to Sir Edward Muteesa II, the first President of Uganda and Kabaka of Buganda.
His loyalty during the 1966 crisis, when the Obote-led government stormed the Kabaka’s palace, became legendary.
Despite a national manhunt and a hefty bounty, Jones kept the King’s whereabouts secret, helping ensure Muteesa’s safe escape into exile.
John Jones’s remarkable career saw him work with various newspapers, including Ngabo/The Star between 1990 and 1994. Even into his later years, he remained active in journalism, contributing to Radio Buddu in Masaka City and frequently offering counsel on social and political matters.
He was known for his sharp mind, wit, and an unrelenting passion for the truth.
Beyond journalism, John Jones was a respected community leader. He was the longest-serving Sergeant-at-Arms and a devoted member of the Rotary Club of Masaka.
As the oldest living alumnus of St. Henry’s College Kitovu (SHACK), he remained a beacon of wisdom and mentorship.
His life story is a tapestry of service—both on the battlefield as one of the youthful recruits (“Kadogos”) during the First World War in Burma and Germany, and at home in service of the Kingdom of Buganda and the nation.
In recognition of his lifelong dedication, he was honored in 2020 by Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II for his invaluable contributions to the Kingdom.
Hajji Ahmed Kateregga Musaazi, a veteran journalist and Butambala RDC, described John Jones as a deeply principled man.
“He was not only a mentor but also a trusted advisor, especially on delicate family land matters,” he said.
John Jones lived a life full of honour, humility, and quiet heroism. Even at 102, he could still be seen riding his motorcycle through Masaka and engaging with the public—a testament to his enduring vitality and commitment.
Burial arrangements will be announced in due course.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
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