Uganda’s media fraternity is mourning the tragic loss of senior journalist Risdel Kasasira, who sadly lost his life in a car accident.
The confirmation of his passing came from Michael Kananura, the spokesperson for the Traffic and Road Safety Directorate, through his official X account formerly Twitter.
He revealed that the incident occurred on January 3, 2025, at 1:00pm, when Kasasira was involved in a single-vehicle accident in Kalagala village, located along the Kashagama-Lyantonde Road in Lyantonde District.
Kananura reported that the vehicle, a Toyota Corolla Fielder (UBK 851Y), was en route from Kashagama to Lyantonde, carrying a family of four.
“The driver, Mr. Kasasira’s wife, lost control of the vehicle, which overturned and fell into a nearby swamp. Unfortunately, Mr. Kasasira succumbed to drowning. The other occupants sustained injuries,” he added.
He said the survivors were rushed to Lyantonde Hospital for medical attention, while Kasasira’s body was conveyed to the hospital’s mortuary.
The vehicle was also towed to Lyantonde Police Station as investigations begin.
Kasasira was a distinguished journalist with the Daily Monitor, part of the Nation Media Group. Known for his calm demeanor, his impact was felt through the powerful stories he told rather than through loud proclamations.
He excelled in various areas of journalism, with a particular focus on investigative reporting and security matters.
His contributions included covering significant events such as the conflict against Al-Shabaab in Somalia and the UPDF operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
He was also a stringer with several international news agencies like Associate Press.
Eulogies
Through his social media handle, X, Jeff A. Lule, a journalist, said Risdel was not only professional but also approachable and friendly, earning the respect and affection of his colleagues, stressing that the loss of such a talented, young, and composed journalist is truly heartbreaking.
“It is incredibly unfortunate that someone so gifted and gentle has left us in such a sorrowful manner. Risdel was always smiling, never showing anger. This world can be harsh, reminding us that we must cherish simplicity and love one another. I believe we will reunite one day; this life is merely a relay race, and while we may go first, we are all headed in the same direction,” he wrote.
Sheila Nduhukire, Public Relations Officer National Medical Stores wrote: “RIP my brother and former colleague at NMG, @risdelk. There was a time when security and political news in Uganda was truly credible only if it had a Risdel Kasasira byline! That’s the level of trust and respect Ris built amongst his peers. Go well, ‘Corporal General’ as we fondly referred to each other. May the Lord shield and protect your young family and everyone you touched through your incomparable work”.
Paul Dude another journalist wrote: “Risdel kasasira, a brother, a mentor, brilliant writer, Rest with the Angels”.
MP Buhweju County, Francis Mwijukye said he was among the best journalists. “Rest in Peace journalist Resdel Kasasira, who perished in a car crash earlier today! You have been among the best journalists. You have gone too soon! RIP,” he wrote.
Gile Muhame, another senior journalist who worked with the late said Kasasira was never afraid of danger.
“Risking his life to keep his readers informed was deeply fulfilling to him. As we walked through the heavily-guarded town, I took a picture of a well-built man holding a machine gun while seated outside his home,” he noted.
Another journalists Solomon Kaweesa described the late as the brilliant and dedicated storyteller who courageously sought for truth.
“Today, we mourn the loss of a brilliant journalist, a dedicated storyteller, and a courageous seeker of truth. Risdel Kasasira, your untimely passing leaves a gaping hole in the world of journalism and in the hearts of those who knew you,” he noted.
