The media fraternity is mourning the death of Pearl FM journalist Ali Ssewanyana, popularly known as Octopus, a respected general news and sports reporter.
Ssewanyana, who was widely admired for his in-depth knowledge of sports and accurate match analysis, passed away on Thursday afternoon at Kawolo Hospital in Lugazi.
His death has sent shockwaves through colleagues, listeners and the wider journalism community, where he was known for his dedication, passion and lively on-air presence.
Tributes have continued to pour in from fellow journalists and media practitioners, many of whom remember Ssewanyana as a warm-hearted, social and approachable individual who maintained strong relationships across the industry.
Emmanuel Nkata of Sanyu FM described the late journalist as more than a colleague, calling him a brother and a close family friend.
“Ssewanyana was my brother. We shared a lot in common and even belonged to the same clan. Our families were very close, to the extent that he would sometimes bring his child to my home. I will miss him dearly,” Nkata said.
By the time of publication, the family had not yet announced burial arrangements. Further details are expected to be communicated in due course.
