Shock as Ugandan TV Journalist Dies While in Hospital

BBS Terefayina journalist and Parliament correspondent Joseph Sseruwooza died in the early hours of Friday after suffering a heart attack that was initially mistaken for an ulcer-related condition, according to accounts from a close friend and colleague.

New details surrounding his final hours indicate that Sseruwooza first complained of severe chest pain on Thursday morning. Believing he was suffering from stomach ulcers, he informed colleague Rafat Musoke that he was unwell and asked him to stand in for him on the morning programme.

According to Musoke, Sseruwooza’s condition worsened as the day progressed. After the programme, Musoke received a call from the journalist’s wife informing him that his health had deteriorated. He immediately rushed to their home and transported the couple to Gombe Medical Services for medical attention.

Upon arrival, doctors reportedly treated Sseruwooza as an emergency case after discovering that he was struggling to breathe and that his oxygen levels had dropped below 90 percent. He was later placed on a ventilator at around 3pm.

Musoke said doctors initially suspected ulcers and began treatment, including administering antibiotics while conducting additional tests. Despite the treatment, Sseruwooza continued experiencing intense chest pain.

As his condition failed to improve, doctors reassessed the situation. By evening, they informed the family that he had received sufficient antibiotics and advised them to return home.

However, while travelling back, Sseruwooza reportedly continued complaining of severe discomfort, prompting them to return to the hospital for further evaluation.

Doctors then carried out a chest scan, which reportedly revealed that one of his major coronary arteries had been blocked by a blood clot. According to Musoke, the results were returned almost immediately, prompting doctors to recommend urgent specialized treatment.

Medical personnel reportedly informed the family that there was only a limited window to address the blockage and arranged for his transfer to the Uganda Heart Institute.

Musoke said Sseruwooza appeared stable during the ambulance transfer and was able to communicate normally.

Upon arrival at the Uganda Heart Institute at around 2am on Friday, doctors began preparations for a procedure intended to unblock the affected artery and stabilize his condition.

Despite efforts by medical teams, Sseruwooza died at around 4am.

Earlier on Friday, BBS Terefayina confirmed his death in a brief statement, describing him as a valued member of the station’s newsroom.

Sseruwooza was widely known for his coverage of parliamentary affairs and for hosting Zuukuka N’Ensonga, one of the station’s current affairs programmes. His death has triggered an outpouring of grief from colleagues, viewers, political leaders, and members of the media fraternity.

The television station said additional details regarding funeral arrangements and official tributes would be communicated later.