Rakai, Uganda: Senior news reporter Julius Kitone has been laid to rest in Rakai District, with colleagues and family paying tribute to his humility and dedication while renewing calls for stricter road safety enforcement.
Kitone, 35, who worked with NBS TV under Next Media Group, was buried on Monday, February 16, 2026, at his ancestral home in Kiteredde Village, Magabi Parish, Ntantamuki Town Council in Rakai District.
His burial followed a tragic road accident on February 13 that claimed his life and seven others in a head-on collision along the Mbarara–Lyantonde highway.
The requiem Mass was presided over by Fr. Steven Kijambu of Kiziba Parish and attended by journalists, political leaders, family members and community residents.
Colleagues described Kitone as disciplined, humble and deeply committed to his craft.
NBS News editor Ismael Ssembatya praised his strong work ethic and passion for professional growth. “He was always eager for professional development through innovation and hard work,” Ssembatya said.
Former colleague and Mityana Woman MP Joyce Bagala remembered him as reliable and respectful. “Julius was the kind of person you could count on,” she said.
Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire also commended Kitone’s professionalism and ethical engagement with security agencies.
Renewed Road Safety Concerns
The fatal crash reportedly occurred when the commuter taxi in which Kitone was traveling attempted to overtake at a sharp corner, colliding with an oncoming truck.
Journalists used the funeral to condemn reckless driving and called for tougher enforcement of traffic regulations, improved driver training and better road signage maintenance.
Kitone was widely known for covering human interest stories, environmental issues and climate change. Family members described him as a supportive father and a source of pride who had worked tirelessly to provide for his young children.
His passing has left a void within the newsroom and the wider media fraternity.
As mourners gathered in Rakai, the ceremony doubled as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need to address persistent road safety challenges across Uganda.
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