KABALE, Uganda – The media fraternity, leaders, and residents of Kabale District on Sunday laid to rest Jack Bitarabeho, popularly known as Jack Hanyanja, at his ancestral home in Katoma Village, Bwama Parish, Kitumba Sub-county in Ndorwa West.
Hanyanja, a household name among radio callers across Kigezi, passed away at the age of 72 after battling prostate cancer. He is survived by 11 children, 8 boys and 3 girls and 20 grandchildren.
The funeral service attracted Kabale-based radio presenters, reporters, political leaders, radio callers, and listeners who gathered to pay their last respects.
Ven. Edward Mwesigwa, the Archdeacon of Kacerere Archdeaconry, urged Christians to reflect on their spiritual lives and prepare for eternity. He said the late Hanyanja had lived a life of faith and encouraged believers to focus on salvation rather than external appearances.
He reminded Christians that choices made in life determine one’s eternal destination and emphasized the need for repentance while still alive.
Ndorwa West MP candidate and NRM flag bearer, Hon. Eliab Naturinda Mporera, praised the late Hanyanja for leaving behind a well-prepared will to guide his family and reduce the risk of land disputes. He encouraged other parents to emulate this responsible example.
Turyahabwa Edison, the NRM Secretary for Publicity in Kabale District—popularly known as “Political”—remembered Hanyanja as a friendly man who championed unity and openly advocated for his appointment as RDC because of his commitment to the NRM cause. He expressed regret that Hanyanja passed on before this dream could be realized.
Another well-known radio caller, Junior Njanjare, also known as Rutatina Mparana, hailed the deceased as a fearless commentator who consistently spoke for the ordinary Ugandan without bias. He recalled Hanyanja’s memorable radio message: “Abaribabariho Baryayangaa,” loosely translated as “Those who are alive today will see change in the future concerning the challenges facing Uganda.”
Hanyanja’s children described him as a loving father who valued people, unity, and education. They said he was generous, always willing to share the little he had with others, and consistently taught them to live in harmony.
