Veteran broadcaster, peace advocate and cultural icon John Baptist Oryema, popularly known as Lacambel, has died at the age of 73.
Lacambel passed away on Sunday after battling a long illness.
He was widely known in Northern Uganda, where he is remembered for using radio as a powerful tool to promote peace, reconciliation and cultural preservation during the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency.
He rose to prominence through his work at Mega FM in Gulu, where he became one of the most influential voices during the conflict that displaced millions and devastated communities across the region.
Following news of his passing, Mega FM led tributes, describing him as a man whose work touched countless lives and contributed significantly to peacebuilding efforts.
“Rest well, Lacambel. Through your work at Mega FM, especially Dwog Cen Paco, you helped promote peace, reunite families, encourage reconciliation and touched countless lives,” the station said in a condolence message.
Lacambel is best remembered for pioneering Dwog Cen Paco, a programme that gave former abductees and returnees from LRA captivity an opportunity to share their experiences after returning home.
The broadcasts played a crucial role in reassuring those still in the bush that they would be welcomed back by their families and communities.
Many former combatants are believed to have returned home after hearing testimonies aired on the programme.
He also introduced Aguma, a programme that promoted messages of forgiveness and unity through local music. He travelled from camp to camp recording traditional musicians and artists whose songs helped foster hope among communities affected by years of conflict.
Another of his notable contributions was Tekwaro, a programme dedicated to preserving and promoting Acholi culture and traditions during a period when displacement threatened the region’s cultural identity.
Radio Rupiny also joined the growing list of mourners, paying tribute to a man many regard as one of the most impactful media personalities Northern Uganda has produced.
Former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda also mourned Lacambel, describing him as a distinguished journalist, patriot and peace advocate whose contribution to ending the conflict in Northern Uganda will not be forgotten.
Rugunda said Lacambel’s broadcasts helped bridge the gap between abductees and their families by conveying messages from community, religious and government leaders encouraging rebels to return home and reintegrate into society.
He added that Lacambel’s deep understanding of the conflict and extensive networks also contributed to progress made during the Juba Peace Talks.
“Uganda owes a debt of gratitude to John Lacambel for his selfless service and his significant role in advancing reconciliation, ending the conflict, and restoring peace and stability in Northern Uganda,” Rugunda said.
Lacambel leaves behind a legacy etched in the history of Northern Uganda, where his voice helped reunite families, restore hope and contribute to the return of peace after decades of war.
