John Jones Yakuze: Uganda’s First Presidential Press Secretary Reflects on Nation's Journey

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John Jones Yakuze: Uganda’s First Presidential Press Secretary Reflects on Nation's Journey
John Jones Yakuze has seen it all, Uganda's beginning | Farish Magembe

Yakuze's path to becoming Uganda’s first presidential press secretary was an unconventional one. Before stepping into the world of media, he was trained as a medical professional, a field he pursued both before and after World War II.

As Uganda marks 62 years of independence, the number of individuals who were present at the birth of the nation is rapidly dwindling. Among this shrinking group are those who not only witnessed history but also shaped it from within.

One such individual is John Jones Yakuze, Uganda's first presidential press secretary, whose remarkable journey offers a unique perspective on both the country’s independence and its subsequent transformation.

At 101 years old, John Jones Yakuze remains a sharp and reflective figure, with a career that spans the evolution of Uganda from a British protectorate to a sovereign nation.

His story, however, begins much earlier—during the tumultuous years of World War II, where he served under the British Empire, an experience that would later shape his career in unexpected ways.

From the Battlefield to Journalism

Yakuze's path to becoming Uganda’s first presidential press secretary was an unconventional one. Before stepping into the world of media, he was trained as a medical professional, a field he pursued both before and after World War II.

Having survived the brutality of the war, he was honoured by King George VI for his service, particularly for his role in supporting the British Empire during Adolf Hitler’s downfall.

With the war over and the world entering a new era, Yakuze returned to Uganda to continue his medical training.

“That war was truly a fight for life and death. Every moment on the battlefield felt like it could be our last, but we pushed forward with unwavering determination," Yakuze  says.

John Jones (C) with Sir Edward Muteesa II

"It was a struggle that tested our strength and courage in ways we had never imagined. In the end, King George VI honoured us with medals, recognising the sacrifices we made and the battles we overcame."

Yet, something within Yakuze shifted as he transitioned back to civilian life. His passion for medicine began to fade, and a new interest emerged—journalism.

Despite having no formal training in the field, Yakuze began teaching himself how to report and write. His early efforts in journalism were self-driven, and he soon found himself contributing to Uganda Speaks, one of the country’s emerging newspapers.

His work caught the attention of the editors of 'Uganda Eyogera', another prominent newspaper, and Yakuze soon transitioned to writing for them.

This marked the beginning of Yakuze’s journey into journalism, an industry that was still developing in Uganda at the time.

His reputation as a capable journalist began to grow, setting the stage for his entry into one of the most significant periods of his career.

A Closer Relationship with Muteesa

Yakuze’s journalistic work brought him closer to the political elites of the day, including Sir Edward Muteesa II, the Kabaka (King) of Buganda, who would later become Uganda’s first president.

The Kabaka's government launched its own newspaper, 'Seka Noliya', and Yakuze was invited to join the editorial team.

This role marked the beginning of a close relationship between Yakuze and King Muteesa, one that would ultimately position Yakuze as the president’s official journalist.

As Uganda prepared for independence in 1962, Muteesa’s influence was instrumental in shaping the country’s post-colonial government. Yakuze, as his trusted journalist, had a front-row seat to the negotiations, decisions, and challenges of this period.

When Uganda finally gained independence, Muteesa was appointed the first president, and Yakuze remained by his side, documenting the momentous events of the new nation’s early years.

As Uganda’s first presidential press secretary, Yakuze witnessed firsthand the political upheavals that would define the country’s early history.

One of the most significant events he covered was the power struggle between Muteesa and Prime Minister Milton Obote. The conflict between the two leaders reached a climax in 1966 when Obote ordered the attack on the Kabaka’s palace in Mengo, effectively overthrowing Muteesa and forcing him into exile.

“'Obote jja gavumenti yo ku ttaka lya Buganda'—this headline, which translates to 'Obote, remove your government from Buganda land,' sparked a significant wave across the country," Yakuze stated.

"It captured the sentiments of the people and resonated deeply during a time of political upheaval."

Yakuze recalls this moment as one of the most pivotal in his career, not just for the news it generated but for its personal significance. Even in exile, Muteesa maintained contact with Yakuze, entrusting him with confidential information to be shared with those still loyal to the Kabaka’s cause.

Yakuze's role during this time extended beyond that of a journalist—he was a messenger, a confidant, and a witness to the inner workings of a divided nation.

A Lifetime of Service and Reflection

At 101 years old, Yakuze remains active in the journalism field, now working with Radio Buddu in Masaka. His longevity in the industry is a testament to his resilience and passion for storytelling, even in the face of political instability and personal challenges.

He has advised nearly all of Uganda’s leaders since independence, offering a rare perspective grounded in both experience and history.

Reflecting on Uganda’s journey since independence, Yakuze notes how much the country has changed, both politically and socially.

He has lived through the reigns of every Ugandan president and has seen the nation evolve through periods of turmoil, progress, and transformation.

While he remains proud of his role in documenting Uganda’s history, he is also cautious about the future, recognising that the challenges the country faces today require new approaches and solutions.

"Everything around us has transformed, and the challenges we face as Ugandans today demand entirely new ways of thinking and problem-solving," Yakuze says.

"The generation we are dealing with now is fundamentally different from the one we've left behind, and if we are to overcome these challenges, we must adapt our approaches to meet the needs and expectations of this new era."

Yakuze’s story is one of perseverance and adaptability. From the battlefields of World War II to the political corridors of post-independence Uganda, he has always found a way to remain relevant and impactful.

As Uganda celebrates 62 years of independence, the contributions of individuals like Yakuze serve as a reminder of the sacrifices, decisions, and stories that have shaped the nation into what it is today.

Though much has changed, Yakuze’s belief in the power of journalism remains steadfast. For him, old age has not only brought wisdom but also the determination to continue writing, reflecting, and contributing to the ongoing narrative of Uganda’s history.

His legacy as Uganda’s first presidential journalist stands as a testament to the enduring power of the press in shaping and recording the nation’s journey.

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