Journalism fraternity mourns Bbaale Francis

By Vision Reporter

Uganda’s journalism fraternity has paid tribute to the fallen veteran TV personality Francis Bbaale.

A number of journalists have described Bbaale as a mentor and an inspiration to the profession.

Bbaale succumbed to cancer on Thursday morning at the main National Referral Hospital, Mulago.

Our reporter Carol Kasujja said: “My friend Francis Bbaale, rest in peace. I am glad you talked to me last week.”
“I met the finest in the profession, I eulogise not just him but the forest of knowledge he had planted,” extoled Raymond Mujuni.

There will never be a News Anchor like Bbaale Francis, a great mentor and an inspiration. We will miss you. May your soul rest in eternal peace,” sports journalist and a news anchor, Patrick Kanyomozi said.

“A life well lived. Rest in Peace Bbaale Francis,” said Alex Gitta.  

Joel Ogwang said: “I will, forever be indebted to you for what journalism has given me as a reward for my labour. Your priceless wisdom (at UMCAT) continues to earn me bread. RIP Mzee Bbaale."

Juliet Naiga said: “I mourn my mentor, trainer, and father in broadcasting...Rest in Peace Bbaale Francis.”

A New Vision online reader only identified as Lukwago stated: “Rest in Peace, man of honour. We did not help you when we should have. There was no massive fundraising for a loyal person that served our country so well, with utmost honesty and dignity. The corporations, MTN, Media Papers, Radio stations, Banks, as well as the very Government you served, did not treat your health as an emergency. Your condition required immediate attention but instead the plan was to make you wait and fly you to India in May, many months later. Now it's too late and the "RIPs" will flow in from everyone who didn't care.”

Bbaale has worked for UBC (formerly UTV and Radio Uganda) for over 25 years. His body was still at Mulago.