KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s media fraternity is mourning the sudden death of renowned television presenter Angella Kabagambe Hakiza, whose passing on June 17 has left colleagues, friends, family members and viewers across the country in shock.
Kabagambe, widely known for her work on TV West’s popular Runyankole programme Ndyamusiimanta and later as host of Faith in Action on Uganda Catholic Television (UCTV), was reportedly found dead at her home. The circumstances surrounding her death had not been officially disclosed by family members by Thursday.
The broadcaster built a loyal following over the years through her engaging storytelling, warm personality and commitment to highlighting community and faith-based issues.
In a tribute shared on social media, Jackie Akampwera, Chief Executive Officer of TV West, described Kabagambe as a humble and selfless colleague whose death had come far too soon.
“My dear Angella, may your soul rest in peace. I can’t believe that at such a young age, you have left us. May God comfort your husband, little ones and the whole family. Till we meet again,” Akampwera wrote.
Uganda Catholic Television also paid tribute to the presenter, remembering her contribution to the station and her role in promoting stories of faith and service through the Faith in Action programme.
In a statement, UCTV said it was mourning “one of its own” following the untimely passing of Kabagambe, describing her as both a dedicated television host and an active member of the AMDA Uganda team.
The loss has also been deeply felt among family members and close friends.
In an emotional tribute, Christa Ninsiima recalled Kabagambe’s role as a mentor and elder sister figure in her life.
“The big sister who showed up for speech day, picked me from and dropped me at school, advised me, showed me the ropes around being a big girl and a big sister myself is gone. Angella Kabagambe, our baby girl, our angel. May your soul rest in peace,” she wrote.
Beyond her television career, Kabagambe was known for her active involvement in community service, including participation in Rotary activities and church initiatives. Colleagues describe her as a dedicated family woman whose kindness and willingness to support others earned her admiration both on and off screen.
Funeral arrangements released by family administrators indicate that a vigil was scheduled at the Hakiza family home on Wednesday. A funeral Mass will be held on Thursday at Munyonyo Martyrs Shrine, before the body is transported to Kisoro District on Friday. Burial is expected to take place on Saturday.
She is survived by her husband, Julius Hakiza, children and other family members.
As tributes continue to pour in from across Uganda’s media, religious and community circles, many have remembered Kabagambe as a gifted communicator whose work touched lives across western Uganda and beyond.
Her death marks the loss of a respected media personality whose voice, compassion and commitment to telling stories that mattered resonated with audiences for many years.
