“Don’t Make My Mistake”: Ssalongo John Ssekandi’s Last Advice on Smoking.

A renowned former CBS journalist, Ssalongo John Ssekandi, sent a compelling message to the world in his final days: "Don't make my mistake." Ssekandi advised the people to abstain from smoking after he battled lung cancer, which he linked to years of smoking.

Ssekandi, who passed away on October 21, 2024, at the age of 92, succumbed to lung cancer after years of battling the disease, which he attributed to his smoking habits.

Born on June 21, 1933, in Nabuti village, Mukono Municipality, Ssekandi was the son of the late Ssetubba Ssekadde and Nansubuga Miria. He was a man of many roles—a father to 33 children, a grandfather to many, and a respected figure in his community. His early education was at Bishop Schools Mukono, followed by secondary education at Bishop Secondary School, also in Mukono. Ssekandi's career path initially saw him as a builder and later a teacher at Bishop Schools Primary.

However, it was in the world of journalism that Ssekandi found his calling. In the 1960s, he joined Radio Uganda’s news department, where he worked for six years. His time in radio was interrupted during the tumultuous regime of Idi Amin, when he was arrested and imprisoned at Luzira Prison for two years over political issues. During his time in prison, Ssekandi picked up smoking—a habit that would later lead to his health decline and eventual demise.

After his release, thanks to the relentless efforts of his father, Ssekandi resumed his journalism career, joining Central Broadcasting Services (CBS) and continuing his work in the news department. His passion for media saw him move to Super FM, where he worked for two more years before retiring from the profession he loved.

In his final plea, Ssekandi urged people to learn from his experience and avoid smoking. His battle with lung cancer became a tragic reminder of the dangers of the habit he adopted in prison.
Ssalongo John Ssekandi was laid to rest on Wednesday, October 23, 2024, in Kisoga, Mukono District. His younger brother, Mr. Ntambi James, expressed deep gratitude to all who honored Ssekandi’s final wish, particularly the Church of Uganda community, for giving him a dignified send-off.

His sincere appeal functions as a warning, giving everyone who will listen one final piece of advice: stop smoking before it's too late.

Ssekandi's life and legacy will be remembered not only for his contributions to journalism but also for his heartfelt plea for public health awareness, hoping that others would avoid the path that led to his untimely end.