Emotions ran high on Thursday, July 31, 2025, as hundreds of mourners gathered to bid a final, tearful farewell to Mzee Joseph Kawesa. The 71-year-old patriarch, father of prominent media personality Resty Nanteza, known as Nakapachu, passed away tragically on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in an incident that sent shockwaves through the community.

Born in 1954, Mzee Kawesa’s life was abruptly cut short when he was knocked down by a reckless motorist as he walked to St. Kaloli Lwanga Church for his routine morning prayers. The driver responsible for the fatal incident was immediately apprehended and is currently detained at Njeru Police Station as investigations continue.

The sacred grounds of his ancestral home in Kimbugu Village, Bugayi Sub-county, Mpigi District, became a focal point for hundreds of mourners who converged from various parts of the country. The somber gathering included Members of Parliament, esteemed religious leaders, prominent media personalities, and devoted community members, all united in grief and respect for a life well-lived.

Mzee Kawesa is survived by seven children, with his first-born, Resty Nanteza, a celebrated Presenter with Busoga One Radio and Mama TV in Jinja, leading the family in mourning. In a deeply emotional tribute, Nanteza expressed profound gratitude for her father’s life and thanked the public for their overwhelming support during this challenging time.

“Our father lived a life of faith, discipline, and humility. He raised us with love and taught us to work hard and serve others. Though his passing has left a deep wound, we are thankful for the legacy he leaves behind,” she stated on behalf of the family. She also extended heartfelt appreciation to Haji Kirunda and all leaders and media colleagues who honored Mzee Kawesa’s memory.

A special condolence message from Haji Faruk Kirunda, Deputy Press Secretary to the President and Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization, underscored Mzee Kawesa’s significant impact. Delivered by Ibrahim Shamiru Byakika, the message hailed Mzee Kawesa as “a devoted servant of God and community, whose contributions to the spiritual and social development of Mbiko and Jinja would always be remembered.”

The message further highlighted his “long-lasting contributions in transforming Mbiko area and Jinja, his support for religious works and the nurturing of helpless children.” Haji Kirunda urged Mzee Kawesa’s children to “carry forward his legacy of compassion, faith, and hard work,” accompanying his sincere words with a UGX 1 million contribution towards the burial expenses.

The funeral mass, a solemn and poignant affair, was led by Father Deogracius Kiibi. In his homily, Father Kiibi urged mourners to emulate Mzee Kawesa’s deep spiritual commitment. “Mzee Kawesa died on his way to pray — a man who kept God at the center of his life. Let us follow that example by living with purpose, humility, and service to others,” he implored, reflecting on the profound faith that guided Mzee Kawesa’s life.

The extensive attendance at the burial ceremony included several prominent dignitaries, signaling Mzee Kawesa’s far-reaching influence. Among those present were: Hon. Isabirye David Aga (MP Jinja North Division), Hon. Dr. Timothy Batuwa (MP Jinja South Division West), Hon. Manjeri Kyebakutiika (Woman MP Jinja City), Hon. Paul Mwiru (Former MP Jinja East), Hon. Jimmy Lwanga (MP Njeru Municipality), and Hon. Kaija Harold.

The media fraternity also turned out in large numbers, particularly representatives from Busoga One, Mama TV, Baba FM, Bridge FM, NBS Radio, and other outlets, demonstrating immense solidarity with Resty Nanteza, who is a beloved and respected figure in Uganda’s media landscape.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon over Kimbugu Village, a unified sentiment resonated among family, friends, and leaders: Mzee Kawesa was a man characterized by “few words but great deeds.” His life story, marked by unwavering faith, steadfast perseverance, and selfless dedication to others, left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

“We are grateful that God gave us a father who led by example,” one of his sons shared during the family’s final tribute. “His legacy will not die with him — it lives on in us,” a powerful testament to a life truly celebrated and a legacy destined to endure.