The Catholic Church in Mbarara Archdiocese and beyond is mourning the death of veteran gospel music composer John Bosco Kazoora, whose hymns have shaped Catholic liturgy in western Uganda. John bosco Kazoora has died at the age of 64.
Kazoora who is from Kabagoma, Bufunda division, Ibanda municipality, has been known for his contribution to Catholic liturgical music in the Runyakitara language, with his compositions widely used in churches across western Uganda.
Among his most notable works is Ekitiinwa Ayi Mukama, a Runyankole version of the Gloria used during the introductory rites of the Mass. He also composed Mukama Otusaasire, a solemn Kyrie invocation for mercy, and Nkwata Omukono Taata, a hymn expressing surrender to Jesus Christ in times of hardship.
Other widely performed hymns include Ai Mukama Wangye Ompindure Ekikwato, inspired by the Prayer of St Francis, Ebirungi Byonkoreire Taata and Ndyakusiima Nta, both centered on thanksgiving, as well as Mukama Ndinda, a prayer for divine protection. His hymn Tihariho Ndijo Owakubasa Kutujuna emphasizes faith in Christ as the only saviour.
He also sang these songs Reeba Eirembo Rya Mukama Riboneire ,Ninza Kuheereza Mukama and Ntume Oha Yeimwe
Church leaders and faithful described Kazoora as a pillar of indigenous sacred music whose work strengthened the use of local language in Catholic worship.
Kazoora succumbed to diabetes in the morning of May 4, 2026. His death comes just days after he celebrated the sacrament of holy matrimony on April 25, 2026. He will be laid to rest on Friday, 8th May 2026 at his home in Kabagoma Village, Nyamirima Ward, Ibanda Municipality.