The Archdiocese of Mbarara has paid a moving tribute to the late John Bosco Kazoora, a celebrated figure in Catholic liturgical music, describing him as a spiritual missionary whose melodies bridged the gap between the earthly and the divine.
During a solemn requiem Mass held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Cathedral, Nyamitanga on Thursday, the Archbishop of Mbarara Archdiocese, Lambert Bainomugisha, led mourners in celebrating the life of a man whose compositions have defined worship in the region for decades.
Bainomugisha said Kazoora’s influence extended far beyond music, describing his work as a lifelong apostolate that carried the Gospel into the hearts of believers.
“He was not just a composer; he was a missionary who touched many souls through his songs,” Bainomugisha told the congregation.
“His music carried the Gospel into the hearts of people in a way that sermons alone often cannot. Through his gift, he served the Church with unwavering devotion, turning every lyric into a prayer,” he added.
The Archbishop further highlighted Kazoora’s theological depth, noting that his compositions were carefully crafted to align with Catholic liturgy while remaining accessible to ordinary worshippers.
He revealed that the Church had been working closely with Kazoora to preserve and formally certify his body of work.
“He told me about launching his songs through the Catholic Church. The Archdiocese has already certified 600 of his original songs in preparation for an official launch. I was left with just appending my signature, but he passed before witnessing this,” Bainomugisha said.
According to the Archbishop, the verification and spiritual vetting of the compositions is nearly complete, with the collection expected to serve as a benchmark for liturgical music in the Ankole sub-region and beyond.
There were also reports that Kazoora had been composing a Catholic hymn intended for the African continent.
Family members described the late composer as a pillar of faith and strength whose influence stretched across the country through his music and ministry.
Kazoora, who fathered 15 children and 21 grandchildren, was remembered not only as a composer but also as a teacher of faith whose songs continue to inspire generations.
“He was an icon whose legacy will live forever. To the world, he was a composer, but to us, he was a teacher of faith. His music is his testament, and it will continue to inspire generations long after we are gone,” said Ristella Nyamwija, one of his daughters.
JB Kazoora leaves behind a lasting legacy in religious art and liturgical music. As the Archdiocese prepares to officially launch his certified works, Church leaders say his missionary journey through music will continue to inspire believers for years to come.
Kazoora died on Monday at the age of 64 after battling diabetes. He is expected to be laid to rest on Friday in Nyakagoma Village, Nyabuhikye, Ibanda District.
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