The late Onapito Ekomoloit affectionately known as Ona among his friends, embodies a remarkable journey from humble beginnings to significant achievements.
Ona’s passing was reported today, September 27, 2024. A relative confirmed that he succumbed while receiving treatment in an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) without giving any details. Additionally, a close friend of the deceased revealed that he had been fighting cancer, which had progressed to an advanced stage.
He died at 56.
In his book “Tears & Triumph” he provides a captivating glimpse into his life, showcasing the strength of resilience and determination in the face of adversity to his success.
Hailing from Teso in northeast Uganda from Amuria district, he transformed from a boy facing hardships in a struggling village to a figure of national recognition.
Overcoming challenges from an early age, including the loss of his mother, Ona, ultimately found success in various fields.
Initially aspiring to be a lawyer, he shifted paths and became a distinguished journalist, later serving as a Member of Parliament and then as Press Secretary to President Yoweri Museveni.
In a surprising turn, Ona transitioned from the political arena to the corporate sector, taking on a pivotal role at Nile Breweries Limited, where he dedicated 17 years as the esteemed Legal and Corporate Affairs Director.
Despite his corporate success, Ona maintained a strong connection to his media roots, remaining a well-known presence on Uganda’s talk show scenes. Known for his humility and intriguing persona.
Simple persona
“In our society, appearances are very important but we sometimes allow appearances to overshadow one’s potential and ability. People in the Western world have disproved this and it does not distract one’s skills. Suits don’t determine the ability of a person,” he was quoted in one of the interviews.
When asked about his secret to success in navigating the political and corporate arenas for over twenty years while maintaining his status as a respected figure, he shared his insights.
“It has not been an easy life but he can only count himself blessed. I have gone through all these phases of life but I have kept my sanity, and not lost myself. I don’t get carried away by positions I have held or achievements. I am happy that I still have my feet on the ground,” he said.
He emphasized his awareness of both his strengths and weaknesses, noting that his modest beginnings equipped him for adulthood.
He credited all his successes to the support of those who had been part of his life since childhood.
During the interview, Ona expressed that he didn’t have anyone as an enemy.
“There could be people out there who consider me enemies but I have not given them an opportunity to come out and reveal that they don’t like me. I try my best not to hurt others. I was an MP for three years but I left without creating any enemies. Even the person I stood with in the contest, we ended up becoming great friends,” he noted.
He always provided opportunities for others to excel, even in the workplace.
“If you don’t allow other components to move, you end up pushing the car. In this case, NBL is a multinational entity with many different components,” he noted.
Passion for journalism
Despite his family’s wishes for him to pursue a career in law, his true passion lay in journalism.
“My family initially wanted me to become a lawyer but my passion was journalism and I was lucky to be part of the second Mass Communication intake at Makerere University in 1989,” he noted.
After completing his university studies, Ona became a part of The Monitor. However, conflicts within The Monitor prompted him to spearhead a significant departure of journalists, resulting in the establishment of the Crusader in 1996.
“We were a solid team at all levels and I am happy all of them have gone to succeed in life,” he narrated.
However, circumstances arose that transformed his career when Gen. Jeje Odongo was appointed Army Commander.
This development opened the door for Ona to enter the political arena in 1998, spurred on by encouragement from his friends.
The result was the funeral of The Crusader. His eloquence in Parliament attracted the attention of the President, who subsequently appointed him as his press secretary.
He acknowledged that the role of press secretary was a significant position, yet he endeavored to remain authentic throughout his tenure.
“I knew I was envied by many people but deep down, I prepared for my transition any time. I never blocked nor stepped on anyone’s shoes because I knew a time would come when I am not so close to the power centre,” he noted.
Having faced a challenging upbringing in a modest environment, he dedicated his efforts at NBL to advocating for a scholarship program aimed at underprivileged children, which has enabled many to pursue their education up to the university level.
He consistently urged individuals, particularly those in influential positions, to strive for excellence, assuring them that society would recognize their contributions.
