Fresh from winning the 2026 Uganda Rugby Premiership title, we were delighted to welcome the Stanbic Black Pirates to the #NextMediaPark as they celebrated a remarkable season and shared the purpose driving their next journey beyond the rugby pitch.
As a proud partner of the Stanbic Black Pirates through Next Radio, we continue to celebrate the club’s pursuit of excellence while supporting initiatives that create meaningful impact within our communities.
The visit brought together the team’s players and leadership with our Group CEO, Kin Kariisa, who congratulated the Pirates on reclaiming the national title and applauded the team’s commitment to excellence.
“Congratulations on being crowned champions. As we begin celebrating 18 years of NBS Television, I can’t think of a better way to begin than by hosting champions. It is a proud moment for us to see our partners achieve excellence, and we are delighted to celebrate this success with the Stanbic Black Pirates,” Kariisa said.
On behalf of the team, the Stanbic Black Pirates captain thanked Next Media and Next Radio for the partnership and encouragement extended throughout the season.
“We are grateful to Next Media and Next Radio for standing with us throughout the season. Your consistent support has meant a great deal to us, and you’ve been a partner we can always rely on. We are proud to celebrate this championship with you and appreciate everything you’ve done for the club,” he said.
While the championship remains a defining moment for the Pirates, the team is also rallying the country around a cause that extends far beyond sport.
During the visit, the players spoke about the #SydneyIsMe campaign, an initiative launched in memory of their late teammate, Sydney Gongodyo. The campaign seeks to raise awareness against mob justice while encouraging Ugandans to promote respect for human life, justice, and compassion.
As part of the campaign, the club will host the Sydney Gongodyo Memorial Walk on Sunday, July 5, 2026. The walk will begin at TMT Atrium in Ntinda and conclude at Kings Park Arena, bringing together players, supporters, partners, and members of the public to honour Sydney’s memory while advocating for a safer and more compassionate society.
The visit also offered an opportunity for the team to present the Uganda Rugby Premiership trophy to our CEO, celebrating a successful season made possible through teamwork, resilience, and strong partnerships.
At Next Media, we believe sport has the ability to unite people, inspire communities, and drive conversations that create lasting impact. Through our partnership with the Stanbic Black Pirates and the work of Next Radio, we remain committed to supporting stories and initiatives that extend beyond competition and make a meaningful difference in society.
As the Pirates celebrate their championship, they now invite every Ugandan to stand with them for a cause that reminds us all that every life matters.
