This past week, our brands continued to stay at the centre of the conversations, communities, and cultural moments shaping Uganda. From youth empowerment and sports to governance, entertainment, and community transformation, the week reflected the diversity of stories that matter to audiences across the country.
The week began with progress inside the Next Creata Program, as Cohort 1 resumed physical classes at the #NextMediaPark. Young creatives continued hands-on training in digital marketing, graphics, and broadcasting, sharpening practical skills aimed at preparing them for sustainable careers in the creative industry. The program remains part of Next Media’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers and innovators.
On Monday in Rwampara District, Salam TV followed Salam Charity teams conducting ground surveys under the Smart Community Program. The visits focused on identifying individuals already running development projects that can be supported and scaled further. The initiative continues to strengthen grassroots community development through practical support and empowerment.
The same day in Entebbe, NBS Sport covered the ongoing 17th African Youth Chess Championship at Imperial Botanical Beach Hotel. Young chess players from across the continent showcased strategy, discipline, and talent in one of Africa’s biggest youth chess competitions, giving audiences a closer look at the growing intellectual sports scene.
Meanwhile, NBS Plus broadcast the official launch of Beyond The Canvas at Reach A Hand Uganda, featuring international motivational speaker Nick Vujicic. Held under the theme “Abilities Beyond Limits,” the event brought together young creatives with disabilities in a celebration of inclusion, possibility, and talent.
In national affairs, NBS continued coverage of the CID-led investigations linked to allegations of illicit enrichment and money laundering involving outgoing Speaker Anita Among. Coverage from Mutungo-Kigo and Parliament kept audiences informed on one of the country’s most closely followed political developments.
Tuesday brought inspiration to the #NextMediaPark as Next Media hosted Nick Vujicic for a special engagement with Transformers and participants of the Next Creator Program. Through conversations on resilience, purpose, and hope, his visit left a strong impression across the organisation and among young creatives.
NBS Plus also turned St. Julian High School’s Prom 2026 into a nationwide youth experience through the #NBSPlusPromDiaries coverage. From performances and fashion moments to the crowning of the Prom King and Queen, the broadcast celebrated youth culture, creativity, and self-expression on a national stage.
On Wednesday, NBS Sport officially welcomed Mellissa Akullu to the Next Media family as a Courtside Reporter and Co-Commentator for NBL FUBA coverage. Her addition further strengthens Next Media’s commitment to growing local sports coverage and bringing audiences closer to the game experience.
In Kampala, NBS covered the swearing-in ceremony of Ronald Balimwezo as Kampala City Lord Mayor for the 2026–2031 term at City Hall. The event marked the beginning of a new leadership chapter for the capital city.
The same day, NBS also followed the opening of the 2nd Annual CropLife Uganda Symposium at Sheraton Kampala. Stakeholders from across the agricultural sector gathered to discuss emerging trends in crop protection, seed systems, and fertilizer industries, reinforcing conversations around the future of agriculture in Uganda.
Thursday at the #NextMediaPark came with a different kind of energy as NBS Sport captured Arsenal fans across Next Media celebrating the club’s Premier League triumph after a 22-year wait. The newsroom transformed into a sea of red and white, reflecting the passion and connection football continues to create within communities and workplaces alike.
NBS also covered the KCCA Council Speaker and Deputy Speaker voting exercise at City Hall, where councillors gathered to elect the authority’s leadership. The process formed another important moment in Kampala’s governance transition.
On Friday, NBS covered the Corporate Governance Conference organised by Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment at Skyz Hotel under the theme “Governance in the AI Era.” Leaders and experts explored conversations around leadership, innovation, regulation, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in governance and corporate systems.
Saturday brought business and entrepreneurship conversations to the forefront as Radio Walla hosted businessman Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia live at the #NextMediaPark during the Saturday Walla show. Through a one-on-one conversation, he shared lessons from his entrepreneurial journey and engaged with audiences while touring the park.
The week concluded with political, entertainment, and football moments across the country. On Sunday, NBS covered the first NRM Caucus meeting of the 12th Parliament at State House Entebbe, chaired by President Museveni, where party leaders gathered to elect flag bearers for Speaker and Deputy Speaker positions.
Elsewhere in Kampala, Next Radio partnered on the R&B Old School Brunch at Mezo Noir, bringing together music lovers for an experience built around nostalgia, timeless music, and connection.
At Millennium Park in Lugogo, NBS Sport captured Arsenal fans celebrating the club’s Premier League coronation powered by Guinness. Thousands gathered dressed in club colours, turning the venue into one massive football celebration.
Across all these moments, one thing remained constant: the commitment by Next Media brands to stay present where stories matter most. Whether informing the nation, amplifying community voices, celebrating culture, or creating opportunities for young people, the work continued across every platform throughout the week.
And this is only part of the story.
#WeInformToTransform #NextMediaUG
