Next Media Services is grieving the loss of journalist Julius Kitone, who died in a tragic car accident along the Mbarara–Sanga road, leaving colleagues and the wider media fraternity in shock.
Known for his calm demeanor, dedication, and professionalism, Kitone’s passing has created a profound void at the newsroom.
Julius Kitone, 35, joined Next Media in 2020 and quickly became known for his quiet excellence and commitment to telling stories of ordinary Ugandans. In the newsroom, he built friendships described by colleagues as “as strong as family bonds.”
Next Media CEO Kin Kariisa expressed his sorrow, saying: "It is very sad losing Julius Kitone, who died in a car accident. Julius joined us in 2020 and was a Transformer who showed up with quiet excellence. I last spoke with him last week. My condolences to his family and our newsroom colleagues. Rest in Peace."
Colleagues remember Kitone as calm, hardworking, and eager to learn. Victor Tayebwa said, “I talked to Julius long before I joined Next Media; he always guided me.”
Producer Nelson Babyale added, “He was a calm person and dedicated. He never failed to bring back a story assigned to him.”
"I had known Julius long before I joined Next Media, he always guided me," says Victor Tayebwa, business reporter.
Fellow journalist Ismail Ssembatya described him as “friendly, genuine, and always eager to learn.”
Kitone’s career began in Luweero District, where his dedication earned him a transfer to the head office in Kampala.
Former Next Media news head John Imokola recalled that Kitone was exceptional, quick to learn, resilient and calm.
"Julius was passionate and truly loved what he did, covering many difficult and sensitive stories with professionalism,” he said.
A vigil for Kitone will be held tomorrow at 4:00 PM at Omuka Restaurant, Naguru, followed by his burial on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2pm in Kiteredde Cell, Magabi Ward, Ntantamuki Town Council, Kooki County, Rakai District.
Kitone’s colleagues continue to mourn the loss of a journalist described as “irreplaceable,” whose life and work left a lasting impact on those who knew him.
