Next Media has reaffirmed its long-running partnership with Watoto Church, describing the annual cantata production as a natural fit for the media group’s mission and values.
According to Ben Mwine, Head of Corporate Affairs & Partnerships at Next Media, the collaboration is not just strategic—it is deeply personal, culturally rooted, and aligned with the media house’s commitment to uplifting Ugandan society.
“For us, both personally and as an entity, this is a no brainer,” Mwine said. “Watoto is such a critical component of life, not just in Kampala but across Uganda. You cannot ignore that the Kantanta has been going for 40 years.”
Mwine reflected on the influence Watoto has had on generations of Ugandans, noting that many people above 40 who grew up in Kampala share a sense of connection shaped in part by the ministry and its productions.
Having attended nearly every cantata in the last 25 years, he described the event as a cultural staple that mirrors the values Next Media champions through its content—including the emphasis on positivity in its flagship Live at 9 bulletin.
“Every single bulletin ends with a story of good news. And we all know the real Good News,” Mwine added. “But even beyond that, we’re living in a world where everything feels either black or white. The polarisation in our society is very scary.”
He stressed that the cantata tells a story that counters this growing division—one of love, coexistence, and community, inspired by the teachings of Jesus.
“It’s no way to raise our children, seeing a world where people abuse and hate each other,” he said. “Jesus came to build a world where people could coexist and live in love. The Kantanta tells that story, and our platforms help amplify it.”
Next Media already airs Watoto content across multiple platforms, including NBS and Moble TV, making the continued partnership both seamless and impactful.
Mwine expressed hope that this year’s production will reach more people than ever before.
“We want every person in Kampala to experience the Kantanta—whether physically on the ground or by catching it on our platforms,” he said. “Given the current atmosphere, we could all use some really good things.”
As Uganda heads into the festive season, the collaboration between Next Media and Watoto promises to bring messages of joy, unity, and hope to audiences across the country.