NBS Television will commemorate its 18th anniversary with a week-long series of activities beginning Friday, July 3, bringing together current and former employees to celebrate the broadcaster’s journey from a single television station into one of Uganda’s largest multimedia companies.
The plans were announced in an internal memo issued on Wednesday by Next Media Group Chief Executive Officer Kin Kariisa to staff, referred to within the company as “Transformers.”
In the memo, Kariisa reflected on the station’s beginnings and its growth since going on air on June 16, 2008.
“On Monday, June 16, 2008, NBS went on air for the first time. Eighteen years on, it stands as one of the most trusted names in Ugandan media, built by the people who showed up for it,” Kariisa wrote.
He said the launch of NBS Television became the foundation for the creation and expansion of Next Media, enabling the company to grow beyond television into radio, digital media, publishing and events.
“The launch of NBS did more than create a new channel – it catalysed the formation of Next Media. NBS’ early editorial ambition, audience-first approach and appetite for innovation attracted talent, investment and partner brands, providing the platform and momentum to expand into radio, digital, publishing and events,” the memo reads.
Founded around NBS Television, Next Media has grown into a multimedia group with interests across television, radio, digital publishing, streaming and communications.
From its headquarters at Next Media Park in Naguru, Kampala, the company operates several television channels, including NBS TV, NBS Sport, Sanyuka TV, Sanyuka Prime and Salam TV, while its radio portfolio includes Next Radio.
Its digital operations include Afro Mobile, an over-the-top streaming platform, and the Nile Post online news platform.
Kariisa said the anniversary celebrations will run until July 10 and will bring together employees who have contributed to the station’s growth over the years, including those who have since left the company.
“From this Friday, July 3 to next Friday, July 10, 2026, we shall mark this milestone with a week-long commemoration, bringing together Transformers who shaped NBS over the years: those still with us today, and those who have since moved on,” he wrote.
He also urged staff to actively participate in the planned activities and extend the celebrations to their communities and social media platforms.
“Leadership has worked through the plan closely, and I stand behind what the team has put together.”
“Please support the colleagues leading this commemoration, and carry these moments into your communities and social pages. NBS became what it is because Ugandans chose to watch, share and talk about it. This week should carry that same spirit.”
Over nearly two decades, NBS Television has grown into one of Uganda’s most influential broadcasters, known for live news coverage, political programming and election broadcasts, while Next Media has expanded into a digital-first multimedia ecosystem.
Kariisa said full details of the anniversary programme will be shared with staff as preparations continue.
