On Friday, July 10, Next Media Park became a place of memories, gratitude and celebration as employees, former employees, board members, partners, regulators, collaborators and friends gathered to mark NBS’ 18th anniversary.
The celebration brought together the people who have shaped the station’s journey, from the pioneers who laid the foundation to the current generation of Transformers driving its next chapter.
The anniversary celebrations followed a week-long programme that began on July 3, during which some of NBS’ most recognisable former presenters returned to the screens they once called home.
Familiar faces including Solomon Serwanjja, Rukh-Shana Kitaka, Mable Twegumye, Sheilla Nduhukire, Daniel Katabira, Zambali Bulasio Mukasa, Joyce Bagala, Hatmah Ssekaaya, Charles Odongtho, Natalia Ozie, Julius Bukyana and Muyanga Lutaaya reunited with audiences by hosting programmes that helped define their broadcasting careers.
Their return became one of the most memorable moments of the anniversary, reconnecting millions of viewers with personalities who played a significant role in shaping NBS’ identity.
During the celebration, Next Media recognised the former Transformers who returned to be part of the milestone, long-serving employees whose commitment has strengthened the organisation, and outstanding staff members whose work helped deliver the successful #NBSAt18 campaign.
Speaking at the event, Next Media Group CEO Kin Kariisa expressed appreciation to everyone who has contributed to the NBS journey over the past 18 years.
“The story of these 18 years cannot be told without the people who started the chapters. Thank you to our partners, regulators, collaborators and everyone who believed in this vision and chose to walk with us.”
Kariisa also paid tribute to the former employees who returned for the celebrations, describing them as an important part of the NBS family.
“This is your home. Whenever you have a project or something exciting, come back and let’s do it together. We are proud of you, we treasure you and we will always support you.”
Reflecting on the impact of the anniversary week, Kariisa said the return of former presenters created a special connection with audiences across the country.
“This week alone, because of these incredible people, we reached more than 16 million people. We disrupted the market, and I thank every one of them for making this celebration special.”
Looking ahead, Kariisa reaffirmed Next Media’s ambition to remain at the forefront of Africa’s media industry through continued investment in technology, innovation and talent.
“We have some of the best media technology on the continent, including AI-driven virtual reality studios. The next five years are going to be phenomenal as we continue our journey to conquer Africa.”
Chairman of the Next Media Board of Directors, Charles Baguma, applauded the resilience and teamwork that have defined the organisation’s growth.
“It has been a long journey built on hard work, commitment and teamwork. The strong relationship between the Board and management has helped build the systems, infrastructure and resilience that have brought us this far.”
Baguma also recognised the contribution of former employees who returned to celebrate the milestone.
“We appreciate those who planted the early seeds and have returned to give back. Their contribution continues to inspire the next generation.”
Throughout the celebrations, partners and well-wishers were recognised for their support over the years, highlighting the relationships that have helped NBS grow and remain a key player in Uganda’s media landscape.
As the anniversary celebrations concluded, attention shifted from reflecting on the past to building the future. The last 18 years have been defined by growth, innovation and trusted journalism, while the years ahead promise new opportunities to inform, inspire and connect audiences across Uganda and beyond.
From the pioneers who laid the foundation to the viewers, listeners, readers, partners and today’s Transformers, the NBS journey has been built by many hands.
Together, they have shaped a brand that continues to influence national conversations and transform lives, one story at a time.
I have kept the celebratory tone but made it read more like a feature article rather than a press release.