Nation Media Group Uganda Resumes Operations After Month-Long Shutdown

Nation Media Group Uganda (NMG-U) is back in operation, marking an end to a significant disruption that saw its television, radio, and newspaper platforms silenced for approximately one month. In a memo released on July 28, 2026, the company informed its staff of the resumption, though most will continue working remotely.

Supervisors will contact specific employees who are required to return to the Namuwongo and Serena offices immediately. Those based at Commercial Plaza, however, can resume physical work without delay. The company is awaiting full clearance of its offices before all staff can return to their usual workplaces.

The shutdown commenced on June 28, 2026, when security operatives raided NMG-Uganda offices, halting operations for Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, and Dembe FM. Despite the physical closure, NMG managed to maintain some digital presence, with journalists continuing to publish online content.

Sources indicated that the full halt of operations followed discussions between the government and the group’s majority shareholder. The reopening authorization reportedly came from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni after extensive engagements between NMG leadership and government officials. Key figures in these negotiations included NMG Editor-in-Chief Joe Ageyo and Chairman Joe Muganda.

NMG Chairman Joe Muganda expressed his company’s eagerness to reconnect with audiences, employees, and partners. He emphasized a focus on restoring platforms responsibly, enhancing local content, and delivering credible journalism across all channels.

The Taifa Group, NMG’s majority shareholder, confirmed the President’s approval for the reopening. Taifa Group Chairman Rostam Aziz extended gratitude to President Museveni and Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba for their roles in facilitating the resolution.

The shutdown occurred amidst government concerns regarding perceived imbalances in editorial coverage and demands for adherence to professional journalism standards. Journalist Andrew Mwenda noted that authorities sought commitments to objective reporting and the recruitment of experienced editorial staff.

As operations resume, NMG plans to leverage its regional presence in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. The company reiterated its commitment to editorial independence, integrity, fairness, and professionalism. This reopening signifies the end of one of the most prolonged disruptions for a major private media organization in Uganda in recent memory.