AGP Executive Report

Uganda Media Crackdown: Nation Media Group’s outlets (including NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor) were shut down by soldiers, and the government now says it’s tied to a presidentially ordered security inquiry—while NMG says talks are ongoing to reopen, but staff remain locked out. Press Freedom Backlash: Amnesty International and international press bodies condemned the shutdown and intimidation of journalists, as a US senator urged Washington to review security ties with Uganda over the clampdown. Courtroom Showdown: Opposition leader Kizza Besigye is set to appear in court on treason charges, as his legal team faces fresh pressure; meanwhile, former ethics minister Miria Matembe was remanded to Luzira over alleged sectarian remarks. Regional Spotlight: South Africa braces for anti-immigrant protests on June 30, with heavy police deployment as thousands of migrants rush to leave amid fears of violence. Sports & Culture: Capital FM partnered with Kenyan mountaineer Martin Mumo for Project Everest 2027, while Uganda’s arts scene also saw attention on new creative and media collaborations.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Uganda’s military chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets including NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, triggering condemnation from journalists’ groups and Amnesty, which says activists and media are being targeted through intimidation and unlawful interference. International Pushback: U.S. Senator Jim Risch called for a review of America’s security ties with Uganda, saying Muhoozi’s actions make him and the UPDF unfit partners. Regional Health Response: Uganda helped operationalise the Africa CDC-led Continental Incident Management Support Team for the Ebola (Bundibugyo) response, with logistics visits to Entebbe and plans to speed customs clearance for medical supplies. Ebola Escalation: DRC reported Ebola spreading to a fourth province, while Kinshasa and parts of the country were hit with bans on public gatherings to curb transmission. Music & Pop Culture: Ugandan army chief Muhoozi sparked online buzz by challenging Jay-Z to a fight over Beyoncé—no public response yet from the couple. Sports Spotlight: Bafana Bafana midfielder Thalente Mbatha stressed the need for South Africa to qualify for the 2030 World Cup after their historic run ended. Arts & Media Awards: MESHA named winners of its inaugural health and climate change journalism awards, with Uganda’s Simon Chris Makanga taking 2nd runner-up for a Karamoja-focused climate and women’s health story.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Uganda’s military chief Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets NTV Uganda, Spark TV and Daily Monitor, saying he “does not believe in a free press” and that stations won’t reopen without his permission; journalists report a midnight raid and a “military siege,” while editors’ and journalists’ groups demand reopening. Ebola Response Boost: Africa CDC, WHO and Uganda launched a Continental Incident Management Support Team at Makerere University to coordinate Ebola preparedness and response across Uganda, DRC and nearby vulnerable areas, as Bundibugyo-strain cases rise and experimental treatments begin shipping. Music Spotlight: Liboi released the heartfelt anthem “Nairobi,” reflecting on city life, grief and exhaustion, ahead of her album Hatua. Sports & Entertainment: Hearts winger Rogers Mato spoke on adapting in Scotland; meanwhile, Uganda’s para powerlifters step up Commonwealth Games preparations, and a Ugandan-American skateboarder Jason Vanporppal alleges he was scammed out of R25,000 meant for a children’s skatepark. Film & Identity: “Exiled for Existing” shares LGBTQ+ refugee stories in a short documentary premiering during Pride Month.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Uganda’s military chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, with soldiers surrounding NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Daily Monitor, KFM and Dembe FM—prompting “military siege” claims, blank screens, and electricity disruptions; Regulator Response: the Uganda Communications Commission says it’s seeking “verified information” after the blackout; Regional Fallout: East African press councils urged de-escalation as governments and media trade accusations; Culture & Tourism: Uganda launched its first cultural and tourism festival in Munich, Germany, spotlighting music, dance, food and a diaspora business forum; Music Spotlight: rapper Da Agent keeps his edge as Uganda’s fastest rapper, known for sustained Lugaflow Lufulaa speed and Kampala underground roots; Sports/Entertainment Crossover: World Cup Round-of-32 preview has England set to face Congo on July 1, with Congo coached by former Uganda boss Sebastien Desabre; People & Pop Culture: Zari Hassan’s divorce reportedly turns into a wealth dispute as her estranged husband demands half her assets.

Press Freedom Under Fire: Uganda’s military chief Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the shutdown of Nation Media Group outlets, with troops surrounding NTV Uganda, Spark TV and Daily Monitor in Kampala, cutting electricity and leaving viewers with “video unavailable” messages; NMG says it will keep updating audiences online while offices remain inaccessible. Muhoozi’s “No Free Press” Stance: In posts on X, he said he “does not believe in a free press,” warned outlets won’t reopen without his permission, and threatened further action. Regional Pushback: East African Press Councils called for an end to hostilities between governments and media, warning that intimidation and forced closures drive self-censorship and endanger journalists. Gospel Momentum: Christ for all Nations says it’s raising a “Decade of Double Harvest,” expanding evangelism training through its School of Evangelism to equip and send workers across Africa. Sports Spotlight: Stanbic Black Pirates edged Buffaloes 30-29 to win the 2026 National Rugby Premiership title in a dramatic final.

Football Spotlight: Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos says he’s considering extending his stay in South Africa after leading the team to the World Cup knockout stage for the first time, with his contract set to expire after the tournament. Uganda in Culture & Tourism: President Yoweri Museveni opened Uganda’s Cultural and Tourism Festival in Munich, urging Ugandans to preserve indigenous music, poetry and cultural memory. Ebola Watch (Regional): The CDC has activated its highest emergency response level for the fast-growing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, while Uganda is also reporting cases. Wildlife & Travel: A photo guide highlights chimpanzee trekking in Uganda’s Kibale Forest, with tips for planning the experience. Arts & Creativity: Felix Lubega’s new AKA Gallery sculptures use found materials to push a conservation message about finding opportunities in everyday life. Community & Money: NSSF’s SmartLife Flexi campaign is bringing flexible retirement savings to informal workers across Uganda. Health Alert: Central African Republic declares a cholera outbreak after lab-confirmed cases and deaths near Bangui. Sports (Boxing): Majembe challenges Ugandan boxer Shakib Cham to a winner-takes-all bout, offering his belt as the prize.

Wildlife Documentary Spotlight: A new feature digs into the Kazinga Channel story of Jacob, a three-legged lion whose daring swim earned Guinness recognition, alongside a photo guide to chimp trekking in Kibale. Ebola Update: The CDC has raised its Bundibugyo Ebola response to its highest level as cases surge across Congo and Uganda, while Africa CDC pushes regional preparedness and even Saudi Arabia tightens travel/visas over Ebola fears. Culture & Tourism: Museveni officially opened Uganda’s Cultural and Tourism Festival in Munich, urging preservation of indigenous music and poetry. Arts Scene: Felix Lubega’s found-object sculptures at AKA Gallery explore conservation and “opening spaces” for opportunity. Local Entertainment & Community: NSSF launches the SmartLife Flexi campaign to bring flexible retirement savings to informal workers at grassroots level. Boxing Buzz: Majembe challenges Ugandan boxer Shakib Cham, offering his belt for a winner-takes-all showdown. Human Rights Concern: Family members raise alarm over the reported disappearance of Dr Miria Matembe after a Luzira raid.

Music & Culture: OkayAfrica spotlights the standout tracks shaping East African music in 2026 so far, highlighting cross-border hits linking Uganda with Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and the diaspora. Media & Tech: KCCA is set to launch an official online radio station to give Kampala residents a direct City Hall information channel. Travel & Lifestyle: Mastercard expands Priceless.com with “Priceless Africa,” featuring curated experiences across Uganda and other African destinations, with perks like discounts and lounge access. Sports (Ugandan connection): Red River FC (USL League Two) credits team chemistry and international talent for its winning run, while Uganda’s Jacob Kiplimo wins the Chicago Marathon men’s race. Public Safety: Police warn that kidnapping-for-ransom cases are rising, saying specialised investigation skills are lagging behind the threat. Health (regional impact): CDC raises Ebola response to its highest level as cases surge across Congo and Uganda, while Africa CDC pushes for stronger cross-border preparedness.

Digital Finance & Inclusion: Wave held high-level talks with Cameroon’s BEAC, ART, tax and telecom bodies to push safer digital payments and wider financial access. Uganda Business Pulse: The 2026 Top 100 Mid-Sized Companies Survey (Equity Bank, KPMG, NMG) returns to spotlight SME survival and growth, as findings show many businesses fail early. HIV Prevention Demand Surge: Mbarara clinics are overwhelmed by the new twice-yearly Lenacapavir “Lena” injection, with early doses selling out fast. Ebola Watch (Regional): DRC’s Bundibugyo outbreak has crossed 1,100 cases; new modelling warns South Sudan could be next, while Uganda reports confirmed cases. KCCA Online Radio: Kampala Capital City Authority plans an online radio station to give residents a direct City Hall information line. Arts & Culture: AKAA 2026 returns to Paris with a photography focus and works on paper, spotlighting contemporary African art. Music Picks: OkayAfrica rounds up the best East African songs of 2026 so far, showing how hits now travel across borders. Sports & Entertainment: Cabo Verde’s World Cup moment is celebrated as visa hurdles and global politics collide with on-field joy.

World Cup & Health: DR Congo’s first-ever World Cup point sparked rare joy in Bunia, even as the Ebola outbreak keeps worsening, with WHO figures putting the region’s cases and deaths in the hundreds. Ebola Watch: Africa CDC says treatment centres are at about 95% bed occupancy and warns community transmission is rising, while modelling predicts a high chance of Ebola reaching South Sudan. Uganda Legal/Media: TikToker Dean Lubowa Saava was ordered to pay Shs 100m for defaming deputy IGG Anne Muhairwe, with a permanent injunction and a required public apology. Music & Celebrity: DNA tests in Uganda confirm only 4 of 25 people claiming to be Paul Job Kafeero’s children are biologically his, ending a long paternity/estate dispute. Tech & Entertainment: CANAL+ and Samsung expand DStv Stream pre-installation across African markets, bringing major sports and entertainment to Samsung TVs. Tourism Push: Uganda launches a two-week branded tourism campaign in Paris with gorilla-focused bus adverts to attract European visitors. SME Spotlight: Equity Bank backs the 2026 Top 100 Mid-Sized Companies Survey with KPMG and NMG to track SME growth and innovation.

Music & Celebrity Drama: DNA tests in Uganda have reportedly confirmed only 4 of Paul Job Kafeero’s 25 claimed children are biologically his, ending a long-running paternity and estate dispute. Tech & Media: TECNO says its EllaClaw AI assistant now has expanded “agentic” features for cross-app automation and device optimization, while CANAL+ and Samsung are rolling out pre-installed DStv Stream on Samsung Smart TVs across Uganda and other African markets. Tourism Push: Uganda launches a two-week tourism campaign in Paris using branded buses to spotlight gorillas, culture and adventure, aiming to pull in more European visitors. Sports (Football): Power Dynamos confirm striker Moses Shumah’s exit to AmaZulu and midfielder Brian Masanyinga’s move to Zambia Police Service. Sports (Basketball): Angola beat Georgia 77–62 in World Cup qualifiers’ preparations, with Uganda listed among upcoming opponents. Health (Ebola): Ebola fears keep rising as DRC cases pass 1,000 and Uganda is also affected, with WHO urging calm after a France case was reported. Entertainment Business: Mastercard expands Priceless.com with “Priceless Africa,” offering curated travel experiences across Uganda and nine other markets.

Uganda Foreign Affairs: President Museveni has appointed State Minister Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo as Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, stepping in while a substantive minister is sorted out. Ugandan Politics & Public Drama: General Muhoozi says he personally deported and blocked Martha Karua from entering Uganda, while Karua alleges her phones were confiscated at Entebbe. Ebola Watch (DRC–Uganda): WHO reports the DRC outbreak at 1,094 cases and 277 deaths, with Uganda at 20 cases and 2 deaths; France also confirmed its first Ebola case linked to a doctor returning from Congo. Arts & Culture: Ugandan fibre artist Acaye Kerunen opens “Apoi” in Germany, building woven works with women artisans from northern Uganda. Film: CJ Obasi is set to produce and direct “The Boy Who Runs,” a biopic on Ugandan runner Julius Achon. Sports: Abubaker Manjaya’s US soccer rise continues as he prepares to transfer to Rutgers; Uganda is also expected at the Jerusalem Grand Slam 2026. Media & Rights: Reporters Without Borders says journalist exile is surging worldwide, with Africa’s Great Lakes and Sahel hit hardest.

Ugandan Film & Sports: Mami Wata director CJ Obasi will produce, co-write and direct “The Boy Who Runs,” a biopic on Ugandan distance runner-turned-MP Julius Achon. Music Spotlight: Kampala-born child star Pretty Amiirah, 6, keeps stacking international awards and releases, while Ugandan gospel artist Mungu Feni (Benard Feni) wins International Artist of the Year in Ghana. Running & Entertainment Events: Absa RUN YOUR CITY Durban 10K confirms a star-studded elite women’s field featuring Kenya’s Brenda Jepchirchir and Beatrice Chepkoech. Child Talent: Pretty Amiirah’s rapid rise is being celebrated as she rewrites the rules for child stardom across Africa. Arts Funding Call: The British Council Cultural Protection Fund opens for expressions of interest, with Uganda among eligible countries. Health Crisis (Regional): Ebola in DR Congo keeps worsening, with cases crossing 1,000 and Uganda recording a new case, bringing Uganda’s total to 20.

New Podcast: JET (Just Energy Transition) has launched with Ugandan climate campaigner Hilda Flavia Nakabuye as a featured guest, spotlighting the human side of the shift to clean energy and the risks activists face. Health & Society: In DR Congo’s Ebola epicentre Mongbwalu, gold miners keep working despite fear—“if I stay at home, what are my children going to eat?”—as cases pass 1,000 and containment strains under conflict and limited follow-up. Uganda Infrastructure for Fans: Uganda’s NWSC unveiled a Shs14.24bn Hoima water project (Hoima 2) to boost supply ahead of AFCON 2027, adding treatment capacity, pipelines and storage. Creative Economy: Next Media launched Next Creata to help Uganda’s artists and influencers get paid on time, with transparent payments and brand collaboration tools. Politics & Rights: Opposition lawyer Erias Lukwago’s treason-linked detention coverage adds to fears over rule of law, while Martha Karua’s deportation continues to dominate regional headlines.

Creative Economy & Media: Next Media launched Next Creata, a platform meant to help Ugandan artists and creators get paid on time, standardize work, and collaborate with brands. Pan-African Storytelling: Ghana will host Africa Monologue Challenge Season 3, with the theme “Using Africa’s Creative Economy to Promote Intra-African Trade,” continuing a pan-African talent pipeline that previously saw an Ugandan winner. Ebola & Public Health: WHO chief Tedros urged continued international support as DRC Ebola cases pass 1,000 with 254 deaths, while UNICEF warned millions of children face rising risks amid misinformation and strained services. Local Life-Saving Care: Uganda’s boat ambulances are highlighted as a lifeline for remote island communities on Lake Victoria, helping with urgent maternal care and emergency evacuation. Safety & Crime: Police shot dead a suspected armed robber in Bukoto, Nakawa, after an attack on a businessman and his wife, recovering a rifle and suspected stolen phones. Elections & Rights Debate: The Electoral Commission unveiled a roadmap for LC I, LC II and Women Councils elections, warning that women’s elections are for “biological women only.” Tech & Entertainment Access: DStv Stream is set to be pre-installed on Samsung Smart TVs across multiple African markets, including Uganda, bringing easier access to major sports and entertainment.

Streaming Upgrade: CANAL+ and Samsung are extending their deal by pre-installing the DStv Stream app on new Samsung Smart TVs across 18 African countries, including Uganda—so viewers can jump straight from the home screen to live sports and entertainment. Celebrity Boxing: Ugandan businessman Shakib Cham Lutaaya bounced back in Nairobi, knocking out Kenya’s Arrow Bwoy in Vurugu 2, while Nadia Mukami urged Arrow to ignore trolls and keep training. Court Drama: Kampala’s Makindye Chief Magistrate postponed Erias Lukwago’s bail ruling to be delivered electronically within 24 hours, as the case stays politically charged. Regional Sports: CECAFA confirmed clubs for the 2026 Kagame Cup in Kigali (July 24–Aug 7), with Uganda’s Vipers SC among the teams. Public Health Impact: Ebola fears keep growing in the DRC and Uganda, with UNICEF warning children and adolescents face rising risks as services break down.