NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor are expected to resume operations in August after weeks of closure, with reports indicating that the media house’s ownership has reached an understanding with the Ugandan government on conditions for reopening. The expected return follows high-level discussions between Nation Media Group representatives and government officials after the outlets were shut down in late June.
Sources familiar with the ongoing restructuring say the company is preparing significant internal changes aimed at reshaping its operations once broadcasting and publishing resume.
Among the reported developments is that the proposed appointment of veteran media executive Kin Kariisa Kabushenga as Chief Executive Officer did not materialize, despite earlier speculation that he could be brought in to lead the new phase of the company. No official announcement has been made regarding the position.
The restructuring is also expected to affect staff across multiple departments. Some employees are reportedly being encouraged to pursue further studies as part of a professional development programme, while others could be redeployed to Nation Media Group operations in Kenya and Tanzania.
Not all employees are expected to remain with the company. Reports indicate that some staff may leave under a voluntary or negotiated separation arrangement that could include a severance package equivalent to six months’ salary, although the company has not publicly confirmed the details.
The anticipated reopening follows weeks of negotiations after security agencies shut down NTV Uganda, the Daily Monitor and other Nation Media Group outlets in Uganda. Government officials previously indicated that editorial reforms and organizational restructuring formed part of discussions surrounding the return of the media house’s operations.
While preparations for reopening are reportedly in their final stages, Nation Media Group has yet to officially announce a reopening date or confirm the reported staffing changes. More details are expected as the restructuring process continues in the coming weeks.