Simon Kaggwa Njala is a Ugandan journalist and media personality known for his work in broadcasting and journalism. He has been involved in various media projects, including radio and television.
Simon Kaggwa Njala was born on January 4, 1972, in Kampala, Uganda.[1]
Njala began his career in journalism, contributing to various media outlets in Uganda. His reporting often focused on social and political issues.[2]
During a December 18th, 2012 episode of the Ugandan TV show Morning Breeze, Njala interviewed Ugandan LGBTQ rights activist Pepe Julian Onziema about LGBTQ+ rights in Uganda. After introducing Onziema, Njala immediately asked, “Why are you gay?”
The interview later developed into an animated dispute when a second guest, pastor and anti-gay activist Martin Ssempa, was introduced and began characterizing and criticizing various sexual acts using fruits and vegetables as props, while shouting over Njala in both English and Luganda.[3] The interview itself was uploaded to the internet and became the subject of various internet memes, commonly titled "Why Are You Gay?".[4]
On the 25th of June 2024, Desire Derekford Mugumisa, the company's head of corporate affairs of Next Media, issued a statement to the staff. He stated "Recently, we identified areas for improvement and have reinforced adherence to our ethical guidelines. We strictly prohibit public association with political parties, alliances, coalitions, or related matters that could undermine our principles."
Simon Kaggwa Njala is said to have been suspended for two weeks for sending out a series of tweets that were pro-Mathias Mpuuga and anti-NUP.[5]