New Vision at 40: A legacy of media faith and excellence in northern Uganda

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The New Vision family is celebrating 40 years of media excellence, an achievement that holds profound significance for fellow Vision Group platforms Radio Rupiny and Wan Luo TV.

The two stations have grown to become the heartbeat of northern Uganda.

In Gulu city, the celebration on Thursday (March 19) was defined by a powerful mixture of gratitude for the past and renewed energy for the future.

A cake served at the Vision Group offices in Gulu city.

Peter Labeja, the Station Manager Radio Rupiny served cake during the celebrates.

The festivities kicked off with a dedication prayer service that brought together the various voices and faces behind the microphones and cameras.

Led by local religious leaders, staff gathered in a circle of unity to honour the pioneers who built the brand. These prayers focused on the journey of the last four decades while seeking spiritual guidance for the stations' digital future.

During the ceremony, long-serving staff shared moving testimonies about the evolution of the media house. They recounted the transition from the early days of analogue broadcasting to the modern, multimedia powerhouses that Wan Luo TV and Radio Rupiny have become.

This transition highlights the resilience and adaptability of the Vision Group over the years.

Unlike a standard private corporate event, the doors were metaphorically open to the public. Listeners and viewers sent in a flood of congratulatory messages via social media and call-ins.

Jesse Johnson James, one of the staff, shaking hands with Rev. Zakariya Oto.

Gorrety Lalam one of the long serving staff of the Vision Group in Gulu city.

This overwhelming response proved that these stations are viewed as more than just businesses; they are regarded as essential community companions.

Collective spirit

Three prominent Anglican leaders from Gulu City participated in the celebration: Rev. Peter Oola Oyat, Rev. Zakariya Oto, and Rev. Caroline Aber. During the service, the reverends blessed the staff and urged them to put God first in all their activities.

They also challenged the team to work hard to fight poverty within their own homes and communities.

Rev. Oto, the Diocesan Mission Coordinator, spoke extensively about the importance of working together to fulfil a higher mission. He challenged the staff to lead as a team, noting that while individuals may handle different sectors like sports, finance, or editing, they must speak one language and follow one set goal to achieve true success.

“In teamwork, we speak one language. We follow one set goal, and we aim to achieve it together. I’m editing, you are doing football, he is doing money this, and that, but the whole thing put together to achieve one goal,” he said.

The religious leaders also took a moment to bless specific staff members who have distinguished themselves through award-winning work.

Vision Group staff in Gulu city pause for photo after prayers.

Among those recognised for their success in story-writing competitions over the years were Jesse Johnson James, Dennis Ojwee, Rosemary Anena, Jonisani Ocakacon, and Peter Labeja. Their individual achievements were celebrated as a reflection of the group's overall commitment to quality journalism.

The celebration concluded in an office decorated with the signature Vision Group colours.

After the final blessings, a ceremonial cake-cutting took place to symbolise the sweetness of the shared success between the media house and its loyal audience. It was a fitting end to a day dedicated to a legacy built on community trust and professional integrity.