Hope Channel Uganda Manager, Isaac Kugonza elected Uganda Union Mission Communication Director

KAMPALA – Hope Channel Uganda Manager Mr. Isaac Kugonza has been appointed Communication and Public Affairs & Religious Liberty (PARL) Director of the Uganda Union Mission (UUM) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, marking a significant milestone in Adventist media and communication work in the country.

Kugonza, a seasoned journalist and media professional, brings to the role over 15 years of experience in television production, news reporting, and cinematography. He holds a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University and a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication from Makerere University.

Over the years, he has worked with several leading media houses, including Hope Channel Uganda, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, and Red Pepper, serving in various capacities such as station manager, producer, video editor, news director, and reporter.

An award-winning cinematographer and editor, Kugonza has received accolades such as Best Cinematography (2013) and Best Editor (2014) in the Tanuulu Film Competitions. He also played a key role in the launch of Hope Channel Uganda and the Pearl International Film Festival, cementing his reputation as one of the creative forces in Uganda’s visual storytelling space.

Beyond the mainstream media, Kugonza has been deeply involved in Adventist media initiatives, combining professional excellence with mission-driven passion to advance the gospel through television and digital platforms.

A Product of Mentorship and Mission

Adventist World Radio Africa Region Director, Pr. Immanuel Ogwal, who has closely mentored Kugonza, welcomed the appointment with joy and affirmation. He recalled first being introduced to Isaac by Pr. Kaggwa about eight years ago as “a resourceful young man.” “While I served as the communication director, Isaac was one of the brains I consulted closely in my work, although he was not yet a church employee,” Pr. Ogwal noted, underscoring Kugonza’s long-standing contribution to church media even before he held a formal denominational position.

The outgoing Uganda Union Mission Communication Director, Pr. Rogers Kaggwa, expressed both gratitude and confidence in the transition: “What a blessing it has been to serve and mentor so many great minds! I can rest in peace knowing this church will move on. I am concluding with Light Uganda with Literature until December 31. What a great run this has been! May God use us all.”

Commendation from Church Media Leadership

The Adventist Media Board Chair, Elder Hodge Semakula, hailed Kugonza’s election as a well-deserved recognition of his dedication and expertise. “I want to congratulate you on your election to the office of Director of Communications of UUM,” Elder Semakula wrote. “This is a recognition of your extensive knowledge and experience in the communications industry, hard work, and commitment to duty, which you have exhibited in your current service.” He particularly highlighted Kugonza’s pioneering role at Hope Channel Uganda: “As a pioneer Manager of HC TV, you have done a commendable job of setting up, nurturing, and giving direction to this nascent organisation amidst many daunting challenges. I trust that in your new calling, you will continue to support and guide HC TV and help it achieve its set goals. I wish you well and God’s blessings in your new service.”

Regional Leaders Applaud the Choice

From the East-Central Africa Division (ECD), Pr. Samuel Ivan Sebaggala, Evangelism Director, also extended warm congratulations. “Heartfelt congratulations on your new role as the Uganda Union Communication/PARL Director! This is fantastic news, and so well-deserved,” he said. “Your incredible work as the Manager of Hope Channel Uganda has been an inspiration. You built a platform that not only communicated hope but also touched lives in profound ways. Your leadership has left a lasting legacy there, and we are all so proud of what you accomplished.” “Your skills in communication and your passion for the mission make you the perfect person for this position. I do not doubt that you will bring innovative ideas and unwavering dedication to the Union. Wishing you all the best and God’s richest blessings as you step into this new office.”

In his acceptance remarks, Mr. Kugonza Isaac expressed deep gratitude to church leadership, mentors, and colleagues for trusting him with yet another calling. “Dear my leaders, I am grateful for yet another calling that God has placed at my door,” he said. “As I enter into this new kind of ministry, please keep me in your prayers.” “Thanks for the support you all rendered to me and to those who mentored me – Pastor Immanuel Ogwal and Pr. Rogers Kaggwa. I can’t be more grateful. Glory and honor to the most High God.”

Kugonza’s appointment is widely seen as a significant boost to the communication agenda of the Uganda Union Mission, bringing together professional media expertise, strong Adventist identity, and a passion for mission.

As he transitions from managing Hope Channel Uganda to leading the broader Union communication and PARL portfolio, many within the church are hopeful that his tenure will usher in greater visibility, strategic storytelling, and impactful media engagement for the Adventist message across Uganda and beyond.

[Images by LC Africa]