Simon Kaggwa Njala is a prominent Ugandan television journalist, best known for his role as the host of the morning show Morning Breeze on NBS TV.
His rise to fame can be attributed to a particularly memorable interview from December 18, 2012, during which he posed the provocative question, “Why are you gay?” to LGBTQ+ activist Pepe Julian Onziema. READ FULL STORY
This moment sparked widespread attention and became a viral sensation years later, especially in January 2019, when clips from the interview began circulating as memes across social media platforms, solidifying Njala’s status as a cultural figure in Uganda.
Career
Njala’s early years were marked by a keen interest in the arts and literature, which were nurtured by a supportive family.
He began his career in journalism, contributing to various media outlets in Uganda with a focus on social and political issues.
Years down the line, Njala has built a notable career in Ugandan journalism, primarily recognized for his work as a television presenter.
He began his journey in media by contributing to various outlets, and has been involved in various media projects, including radio and television.
Njala is currently a presenter at NBS Television; he has served at the station for an impressive 14 years, during which he maintained an impeccable record until recently.
In June 2024, Njala faced a two-week suspension from NBS TV due to tweets perceived as politically biased.
The suspension came as Next Media, the parent company of NBS TV, reinforced its editorial and social media policies to ensure impartiality, editorial independence, and adherence to ethical guidelines.
Despite this setback, Njala remains a prominent figure in Ugandan media, known for his engaging interview style and commitment to journalism.
He continues to share his thoughts on various topics through his active presence on social media platforms.
The viral “Why Are You Gay?” interview
Njala gained widespread attention for a controversial interview on the Morning Breeze show aired on December 18, 2012.
During the exchange, he posed the provocative question, “Why are you gay?” to LGBTQ+ activist Pepe Julian Onziema.
The interview later escalated into a heated debate when pastor and anti-gay activist Martin Ssempa joined and began characterizing various sexual acts using props.
The confrontational nature of the interview, particularly Njala’s blunt question, became a viral sensation years later.
In January 2019, clips from the interview began circulating as memes across social media platforms, with the phrase “Why Are You Gay?” becoming a popular catchphrase.
The interview’s virality has been recognized by Africa Facts Zone on X, who branded it as “Africa’s most popular interview.”
