Former New Vision Journalist Joe Nam Fatally Shot During Late-Night Prayer

Joe Nam, aged 55, was deep in prayer on the veranda of his home in Kawanda Central, Wakiso District, around 1am when a masked gunman approached and fired two shots, striking him in the head and leg. This was his regular time for quiet communion with God, from 10pm to 1am.

His sister, Mary Kidd Nabongo, heard him call her before shouting, ‘Don’t do that. The angels are seeing you,’ just before the shots rang out. She described him as a committed born-again Christian whose faith defined his life, even in his final moments.

Born in 1971 to Eng Nam and Stella Obong, Nam grew up in exile in Kenya before returning to Uganda for schooling in Soroti and Lira. He earned a Mass Communication degree from Makerere University and built a career at New Vision, excelling in foreign affairs, photography, business, and politics reporting.

Colleagues remembered him fondly. Steven Candia, a former workmate, praised Nam’s humility, faith, and guidance to new journalists, nicknaming him ‘diplomat’ for his event coverage. He was known for his generosity, especially toward children, and his advocacy for Lango community development.

Nam ventured into politics, joining the Democratic Party in 2010 and running as an independent in Oyam North in 2021, followed by an unsuccessful NUP primary bid. In 2023, he published The Day Museveni Goes, critiquing military actions and Uganda’s leadership transition.

Despite political pursuits, his faith remained central; he attended Watoto Church regularly. At his funeral there, Pastor Joshua Mugabi urged the family to trust in Christ amid grief. Nam was buried in Iceme, Oyam District, leaving no children. Police have yet to arrest any suspects.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)