Kampala — A veteran Ugandan journalist has been shot dead in a suspected targeted attack at his residence in Wakiso District, raising fresh concerns about security in the greater Kampala metropolitan area.
The deceased, Joe Nam, 55, a former reporter with New Vision, was killed at around 1 a.m. on Sunday in Kawanda Central, Nabweru Division.
According to police, Nam was shot by an unidentified assailant who was reportedly masked and fled the scene immediately after the attack. Preliminary findings suggest the gunman ambushed him shortly after he stepped outside his home.
Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, Luke Owoyesigyire, confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are underway to establish the motive behind the killing.
“Preliminary information indicates that an unidentified armed assailant shot and killed him before fleeing the scene,” he said.
Police sources indicate that the journalist had reportedly stepped out in the early hours when he was attacked. His wife, who heard gunshots, rushed outside and found him lying dead. Authorities were subsequently alerted, but the suspect had already escaped.
The body was later taken to Mulago City Mortuary for a post-mortem examination as detectives began processing the crime scene and collecting evidence.
Investigators are working to establish the type of firearm used and whether the attack was premeditated. By press time, no arrests had been made.
Nam was a seasoned media professional who served for years at New Vision, where he covered a wide range of beats including business, environment and politics. After leaving active newsroom work, he remained engaged in public discourse through consultancy and writing.
His killing has sent shockwaves through the journalism fraternity, with colleagues describing him as a committed professional dedicated to public interest reporting.
Police have urged anyone with information that could aid investigations to come forward as inquiries continue.