KAMPALA — The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has opened a public consultation on an application by Next Media Services Limited and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Kin Kariisa, to acquire the broadcasting licences of Capital FM (2015) Limited.
In a notice issued on Monday, September 14, UCC invited members of the public to submit written comments on the proposed transfer within 14 days.
The application seeks regulatory approval for the transfer of the licences and change in ownership and control of Capital FM (2015) Limited, which operates Capital FM, Beat FM and KIIS 100.9 FM.
UCC said the public submissions will form part of its assessment of the proposed transaction before a decision is made on whether to approve the licence transfer.
The proposed acquisition follows a strategic collaboration announced by the two companies in June.
Company records subsequently indicated that Next Media had acquired about 70 percent of Capital Radio 2015 Limited, while Kariisa personally held the remaining 30 percent.
The transaction has reportedly been valued at about Shs12 billion.
If approved, the acquisition would bring the Capital FM radio stations under the ownership of Next Media, which operates NBS Television, Sanyuka TV, Next Radio and Nile Post, among other media platforms.
The consultation is part of the regulatory process governing transfers of broadcasting licences and changes in control of licensed broadcasters.
UCC is expected to consider factors including competition, media plurality, ownership structures and the ability of the proposed owners to continue providing broadcasting services.
Members of the public have until approximately September 28, 2026, to submit their views to the Commission.
UCC will consider the submissions before making a decision on the proposed transfer.
