Photojournalist Abubaker Lubowa Honoured for 12 Years of Fearless Visual StorytellingAt the heart of a powerful new exhibition, “Through the Lens of Truth: 12 Years on the Frontline of Power and Protest in the Age of AI,” lies the story of a man whose camera has documented a nation’s pulse Abubaker Lubowa, a seasoned photojournalist with Nation Media Group (NMG).
The show, which opened on Thursday, May 8, at Uganda Law Society (ULS) House in Kololo, Kampala, celebrates more than just striking visuals. It marks a legacy of courage, resistance, and human truth-telling.
While ULS President Mr Isaac Ssemakadde was notably absent due to what he termed “occupational persecution,” his remarks delivered by Derrick Wandera were deeply personal and filled with admiration.
“Abubaker’s photographs capture the heartbeat of Uganda’s recent history, from Walk-to-Work to Kazo-Angola, from the hope of the 2016 elections to the defiance of 2020 protests, and the ongoing battles for land rights and environmental justice,” Ssemakadde said.
He described Lubowa as not just a photographer but “a trusted source of client referrals, a subject of legal advocacy, and a cherished collaborator,” acknowledging years of shared ground at civic struggles and legal flashpoints.
“We dreamed of a radical space where his work could stand as both art and advocacy, a platform to amplify silenced voices and illuminate hidden injustices.”
Ssemakadde also extended praise to Ms Dorothy Nabunjo, Gallery Director at Xenson Art Space, for her “impeccable curatorial performance,” and saluted NMG for its continued commitment to authentic journalism amidst the lure of AI-generated content.
“In this age of AI-driven image manipulation, Abubaker’s work reaffirms the unmatched authenticity of human vision reminding us that truth is not a construct or product to be engineered, but a reality to be jealously pursued and defended,” he stated.
“Together, we must strive for a better Uganda where journalists can work without fear, and where every story finds its voice.”
Lubowa’s exhibition, curated in partnership with Xenson Art Space, features images that delve into the nation’s most charged moments protests, civic uprisings, and the resilience of Uganda’s marginalized communities.
For three weeks, ULS House will serve as both a gallery and a battleground of ideas.
The event also drew powerful tributes from civic leaders and media professionals.
“Journalists like Abubaker serve as the eyes and conscience of society. Without their bravery and commitment, much of what transpires in the corners of our nation would go unseen, undocumented, and unknown,” said Anthony Asiimwe, Vice President of the Uganda Law Society.
“It’s only for the brave to cover stories that expose injustice and shine a light on human rights abuses,” he added.
Mr Allan Chekwech, Managing Editor of NMG Uganda, praised Lubowa’s character and craftsmanship.
“Abu is not just the journalist you see behind the lens. He has a sharp photographic eye, an exceptional attention to detail, and a warm spirit,” he said, reinforcing NMG’s dedication to bold and independent storytelling.
From the human rights front, Robert Ssempala, Executive Director of the Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda (HRNJ-U), used the moment to highlight the transformative spirit within the legal fraternity.
“Everyone should be grateful for the coming of the #RadicalNewBar. I look forward to the reconciliation that was pledged by the Minister of Justice, Hon. Norbert Mao. I await the day we’ll celebrate that reconciliation with President Isaac Ssemakadde in our midst.”
For Ms Dorothy Nabunjo, Lubowa’s visual journey is a rare gem in Uganda’s creative and political spheres.
“I am so excited that today we are showing the works of one of the most celebrated photojournalists in Uganda. Exhibitions of this nature remain rare, especially those that boldly confront social and political issues,” she said.
“Abubaker’s images, many of which have headlined national publications such as Daily Monitor, not only capture history in the making but shape how we come to understand it. His work forms a vital part of our collective memory.”
In his own words, Mr Lubowa expressed deep appreciation for the support that shaped his path: “I thank NMG for supporting my work and never censoring my images,” he said.
“I also thank the Uganda Law Society for giving me a platform to exhibit my work,” Lubowa added.
Despite the challenges inherent in his line of work, Abubaker Lubowa’s lens remains steadfastly focused on the truth.
