Najjera, Kampala: What began as a warm farewell to Kampala’s loyal patrons masked a far more explosive reality – The Gardens Najjera did not close by choice, but collapsed under the weight of a covert ownership fallout that left two of its founders staring at eviction from a business they helped build.
On January 21, the popular hangout The Gardens Najjera announced it would shut its doors on January 25, 2026, thanking customers for years of loyalty, laughter, and shared memories. The message suggested a graceful transition. But behind the scenes, events were unfolding at speed, and not on the owners’ terms.
Founded in 2018 by three budding entrepreneurs, Ronald Khamasi, Peter Kahindi, and Mark Kaheru, The Gardens rose to become Najjera’s social heartbeat. From quiz nights and meat carnivals to soccer screenings and community events, the venue cultivated a devoted following and a reputation as more than just a bar.
Situated along Mbogo Road, The Gardens evolved into a social home. Its open-air layout, themed nights, live music, art markets, and laid-back gatherings created a space where conversations flowed easily and friendships formed naturally, week after week.
However, DailyExpress has established that the celebrated food, bar, and party venue was quietly sold without the knowledge of two of its three partners. The revelation, reportedly (as our source suggests), came abruptly when two of its owners (2nd and 3rd K) were served with an eviction notice, informing them that the premises had a new owner.
Sources familiar with the matter say the two were stunned to learn that the business had changed hands, allegedly through a transaction executed by their third partner without their consent. It remains unclear whether the selling partner was a majority shareholder or whether the transaction complied with the company’s ownership structure and governance arrangements.
What is clear is that the discovery effectively sealed the fate of the establishment, forcing an abrupt shutdown of a venue many patrons believed was still thriving.
But the developments sharply contrast with the tone of the venue’s public statement, which framed the closure as a celebratory transition rather than the outcome of an internal dispute.
“After many incredible years of serving you, we’re stepping into a brand new chapter and closing our business on 25 January 2026,” the July 21 statement read, thanking customers for their loyalty, smiles, and unforgettable moments.
“Your support, your smiles, and your loyalty have carried us farther than we ever imagined. We’re grateful for every moment shared and every milestone reached together.”
“From all of us at The Gardens Najjera, thank you for making this adventure unforgettable. Here’s to new beginnings and the bright memories we’ll always cherish.”
To many regulars, particularly patrons aged 40 and above, The Gardens was more than a bar. Its old-school music, friendly drink prices, and consistent themed events created a sense of belonging rarely found in Kampala’s nightlife.
The monthly Meat Carnival, where revellers sampled a wide variety of meats at affordable prices, became a signature attraction that cemented the venue’s reputation as a home away from home.
Another loyal community deeply affected by the closure is the Formula One Club. Race after race, fans showed up regardless of time zones or odd hours. Even when races aired late at night or in the early morning, the screens stayed on, and the crowd remained committed, turning motorsport viewing into a ritual rather than an occasional event.
At the time of publishing this story, neither the partners involved nor management have publicly addressed the reported sale or the eviction notice. It also remains unclear what legal or commercial action the aggrieved parties may pursue.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
