American billionaire Elon Musk has joined a wave of global figures referencing a viral meme featuring Ugandan journalist Simon Kaggwa Njala, reviving interest in a controversial interview clip from over a decade ago.

Musk used the meme—centred around the pointed question “Why are you gay?”—in a reply to a post by the New York Times Communications team, prompting widespread reaction across social media. Njala, upon seeing the meme's latest resurgence, responded on X (formerly Twitter) with a series of embarrassment emojis, acknowledging the meme’s unexpected global reach. 

The clip originates from a televised interview in which Njala questioned LGBT rights activist Pepe Julian Onziema. Though the tone of the interview has attracted both criticism and praise, the excerpt has since evolved into a global internet meme, widely circulated on platforms including TikTok and Reddit.

Njala’s direct style has been embraced by some conservative commentators, while others have criticised the confrontational nature of the exchange. Regardless of the polarised opinions, the meme’s viral status has brought Njala into the international spotlight. Currently a presenter with Uganda’s Next Media, Njala has received endorsements from several high-profile figures, including controversial influencer Andrew Tate. The two previously recorded a podcast together, adding to Njala’s rising global profile.

He also gained national attention for a heated interview with Uganda’s Minister of Finance, Matia Kasaija, who walked off the set mid-broadcast. Njala recently disclosed plans to monetise the meme in collaboration with a Dubai-based partner. Merchandise and additional commercial ventures are under consideration as he seeks to leverage the moment’s popularity. What began as a hard-hitting interview on Ugandan television has now turned into a case study in viral media—cementing Njala’s name well beyond East Africa.