KAMPALA – Journalists across Uganda joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, renewing calls to protect media freedom, uphold professionalism, and address persistent challenges in the industry.
The event, held under the theme “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security,” brought together media practitioners, government officials, and civil society actors to reflect on the state of journalism in the country.
A key concern raised was the growing misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in news production. Mr. Godfrey Baluku Kabbyanga highlighted the risks of relying on AI, noting that while the technology is increasingly used to generate content, it often produces inaccurate information.
“Many people are now getting information from AI, but most of it is inaccurate at times, so we are urging editors to exercise caution and ensure human oversight,” he said.
He cited examples where AI-generated speeches included irrelevant or incorrect statistics, sometimes drawn from other countries.
Another pressing issue is the low or non-payment of journalists in some media houses. Mr. Kabbyanga revealed that authorities continue to receive complaints about journalists going unpaid.
“We receive so many cases of journalists not being paid at their respective media houses, encouraging affected practitioners to report such cases to the Uganda Media Council for action,” he said.
While the ministry may not handle all complaints directly, the Council has the mandate to ensure accountability among media owners.
He noted that financial constraints in Uganda’s competitive media market, home to over 300 radio stations vying for limited advertising revenue, should not justify failing to pay journalists.
“Media owners must prepare themselves for the business before they venture into it,” he stressed.
Speaking during the national commemoration at UBC grounds, Mr. Lamex Omara Apitta, Commissioner at the Uganda Human Rights Commission, described the day’s activities as a symbol of unity within the media sector.
“This has been a walk not in protest, but in affirmation of the vital role the press and the entire media fraternity play in our society, ” he said.
He highlighted the media’s role in informing citizens during elections and shaping public debate, including ongoing legislative discussions such as the Sovereignty Bill.
The Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC), represented by Communications Manager Wilfred Senyange on behalf of Managing Director Mr. Winston Agaba David, reaffirmed its commitment to responsible journalism.
UBC emphasised that press freedom is central to peace and security, calling on journalists to prioritise accuracy, objectivity, and the national interest, even as they harness technology, including AI.
The broadcaster also urged the government to provide a safe environment for journalists to operate freely and responsibly.
“Freedom of the press comes with a heavy burden of responsibility. Let us use our platforms to build, not to destroy,” the statement concluded.
