Staff of UBC Ngeya FM have joined other media houses in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, with a call to uphold professionalism and accuracy in the execution of their duties.
The commemoration for this year is celebrated under the theme ““Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security”
Journalists celebrate this day every 3rd of May annually, reflecting on the experiences media personalities go through in their line of work.
While addressing staff, the Manager of UBC Ngeya FM at Collins Garden in Kasese, Mary Gay, urged journalists to remain accurate, independent, and committed to raising public awareness on current affairs in the country.
She emphasized the core values of journalism, to educate, inform, and entertain, warning that any deviation from these principles undermines the profession.
She encouraged Journalists to embrace digital tools in the course of executing their mandate arguing that social media is currently part of the entire media fraternity however drawing thin lines that distinguishes the mainstream media.
Therefore, tasking the staff to professionally execute their work.
UBC Ngeya Fm station manager Mary Gay
Mumbere Morris, a presenter at the station, called on journalists to encourage critical thinking among audiences by avoiding misinformation and actively engaging in community initiatives.
He indicated that with right information, there is no one who can manage to intimidate you while having facts, and all threats are not feared.
Morris Mumbere,presenter
Kasyakulu Julius advised media practitioners to be conflict-sensitive, urging them to avoid fueling tensions and instead promote peace journalism.
He noted that there is a big mistake several journalists do in sidelining with sources as if they are part of stories they cover.
He added that a journalist is an independent person not part of the story.
Meanwhile, News Editor Ram Kikama highlighted the importance of media independence and sustainability.
He discouraged injustices such as corruption and embezzlement of public funds, noting that these hinder national developments.
He noted that it’s the role of the media to uncover such instances because most times they hinder development if not revealed.
He also said that as journalists are supposed to include all classes of people like the persons living with disabilities, elderly, women among others, indicating that this raises voices of the voiceless.
Generally, the media personalities were requested to work and remain within the limits of professionalism right from news department, production, and other departments.
