UCC Summons Media Bosses over Negative Reporting, Misinformation

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has outlined stringent measures to tackle the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and content deemed harmful to national security. The proposals, presented by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo and Minister of Youth and Children Affairs Balaam Barugahara, emphasize stricter media regulations, increased security collaborations, and mandatory certification for media practitioners.

Speaking at a closed-door stakeholders’ meeting at the UCC headquarters, Nyombi Thembo expressed concern over what he termed the “proliferation of inflammatory and sensational content capable of inciting violence.” He accused some journalists of deliberately painting Uganda in a negative light, saying, “Some of the journalists have made it a habit, a sort of professional conduct in battery commerce, to make Uganda look bad. I heard a trained journalist on air saying that Kampala is the capital of potholes. But he is a journalist.”

Nyombi reiterated UCC’s commitment to upholding national security through regulatory oversight, warning that the government would no longer tolerate the misuse of media platforms. “We will intensify enforcement of existing laws and hold you accountable under the UCC Act. Regulations and standards will be reinforced to ensure media platforms adhere to ethical journalism,” he said.   

He outlined several measures aimed at curbing harmful content which include regulatory enforcement that will see stricter penalties for media houses and individuals found violating broadcasting and communication regulations. He also said they enforce content accountability through the mandatory registration of influential online content creators to ensure responsible reporting. 

Nyombi also said they enhance security partnerships with increased collaboration between UCC and security agencies to investigate and prosecute offenders and launch public awareness campaigns nationally to educate citizens on the dangers of misinformation and hate speech. They are also proposing enhanced training for media personnel with a move towards mandatory certification of journalists and media practitioners. 

Nyombi acknowledged the financial struggles of media houses, stating, “It’s only about 5% of broadcasters who make money, and nearly 60% are merely surviving. We have been closing our eyes to that reality, but now we will work with the Ministry of Education to accredit professional training for media practitioners. Anyone sitting behind a microphone should be certified.”   

Delivering a statement on behalf of Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations and Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Minister Balaam emphasized the delicate balance between press freedom and national security. 

“Whereas the Constitution of Uganda enshrines freedoms such as free speech and media rights, these freedoms come with responsibilities and limitations. Article 43(1) of the Constitution states that in the enjoyment of rights and freedoms, no person shall prejudice the fundamental or other human rights and freedoms of others or the national interest,” Barugahara read.

He cited growing security concerns linked to media misuse, noting that some outlets and individuals had stretched the limits of free expression. “There is visible anxiety in our society today, created by well-planned media maneuvers, both online and traditional media. Hate speech, incitement to violence, and sectarianism are eroding public trust and damaging Uganda’s international reputation,” he added.

Dr. Kin Karisa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Association of Broadcasters, called for mutual understanding between media and security agencies. “Let me tell you, Uganda will not be Uganda without the media. And Uganda will not be Uganda without security. Media is the glue that binds us together.” 

He highlighted the indispensable role of the media in government communication efforts. “If my brother Luke wanted to issue a statement as KMP or as police, today please don’t move this side, move the other way, you will need me. You will need us. Otherwise, you will not implement any directive. The president needs the media to communicate to 46 million Ugandans on programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM). Media is very, very important. If we start with that position, that the way security is important, and media is important, then we need each other to have this conversation.” 

Dr. Karisa also acknowledged past tensions between media and security forces. “In the past, we had bad relations with the police and army from 2016 to 2021. They beat our reporters and journalists, and then the next day they see us playing football with the CDF and generals. People questioned us, asking what kind of leaders we were. But the truth is, we need to handle these matters very well if we are to achieve what we want—a peaceful, prosperous Uganda.” He suggested a neutral venue for future engagements between media and security. 

“We can choose another name and another space to have these discussions on balancing the equation. The moment this is led to Kyankwanzi, it seems like an NRM operation rather than a national patriotic engagement. But if it’s about educating and exchanging ideas to develop Uganda, it is a welcome idea. I suggested to the president some four years ago, during a meeting at Entebbe, that we, as media leaders, needed to engage constructively.” 

The government urged media houses to uphold professionalism and accuracy in reporting. “We urge all media platforms to respect the laws and embrace ethical journalism, one that reflects balanced and unbiased reporting, respect for national institutions, and the protection of public trust,” Nyombi stated. The meeting concluded with a call for stronger collaboration between UCC, security agencies, and media stakeholders to safeguard Uganda’s peace and unity. “Together, through collaboration and shared responsibility, we can build a more informed, secure, and united Uganda,” Nyombi said.