Summary:

• The government, through the Uganda Communications Commission, has called on media practitioners to prioritize professionalism amid changing media dynamics, emphasizing the need for standards, while also recognizing and awarding individuals advocating for journalists’ rights in Uganda at the Annual Journalism Convention Media Dialogue.

The government has urged media practitioners to prioritize professionalism in their work. The call was issued by Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), during the Annual Journalism Convention Media Dialogue held at Hotel African. The event was organized by the Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) in partnership with the Public Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU).

Nyombi noted that the dynamics of media operation have changed significantly, with anyone possessing a smartphone being able to function as a journalist. In light of this, he emphasized the importance for mainstream media practitioners to uphold high levels of professionalism to distinguish themselves from others.

Highlighting concerns about the current trend in media, Nyombi expressed worries about the prevalence of false news, stating that such misinformation could lead to societal problems. He called on media platforms like NAB, UJA, and UJU to establish and enforce standards for media houses to follow. Nyombi also revealed that the UCC would continue monitoring the ICT ecosystem for emerging trends and developments.

In addition to these discussions, the event recognized and awarded certain media personalities for their efforts in advocating for the rights of journalists in Uganda. Recipients of the awards included Margarete B. Sentamu, Executive Director of the Uganda Media Women’s Association, along with individuals such as Dr. Sam Kazibwe, Dr. Livingston Sewanyana, and Joshua Kyalimpa, among others.