Govt Mandates Cadre Training for Journalists by June 30
Journalists in Uganda will now be required to undergo a mandatory cadre course at the National Leadership Institute (NALI) in Kyankwanzi, as per a new directive from the government.
The announcement was made by Minister Balaam Barugahara, who relayed a message from Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba during a stakeholder meeting with media owners and executives at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) headquarters in Bugolobi, Kampala.
The directive, reportedly issued by President Yoweri Museveni through the CDF, requires journalists to complete the training by June 30, 2024. The minister described it as a “few days’ course”, aimed at aligning journalists with national values.
Media Regulation and National Security
In the same meeting, UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo urged media operators to ensure responsible journalism by curbing harmful content and maintaining accuracy. He also emphasized the role of UCC in ensuring national security alongside its regulatory duties.
The meeting, which was initially closed to the press, was first hinted at by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba on his X (formerly Twitter) account.
Violence Against Journalists Condemned
Meanwhile, the discussion also touched on press safety, following the recent shooting of Top TV journalist Ibrahim Miracle during the chaotic Kawempe North by-election nominations. Speaking at a separate briefing, Defence and Military Spokesperson, Acting Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, condemned security officers who rough up journalists, promising that “errant elements” would be held accountable.
Media Leaders in Attendance
The meeting was attended by prominent media executives and owners, including:
- Kin Kariisa, CEO of Next Media
- Pastor Aloysious Bugingo, proprietor of Salt Media
- Peter Sematimba, owner of Super FM
- Innocent Nahabwe, proprietor of Galaxy FM/TV
- Representatives from the Rural Broadcasters’ Association of Uganda and Uganda Online Media Publishers
The directive has sparked debate among media professionals, with many awaiting further details on its implementation and impact on press freedom.