Uganda marked World Press Freedom Day with a high-level gathering at Parliament House, where government officials, journalists, and civil society leaders came together to reflect on the state of media freedom and the pressing challenges facing the industry.
The event, organized by the Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) with support from Parliament, was held under the theme “Freedom of expression in the face of the AI Revolution,” highlighting the dual concerns of technological advancements and the enduring struggle for press independence.
While acknowledging the country’s democratic progress since the 1995 Constitution, officials voiced concerns over rising threats against journalists. Government Chief Whip Hon. Denis Hamson Obua praised Uganda’s journey from past restrictions to today’s more open space, urging media professionals to reflect on their responsibilities to foster national unity.
However, the mood was tinged with warning. Hon. Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Opposition and a former journalist, criticized increasing intimidation and violence against media workers. He cited recent harassment during the Kawempe North by-election, emphasizing that attacks on journalists threaten the fabric of democracy.
Speakers called for urgent action to protect journalists, improve their working conditions, and ensure independent media operations. Uganda Women Media Association head Charity Ahimbisibwe urged the military to stay away from electoral processes to guarantee journalists’ safety.
Other concerns raised included inadequate funding for media regulatory bodies, with MP Hon. Tonny Ayoo warning that underfunding hampers efforts to uphold ethical standards and responsible reporting. He also emphasized the importance of improving internet access to support media growth, especially ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The dialogue also touched on the rise of political activism within journalism, cautioning against blurred boundaries that could provoke government crackdowns. MPs reminded the audience of past violence against the press, stressing that unchecked brutality could worsen during elections.
Concluding the event, Solomon Sserwanja of the African Institute for Investigative Journalism called for stronger investigative capacity to hold security agencies accountable, emphasizing that a well-supported press is key to exposing abuses of power and safeguarding democracy.
