UCC outs tough guidelines for media

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The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has proposed tough rules for both online and traditional media to ensure what it is calling responsible reporting.

UCC executive director Nyombi Thembo says the key initiative involves the communications sector regulator collaborating with security agencies to effectively combat harmful content.

“Additionally, influential online content creators are required to register and comply with national laws, emphasising the importance of accountability in the digital space,” he said in a statement dated February 27, 2025.

This was after a meeting with key stakeholders including media chief executive officers (CEOs), security agencies and government representatives in Kampala city.

The meeting aimed at tackling what Nyombi says is one of the biggest challenges of their time: The power and responsibility of the media.

In a statement he posted on X, formerly Twitter, the UCC boss stated that the proposed measures aim to enhance media oversight and accountability in Uganda.

“This includes implementing stricter regulations for both online and traditional media to ensure responsible reporting,” he said.

Cadre course at NALI

He added that media leaders such as CEOs and editors will participate in a specialised training programme at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), which is expected to begin in June this year. 

“This comprehensive approach not only aims to strengthen media integrity but also fosters a more informed and engaged public,” Nyombi, a former ICT state minister, said.

He argued that this initiative is not about silencing voices but rather ensuring responsible journalism—factual, balanced, and ethical reporting that upholds peace and national stability.

“We call on all media practitioners to embrace ethical journalism and fact-checking. Together, we can safeguard Uganda’s democratic space without compromising national security,” he said.

Nyombi also said a nationwide campaign is set to raise public awareness about media ethics and promote responsible content consumption among citizens.

He noted that media freedoms are essential, but if unchecked, they can lead to misinformation, hate speech, and unrest.

“The UCC is increasing regulatory enforcement to ensure accountability while safeguarding civil liberties. In Uganda, the right to free speech and media freedom is protected. However, these rights come with responsibilities,” he said.

He said when media is misused—through misinformation, incitement, or sectarianism—it poses a threat to national security, unity, and public trust.

“The Government is determined to prevent a repeat of history, recalling how the misuse of media-fuelled conflicts, from the Rwandan genocide to the Arab Spring,” he said.

“Uganda stands at a critical crossroads—media freedoms are essential, but if unchecked, they can lead to misinformation, hate speech, and unrest,” he said.