Uganda marks World Radio Day with praise for enduring medium

________________

As Uganda joins the rest of the global community in marking World Radio Day, radio has once again been celebrated as a powerful and enduring medium that connects citizens to essential services, credible information and public dialogue.

Observed annually every February 13, World Radio Day highlights the importance of radio in promoting access to information, freedom of expression and inclusive communication. In Uganda, the day is a reminder of the medium’s long journey from a single colonial broadcaster to a diverse and vibrant industry serving millions across the country.

Radio broadcasting in Uganda began in 1954 during the colonial era with the establishment of Radio Uganda as the country’s only station. At the time, it was the sole source of official information, news and public announcements.

Veteran journalist Justus Tindyebwa, who worked with Radio Uganda and Uganda Television between 1967 and 1971, recalls the early days of broadcasting as a period when radio played a central role in national mobilisation and information dissemination.

“Radio Uganda expanded its operations by opening regional stations in different parts of the country so that its services could reach more people,” Tindyebwa said.

“Since it was the only radio station at the time, it had the responsibility of ensuring that citizens from different regions accessed information.”

He explained that during the period leading to and after Uganda’s independence in 1962 under the leadership of Milton Obote, radio became a crucial channel for informing the public about government programmes, national policies and key events shaping the country’s future.

“At independence, radio was the main platform that united Ugandans,” Tindyebwa noted.

“People would gather around radio sets to listen to important national announcements. It was the heartbeat of public communication.”

The transformation of Uganda’s broadcasting landscape gained momentum in 1986 when President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni assumed power and liberalised the airwaves, allowing private individuals and organisations to establish radio stations.

According to Tindyebwa, this move significantly expanded media space and encouraged diversity of voices. “The introduction of private radio stations brought competition and innovation. Communities could now access stations broadcasting in local languages and addressing local issues,” he said.

Today, Uganda is home to hundreds of radio stations operating in both urban and rural areas. From news bulletins and talk shows to educational programmes, religious broadcasts and entertainment segments, radio remains a daily companion for many Ugandans.

Media expert Alex Byakatonda, a former news editor with more than 12 years of experience and currently Communications Officer for Kabale District, believes that despite the rapid growth of social media and digital platforms, radio continues to command public trust.

“Radio remains widely trusted because it follows editorial standards and professional guidelines,” Byakatonda said. “It educates the public and disseminates important national information that helps people make informed decisions.”

He observed that while social media offers instant updates, it is also prone to misinformation and unverified content. Radio stations, on the other hand, often have structured newsrooms with editors and producers who verify information before it is broadcast.

“In times of crisis or major national events, many people still turn to radio because they believe the information is accurate and reliable,” he added.

Journalist and director of Kigezi Media Services, Nobert Ndyamuhakyi, also underscored radio’s continued relevance. Speaking to Kigezi Television, Ndyamuhakyi said radio remains the most accessible and dependable source of news, particularly in rural communities.

“Although many people are increasingly turning to social media, online television and websites, radio continues to stand out,” he said. “It does not require internet access, and even simple mobile phones can tune in. That makes it affordable and inclusive.”

He noted that in regions such as Kigezi, radio stations play an essential role in mobilising communities for public health campaigns, agricultural programmes and civic education initiatives. Local leaders and experts frequently use radio talk shows to engage directly with citizens.

For ordinary listeners, radio remains a trusted companion in their daily lives. Doreen Tindimwebya, who works along Rugarama Road in Kabale Municipality, said radio’s wide reach makes it the most followed medium, especially in remote areas.

“Even in villages where there is no internet or stable electricity, people can use battery-powered radios,” she said. “You can listen while working in the garden, in a shop or at home.”

However, she cautioned against misuse of the platform. Tindimwebya expressed concern that some presenters and guests occasionally spread misleading information or use inappropriate language on air.

“When wrong information is broadcast, it can easily mislead the public,” she said. “Radio personalities should act responsibly because many people trust what they hear.”

As Uganda commemorates World Radio Day, stakeholders are calling for continued professionalism, ethical reporting and innovation within the industry. With more than seven decades of existence, radio has proven its resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing media environment.

From its beginnings as a single colonial broadcaster to today’s diverse and competitive landscape, radio in Uganda continues to inform, educate and unite communities, affirming its enduring role as a pillar of national development and public communication.