By Diana N. Kintu
Uganda joined the rest of the world yesterday in commemorating World Press Freedom Day, with the main national event held at the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation grounds.
According to a statement from the Uganda Media Sector Working Group, the commemoration aimed to raise awareness about press freedom, reaffirm its role as a foundation for peace, development and security, and strengthen efforts to ensure journalists’ safety, including addressing gender-based threats in both physical and digital spaces.
The day began with a commemorative walk, which started at 7:00 a.m. from the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation grounds through Lugogo, Katikati, Kololo, Hotel Africana and back to UBC.
Participants, dressed in white T-shirts, walked in solidarity to highlight the importance of protecting press freedom and ensuring safe working conditions for journalists.
The main event featured speeches from key stakeholders and the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award in the media industry.
The event was officiated by the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Chris Baryomunsi, alongside the Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, the Chairperson of the Media Council of Uganda, media leaders, ambassadors and senior government officials.
According to the statement, speakers underscored the importance of safeguarding press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy and national development.
They also highlighted the need for stronger protections for journalists, particularly women, who continue to face gender-based threats both online and offline.
The Uganda Media Sector Working Group emphasised that press freedom is not only about protecting journalists but also about ensuring citizens have access to accurate information.
“A free press is essential for peace, development and security. It is the responsibility of all stakeholders to uphold this right and protect those who exercise it,” the statement noted.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognised outstanding contributions to journalism and media development in Uganda, celebrating individuals who have dedicated their careers to advancing press freedom and strengthening the media sector.
The commemoration concluded with a renewed call for collaboration among government, civil society and media stakeholders to ensure that Uganda continues to uphold the principles of press freedom and journalists’ safety.