The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA), the central organization for journalists in Uganda, has criticized the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for ignoring journalists’ grievances, including exploitation and other rights violations.

During a press briefing at the Speke Hotel in Kampala, the UJA revealed plans for the upcoming World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, themed “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis.” UJA President Mathias Rukundo highlighted the increasing threats to press freedom and the media sector in Uganda, including economic-driven layoffs and ongoing exploitation.

Rukundo reported that over 100 journalists have been dismissed from various media outlets as of January 2024, due to economic difficulties. He condemned the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for its indifference, stating that addressing these injustices is their duty, not a favor. He called for immediate action or replacement of those in charge to prevent further degradation of journalism in Uganda.

Rukundo also urged President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to expedite the capitalization of the UJA SACCO, a cooperative savings and credit organization, to help alleviate journalists’ exploitation. This request follows a commitment made by Museveni during a February 2023 meeting with journalists.

In addition to addressing these serious concerns, the UJA plans several activities for World Press Freedom Day. These include awarding Modern-Day Heroes Awards to recognize those significantly impacting the media landscape and environmental advocacy. A football gala involving various media and non-media teams is also scheduled for May 5th, 2024, to promote press freedom through sports.

Other events include a tree planting initiative to underscore the role of journalism in environmental conservation and other critical areas such as democracy and human rights.

Through these activities, the UJA aims to renew commitment from the government, development partners, and other stakeholders to the principles of press freedom.