Urgent Meeting Called by Uganda Communications Commission Over Broadcast Content Concerns

Kampala, February 25, 2025 – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has urgently summoned all broadcasters and media stakeholders due to rising concerns about the broadcast of content containing hate speech, sensationalism, and false information that could incite violence. This action follows similar concerns raised by the National Security Council regarding the potential impact of certain broadcasts on national security and public order.

In an official statement (Ref: CMM/533), the UCC has invited key players in the media industry, including representatives from the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), the Rural Broadcasters Association (RUBA), the Uganda Media Owners Association (UMOA), the Independent Online Journalists Association of Uganda, and the Online Media Publishers Association (OMPA), to discuss these critical issues.

Meeting Details:

• Date: Thursday, February 27, 2025
  
• Time: 9:00 AM
  
• Venue: UCC House, Bugolobi
  

The meeting will also include representatives from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, government agencies, and security organizations. CEOs of media houses are specifically requested to attend in person, highlighting the seriousness of the matter.

The UCC has long enforced strict regulations to ensure responsible broadcasting in Uganda. Under the Uganda Communications Act, all broadcasters must adhere to Minimum Broadcasting Standards, which prohibit content that promotes violence, ethnic prejudice, or public insecurity. Additionally, all content must be factual and align with public morality.

These regulations aim to ensure that the media serves as a responsible platform for disseminating information without compromising national stability. The commission has previously acted against non-compliant broadcasters, including issuing warnings, imposing fines, and, in some cases, suspending licenses.

With the rise of digital media and online publications, concerns about misinformation and inflammatory content have intensified. The UCC’s latest initiative underscores a heightened focus on media accountability, urging broadcasters and online publishers to align their content with ethical reporting standards.

Media houses are encouraged to actively participate in the upcoming meeting to discuss how best to balance press freedom with responsible journalism. The engagement is expected to yield practical strategies for curbing the spread of harmful content while preserving media independence.

As Uganda navigates an evolving media landscape, the UCC’s proactive engagement with broadcasters represents a vital step in maintaining responsible journalism while safeguarding national security and public trust.