Transforming perspectives: Zam Nakityo shares insights from UMWA’s GBV training

21 September 2024, 2:43 pm

Byamukama Alozious

Zam Nakityo, another participant in the Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA) training, shared her experience and how the programme has transformed her approach to covering gender-based violence (GBV) as a journalist.

Reflecting on her struggles before attending the training, she explained, “We are being trained on gender-based violence—GBV—how to approach it and ensure we report in-depth, multi-sourced stories. Previously, as a journalist, I struggled with these issues; when we went to the field, I often didn’t know whom to speak to. Should I talk to the victims alone? Should I speak to the survivors? Should I consult the local council?”

Nakityo recounted her previous confusion when faced with GBV stories in the field. “You hear about someone who has been beaten, but you don’t know who to approach. Do you talk to the victim? Do you speak to the authorities? You want to report on GBV, but you lack the skills and the right terminology. As journalists, we need to work on the story, but often we just went ahead and published without a proper understanding.”

The training, she said, had completely changed that. “This training has enabled us, as journalists, to gain the insights we need. Now we know the right terminology, how to handle sensitive GBV situations, the correct people to interview, and how to engage with authorities. It has truly improved our understanding of GBV,” she emphasised.

One of the most profound realisations for Nakityo during the training was recognising that GBV isn’t just an isolated issue affecting individuals but a societal problem. “As a journalist, I used to think GBV was only about one person, but it’s not. GBV is about society. When you understand society, you can better grasp what GBV is.”

Nakityo praised the collaborative and interactive nature of the training. “This training has been wonderful. I would encourage any journalist out there, if given the chance, to attend. It’s all about open discussions, working in groups, and even if you don’t know something, someone is always there to help. They also ensure the content is accessible by translating key concepts from English into local languages, so that everyone understands the message clearly.”

Through this training, Nakityo feels better equipped to tackle GBV stories with sensitivity and accuracy, knowing how to engage both survivors and authorities in a way that ensures balanced, in-depth reporting.

The UMWA training, funded by the Austrian Development Corporation, continues to empower journalists like Nakityo, strengthening their ability to address critical societal issues such as GBV and fostering more informed, impactful journalism across Uganda.