UMWA hosts dialogue with journalists and women leaders on public affairs

21 November 2024, 10:29 pm

By Byamukama Alozious

At a recent interactive dialogue, the Uganda Media Women’s Association (UMWA) brought together journalists and women leaders to discuss challenges surrounding unfair reporting and the importance of equitable representation in the media.

Magret Ssentamu, the team leader of UMWA, set the tone for the discussion by asking, “Do we truly respect each other? Do we understand the roles we play in the community?” She emphasised the importance of empowering women and ensuring their voices are heard in the media.

Hellen Regina from Boma south parish shared her experience of being hosted in the media to discuss land issues and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). “The media has given me a platform to speak on critical issues that affect our community,” she said. Adupa Stephany from Tapac sub-county echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I’ve been given the opportunity to discuss important matters, such as land rights and cultural practices.”

However, not all women leaders have had such opportunities. Fatuma Nayep from south division, Moroto municipality, raised concerns about media access, saying, “The media often selects individuals they already know. I’ve never been approached to speak, even though I have important issues to share.”

Participants discussed the challenges journalists face in reaching the public, including the issue of unfiltered information and biased reporting. Nakalany Betty, a person with disabilities from north division, Moroto municipality, pointed out that journalists sometimes fail to articulate issues clearly, leading to misinformation. “The media language is often not understood by the people, and at times, they charge exorbitant fees for interviews,” she said.

Despite these challenges, the women leaders acknowledged the crucial role the media plays in advocacy and raising awareness. “The media reaches the masses easily and provides quick feedback,” said Adupa Stephany, a journalist. “When we were fighting to protect Ilapass Forest on Mount Moroto, it was through the media that we gained public support.”

The session ended on a positive note, with Magret Ssentamu highlighting the importance of continued collaboration between journalists and women leaders. “Today, we have seen women leaders exchanging contacts with the media. This is a sign of a new era—one where both groups will work together for the betterment of women’s rights and public accountability.”

The dialogue marked a significant step in bridging the gap between women leaders and the media, paving the way for a more inclusive and responsive media landscape in Uganda.