Female journalists gain digital safety skills amid threats

18 June 2026, 19:56

By Agness Auma

Female journalists from Northern and Eastern Uganda received training in Mbale City on data protection, privacy, and digital safety during a two-day UWMA workshop held June 15–16 aimed at improving cybersecurity skills amid rising online harassment and threats targeting journalists.

Female journalists from Northern and Eastern Uganda have been equipped with critical knowledge and skills in data protection, privacy, and digital safety following a two-day training organized by the Uganda Women Media Association (UWMA) in Mbale City.

The training, held from June 15 to 16, brought together female media practitioners from various media houses across the two regions.

The initiative aimed at strengthening journalists’ capacity to protect personal and professional information while navigating the increasingly complex digital environment.

Speaking at the closing session, Catherine Appalat, the project coordinator Uganda Women Media Association (UWMA), commended participants for their active engagement throughout the training.

She urged them to apply the knowledge gained to improve their professional practice and safeguard themselves against emerging digital risks.

“The media landscape is rapidly evolving, and journalists must be equipped with the necessary tools to protect their data, privacy, and professional integrity,” Appalat said.

Participants described the training as timely, citing the growing cases of online harassment, cyberbullying, and threats targeting female journalists.

Many shared experiences of receiving abusive messages and facing sexual harassment on digital platforms while carrying out their duties.

Agness Agilo, a journalist from Radio Waa FM in Lira, expressed gratitude to UWMA for organizing the training.

“This workshop has provided us with practical skills on digital security and risk management. It has strengthened our ability to work safely in the digital space,” she said.

Several participants revealed that persistent online threats have negatively affected their personal lives, mental well-being, and professional performance.

Some reported strained family relationships and even marital breakdowns linked to continuous harassment and threatening messages.