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Uganda media unite to defend press freedom

1 May 2026, 11:11 am

Members of the media fraternity, together with representatives from the Uganda Editors’ Guild, pose for a group photo following a press conference organised by the Media Working Sector at the Uganda Media Centre. Photo by the Media Working Sector Group.

By Daniel Omuge

Media stakeholders in Uganda reaffirm their commitment to defending press freedom as the country marks World Press Freedom Day 2026.

In a joint editorial released by the Uganda Editors Guild ahead of a global conference scheduled for May 4-5 in Lusaka, media practitioners described a free press as a public good essential for democracy, accountability, and national development.

Alex B Atuhaire of the Uganda Editors Guild makes a presentation during a joint press conference organised by the Media Working Sector Group at the Uganda Media Centre on April 28, 2026, ahead of World Press Freedom Day 2026.

The editorial highlights growing challenges facing journalism, including misinformation, economic pressure on media houses, and increasing safety risks for journalists such as harassment and intimidation.

Uganda’s media called for stronger protections to ensure journalists operate without fear, emphasising that any threats to press freedom ultimately deny citizens their right to information.

Juliet Nayiga, Executive Member of the Uganda Editors Guild and Editor at the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation radio, presents the editorial release issued by the Uganda Editors Guild.

They also urged media professionals to uphold ethical standards by prioritising accuracy, fairness, and responsible reporting, especially in an era dominated by fast-moving digital content.

The joint statement further appealed to government institutions, advertisers, and the public to support credible journalism, noting that sustainable and independent media is key to a stable and informed society.

Irene Abalo, Director of the AFRI Media Institute, speaks during a press conference at the Uganda Media Centre on April 28, 2026.

As part of their shared commitment, media houses pledged to promote verified information, resist misinformation, and strengthen unity across the sector.

World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on May 3rd to promote the fundamental principles of press freedom worldwide.