Journalists sensitized on nuclear energy reporting in Mukono

17 March 2026, 2:03 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Journalists from districts including Wakiso, Kampala, Mukono, Kayunga, Jinja, and Iganga gathered at Colline Hotel in Mukono District for a workshop on the regulation of nuclear energy applications in Uganda. The workshop was organized by the Atomic Energy Council to educate media practitioners on reporting nuclear energy safely and accurately.

During the workshop, Senior Radiation Protection Officer John Kisakye emphasized the importance of informed reporting. “When journalists understand what they are reporting, especially regarding nuclear energy, the public receives accurate information from informed sources,” he said.

Kisakye explained that safety in facilities using ionizing radiation such as hospitals, nuclear power plants, security, and industrial sites is guided by the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), which minimizes radiation exposure. He noted that single X-ray exposures typically last only a few milliseconds to a few seconds, and radiation therapy rooms are designed with maze-like entrances to reduce exposure to workers and the public.

Journalists expressed appreciation to the Atomic Energy Council for the timely workshop and requested more sessions to strengthen their reporting skills. The council’s Secretary and CEO urged reporters to consult the council before publishing information to prevent misleading the public.

Lynn Ninsiima, also from the Atomic Energy Council, briefed journalists on the regulation of non-ionizing radiation, advising the public to limit prolonged phone use and exposure to excessive sunlight due to associated health risks.

The workshop aimed to ensure that both media and public are better informed about nuclear and radiation safety in Uganda.