Uganda marks World Press Freedom Day

3 May 2026, 6:19 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

Following the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) recommendation based on the Windhoek Declaration of 1991, the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993 proclaimed World Press Freedom Day. Since then, it has been commemorated annually under different themes.

This year’s celebrations in Uganda were marked with various events held to honor and reflect on the importance of the media in society.

Initially, the day was established to remind governments to respect press freedom commitments and to honor journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

This year’s theme is: “Shaping a Future of Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security.” The global conference will be held on May 4–5 at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, Zambia.

Speaking to journalists in Kampala during the commemoration, the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Godfrey Kabyanga, noted that many media houses face financial challenges affecting their ability to pay workers.

He advised affected media owners to seek support from the Uganda Media Council through formal communication.

“Radio stations are many, over 300. Because of this, competition for adverts is high, and some stations end up getting very little revenue, making it difficult to pay staff. Those facing challenges should seek help from the Uganda Media Council in writing,” he said.

He also noted that some people enter the media industry without adequate preparation, yet they must meet operational costs such as licensing fees.

On the issue of journalists being restricted from accessing Parliament, the Minister explained that this is due to limited space but assured that the situation will improve once the new parliamentary building is completed.

He further stated that the ministry intervenes whenever misunderstandings arise between media practitioners and security agencies, ensuring that dialogue is used to resolve issues.

The Uganda Human Rights Commission representative, Uganda Human Rights Commission commissioner Apitta Omara, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting human rights, including those of media practitioners.

The event was attended by journalists, government officials, and members of the media fraternity, including women in media, who appreciated the role played by the press in national development.