MAKERERE RADIO RETURN ON AIR AS EXPERTS CALL FOR RESPONSIBLE JOURNALISM

 

The long-awaited reopening of Makerere University’s Campus FM radio station took center stage during the 25th Annual Media Convention, where media scholars and practitioners discussed the growing dominance of social media and artificial intelligence in news reporting.

The event, held at the CTF2 Auditorium, was organized by the Department of Journalism and Communication in partnership with the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Uganda Tourism Board (UTB), Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), Vision Group, and the Daily Monitor. It attracted academics, journalists, and policymakers under the theme “Responsible Media Reporting and Communication During Elections.”

While addressing students, staff, and media partners, the Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, joyfully declared that the dream of restoring the University radio had finally come true.

“Ladies and gentlemen, last year I stood here and told you that the Department of Journalism and Communication wanted to reopen the Makerere Campus FM. I want to report that we received a lot of support from management and all the things that I have read out here to reopen the Makerere University Radio and now we are on air,” she announced, sparking a huge round of applause in the audience.

Delivering the keynote address, Ms. Racheal Akidi Okwir, Founder and Editorial Lead Consultant and former Head of BBC Africa, emphasized that social media and artificial intelligence are rapidly transforming journalism by influencing how news is produced and consumed.

“Social media and AI are now leading in news reporting and informing the public,” she said. “However, with the rise in misinformation, every newsroom should have an AI policy to regulate its use and strengthen fact-checking practices,” she advised.

Representing the Uganda Communications Commission, Mr. Meddy urged journalists to adhere to professional ethics and follow regulations from both the UCC and the Electoral Commission during election coverage. His call was amplified by Mr. Julius Muchunguzi, the spokesman of the Electoral Commission, who warned against misinformation and propaganda.

“Journalists and media houses must act professionally and avoid bias. They should also reflect on why they are sometimes denied access to certain campaign events,” he noted.

Meanwhile, media entrepreneur Dr. Innocent Nahabwe, the owner of Galaxy Media, voiced concerns about journalists’ safety during political coverage. Citing the Kawempe North by-election, he condemned acts of violence against reporters.

“Like doctors and teachers, journalists also go to work to serve society. There is no justification for assaulting them,” he said, emphasizing that press jackets should be enough identification without the need for costly protective gear.

In the end, the event recognized top journalism and communication students for their outstanding performance.

Turi Elizabeth received the Crainmer Mugerwa Photo Journalism Award from Daily Monitor, Ahurira Brigdet won the Tebere-Mudin Journalism Award from New Vision, and Boy Fidel Lionne emerged as the best communication student, earning free membership in the Public Relations Association of Uganda.