Ntungamo, Uganda – Journalists in Rushenyi have expressed deep disappointment and frustration over the lack of support from government leaders and politicians.
Led by Ms. Savior Kihembe, Chairperson of the Rushenyi Journalists Association, the journalists lamented that their profession, often referred to as the “fourth estate,” has been undermined and disregarded by those in power.
Speaking at the launch of the Rushenyi Journalists Association and the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2025, Kihembe expressed dismay over the poor attendance and meager support from government officials.
“I deeply feel disappointed that none of the officials we tried reaching out to failed to attend our function. It’s too demeaning and clearly bringing us down with all the energy and time we give this job to educate and inform the public,” Kihembe said.
Kihembe called on the government to create a good working relationship with the media and to champion a conducive working environment for journalists.
She reflected on the Kawempe North by-election episodes where journalists were brutally tortured, and their gadgets damaged or confiscated by security operatives.
The Assistant RDC Ntungamo district and Chief Guest, Mr. Christopher Bariyo, acknowledged that the treatment of journalists by security operatives was not in line with protocols and was mostly perpetrated by unprofessional individuals.
He urged media personnel to exercise professionalism and avoid exaggerating unnecessary reports.
The Vice Chairperson of the Association, Alex Akankwasa, echoed Kihembe’s sentiments, lamenting the meager support from government leaders compared to other groups.
Akankwasa noted that politicians often overlook the critical role journalists play in informing and educating the public.
The World Press Freedom Day was observed under the theme “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
The event highlighted the challenges faced by journalists in the digital age and the need for a safe and conducive environment for them to carry out their work.
As the Rushenyi Journalists Association seeks to promote press freedom and professionalism, it remains to be seen whether the government will take steps to address the concerns raised by the journalists and create a more supportive environment for them to operate.