In a significant event that resonates with the global community, Makerere University proudly joined the commemoration of International Press Freedom Day. This year's theme, "A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of Environmental Crisis," brought to the forefront the critical role journalism plays in shedding light on the environmental challenges intensified by climate change.
The origins of International Press Freedom Day can be traced back to the Declaration of Windhoek, a set of free press principles compiled by African newspaper journalists in 1991. Recognizing the indispensable role of a free press in nurturing democracy within nations and fostering economic development globally, the United Nations General Assembly declared May 3 as World Press Freedom Day in December 1993.
Annually, this day serves as a poignant reminder for governments to honor their commitment to press freedom. It is also a day for media professionals to engage in introspection regarding press freedom issues and journalistic ethics.
The observance underscores the necessity for journalists to report with accuracy and without fear, particularly on political, social, and economic topics that are deemed sensitive yet are crucial for national and global well-being.
This years conference was held in Chile, click the link to watch the full session: WATCH THE CONFERENCE SESSION HELD IN CHILE
In her opening remarks, Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, emphasized the media's contribution to sustainable environmental practices.
"The theme of today's event is paramount. Without the media's intervention, the world would grapple with mitigating the perils of environmental degradation and climate change—threats that loom large over human existence," Dr. Aisha articulated.
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| Dr. Aisha Nakiwala giving her opening remarks at the event. photo by MCI |
She continued, "The discussions today will invariably enrich the discourse on how media can champion initiatives for the sustainable use of our environment."
Dr. Aisha also expressed gratitude to the university for its unwavering support of the event since 2020 and acknowledged their partners, including the Uganda Media Sector Working Group (UMSWG) and OSLOMET University in Norway.
Counsel Paulo Ekochu, Chairperson of the Media Council of Uganda and representative for the Guest of Honor, Minister of ICT and National Guidance Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, urged journalists to make their stories relatable by employing simple language and understanding the professional methods of information dissemination.
"When reporting on the environment, it is imperative to do so with professionalism and ethical consideration. In an era rife with misinformation, the media must exercise utmost caution regarding the information they disseminate and its sources," Ekochu advised.
Addressing the state of press freedom in Uganda, Ekochu noted that the primary threat to media is not governmental interference but economic pressures. These pressures could compromise journalistic ethics, leading to susceptibility to corruption and the suppression of stories.
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| counsel Paulo Ekochu giving his remarks during the event. photo//Lukanga Timothy |
"The infrastructure established by the state ensures press freedom in Uganda. The proliferation of radios, TVs, online publications, and various engagements are indicative of this freedom," Ekochu added.
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| Press Freedom Index by Reporters without Boarders |
He underscored the significance of quality journalism as the cornerstone of a robust democracy. However, he called on everyone to advocate for a free press, mindful of the political, social, and economic environments.
"I urge the enhancement of journalist quality in Uganda, which will eradicate substandard journalism. I call upon the government, stakeholders, and educators to strive for excellence in journalism training," Ekochu implored.
GET THE FULL SPEECH HERE:
Kabulwa Muzafaruh, a fourth-year student of journalism and communication at Makerere University, in an extensive interview, stressed the importance of journalism in reporting on environmental and climate issues, just as it is vital in other societal domains.
Muzafaruh pointed out the challenges inherent in environmental journalism, which often requires on-site reporting, unlike political stories that can be covered remotely via social media.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO FULL INTERVIEW: Kaabulwa Muzarafuh interview
Ms. Shifrah Lukwago, Commissioner of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, underscored the impact of global warming due to human activities, posing threats to human life, health, and biodiversity, with some species facing extinction.
"Today's event serves as a reminder to those wielding the power of the pen that with the right tools, choice of words, facts, and mutual support, we are equipped to tackle the environmental challenges we currently face," Ms. Lukwago stated.
She also emphasized that the eagerness to address pressing environmental issues should not cloud our judgment regarding the distribution of news and the structured flow of information, which has been disrupted by advanced technology.
Ms. Lukwago lamented the shift from developmental journalism to a landscape dominated by hastily produced content, sensational one-sided reporting, and clickbait as the competition for followers intensifies.
Expressing concern, Ms. Lukwago highlighted the high turnover rates of experienced journalists seeking better-paying positions, which impacts environmental reporting in newsrooms. She called for action, noting that environmental issues demand extensive investigation, ample coverage, resources, and tools that profit-driven media houses sometimes cannot provide.
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| Mr. Crispin Kaheru who represented the head of UHRC |
Mr. Crispin Kugiza Kaheru, Commissioner of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, delivered Ms. Lukwago's speech.
Get the full speech here below:
Gerald Tenywa, a seasoned environmental journalist, shared a word of caution with his peers, He highlighted the risks associated with reporting on environmental violations, particularly those involving influential individuals.
“The people encroaching on wetlands and cutting down trees are often well-connected. A journalist who doesn’t meticulously verify their story may face a lawsuit, which can lead to significant financial losses for the media company,” Tenywa warned.
He stressed the importance of diligencein journalism: “It’s crucial to get the facts right, revisit the story multiple times, provide solid proof, and always fact-check.” Despite these challenges, Tenywa encouraged aspiring environmental journalists to persist in their efforts. “Never tire and continue to work with true diligence,” he urged.