The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has called for an urgent meeting with media houses and broadcasters following concerns over increased dissemination of content filled with hate speech.
A letter dated February 25, 2025, and signed by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, has been addressed to all broadcasters and key media associations, including the National Association of Broadcasters, Rural Broadcasters Association, Uganda Media Owners Association, Independent Online Journalists Association, and Online Media Publishers Association.
Nyombi emphasized that the meeting has been prompted by a surge in broadcasts spreading sensational and divisive content.
“Such content is increasingly sensational, spreading hatred, and false information capable of inciting violence amongst the public,” Nyombi stated in the letter.
The call for action follows a recent tweet by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who warned broadcasters against publishing stories that may incite disharmony. According to UCC, the National Security Council, chaired by Gen. Muhoozi, has raised similar concerns regarding the impact of such content on national security.
The meeting is scheduled for February 27, 2025, at 9:00 AM at the UCC headquarters in Bugolobi. CEOs of media houses have been instructed to attend in person, alongside representatives from the Ministry of ICT & National Guidance, government officials, and security agencies.
This development signals increased scrutiny of media content in Uganda, with regulators and security agencies tightening control over information that could potentially incite public unrest.
