The Ugandan government, in collaboration with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), has intensified efforts to curb hate speech and inflammatory content on media platforms to safeguard national security. Hon. Balaam Baruhagara Ateenyi, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, underscored the need to balance civil liberties with national stability, referencing Articles 17 and 43 of the Ugandan Constitution, which emphasize that freedom of speech should not infringe upon the rights of others or threaten peace.
During a meeting with broadcasters and media stakeholders at UCC headquarters in Bugolobi, Hon. Balaam raised concerns about the increasing misuse of media, particularly online platforms, where hate speech, incitement to violence, and sectarianism have surged. He warned that as Uganda approaches a politically charged period, unchecked media content could escalate tensions and destabilize the nation.
The government, he affirmed, will not tolerate individuals or media outlets using their platforms to incite violence or disrupt peace. Security agencies under the National Security Council and the Inter-Agency Security Committee have resolved to enhance coordination with media operators to mitigate risks. Measures include stricter content filtering by media houses, ensuring accuracy in reporting across all platforms, strict adherence to national laws such as the Penal Code Act, the UPDF Act (as amended), and the Computer Misuse Act, fostering patriotism and unity, and strengthening collaboration between media stakeholders and security agencies.
Hon. Balaam cited historical precedents to highlight the dangers of media misuse. He pointed to the role of Radio Télévision Libre des Mille Collines in fueling the 1994 Rwandan Genocide and the use of social media during the Arab Spring that contributed to the collapse of governments in North Africa. He stressed that Uganda must learn from history and take decisive action to prevent similar consequences.
To reinforce media accountability, the UCC has engaged with key organizations, including the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), the Rural Broadcasters Association (RUBA), the Uganda Media Owners Association (UMOA), and the Online Media Publishers Association (OMPA). UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo expressed concern over the growing trend of sensationalism and misinformation, warning that such practices could incite violence and create national disharmony.
In response, the UCC has proposed several measures, including enhancing engagement between media regulators, security agencies, and media owners, establishing clearer content moderation guidelines, and requiring media executives and editors to complete a cadre course at the National Leadership Institute Kyankwanzi (NALI) before June 30, 2025, to align with national priorities. These initiatives aim to ensure responsible media practices while upholding national security and stability.
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