Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Moves to Tackle Sensationalism, Hate Speech, and Fake News

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has taken a firm stance against the proliferation of inflammatory, sensational, and false information in the media landscape, citing it as a threat to national unity and security. Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director of UCC, made these remarks while addressing a high-level meeting convened to discuss concerns about content regulation.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including government communication agencies, media broadcasters, and security personnel, to deliberate on the increasing spread of misinformation, hate speech, and fake news across various platforms.

UCC’s Stand on Inflammatory Content

Hon. Nyombi Thembo emphasized that Uganda can no longer tolerate the spread of harmful content that fosters division, erodes public trust, and damages the country's international reputation. While acknowledging previous regulatory measures such as content oversight, warnings, sanctions, and public awareness initiatives, he noted that the persistence of these issues has escalated beyond a regulatory concern to a national security threat.

"The Government is now taking decisive action to confront this threat from a regulatory and national security perspective," Hon. Nyombi stated. "It is not business as usual."

Regulatory Measures Announced

To reinforce its regulatory role, UCC outlined several measures aimed at curbing the spread of misleading and harmful content:

Regulatory Enforcement: Strengthening oversight of media platforms with stricter penalties for those found in violation of the regulations.

Content Accountability: Mandating the registration of influential online content creators to ensure they are accountable for the information they publish.

Security Partnerships: Enhancing collaboration between UCC and security agencies to investigate and prosecute those responsible for spreading false and inciteful content.

Public Awareness Campaigns: Launching national initiatives to educate citizens about the dangers of consuming and spreading unverified content, including provisions under the Computer Misuse Act.

Hon. Nyombi urged media platforms to embrace ethical journalism that upholds the values of balanced and unbiased reporting, respect for national institutions, and the protection of public trust.

Media Practitioners Respond to UCC's Call The meeting also provided a platform for key media representatives to express their concerns and recommendations regarding the enforcement of content regulations.

Kin Kariisa: Security Forces Must Stop Harassing Journalists

Kin Kariisa, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), criticized the role of security personnel in media regulation. 

"Instead of being stakeholders, security agencies have become ‘stick holders’ who batter media practitioners," Kariisa remarked.

He called for increased capacity building for journalists, the development of editorial policies to improve content gatekeeping, and a formal meeting with government stakeholders outside the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi. Kariisa also urged UCC to license all online media platforms to ensure uniform compliance, emphasizing that some platforms operate responsibly while others disregard regulatory frameworks.

Dr. Innocent Nahabwe: Media Reflects Society

Dr. Innocent Nahabwe, Chairman of NAB, echoed the sentiment that the media should not be blamed for societal issues but should instead be viewed as a reflection of reality. 

"Media is technically a mirror of what has happened. Even if you box a mirror many times, it will still show you what is there," Dr. Nahabwe stated.

He emphasized the need for security forces to understand the media’s role in disseminating factual information and urged for a balanced approach that does not undermine press freedom. Government's Commitment to Collaboration

Hon. Nyombi Thembo reiterated the government's commitment to working closely with stakeholders to ensure Uganda’s media landscape promotes national values, cultural heritage, and unity. He urged media houses to play an active role in promoting responsible journalism and safeguarding national security.

"Together, through collaboration and shared responsibility, we can build a more informed, secure, and united Uganda," he concluded.

The meeting marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s ongoing efforts to regulate digital content while balancing press freedom and national security. With UCC vowing to enforce stricter regulations and media representatives advocating for fair engagement, the future of Uganda’s communication sector remains a critical space for dialogue and reform.