The Uganda Media Sector Working Group (UMSWG) joins the global community in commemorating World Press Freedom Day on May 3rd, 2025, a moment of both reflection and renewal.
In a tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis, UMSWG honors his profound legacy of compassion, humility, and advocacy for human dignity.
His tireless work for justice and inclusion resonates strongly with the core values of press freedom, reminding us that the true measure of progress lies in how societies uphold the dignity of all individuals.
This year’s World Press Freedom Day is especially significant as it coincides with growing concerns about misinformation, polarization, and the increasing challenges faced by journalists, particularly in Uganda.
UMSWG, alongside state and non-state partners, reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding a free and independent press — an essential component of democracy, human rights, and national development.
The international theme for this year’s World Press Freedom Day is: “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
This theme explores both the opportunities and risks posed by new technologies to journalism and democratic governance, particularly focusing on how artificial intelligence is reshaping news production, sharing, and trust.
UMSWG has also introduced a national theme for Uganda’s celebrations: “Defending Truth in the Age of Polarization and Distrust.”
This theme reflects the growing threats to independent journalism, including the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation, as well as increasing social and political divisions that make objective reporting more critical and more challenging than ever.
The 2026 elections add urgency to this year’s commemorations. In the run-up to the elections, the role of the media in providing accurate, credible information and fostering informed participation is crucial.
UMSWG emphasizes that journalists must be protected from intimidation and harassment, and they must have unfettered access to information, especially in politically charged times.
In line with the international focus on AI’s impact, UMSWG’s local activities span a full World Press Freedom Week (April 28 to May 6, 2025).
These activities will include debates, dialogues, and a National Symposium at Makerere University on May 6.
The celebration schedule includes a social media campaign using the hashtag #DefendTheTruthUg, a joint press conference on April 29, a university debate on May 2, and a high-level stakeholder symposium on May 6.
These events aim to engage the public and amplify the importance of press freedom, as well as highlight the pressing need for protection of journalists in Uganda.
Key Activities:
- Media and Publicity Campaign (April 28 – May 9, 2025): A social media campaign with a TikTok challenge and myth-busting posts.
- Joint Press Conference (April 29, 2025): UMSWG will issue a joint statement and media interviews.
- Inter-University Debate on Press Freedom (May 2, 2025): Debate on media ethics and democracy.
- Press Conference on Uganda National Press Index (May 2, 2025): HRNJ-Uganda will release the annual Press Index Report.
- World Press Freedom Day Procession and Dialogue (May 2, 2025): Public procession and dialogue led by UNESCO and the Uganda Journalists Association.
- High-Level Stakeholder Symposium (May 6, 2025): Roundtable with government officials, journalists, and civil society.
- Journalist Trainings (May 6, 2025): Trainings on safety, digital security, and fact-checking.
- Regional and Local Events (April/May 2025): Local events to amplify celebrations.
The Uganda Media Sector Working Group reiterates its commitment to protecting press freedom, promoting financial sustainability for journalism, and strengthening legal protections for journalists to ensure a safe and independent media environment.
