Busoga media practitioners, under their umbrella organization, the Busoga Media Association, have presented a Shs 450 billion proposal to Uganda’s State House in a bid for socioeconomic transformation. They are seeking financial support from President Yoweri Museveni to implement a two-year poultry project, which they believe could significantly alleviate their financial strains.
During their annual end-of-year dinner at the Source Garden Hotel in Jinja City, media professionals from both electronic and print media appealed to President Museveni, the Fountain of Honor, to take decisive action on their project, which is anticipated to bring significant economic benefits to Busoga’s fourth estate.
Presenting the well-designed concept to Mr. Faruk Kirunda, the deputy presidential press secretary who presided over the event, Mr. Samuel Balikoowa, on behalf of his colleagues, emphasized that the project aims to address financial challenges through agricultural development.
“We present this proposal to you, sir, with a purpose. We request presidential support for our project to boost our income status,” Mr. Balikoowa said.
In a proactive step, Mr. Kirunda, who pledged to forward the proposal to the president, boosted the association with Shs 15 million, including Shs 5 million in cash. Mr. Kirunda commended the role of journalists in community development and advocated for their economic empowerment.
“I want to assure you that your journey of development has started today. This association is a significant milestone for you because you work without pay, according to reports I receive from your workplaces,” Mr. Kirunda stated.
He urged journalists to effectively utilize their platforms to expand their social networks and explore more relevant opportunities.
Jackie Namboga, vice chairperson of the Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ), explained that their advocacy body has fought for the rights of journalists, citing the three journalists who were taken to court following a deadly attack on an individual in Buwenge, Jinja City.
Ivan Mutyaba (Busoga One FM), Denis Isabirye (Baba FM), and Jackline Nabatanzi (Kiira FM) faced legal challenges in a controversial land dispute that resulted in one fatality.
She said their efforts come after a journalist is insulted or attacked in the line of duty.
“We did our best to ensure our colleagues were released from prison. We even stormed the court to demand justice for our people, and the judge used to ask us what we were looking for,” Namboga said.
She decried the low pay and irregular payments, saying that most of the time, journalists are not paid on time.
“We receive little pay, and sometimes we aren’t paid at all. We shop at the same supermarkets as our bosses, and in the same markets. If we aren’t paid, it compromises our work,” she said.
Kanyere elaborated on the importance of diversifying skills in journalism, highlighting the adoption of contemporary media platforms such as Twitter, TikTok, and other social media applications.
SP James Mubi, Kiira regional police spokesperson, praised the flexibility of the Jinja media fraternity, saying they have created a positive relationship with the police.
“These journalists always respond to our events and provide effective coverage of sensitive incidents. This is a good development,” Mubi said.
At the event, some journalists, including Hakim Kanyere and Ivan Lubega, were recognized for uniting their peers. Jackie Namboga of Vision Group was named the Best Female Reporter of 2024, while Paul Isabirye of BBS TV was crowned the Exceptional Male Reporter in the region.
The event also featured renowned Busoga artists, including Voyce Nancy, Shabra Kiss, Rachel Monique, and Kayzmond Switch, who entertained the media personalities with melodious hits.
