Busoga’s dedicated health journalists recently received a boost in their reporting skills and knowledge, equipping them to be more effective in covering health-related topics. Under the banner of the “Busoga Health Press Group,” a collective of more than twenty-five reporters and broadcasters specializing in health journalism, these media professionals gathered in Bugembe, a suburb of Jinja city, to enhance their technical expertise.
The Busoga Health Press Group consists of reporters and broadcasters from various media outlets in the Busoga region, all united by a common goal: to disseminate crucial health developments and raise awareness about medical advice from experts, ultimately transforming and improving the health and well-being of individuals.
Health is an integral aspect of daily life, and it deserves utmost attention. Various stakeholders, including the government and civil societies, have recognized the importance of media practitioners in mobilizing communities for vital health campaigns. These campaigns include immunizations, mosquito net distribution, and hygiene maintenance, among other programs aimed at enhancing the health of citizens.
Richard Baguma Tinkasiimire, leader of the Uganda Health Communications Alliance, conducted the training for these dedicated media professionals who pledged to collaborate effectively with health personnel. Baguma emphasized the pivotal role the press plays in rallying the masses toward significant developmental objectives.
In addition to their roles in mobilization, information dissemination, and education, journalists often act as conduits for policymakers to communicate social welfare matters to the public. People tend to respect information delivered through the mass media, making it easier for them to heed the journalists’ messages and take the necessary actions.
Baguma’s training underlined the importance of professionalism among reporters, highlighting principles such as source verification, minimizing harm, and the proper establishment of sources. He urged reporters to prioritize accuracy and objectivity in health reporting over financial gains.
“It is essential for reporters to specialize in their field of reporting,” Baguma asserted, “as it enhances their expertise by focusing on local contexts and principles in their area of specialization.”
He also encouraged the formation of journalist associations to foster unity and development. These associations provide a platform for journalists to work together toward common goals and speak with one voice on pressing issues.
Julius Mukasa, affiliated with the local Jinja-based Baba FM and the director of the Busoga Health Press Group, commended the Uganda Health Communications Alliance for their outstanding training and pledged to deliver high-quality reporting. Mukasa stressed the need for close collaboration between the press and medical personnel while lamenting the bureaucratic hurdles that journalists face when trying to access information in the health sector.
“Often, we face challenges related to transportation when attempting to reach remote communities and gather information from locals,” Mukasa explained. “Health facility doctors, who are experts with the relevant information, can sometimes be hard to reach.”
Mukasa called on the government and other stakeholders to recognize the vital role reporters play in improving the well-being of people in communities and to facilitate their work to ensure the safety and health of citizens.
