Ugandan journalists trained on Gender-responsive and Conflict-sensitive reporting

Uganda has a diverse media sector and is home to mostly independent media houses, making it one of the more vibrant media landscapes in the region. With the ever-increasing number of media spaces, comes a growing number of challenges. One of the biggest challenges faced by journalists while covering conflict-sensitive situations, is broadcasting inaccurate, biased, one-sided stories devoid of a balanced point of views from diverse parties involved. The direct consequence being the possible exacerbation of conflicts.

In this regard, UNESCO through African Centre for Media Excellence supported a 3-day capacity-building workshop for journalists and editors on Gender-responsive and Conflict-sensitive reporting from 22 to 24 February 2023 in Kampala, Uganda.

The training reinforced the capacities of journalists to promote gender equality, within the working environment, and in the representation of women in the news and conflict situations in Uganda.

Mr. Charles Draecabo, UNESCOs National Projects Coordinator in Uganda opened the workshop and challenged the journalists to seek new relevant knowledge to to improve the quality of Gender and Conflict-sensitive reporting on election related issues. He stated: “As journalists, you have the biggest roles to play in promoting access to accurate and factual information, but you cannot do quality assurance if you do not have the requisite skills.”

Dr. George Lugalambi, Executive Director at through African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) highlighted that the biggest threats to journalism stems from the increasingly compromised quality of reporting on stories besides the other existential external forces.

He said: “It is important for media in Uganda to take the lead on this debate and set the agenda to better inform society in conflict situations.”

Ms. Lakaraber Gladys, a journalist at Radio Rapa in Pader District stated: “I have learned that conflict is normal and rather than rush to report on them, I will take time to do enough research to attain relevant facts before reporting it in a balanced and ethical manner.”

Mr. Charles Katamba, a journalist from Kampala also said: “There are a lot of things I considered minor, such as the need to emphasize gender inclusiveness while reporting on issues. Through this training, my perception has changed.”

The modules covered varied from ethical dilemmas for journalists in reporting, Gender and Conflict-sensitive reporting, to negotiating diversity, pluralism and conflict; and peacebuilding reporting.

This intervention is implemented under UNESCO’s Strengthening Electoral Processes in Uganda (SEPU) project. Its goal is to ensure inclusive, participatory and transparent elections through the Electoral Commission (EC) and other stakeholders increased capacities, to promote peaceful, credible and violent free election in Uganda.