General
The 2017/2018 Global Report on “World Freedom of Expression and Media Development”: its relevance to the journalism profession in Uganda
On 14th March 2018, the Commissioner for the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Hon. Meddie B. Mulumba launched the 2017/2018 Global Report on “World Freedom of Expression and Media Development.” This was at a colourful ceremony organised by the Department of Journalism and Communication Makerere University, in partnership with Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences, Norway.
In 2011 during its 36th General Conference, United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) passed a resolution calling for monitoring of the status of press freedom and safety of journalists. The resolution, among other things, emphasized the need to report cases of violence against journalists and similar developments. With support from the Swedish Government, a large scale research project was initiated, leading to the first World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development Report in 2014.Since then, efforts have been renewed to capture contemporary trends in the area of media development and freedom of the press.
The report, which covers the period 2012 to 2017, discusses freedom of expression across four key dimensions of media freedom, pluralism, independence and safety of journalists. It is intended as a tool for implementing the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which recognizes the importance of ensuring public access to information and protecting fundamental freedoms among its goals. The report shows that media independence is weakening and the professional standards of journalism are being eroded by economic forces on the one hand and lack of recognition by political actors on the other.
According to Lydia Gachungi from UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, UNESCO assessed the Global Trends in Freedom of expression and Media Development using the frame of the Windhoek Declaration of Media Freedom, Media Independence, Safety of Journalists, Having a plurality of media choices with a special focus on gender equality in the media. In a presentation, Gachungi said that the report provides a global perspective for those seeking to understand the changing global media landscape.
She stated that the report calls for proactive opportunities to build more capacity of women and develop an online presence that will liberate from newsroom hierarchies, to enhance gender equality online with the aim of addressing the shrinking space. italso advocates and supports progressive cyber security laws that do not hinder freedom of expression and media freedom, Support more MIL/Digital literacy for all and build the capacity of media on issues of access, privacy, safety and security and the ethical use of information, media and technology, in line with human rights standards.
“The report provides room for us to carry out continuous research on continental and global online media landscape, trends and exchange of good practices. It builds the capacity of the media to survive in the digital era, by innovating and generating relevant content, distribute information nationally and across. It also recommends countries to increase coordination, cooperation and knowledge sharing to promote this debate,” she said.
Addressing journalists and representatives from the Ugandan Media, academia, government, civil societies and private sector on the launch of the 2017/2018 Global Report on “World Freedom of Expression and Media Development that was held in the Tele-Conference Hall Makerere University Senate Building, Hon. Meddie B.Mulumbaappreciated the tremendous efforts by UNESCO to put together a report that is not only viewing the critical importance of the evidence-based analysis in developing appropriate actions, but also covering a fundamental human right; ‘freedom of expression’.
According to Hon.Mulumba, the issue of media freedom is a concern of all citizens, not rather just media fraternity or human rights defenders. Freedom of the press and other media and the individuals’ freedom of expression are indivisible and interdependent. The promotion and protection of media freedom enhances the wide freedom of speech and expression of individuals and the public.
“Freedom of expression underpins all other human rights and freedoms. Individuals must be free to exercise their rights to think, form an opinion, freely seek, receive and impart ideas and opinions, in order for them to effectively realise all their other human rights that are prerequisite for their human dignity. the Constitution of Ugandan provides in article 29 that, “every person shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression which shall include freedom of the press and other media,” this right is also provided for in a number of other international and regional human right instruments ratified by Uganda that equally underscore its great significance,” he said.
The Commissioner, also noted that the launch of the report provides another opportunity for stakeholders to be reminded that a lot needs to be done to ensure full respect of the freedom of expression. A soul-searching research is required not only to ensure improvement in observance of all human rights that are at stake but also to prevent retrogression on the aspects on which gains have already been registered. He urged all media practitioners to use the report to recommit themselves to raising the bar of their professionalism by adhering to their professional ethical code and guard against misusing their important role as enablers of the enjoyment of the rights to information in their respective communities.
According to Hon Mulumba, the 2017/2018 Global Report on “World Freedom of Expression and Media Development clearly indicates that there is also increased recognition and enhancement of the rights to access information, the need for training and professionalism and acknowledgement that cyber space requires regulation. In the same spirit, the report indicates that journalists are increasingly playing their role as human rights defenders; and actions to enhance the safety of journalists.
He appreciated the positive development the report cited in the media landscape across the world when he said, “such developments including the legal guarantees for freedom of expression and the media freedom; technology leading to the unprecedented influence on the internet with the emergence of new media having the potential to expand the freedoms, the information sources as well as actors who are currently beyond the journalists are more important.”
He was however, concerned about the disruptive effects of these developments and tasked the human right defenders, enforcers and all stakeholders to monitor them closely.“We should be more concerned about the disadvantages brought about by the diminishing space for journalism in its traditional sense; the abuse and misuse of social media as a source of false or unverified news; the lack of independence from commercial interests; the tendency for some journalists to put profiteering above professionalism and its negative impact on neutrality and objectivity; the metamorphosis of some journalists into government spies; the lack of regard for the special duties and responsibilities that come with media freedom; the increased attacks on journalists causing loss of their equipment and lives in several instances; kidnaping and illegally detaining them; and impunity for violation of these rights,” he mentioned.
According to him, any attack or illegitimate restriction on media freedom inevitably impacts negatively on the general freedom of speech and expression of individuals. He therefore called for indispensable role of free, independent, vibrant and gender-sensitive media in a functioning democracy. Hon. Mulumba said that he has no doubt that the findings of media freedom and its key pillars of pluralism, independence and safety as presented by in the global report will be instrumentalin informing the appropriate actions for industry self-regulation, policy and law reform as well as effective implementation of existing frame works.
The Commissioner stated that the Human Rights Commission in Uganda has severally spoken out against violence of media freedom in Uganda particularly, during the periods of heightened political tension such as elections and increased criminality where by journalists have been specifically targeted.The Commission has recorded some cases of human rights violations against journalists and the incidents have been also documented in the Commission’s annual and special reports with recommendations for action by the concerned institutions.
“As a stakeholder in Human rights protection and promotion in Uganda, the Commission pledges to follow up the findings and recommendations with the concerned parties. We will closely monitor the implementation of the state obligations of freedom of expression and media freedom as stipulated in the Constitution of Uganda and other human rights instruments including the 2030 Agenda for sustainable Development and the UN Plan of Action on the safety of journalist,” he said.
The Norwegian Ambassador to Uganda H.E Susan Eckey acknowledged the report’s efforts to address the issue of gender inequality in the journalism profession. According toHer, women remain underrepresented in the media workforce, decision making roles and in media content, both as sources and subjects.
“Fortunately, there are responses to the continuing marginalisation of women. A range of civil society organisations, media outlets and individuals have developed initiatives to change the picture like UNESCO-initiated the Global Alliance of media and Gender, and by applying a Gender- Sensitive Indicators for media. In Uganda, we have Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET), their members and other organisations working to promote the voice of women, including in the media. Norway is proud to support such organisations. This include; the important work of the International Federation of journalists, the Norwegian Union of Journalists, and Norwegian andInternational PEN,” she said.
According to H.E Susan Eckey, defending human rights can be difficult and even be dangerous,especiallyfor those raising human rights issues in their own country. She therefore called for attention and support from the international community to encourage human rights defenders to keep up their efforts and to also provide effective protection.
“Female media workers face particular challenges, such as sexual harassment and gender violence, only because they want to do their job. They may be more at risk than men when they are reporting from field, including in conflict areas. The ground breaking #metoo campaign has directed our attention to the discrimination, unwanted attention and illegal acts also women in the media are subjected to. Women as well as men, should be hired and respected for the work they do,” she emphasized.
Speaking aboutjournalist security and Impunity, the representative of the Norwegian National Commission of UNESCO and JMIC/OsloMet, Prof. Rune Ottoseninformed the audience that UNESCO has taken steps towards the formalisation of a system of focal points for the safety of journalists with in relevant United Nations entities. He revealed that the report is a living proof that there is a lot to been done.
“We learn from the report that although the killing of foreign correspondents tend to garner international Publicity, itis overwhelmingly local journalists who are killed while reporting on local expression of war, corruption or other activities of criminal groups. This trend holds across all regions. Political groups, military officials, insurgents and sought to silence the voices of journalists,” Prof. Ottosen explained.
To bring out the clear picture of impunity, Prof. Ottosen brought out local and international freelancers as another group of journalists that is at risk. According to him, local freelancers suffer the most, they take the higher risks and they are untrained and unequipped. They barely get paid and they don’t even get the by-lines. Most of the freelancersaround the world are young and inexperienced and this combination constitutes a death trap.
The Dean School of Languages, Literature and Communication Dr. Aaron Mushengyezi appreciated the report’s findings and recommendations to the media fraternity in Uganda. To him, a good environment has to be fostered by both state and non-state actors in which journalists can freely operate. Represented by the Deputy Principal, the Principal of College of Humanities and Social Sciences Prof. Edward Kirumirasaid, MakerereUniversity is willing to put into action the recommendations and make a follow up with debates and discussions on the findings of the report.
“As a media training institution Makerere University is taking interest in press freedom. We are very keen about respecting media freedom in our country but there instances where the state has not done enough. It is therefore our responsibility to advise the press to do its work,” he noted.
The launch involved an interactive discussion on how the findings of the 2017/2018 Global Report on “World Freedom of Expression and Media Development are relevant to the Ugandan media fraternity. Moderated by Mr. Charles Mwanguhya, Bureau Chief at the East African News Paper, the panellists included; Assoc. Prof. Fredrick Jjuuko,who teaches Media Law at the Department of Journalism and Communication, ProfessorGoretti Linda Nassanga from Makerere University Department of Journalism and Communication and Mr. Daniel Kalinaki, a Ugandan Journalist working with the Nation Media Group as General Manager in Uganda in charge of Editorial.
Article by: Proscovia Nabatte, Mak-Public Relations Office
On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.
Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.
A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.
Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction. The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.
“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.
Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda
Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”
He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.
According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.
The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.
Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.
He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.
Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.
Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.
In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.
The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.
The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.
Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.
Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.
Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.
The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.
Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.
The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.
-
General2 weeks agoRe-advert: Admission to Undergraduate Programmes 2025/2026
-
General1 week agoRe-Advert for Applications for Diploma and Certificate Training
-
General5 days agoMakerere University Fees Waiver for 40 First Year Female Students 2025/2026
-
General2 weeks agoPress Statement on Ranking
-
Health1 week agoCall for Applications: Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) Training Course