Humanities & Social Sciences
Journalism Department Holds Annual Media Convention 2023: Youth, Media & Communication Professionals Challenged to Harness Digital Media to Preserve Culture
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) through the Department of Journalism and Communication on 12th October 2023 hosted the Annual Media Convention at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Auditorium. It was convened by Dr. Charlotte Ntulume.
The function was presided over by Her Royal Highness Sylvia Nagginda Nnaabagereka represented by the Trustee, Board of the Nabagereka Foundation Ms. Judy Kamanyi under the theme,” Bringing Culture Back in: Media, Communication and Youth Engagement in the Digital Age”. The Head of Corporation, Norwegian Embassy and the Vice Chancellor Makerere University also graced the occasion.
The key note address was delivered by Associate professor from the University of Johannesburg who runs the School of Communication, and also head of Department of Strategic Communications at the University of Johannesburg and, one of the pioneers of the Department of Mass communication at Makerere University, Prof. Elizabeth Lubinga Nviri .
The function was also punctuated by three panels. The first panel on , “Media, Entertainment and Culture: Looking back into the Future”, moderated by Dr. Evelyn Cindy Magara comprised leading practitioners in the music, art and film industry including Dr. Charles Mulekwa, Mr. Andrew Benon Kibuuka, Ms. Joanita Kawalya Muganga and Mr. Abbey Mukiibi.
The second panel on, “Young People and Culture in the Digital Age” moderated by Hannah Arinaitwe consisted of students including Sylivia Nankya, Najibu Nsubuga, Reagan Kiyimba, Andrew Sebunya and Cynthia Ashaba.
The third panel on, “Media and Civic Engagement” , moderated by Charles Odongtho brought together leading media practitioners including Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, Ms. Lydia Mirembe Jadwong, Ms. Halima Authman, Ms. Carol Alyek Beyanga and Ms. Agatha Atuhaire.
The event was crowned by the students Excellence Awards presented by representatives of the Newvision, Daily Monitor and the Public Relations Association of Uganda. Three students scooped plaques, some with cash and internship opportunities.
The event was supported by the Uganda Tourism Board, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the Daily Monitor, the New Vision, and the Public Relations Association of Uganda.
The Nnabagereka calls for cultural revival as an important and a matter of urgency
Representing the Nnabagereka of Buganda, the member Board of Trustees on the Nnabagereka Development Foundation Ms. Judy Kamanyi described the theme of the convention as important and timely.
She said the cultural heritage is the embodiment of our nation’s history, values, traditions and collective identity.
“It encompasses the stories passed down through generations, the songs that echo in our hearts, the customs that connect us to our roots, the ways in which we are raised and taught to behave in our respective communities society, and the wisdom that guides us through life’s journey. It is a source of pride, a reflection of who we are, and a legacy we have proudly inherited from our ancestors. Our culture is our source of inspiration as a people.”
Ms. Kamanyi noted that contemporary society, is undergoing rapid change in every aspect, from how children are educated to the world of work with ways of living, cultural heritage, facing numerous challenges.
The onslaught of globalization and the widespread influence of modern technology according to Ms. Kamanyi has ushered in by digitalization which have sometimes overshadowed cultural heritage.
The digital era, she observed has reshaped the way people live, communicate and interact with the world, thus intertwining lives with technology, from the mobile phones to the platforms used to connect with one another.
While these innovations have undoubtedly brought people closer together, she noted, they have also led to the erosion of some aspects of culture. While this digitalization has brought incredible achievements, advancements and opportunities, it also poses a significant challenge to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
She informed participants that the discussion on how we can bridge the gap between culture and the digital era through media, communication and youth empowerment and engagement is urgent in our country’s quest for social transformation.
Aware that media plays a pivotal role in shaping perceptions and understanding of the world, informing decisions and influencing values, Ms. Kamanyi reminded participants that media has the power to either erode or celebrate cultural diversity and heritage, but at the same time, it can be a powerful tool for cultural preservation.
“To bring culture back into the spotlight, we must recognize and harness the potential of media as a guardian and promoter of our culture. This is especially critical in this digital age where media, especially online and social media, has been used to spread stereotypes and misconceptions.
As professionals in the industry and to the students who are training to become media and communication specialists, we have a duty to address this problem. Media in all its forms, including the tradition or legacy newspapers, radio and TV, as well as online outlets, have a responsibility to represent our culture accurately and respectfully”, She guided
Ms. Kamanyi observed that some of the unintended consequences of globalization and the digital age is the erosion of indigenous languages.
Ms..Kamanyi reiterated the need for people to route themselves in their languages expressing pleasure to see that different languages are being taught here in Makerere University.
“We cannot talk about preserving our cultures or having an identity without preservation of our languages. I therefore urge you to promote and preserve our languages in the family, in our homes and in our communities and in our schools. And I commend the media playing a lead role in this important task through various local language media platforms and programs. I also applaud the School of Languages, Literature and Communication here at the University, which hosts the Journalism and Communications Department, for all its efforts to preserve and promote indigenous African languages.”
Turning to cultural preservation, Ms. Kamanyi said it is incumbent upon communication professionals to provide the right environment, whether in traditional media or online, and in the different spaces in which they practice, for these inter-generational interactions or engagements to take place.
Universities tasked to develop programs to engage youth in cultural activities
Acknowledging that the greater majority of Uganda’s population belong to the younger generation, Ms. Kamanyi recognized the older generation with wealth of cultural knowledge She expressed the need for the youth to continue engaging and dialoguing to ensure that traditions are not only preserved, but also adapted and integrated into modern lives.
“We are fortunate to live at a time when communication and connectivity are part of life, and therefore social networking sites are the order of the day, and often time we take this for granted” she said
Turning to youth engagement and the youth as torchbearers of our culture, Ms. Kamanyi stressed that it is important to engage the youth in cultural promotion and for preservation and the continuity of heritage as they hold the key to cultural resilience, adaptability, and agents of preservation and promotion and,also breathe life into it.
“It is my appeal therefore that this country’s leading university and chief custodians of education, knowledge and innovation to be intentional about creating
mentorship programs and educational initiatives that empower youth to actively engage in their culture”
I beseech you to add culture preservation to your priority of research interest. Her Royal Highness believes that this should be supported. To the students, please pay more attention to culture as a matter of utmost importance and urgency.”,
Uganda in need of revival of cultural values
Uganda, like most African nations, Ms. Kamanyi said, has suffered social upheaval. and disruptions, there is a breakdown in ethics and values which has led to moral decadence and deterioration of social cohesion in society.
“If we took a critical and honest look at ourselves, we would admit that as a people we have somehow lost some aspects of humanness. With the grave decline in acceptable behavior, especially when it comes around digitalization, I strongly believe that transforming our nation will entail a revival of our cultural values.”
She said although culture has always been around, there are certain aspects that have kind of receded and hence, the need to bring them back to the fore.
To this end, she added, Obuntubulamu, which is the African philosophy that espouses interconnectedness, humanity, dignity, and communal living, was integrated in Ekisaakate- the flagship program of the Nnabagereka Development Foundation that targets the young people.
Several societal values that make up Obuntubulamu were identified through research, and these are humility, civility, integrity, honesty, sense of shame, responsibility, among others.
With the support of UN Women and the United Nations Development Program, the Nnabagereka Development Foundation partnered with other cultural institutions in Uganda, including the Kingdoms of Acholi, Alur, Bonyoro, and Busoga, with an indigenous approach to achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, that is the SDGs.
The Foundation has also worked, and Her Royal Highness, with other African queens and cultural women leaders from the kingdoms of Ghana, the kingdoms that exist in South Africa, Lesotho and in Nigeria, mindful that they had the power to use their status in society to influence and improve the lived realities of their people.
How can we harness media technology for cultural revival and cultural heritage preservation in the digital era?
According to Ms. Kamanyi, there are unprecedented opportunities to bring culture back into the limelight using social media, the internet, podcasts, digital storytelling to amplify cultural messages to reach a much wider national and global audience.
There is need to encourage the creation of digital content, that celebrates our culture, to engage the youth, and invite the world to explore our culture.
“Through the strategic use of technology, we can showcase our art and our music and our customs to a wider audience, promoting a deeper appreciation of our cultural diversity. The digital revolution has brought new non-traditional players in the media and communication arena.
These include the digital content creators, all producers and influencers. And young people are at the forefront in this space. I therefore implore the Department to continually equip students with the requisite skills and, even more importantly, ethics for these crucial roles.
You and your associates in the humanities field are best placed to instill a sense of pride and identity among our young people, while almost equipping them with skills needed to navigate the digital era, yet stay rooted in our culture”. Ms. Kamanyi stressed
Ms. Kamanyi highlighted challenges that come with preserving and promoting culture in the digital era. The rapid space of change and the spread of misinformation and the lure of globalized cultures, and the risk of cultural appropriation are hurdles that must be navigate.d
She however said, these challenges are not insurmountable.
“We need to embrace technology as a tool for cultural preservation rather than perceive it as a threat. With regards to solutions, I request the Department of Journalism and Communication to ponder on these challenges. At 35, surely society naturally expects you to have achieved some milestones. You are at a stage where your impact on society should be visible in many aspects and especially matters being discussed today.
I implore you to spread your reach and influence so that your impact in our nation is visible. We are looking up to you to provide professional guidance to the students, cultural associations at the university, like in Nkoba Zambogo, to make culture visible on the university’s agenda, and to encourage our young people to embrace culture with the same vigor and interest with which they have embraced digitalization and globalization.
I wish to emphasize that it is our collective duty to ensure, as our ancestors did, that the transition to modernity does not come at expense of our cultural identity and heritage. Our cultural heritage is not something of the past that we can relegate to the sidelines, but it is a living entity that should evolve with the times, that can drive national transformation.
We must factor culture back as we navigate the digital era, not just as a matter of preserving our past but about securing our future. Our cultural diversity is a source of strength, resilience and inspiration. Let’s work to embrace and promote our culture. Together, we can build a future where our national identity thrives, where diversity is cherished, and where cultural heritage is a driving force for positive change and for our country’s transformation.”She appealed.
VC commends DJC steady growth
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs Assoc. Prof. Umar Kakumba appreciated the distinguished alumni and panelists for the wonderful and exciting engagement and insightful discussion rendered.
Kakumba, welcomed Her Royal Highness the Nnabagereka to Makerere University as guest of honor at the annual media convention 2023represented by Ms. Kamanyi and the entourage of the Nnabagereka thanking the team for accepting this second invitation to preside over this media convention, who, in a few weeks ago officiated the Sarah Ntiro Memorial Lecture.
“We want to appreciate the honor that is rendered to Makerere University, Mama Nnabagereka”
Prof. Kakumba appreciated the organization of the Media Convention 2023 and hailed the department for remaining consistent in holding this informative and educative activity every year, save the couple of years of COVID-19.
“Journalism has remained consistent and intentional. We also want to applaud you for bringing in our distinguished alumni and the keynote speakers, Professor Elizabeth Mviri Lubinga, all the way from Johannesburg,..and I also want to assure you that the University of Johannesburg and Makerere University have an ongoing collaborative engagement. We have a formal MoU. And so getting you as the head of strategic communication at the University of Johannesburg and getting you as our alumnus and proud ambassador of Makerere, it’s such a great pleasure.
And we hope that your well-delivered and insightful keynote, will definitely open more doors of collaborative engagement between journalism and communication, a school at Makerere here, and also fostering the existing relationships that we have with the university and many opportunities that will come our way”, The Vice Chancellor appreciated.
Kakumba thanked the panelists, for the participation and for their insightful and being very resourceful in tuning the audience into the digital era and how the challenges can be moderated.
“I note the challenges of the digital technologies in strengthening culture, but also in strengthening the role of the academy in mentoring our young people, the future generation of many times, of our times and the future.
I wish to salute this event, that it has also built a strong confidence over the years that the Convention has been held, the confidence has been built, but it has also helped to nurture the continuous engagement and appreciation of the role of media in transforming society”, He hailed :
Professor Kakumba commended the Department of Journalism and Communication for the remarkable endeavor, having risen from just a sub-program, not even a section or a unit under the Literature Department then in 1988.
“I want to appreciate the remarkable endeavor in growing this sub-program under the Department of Literature in 1988 to a fully-fledged Department of Journalism and Communication with enviable programs. programs in journalism and communication, which was re-branded, but also the two strong graduate programs, the master’s degree in strategic and corporate communication, and a master’s degree in journalism and multimedia, and a productive PhD in journalism and communication”,
“ I have been informed too, that the department is partnering with the School of Public Health to develop another Masters in Health Promotion and Communication, and which is interdisciplinary, which is very important. Journalism, health, because journalism, communication, communication is a critical tool in transforming society. So the role of the media in health, the role of communication in health, the role of communication in culture, the role of communication in business and entrepreneurship cannot be overstated.” He stressed.
Kakumba assured the department that once that program proposal comes in handy in his capacity as the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, they should be able to fast-track it. The DVC chairs the Senate Committee on Academic Programs, Policies, and anything to do with the business of the Senate.
“So we’ll be much more delighted to have that proposal as we are completing the proposal for the Council Restructuring Committee. And indeed Journalism and Communication should should have been a school many years ago, but better late than never. We’ll appreciate that.”He pledged.
He also recognized the college, schools and departmental leadership for the well elaborated and illustrious efforts, guidance and achieving various milestones in the departments and schools of the college.
“The five schools of the college, the over 14 or 15 departments in humanities and social sciences, have really exhibited quite much in fostering our future, our vision as the institution, but also in demonstrating what the university has been able to do in building human capital development for our country and our region.”.
The professor was pleased with today’s theme, bridging culture back, noting that culture has not gone away at any time but probably culture has been alienated.
He said, the idea of reimagining culture into the digital era and how culture can be made more useful in building a strong foundation for the young people and how culture can also strengthen the modern era of communication has been well expressed by the panelists in creating the enterprise, the future of the enterprise and the future of the business, but a business that should not completely be away from strengthening a society that is productive.
“So definitely it speaks to the theme that you have selected, bringing culture back in media, communication, and youth engagement in this digital age. It speaks to the impact of the fast advancing technologies of our well-being as a community, as a country, as a nation, as a region, and as a continent, and what culture can significantly contribute.
I am certain that the discussion at this convention will open our minds more about issues to how to access digital technologies, the quality of the content that is made from time to time, and how that content can be enabled to support the roles of building our strong communities and building public participation and also engaging our development processes”. Prof. Kakumba explained.
The DVC said the university would want to see this engagement and how it turns out, in the productions that are being made, the content that is being written and migrated into knowledge that can inform progressive policy and regulation on digitizing the country and the economy.
In addition, the DVC said, the university would want to see how the discussions can promote the role of the media and the role of culture in preservation, in social change and empowerment of people. And also ultimately, it should be able to drive towards the sustainability of our culture and the transformation of our country.
On behalf of the Senate of Makerere University, Kakumba thanked Her Royal Highness, Mama Wa Buganda, the Nnabagereka for accepting to grace the annual media convention 2023,the continued passion and gratitude that is extended to Makerere University.
Kakumba also appreciated the Nnabagereka Foundation and all of the programs, and the love for working among the young people in educating them, in work, in health, the work in culture, including the Kisakate teacher, among the many programs that the office of the Nnabagereka has fostered.
DJC transition to a school should have happened 30 years ago-Principal CHUSS
The Principal CHUSS Prof. Josephine Ahikire said, the department transition into the school is is something that should have happened 30 years ago.
“So the department has had a lot of impact and as a UNESCO’s center of excellence in the region, East Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond has churned out a number of professionals serving in various capacities here in Uganda and beyond in the field of Public relations, communication, media and marketing.” She noted.
Prof. Ahikire said the theme of the convention was purposed to embrace the needs of young people in strategic communication, writing for society, not just for making money, but when when writing, they should have that mission in mind and be mindful of the peoples’ culture.
The Principal thanked the university management for the support to the college and to the department, and for enabling Makerere reimagine itself as a research-led university to be able to serve society to build for the future.
Dean commends the DJC growth, supports proposal to transform into a school
The Dean, School of Languages, Literature, and Communication, Associate Prof. Saudah Namyalo reiterated that the Department of Journalism and Communication (DJC) has organized this annual media convention since 1998, and each time it has provided a platform for discussing emerging issues in the media, journalism, communication, and society in Uganda and beyond.
“This year’s theme is timely as it speaks to the central place of culture in the digital communication era. Moreover, it allows the youth who are particular to Uganda as they are the majority population.
The theme also poses a very important question on the future of the media in the light of culture and entertainment. I’m therefore looking forward to the panels that are well constituted and are certainly going to exude the same clearly”, She said.
Dean Namyalo was happy to note that the Department of Journalism and Communication has grown immensely, especially in the last few years. Adding that it’s not surprising that at 35 years old, they have built their capacity to research, graduate training, and innovation in journalism, media, and communication.
“And I want to use this opportunity, Vice Chancellor, to inform you that the Department of Journalism has presented their proposal to transform into a school of journalism, media and communication. And we are in total support because they have all the right steps to become a school
I am certain that they are a force to reckon in Uganda and in the region as well. As a school, we congratulate them on this and many other milestones and wish them even more success as they work towards building a future flying the Makerere University flag high and growing even further”, she tabled.
She thanked Her Royal Highness represented by Ms. Judy Kamanyi for accepting the invitation, aware that a few weeks ago, she was here again on a different occasion.
Convention as a platform for Debate on contemporary issues in Media and communication and guiding to curriculum review
The Head Department of Journalism and Communication Dr. Aisha Nakiwala said this annual media event brings together the academia and the industry players to debate contemporary issues in the media and communication.
“It is at these kinds of engagements that we regularly guide ourselves on what to include in our curriculum development. So for the last 35 years of the department and the program of journalism and communication,we have continued to be both forward-sighted and strategic in our approach to training our students and intentional to develop.
And as we look to the future, and specifically as we set ourselves to transition from a department to the school of journalism, media and communication, nothing can be strategic than a deliberate focus on the young people because they are not just great consumers of media content, but they are also the future of journalism, media and communication.”, Nakiwala said.
Dr. Nakiwala asserted that , there is strong evidence, about the strong influence of the media and communication on youth and culture. Thus, the rapidly changing media sector in Uganda and elsewhere in the world has conditioned the Department of Journalism and Communication, to view young people as an important site of cultural production.
She said, that explains why they chose to focus this year’s convention on the intersection between media, culture and young people.
Dr. Nakiwala appreciated Ms. Kamanyi, the office of the Nnabagereka, for accepting to offciate this convention .
“ And your being here and the support that we have received from the Foundation is testament to the great service that the Department of Journalism and Communication is rendering to the cause of young people and to the cause of national development in this country and beyond, which we know is very dear to the heart of Her Royal Highness the Nnabagereka. We therefore pledge our continued efforts in this exceptional service and in serving our clientele better,”The don promised.
Nakiwala thanked the various sponsors that have funded this event including the Uganda Tourism Board, the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority, the Daily Monitor, the New Vision, and the Public Relations Association of Uganda, without whom, it would be impossible.
She also recognized the diligent and meticulous planning that has gone into this event to make it a success giving credit to her team at the Department of Journalism and Communication, Dean, School of Languages and Communication and the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences for the support rendered to the department.
Dr. Nakiwala also thanked the panelists for honoring the invitaion and sharing their experiences and expertise expressing optimism that the deliberations will spark further debate beyond the walls and gates of Makerere.
Youth – a transformative power and catalyst for innovation and change – Keynote speaker
Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Elizabeth Lubinga Nviri was grateful for the strong foundation that she received from this institution, saying, it has helped us to be successful within and outside of the country.
Speaking on reimagining how culture can become an integral part of media communication and youth engagement in the digital age. Prof. Lubinga said already the world is moving towards the internet of things with artificial intelligence and robotics.
She congratulated the Department of Journalism and Communication for 35 years of organizing successful annual media conventions.
The intention, she remarked is to appreciate the transformative power of the youth as catalysts for innovation, for active participation and leadership in shaping the future of our country, Uganda.
“ It is not secret worldwide that Africa has the youngest population. 2023, Uganda’s median age is 16 years only. If you compare that to Monaco, for example, in Europe, with a median age of 55 years, it means that we have a very young population. And because of that, we would be remiss in excluding the youth in shaping our country”, she asserted.
To achieve this, she expressed the need to reflect on the role of change as inevitable, the critical influence of culture on individuals and society, the changing face of the media in this digital age, media audiences as well as the dynamic and rapid perversion of artificial intelligence.
“Change is inevitable. We cannot manage and control change. And we know that the youth are a very dynamic and a flexible audience that is open to change, socialization, acculturation, information, education and entertainment. We also know that change in society has been fast-tracked by digitization, socio-economic, environmental issues, among others”
Reflecting on COVID-19 pandemic, the professor said it changed the way in which the media operates, but at the same time it elevated the important role of culture in terms of treating COVID-19 to traditional medicine but at the same time, COVID affected media, a number of print media closed as they were not sustainable.
Prof. Lubinga highlighted that one of the constant variables of society is culture, because culture has been tried, it has been proved, it has been tested over a number of years. Academics, according to the keynote speaker acknowledge that culture is both individual but it’s also a social construct, because individuals vary in how they embrace and engage in attitudes, in values, in beliefs and in behavior.
Culture, she explained occurs if individuals act in harmony with particular behaviours or values. And in Uganda and other societies, there is a bidirectional relationship between the media and culture.
For example, she said, the oldest newspapers in Uganda, such as Muno in 1912 and Ebi Famu in Uganda in 1934, were premised on religion but also based on culture. There are also several culturally affiliated broadcasting and print media, including Central Broadcasting Services, radio, Uganda Broadcasting Services, television, Voice of Toro, radio, which is in both ownership and content reflecting Toro history and culture, and TV, loyal to the Busoga Kingdom, Rhino FM, Acholi cultural institution.
For many years she said, the media have has informed, educated, socialized and entertained society and have cultivated readers, listeners, viewers or consumers of our content. She however noted although today we still have consumers, there is a shift to what is termed as prosumers because prosumers co-create content, they actively participate in media making decisions.
Prof Lubinga also observed that many youth are techno savvy, and because of that they are at the forefront of processes using social, digital media, as well as artificial intelligence proficiently.
“The youth have to be involved in shaping the way forward, because they are more conversant with the digital and social media than everyone else is. So due to digitization, audiences, media and communication have shifted. receivers have changed to instant creators of content. Audiences have changed from passive receivers to influencers of crucial media narratives. Audiences have changed from listeners, viewers, readers to co-creators and innovators.
The media have converged and blurred. So we have to ask ourselves crucial questions. Who and what are the sources of information? Do we still say that the journalist is the source of information? And these are the things that we are going to debate in this convention. And so communication power is shifting from institutional communicators, journalists, public relations officers, to the influence of recipients” she said..
How do we re-imagine the interface between culture, youth and media in this digital age?
The professor suggested that collaboration between stakeholders should be increased with conscious inclusion of the youth, because no longer are the youth an apathetic audience. They are driving, they are shaping narratives on the ever-growing social media.
She proposed that youth voices should be integrated into co-creating strategies to improve development.
She also expressed the need to invest and harness artificial intelligence, social media, and digital media to preserve culture without excluding the youth through micro-engagement.
“We should consider a world where AI can do most of the jobs that we are currently doing. We already have digital news readers. Artificial intelligence can create content for us. So what do we perceive the world ahead of us to be? What is our role? We need to re-imagine our role. Micro-engagement enables users to interface with technological devices and systems, which takes place in various forms”. She advised.
Three journalists awarded
Atwine Rhonet, winner of the New Vision Cranimer Mugerwa Award
Atwine is a multimedia journalist in Uganda who is passionate about solution journalism. Currently, she serves as a health journalist at Solutions Now Africa, which stands as Uganda’s pioneering solutions newsroom. Her primary focus revolves around the creation of compelling narratives that spotlight the innovative models, systems, and solutions that are catalyzing positive change in Africa. Atwine has so far covered topics such as health access in a low-resource setting, Human rights issues, e-learning, congenital abnormalities, mental health, innovations, climate change, and neonatal health.
Handing over the award, the New vision Chief Executive Officer Don Wanyama thanked Makerere University, and specifically the Department of Journalism and Communication, for inviting them to hand over this award, saying it is very important.
Wanyama said , for about two decades, New Vision and the Department of Journalism and Communication have been recognizing the best performing journalism students through the Cranimer Mugerwa Award.
Cranimer Mugerwa was a photojournalist with the New Vision who died on March 26, 2001 at Nsambya Hospital after a short illness. He was known for his exceptional talent in capturing powerful and evocative images that told very compelling stories. He was a very brave war correspondent who fearlessly ventured into the war-torn regions, risking his own safety to document the harsh realities of conflict.
His photographs from the front lines captured the raw emotions and devastation experienced by both soldiers and civilians. His work that really stands out was his coverage of the Rwanda genocide in 1994. It was a testament to his unwavering commitment to shedding light on the darkest corners of humanity.
In the face of unimaginable violence and unspeakable atrocities, he fearlessly captured the haunting images of mass killings, displacement, and the indescribable grief of the survivors. His photographs served as a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred and intolerance, motivating the international community to take action and prevent such atrocities from happening.
Mugerwa’s indomitable spirit and determination to expose the truth will forever echo through his powerful images, especially for those victims of the regions of the DRC and northern Uganda at the time, fearlessly again capturing and torturing the despair of families torn apart, the anguish of children forced into soldiering and the destruction of entire communities.
Through his photographs, he shed light on the silent suffering endured by those caught in the crossfire, giving a voice to the voiceless. His unwavering commitment to exposing the truth and advocating for the vulnerable cemented his legacy as a fearless photojournalist and a beacon of hope in what was really some dark times.
Through these powerful images, he brought the horrors of war to the attention of the country and by extension to the world, urging for peace and justice. His courage and dedication will always be remembered in the annals of photojournalism. Mugerwa’s untimely death was a great loss to the field of photojournalism, leaving behind a void. Actually, when he died in 2001, he was just 37 years old.
“So at Vision Group, we believe in recognizing and celebrating journalists who go above and beyond the normal call of duty in their pursuit for truth and accuracy. We are therefore privileged and we are grateful to Makerere University, Department of Journalism, for working with us to keep his legacy alive and to be able to celebrate him whenever we can.
Of course, this is also a moment for us to reflect not just about Cranmer but a lot of our colleagues who have left us. And of course, coming to mind, you remember the nasty accident that took colleagues like Ken Matovu, Simon Ekarot and others, and so many others who have fallen. So it’s always good to reflect and remember and celebrate their legacy”, Wanyama narrated adding:
“ As you’ve seen, the winner, we’ve given her a million shillings as a cash prize. We’ve also given her a plaque, but as part of the offer, we are going to give her an internship opportunity at the Vision Group. And unlike a lot of the interns who come in and we do not really remunerate them because we are giving you a chance to learn, that every month she will be able to pick 500,000 shillings as net pay, beyond and above what else she will be able to make through her work. So congratulations, Rhonet, and you’re most welcome to the Vision Group”.
Mollan Joyce – winner of the Tebere Maudin Award of the Daily Monitor
Molan Joyce is a freelance photographer, and student passionate about freezing moments in time. A journey she began in 2019 during the COVID-19 lockdown in Uganda. She currently practices sports photography for which she has collaborated with several sports teams. For example, she has worked as an official photographer during the Valley College League, the Mushanga League and the Jo’Bok League as an assistant photographer. She has also served as official photographer for the Duncan Africa Society.. Joyce was accompanied by siblings. Daniel Kalinaki, who is the General Manager Editorial of Nation Media Group, presented this award.
Kalinaki said this award is given in honor of Rashid Maudin and Richard Tebere. Richard Tebere was one of the founders of the Monitor Newspaper in 1992, and Rashid was on the sports desk. And they were killed in a dry riverbed by a flash flood.
“We give this award out, and I think we have pretty consistently over the last 20 years, to the best journalists in the department. It is personal to me because I think, if I’m not mistaken, that I was the winner of the first award. On top of the award, cash prize and the plaque, we give a paid internship as well. So I noticed that Joyce is already working”. He explained
To the students who are going out into the world, and those who are probably still here, Kalinaki advised that:
You probably have heard there’s a lot of turmoil or disruption in the media industry. And many of you will probably be tempted to focus on following the money and going to communications and public relations. And I think there is room for communication, and I think the world needs good communicators.
But what the world needs more than anything else, and what our country and society needs more than anything else, is credible, professional, insightful, and useful journalism that are trying to democratize societies that are trying to manage the distribution of power amongst themselves, need strong institutions to arbitrate that transition.
But the building of those institutions, whether it’s the legislature, the executive and its different branches, or the judiciary, require people who can speak truth to that power. And the discussion that we listened to this afternoon speaks about the digital landscape, so the citizen role in that holds power accountable.
So I invite you all to, whatever you end up, whether it’s in mainstream journalism, whether it’s in communication, not to lose the agency that you have to speak truth to power, to be professional, to hold people accountable, especially those that have given you power, to be citizens who work for the country that they want to live in, rather than expect someone else to do it for them.
Kababikira Mary gets the PRAU Best Communication Award
The department received support from the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), who presented the Best Communication Major Award, Kababikira Mary was the best in the Communication track. Ms. Helen Kawesa, who is an advisor at PRAU Governing Council presented the award to Kababikira. Kababikira, a student currently works with USAID, SBCA as a Communication and knowledge management intern.. She also works as a volunteer at Zente Sec, assisting the PR and marketing team to handle the company’s social media platforms.
Ms. Helen Kawesa works in the Parliament of Uganda. She thanked Makerere University for inviting PRAU to be part of this annual media convention.
“We have a partnership with the department, and every year we award the best communication students in the academic year. I’m very happy to have the best communication students in the Department of Journalism at Makerere University. So congratulations Mary. And I’m so happy that today all the winners are ladies. Ladies, communication is our field. So let’s thrive and take it away from this gentleman in a good way.
In PRAU we give our plaque. Then we have another package also of our internship. So you’ll be an intern for one year at the Node Group. Node Group is one of the biggest PR firms now in Uganda. Exciting. We give you membership in the PR Association of Uganda for one year, so starting January next year, you have free membership in that association, which is a very good one .. And then, next month, we have an East African PR week. We are hosting a very big conference where all the East African countries are coming together, practitioners are coming together from East Africa for a week in a conference which will be in Jinja. The cost of that attendance is 1.6 million. So we are giving you free attendance to that conference, that’s your crown. You’ll be able to hold on with the high and mighty in the PR field, not only in Uganda, but in East Africa. And I’m sure from there, we’ll only hear about you flying high. So congratulations to you, Mary. Wish you the best.
And, let us emphasize the professionalism in whatever field we are doing. In communications, it’s not easy, but if we are professional, we take it further and we do bigger” , Kawesa advised.
Humanities & Social Sciences
Makerere Marks World Press Freedom Day with Call for Media Protection and Journalist Safety Ahead of 2026 Polls
Makerere University, Kampala – May 6, 2025
Makerere University joined the rest of the world in commemorating World Press Freedom Day with a strong call for greater respect and protection of journalists, particularly as Uganda approaches the 2026 general elections. World Press Freedom Day is observed annually on May 3 to raise awareness about the importance of press freedom and to remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression
This year’s celebration was held under the global theme “Defending the Truth in an Age of Polarization and Distrust”, .It was organised under the Uganda Media Sector Working Group in collaboration with the Department of Journalism and Communication and media stakeholders including, CIPESA, Oslo Metropolitan University, the Uganda Human Rights Commission, the African Centre for Media Excellence, UNESCO, the Uganda Media Council, and Media Focus on Africa.
The celebration brought together members from academia, media organizations, civil society, government ministries and agencies at the university’s Conference Hall at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology.
The event featured speeches and a key note address, panel discussions, media awards and trainings on different media aspects including Online security, Misinformation and Fact Checking and, Physical security.
Speakers from various sectors denounced attacks on journalists and urged government agencies to uphold constitutional freedoms, especially during politically sensitive periods. The gathering heard passionate appeals for reforms, including better legal protections for media practitioners and stronger enforcement against those who attack the press.
The celebrations were presided over by Paul Ekoju, Chairperson of the Uganda Media Council, who represented the Minister of ICT and National Guidance. Ekoju emphasized the critical role of journalists in safeguarding democracy, while cautioning against the growing threats to press freedom including physical violence, intellectual compromise, and political interference.
“We must defend the truth,” Ekoju said, referencing recent incidents where journalists were assaulted and detained in Kawempe and Masaka. “Much as we condemn the battering of journalists, we must also recognize the more subtle assaults—brown envelopes, bias, and prejudice that threaten journalistic integrity.”
Ekoju warned against the “adulterated media landscape,” saying it is now saturated with misinformation, citizen journalism, and a loss of public trust in legacy media. “In this digital age, everyone is a journalist. But not everyone is trained to report with sensitivity and accuracy,” he noted.
He revealed that the government, through the Ministry of ICT, is working on new media legislation to address emerging challenges, including defining professional journalism, regulating misinformation, and ensuring media freedom in the digital era. The proposed law is expected to be shared with stakeholders before enactment.
Drawing on a French proverb, Ekoju reminded attendees that while journalists should always seek the truth, they must exercise wisdom and responsibility in its dissemination. “Everything you say should be true, but not everything true should be said,” he remarked.
The event also highlighted the role of journalism students in shaping a more ethical media future. Dr. Aisha and Dr. Tayebwa, both faculty at the university, were recognized for mentoring upcoming reporters.
“In a world of spin and distortion, we need journalists to be the bearers of fact and clarity,” Ekoju concluded, urging the media fraternity to remain professional, united, and engaged with stakeholders as the country heads into an increasingly polarized electoral season.
We Must Defend Press Freedom Amidst Rising Misinformation-Tayeebwa
Dr. William Tayeebwa, representing the Head of the Department and acting as host, delivered opening remarks that highlighted the urgent need to protect journalistic integrity.
“These are perilous times,” said Dr. Tayeebwa. “What happened in Masaka yesterday, the treatment of journalists—anyone who saw it would understand the gravity of the challenges we face. As an academic institution, we recommit ourselves to engaging with all our partners to uphold media freedom the best way we can.”
Dr. Tayeebwa acknowledged a number of long-standing partners, including CIPESA, Oslo Metropolitan University, the Uganda Human Rights Commission, the African Centre for Media Excellence, UNESCO, the Uganda Media Council, and Media Focus on Africa. “These partners,” he said, “have walked this journey with us, and we’re grateful for their continued support.”
Also recognized were key public figures expected to contribute to the discussion, including UPDF spokesperson Felix Kulayige, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission, and Julius Mucunguzi, spokesperson of the Electoral Commission. Students from the department, despite being in the midst of examinations, also attended in notable numbers.
Dr. Tayeebwa emphasized the department’s evolution, hinting at a forthcoming transition to a fully-fledged School of Journalism and Communication, and called on professionals to frequently return as guest lecturers. “Let’s not only meet at events like this,” he urged. “If you have something important to share with our students, our doors are open.”
Uganda Human Rights Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Press Freedom
The Uganda Human Rights Commission pledged continued support for the protection of press freedom and the promotion of responsible journalism, particularly as the country approaches the 2026 general elections. This reassurance was delivered by Commissioner Lamex Omara Apitta, who represented the Commission Chairperson, Hon. Mariam Wangadya, at the national commemoration of World Press Freedom Day held at Makerere University.
Speaking to to the gathering, Omara emphasized the urgent need for collaboration across all sectors to uphold journalistic integrity amid increasing threats.
“This year’s theme, Defending Truth in the Age of Polarization and Distrust, highlights the growing challenges faced by journalists from financial pressures and public skepticism to political interference and digital threats like misinformation and AI-driven surveillance,” said Omara.
He underscored that the Uganda Human Rights Commission is actively engaged in advocating for human rights-based media policies, monitoring violations of press freedom, and working with security agencies through training and dialogue to ensure journalists’ safety.
As Uganda prepares for its next general elections in 2026, the role of the media in promoting transparency and accountability is more vital than ever, he noted. “From election organizers to observers, the role of journalism in credible elections cannot be overstated. We call on all actors to support media practitioners in fulfilling this constitutional mandate.”
Omara also highlighted the Commission’s efforts to equip journalists through targeted trainings and reinforced the need for early coordination between the media, civil society, and government institutions in the electoral process.
He further praised the organizers of the event held under the Uganda Media Sector Working Group and thanked partners including the African Centre for Media Excellence, UNESCO Uganda, Prowesa East Africa, Media Council of Uganda, and Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communication.
“This gathering must not end with speeches,” he urged. “Let it be a launchpad for concrete strategies and joint actions that protect and expand press freedoms in Uganda.”
UNESCO Representative Calls for Protection of Media Freedom, Cites Growing Threats Ahead of Uganda’s 2026 Elections
Daniel Kawesi, Assistant Secretary General for Culture at the Uganda National Commission for UNESCO, issued a strong call for protection of press freedom and freedom of expression, warning of escalating threats to journalists and media practitioners in the country.
Kawesi emphasized the media’s indispensable role in sustainable development and democratic accountability. He was representing the Secretary General of the Commission.
“The violence we’ve seen from the 2009 Kayunga riots to the 2021 general elections and the recent by-elections is not just a coincidence,” Kawesi said. “Journalists have paid a heavy price for simply doing their work. And the picture being painted for the 2026 elections is not any more promising.”
Linking national and international concerns, Kawesi drew attention to the dual themes of this year’s World Press Freedom Day: “Defending Truth in the Age of Polarization and Distrust” and “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and Media Independence.” He warned that growing distrust, misuse of AI technologies, and shrinking civic space threaten both traditional journalism and democratic discourse.
He called on law enforcement, the military, the judiciary, and policy makers to create an enabling environment that upholds freedom of expression and guarantees journalists’ safety. “When freedom of expression disappears, media freedom disappears with it,” he added.
Kawesi also urged stakeholders to remain vigilant throughout the year, not just on commemorative occasions. “These themes must guide our actions, policies, and partnerships—not just today, but every day until we return here next year.”
He praised civil society and development partners for their continued support in celebrating and defending press freedom since UNESCO first designated May 3 as World Press Freedom Day in 1993. He concluded by encouraging attendees to consult the official message from the UNESCO Director-General for a broader global perspective on the issue.
Uganda Media Sector Working Group Urges Inclusive Dialogue on Press Freedom Ahead of 2026 Elections
Charles Bichachi, a leading voice in Uganda’s media industry, emphasized the need for inclusive, sustained dialogue around media freedom and governance as the country heads into a critical election cycle. Bichachi addressed attendees on behalf of the Uganda Media Sector Working Group (UMSWG), the event’s chief organizer for the fifth consecutive year.
Bichachi briefly outlined the mission and structure of the UMSWG, describing it as a multi-sectoral platform created to bring together all stakeholders in the media ecosystem—from journalists, media owners, and academics to government regulators, advertisers, and civil society actors.
“Many times when we talk about the media, we focus only on journalists and journalism students,” Bichachi said. “But the media includes the people we write about, those who consume it, and those who invest in it. It is a public space, and we must all take responsibility for its health and sustainability.”
The UMSWG, now composed of over 20 member organizations, was established five years ago to address growing polarization within Uganda’s media landscape and to push for reforms around media regulation, sustainability, and professionalism. Its collective approach has enabled diverse actors to engage in meaningful conversation on how to strengthen journalism in Uganda.
With Uganda’s 2026 general elections fast approaching, Bichachi warned that the nation had already witnessed worrying signs of repression, referencing recent media harassment during the Kawempe by-election.
“This is not just a pre-election year—it is an election year. The voting may happen in early 2026, but the political activity is already in full swing,” he noted. “It is a critical moment to reflect on how we can protect and strengthen press freedom during this time.”
Bichachi thanked the media sector partners, including UNESCO, Makerere University, the Uganda Human Rights Commission, and various civil society groups, for their continued collaboration in advancing media freedoms. He called on all stakeholders especially those in government to uphold their roles in ensuring a safe and functional media space for the benefit of democracy.
Ugandan Lawyer Urges Media Unity and Accountability
Counsel Philip Karugaba, a leading Ugandan lawyer and advocate for media freedom, called on journalists, civil society, and Ugandan citizens to protect the integrity of the nation’s democracy ahead of the 2026 general elections. Karugaba delivered a stark warning about the deepening polarization, growing institutional mistrust, and the dangers of voter apathy, all of which he believes threaten to undermine Uganda’s democratic processes.
Karugaba, speaking under the theme “Defending Truth in an Age of Authoritarianism and Distrust,” began by honoring Ugandan journalists who, despite facing severe risks, continue to serve as frontline defenders of democracy. “The scars of journalists tell stories of courage,” he remarked, pointing to the ongoing dangers faced by reporters covering elections, especially in volatile environments. He emphasized that the violence directed at journalists during the recent Kawempe North by-election—where media professionals were attacked serves as a reflection of Uganda’s broader crisis of governance.
He condemned the violence that turned what should have been a peaceful civic exercise into an atmosphere of terror. He asserted that the violent scenes at polling stations, as well as the assault on journalists, exposed the lack of protection for media workers and citizens during the electoral process, raising questions about the true nature of Uganda’s democracy.
Despite these unfortunate events, Karugaba remained hopeful that polarization, if approached correctly, could increase citizen participation in the electoral process. He cited the Uganda Law Society’s recent elections, which saw the highest voter turnout in history, as evidence that even in highly polarized environments, the desire for democratic engagement can be a powerful force.
A Call for Accountability
Karugaba’s speech centered around three crucial steps he believes will be vital in protecting the truth, fostering media freedom, and ensuring fair elections. The first step, he argued, is accountability. He strongly condemned the assault on journalists during the Kawempe North election and called for a thorough, transparent investigation into the attacks. “Laws like the Press and Journalists Act must be reformed to align with the constitutional promise of free expression,” he said, underscoring that journalists must be protected, not punished calling for justice in these matters as a means of reinforcing the rule of law.
Empowering the Media
The second step Karugaba highlighted was empowerment. He stressed that for journalists to effectively cover elections and hold power to account, they must have access to adequate resources, training, and safety measures. “Taking precaution is not cowardice,” he said, referencing a personal experience during a security drill that had turned into a tense situation with gunfire. He pointed out that journalists in Uganda need more than just legal protection; they need safety training, risk assessments, and the tools to do their jobs in potentially dangerous environments. “Journalists covering elections should be equipped to protect themselves,” Karugaba emphasized, calling on media organizations to prioritize the safety and well-being of their teams.
In this regard, Karugaba encouraged media houses to forge alliances with institutions like the Uganda Law Society and the Uganda Medical Association. These partnerships, he argued, would ensure that injured journalists receive proper medical attention and legal support, fostering a safer environment for them to work in.
Fostering National Unity
The final step Karugaba proposed was unity. He noted that the fight for media freedom is not just a journalist’s concern, but a national one. “When we vote in 2026, we must ask ourselves: Which leaders will protect the press?” he challenged the audience. He encouraged Ugandans to reject self-censorship, embrace open debate, and stand in solidarity with the media. Karugaba also urged the public to focus on shared national goals, such as job creation, health, and peace, which transcend political divides. He called on media houses to run campaigns that unite citizens around these common aspirations, rather than fueling further division.
A Final Plea for Truth
Concluding his address, Karugaba called for an active and engaged citizenry, urging Ugandans to report fearlessly, verify information relentlessly, and hold their leaders accountable. He invoked the words of Nelson Mandela, who famously stated that a critical press is the “lifeblood of democracy.” For Uganda’s democracy to thrive, he emphasized, journalists, citizens, and regulators must all play their part in defending the truth.
“We must write our future with bold and fearless headlines,” Karugaba concluded, “where truth, unity, and democracy take precedence.”
Two Veteran Journalists and Makerere Youth Honored for Outstanding Contribution to Uganda’s Media
Three prestigious journalism awards were presented by the Uganda Media Sector Working Group to honor outstanding contributions to the development of media and press freedom in the country. The recipients included two towering figures in Ugandan journalism Dr. Zadok Ekimwere and Mr. Drake Ssekeba—as well as a spirited youth team from Makerere University, recognized for their compelling performance in an inter-university media debate.
The awards, which recognize cumulative impact on journalism rather than specific stories or publications, are uniquely designed to spotlight individuals and institutions that have shaped Uganda’s media landscape over time. Previous honorees have included institutions such as UMCAT and UMWA (Uganda Media Women’s Association), veteran journalists like Charles Zziwa, and even unsung heroes like a newspaper vendor who sold newspapers every day for over 20 years—walking nearly 10 kilometers daily. “That’s the kind of dedication that often goes unnoticed in the newsroom,” remarked Charles Bichachi one of the organizers.
Dr. Zadok Ekimwere: From the Voice of Uganda to Training a Generation
The first journalism Lifetime Achievement Award went to Dr. Zadok Ekimwere, whose remarkable 40-year journey in Ugandan media began in the late 1970s. Fresh out of Makerere University in 1977, he joined the Voice of Uganda then infamously dubbed “Voice of Amin” as a features writer. He continued to serve under various regimes, writing for The National Mirror during the Uganda National Liberation Front era, and later moving to The New Visionin 1986, where he rose through the ranks as a sub-editor, features editor, and eventually training editor.
Ekimwere’s influence extended far beyond the newsroom. After earning a PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication from the University of South Carolina, he became a respected media trainer, serving briefly at Victoria and Ndejje universities before becoming Principal at UMCAT School of Journalism and Mass Communication between 2017 and 2018. He currently works as a media and communication consultant and remains active in journalism education at UMI.
Accepting the award, Ekimwere gave a poignant speech. “Journalism is not about freebies. I have never taken a bribe,” he declared. He shared stories of editorial resistance, including a moment when he defied orders from a superior to euphemize a currency devaluation. “I insisted on using the correct term devalued.’ I wasn’t sacked. Maybe I missed a promotion, but I was true to journalism.”
Ekimwere expressed deepest pride in the many young journalists he mentored over the decades. “Seeing them write, seeing them debate—I feel very honored,” he said.
Drake Sekeba: Six Decades of Fearless Reporting
The second Lifetime Achievement Award was bestowed upon Mr. Drake Sekeba, one of Uganda’s most enduring and widely respected journalists. His career began in 1965 as a trainee reporter at the Sekanyolya newspaper and would span some of the country’s most turbulent decades. Ssekeba worked with an array of historical newspapers Uganda Argus, The People, Munno, Ngabo, and The Star, among others and later became one of the first journalists to transition fluidly into broadcast.
Sekeba’s long career included dangerous run-ins with both Idi Amin’s and Milton Obote’s regimes, including detention without trial and an attempted shooting at a press conference. But he pressed on. In the early 2000s, he became a household name at WBS Television, producing and presenting widely popular programs such as Tulatogere, Motesana, and the long-running investigative series Vumbula.
He is also a published author, with works like Media Bullets in Uganda: A Reference Guide to the History of Newspapers and their Role in Politics and the Church.
Visibly moved as he accepted his award, Sekeba said, “This is the first time I am getting a brown envelope—and for Jesus, it is the right time.” He reaffirmed his love for journalism and shared an anecdote about a minister once attempting to influence coverage. “I told my boss: I will give the minister good press—if I can interview the other side. And I did. Fair and balanced. That’s journalism.”
Makerere University Students Honored for Press Freedom Debate Victory
The final award celebrated the future of journalism—a vibrant student team from Makerere University, who won the Inter-University Media Debate hosted by the Media Challenge Initiative. The debate focused on the provocative question: “Has social media advanced or hindered press freedom?” and featured teams from Uganda Christian University, Kampala International University, and Makerere University.
Judged on depth, clarity, and understanding of media ethics, the students from Makerere emerged victorious after a spirited face-off with Uganda Christian University in the final round.
In their acceptance remarks, the students highlighted their commitment to truth and accountability. One student echoed George Orwell, saying: “Journalism is printing what someone else doesn’t want printed. Everything else is public relations.” Another added, “We’ve been told we are the leaders of tomorrow, but tomorrow is here. Our voices must rise above oppression. Our time is now.”
Jan Ajwang, a lead judge and member of the Uganda Media Sector Working Group, emphasized the importance of mentorship across generations. “The young can learn from the old—and the old can learn from the young,” she said.
The day closed with training sessions conducted by CIPESA on different media aspects in three breakaway venues on Online security, Misinformation and Fact Checking and, Physical security.
The 2025 Press Freedom Day celebrations not only honored legacy and longevity but also served as a bridge between generations. From the principled resistance of veteran journalists like Ekimwere and Ssekeba to the bold convictions of student debaters, the day underscored a unifying message: journalism in Uganda must continue to stand as a pillar of truth, justice, and public accountability.
“Whether you are 20 or 70,” said one attendee, “it’s clear—Uganda’s media still has heroes, and its future is still worth fighting for.”
Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer, CHUSS
Humanities & Social Sciences
Over 2,000 Attend Makerere’s Dialogue on Traditional Spirituality, Herbal Medicine, Witchcraft and Questions of Truth
Kampala | Makerere University 29th April 2025
In one of the most intellectually provocative events in recent memory, over 2,000 participants—online and in person gathered at Makerere University on Tuesday for a historic public dialogue titled “Traditional Spirituality, Herbal Medicine, Witchcraft and Questions of Truth.” The forum, hosted by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), drew academics, students, researchers, spiritual practitioners, and members of the public to explore issues often considered taboo in formal education.
By 2:00 pm, the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology’s Conference Hall was filled beyond capacity, forcing latecomers to seek alternative venues or follow the conversation through livestreams. Zoom was capped at 500 users before the official start, while over 1,000 more followed via YouTube. The dialogue extended into the evening, with audiences riveted for more than five hours.
Clash of Paradigms: Philosophy Meets Spiritual Practice
At the heart of the event were two divergent but deeply respected voices: Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo, philosopher, ethicist, and renowned cartoonist, and Dr. Yahaya Hills Kagali Sekagya, a traditional spiritualist, herbalist, and trained dental surgeon with a PhD in Public Health. Sekagya also studied Law.
Decolonizing Knowledge and Defending Indigenous Science
Dr. Sekagya, Director of PROMETRA Uganda and a global voice in traditional medicine, provided a nuanced defense of African spirituality and indigenous healing practices. Moving fluently between biomedical terminology and metaphysical concepts, he highlighted the depth and legitimacy of knowledge embedded in African cosmologies.
Although often judged by his appearance—he wore a spiritual robe during the event—his academic and medical credentials challenged stereotypes about traditional healers. Many who initially dismissed Sekagya as a “witch” based solely on his attire, were shocked upon hearing of his scientific training.
A Dialogue That Defied Boundaries
Their dialogue dissected the boundaries between indigenous healing systems, spiritual worldviews, modern science, and Western rationalism. The discussion traversed numerous academic and epistemological fields—philosophy, sociology, engineering, religion, psychology, and medicine—emphasizing that complex issues such as truth and healing cannot be understood through isolated disciplines. Both speakers called for an integrative approach to knowledge that includes the arts, humanities, and traditional sciences alongside STEM.
The key take away was that, “Knowledge is not confined to university departments. We need philosophy to understand medicine, and we need spirituality to understand psychology. The human experience is too complex for a single lens.”
Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo: “The More You Know, the More Knowledge Humbles You”
Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo delivered a powerful address on the necessity of openness, intellectual humility, and epistemic justice . He was gave the motivation behind hosting the public dialogue interrogating African spirituality, herbal medicine, and the boundaries of science.
Dr. Ssentongo opened with a moment of synchronicity involving the name “Augustine,” moving into a parable about Saint Augustine and the mystery of divine knowledge. He used this story to underline a key point: that human understanding is always partial, and that true wisdom begins with acknowledging how little we truly know.
“We always want to imagine that we know the world so well,” he said. “But we fail to acknowledge that the world is so complex. There are more things than we can ever know.”
Drawing from Socrates’ declaration—“I know that I don’t know”—Ssentongo urged fellow academics and participants to adopt a humble posture toward knowledge, rejecting the arrogance that comes with narrow-mindedness or disciplinary silos.
He addressed the backlash surrounding the event, including accusations of promoting witchcraft, with sharp critique and clarity:
“You don’t have to agree with something to understand it… It’s our unwillingness to engage that empowers ignorance and exploitation—whether in herbal medicine or religion.”
Ssentongo challenged the binary thinking that dominates academia and social discourse, particularly how indigenous knowledge is marginalized through labels like “alternative medicine.”
“That language is not innocent,” he warned. “It has already created the main—the authentic—and the alternative. And we keep building these binaries which are very detrimental to understanding.”
He lamented the politics of knowledge production, pointing out that powerful interests from pharmaceutical companies to religious establishments often dictate what is recognized as legitimate knowledge, thereby stifling critical inquiry into African spiritual and healing practices.
In a moment of warmth and humility, Ssentongo lauded guest speaker Dr. Sekagya for his depth of knowledge and gracious composure, despite being prematurely judged based on appearance:
“We profile people based on what’s already in our minds. When you do that, you build a wall that blocks understanding.”
He closed with gratitude to the organizing teams, university leadership, and the patient audience, reminding all that the session’s six-hour length was testament to the power of curiosity, intellectual freedom, and dialogue.
“The more you know, the more knowledge humbles you,” he said. “And I love humble people—that’s the sign of true education.”
Principal Nkabala Applauds Groundbreaking Dialogue on Truth and Decolonisation
While closing the dialogue, Associate Professor Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), reflected on the boldness of the topic, Prof. Nkabala admitted initial concerns over whether enough publicity had been done for such a sensitive conversation. But her concerns quickly gave way to admiration for the depth and courage of the discussions.
“This is the very reason the college exists,” she said. “We are not afraid of speaking about the things many are afraid to talk about.”
She praised the dialogue for achieving the core mission of the Humanities and Social Sciences: to broaden perspectives, enhance global awareness, and deepen our understanding of human behaviour. With confidence, she noted that all participants—whether in-person or online—had walked away transformed in their thinking.
Prof. Nkabala commended Dr. Sekagya for integrating science with cultural and spiritual frameworks, and Dr. Spire Sentongo for initiating a conversation that challenged binaries and inspired creativity. She mentioned emerging ideas such as “deep green spirituality” and renewed interest in electromagnetics, highlighting how the discussion had sparked innovation beyond the humanities.
“This shows that the conversation we have had has really inspired people—and they are becoming more innovative than they would have wanted,” she remarked.
With gratitude, she acknowledged the CHUSS team, Makerere University management and all participants. Her message was clear: this was not a one-off event, but a starting point in a series of transformative engagements.
“Just watch this space,” she said, promising more impactful dialogues to come.
She then invited Deputy Principal Assoc. Prof. Eric Awich Ochen to offer closing sentiments on behalf of the college, adding a “physical touch” to the collective appreciation for such a powerful and memorable gathering.
One of the Most Impactful Symposiums at Makerere: Deputy Principal Applauds Courageous Dialogue Bridging Humanities and Science
Using a metaphor from astrophysics, Prof. Awich likened human understanding to the work of space telescopes like Hubble, which, despite operating for decades, can only capture a fraction of the vast cosmos.
“Even what the telescope is showing us is less than 1% of what’s out there,” he remarked. “That tells you how little we know—and how much more there is to question, explore, and understand.”
He also offered warm praise to Dr. Sentongo, whose public image as a cartoonist and columnist is matched by a deeply intellectual and humble personal presence. Sentongo, he revealed, is preparing to exhibit new creative work that continues this exploration of truth and identity.
The deputy principal applauded the panelists and especially Dr. Christine Mbabazi Mpyangu, the symposium’s moderator from the Department of Religion and Peace Studies, for guiding the complex conversation with clarity and balance. He described her selection as the “best choice that could ever happen for this symposium.”
Prof. Awich also emphasized how the themes of the day—truth, spirituality, medicine, and the decolonisation of knowledge—are not merely academic curiosities but essential areas of inquiry for understanding African identity, history, and global positioning.
“This is very good for our students,” he said. “It’s humbling, and it’s intellectually nourishing. I have been deeply moved and educated by this dialogue.”
He closed by inviting all participants to “watch this space” for future dialogues that will continue to push intellectual boundaries and make CHUSS a cornerstone of Makerere’s global thought leadership.
“Thank you again for coming. Whether you were here physically or joined us online, we are grateful. And I promise, this is just the beginning.”
A Bold Dialogue on Truth, Decolonisation, and African Knowledge Systems
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, Dean of the School of Liberal and Performing Arts at Makerere University, called on scholars, students, and the wider public to embrace African epistemologies, challenge colonial legacies, and confront entrenched biases in the understanding of truth and science.
“Why should we fear these conversations?” Dr. Khanakwa asked. “Our dialogue today seeks to interrogate the little understood and often blurred lines between traditional African spirituality, herbal medicine, and witchcraft.”
The she said formed part of Makerere‘s broader initiative to decolonise education and expand the frontiers of knowledge by re-examining the role and validity of indigenous African practices in modern society and a reclamation of African intellectual space
Khanakwa’s address was not merely ceremonial; it was a scholarly critique of how colonial regimes distorted African worldviews and knowledge systems, relegating them to the margins of legitimacy.
“What was African—our indigenous knowledge—was labelled barbaric, primitive, demonic, evil,” she said. “Meanwhile, Western belief systems, especially biomedicine, were centralized as the standard of progress and truth.”
She pointed to laws like Uganda’s Witchcraft Act of 1957 and Zimbabwe’s Witchcraft Suppression Act of 1899 as colonial tools used to criminalize African religious and healing practices, reinforcing the hierarchy between Western science and African spirituality.
These laws, she noted, continue to influence public policy and education, often excluding or diminishing traditional healing and metaphysical systems that millions on the continent continue to rely on.
Blurring the Line Between Science and Spirituality
Dr. Khanakwa challenged the false dichotomy between science and non-science, noting that many African healing practices dismissed as superstition may simply be sciences that remain understudied or misunderstood.
“How about if what we consider witchcraft is actually science which has not yet been unlocked?” she asked, raising the example of traditional bone-setters who reportedly mend fractures remotely—an observation met with nods and murmurs of agreement from the audience.
She also referenced the lingering stigma within academic institutions, sharing a conversation with a colleague in veterinary sciences who was wary of interacting with social scientists because of perceived connections to witchcraft.
“This fear and ridicule are rooted not in reason, but in the colonial devaluation of African knowledge,” Khanakwa explained and called for critical appraisal, not blind reverence.
While deeply rooted in the cultural reclamation agenda, Khanakwa emphasized that the event was not a platform for blind celebration of all traditional practices. Rather, it was a space for critical epistemic appraisal—an honest, analytical exploration of what constitutes truth, and who gets to define it.
“We are not just here to romanticize indigenous knowledge,” she said. “We are here to examine it rigorously, question the boundaries, and reclaim intellectual agency.”
She framed the dialogue as both an academic and civic responsibility, rooted in the liberal arts tradition of open-minded inquiry and debate- a knowledge without borders
In a nod to African communalism, Dr. Khanakwa closed her remarks with an invitation to inclusivity and collective growth:
“In an African house, there is always space for one more. You cannot lock someone out in the rain because you say the house is full.”
The spirit of intellectual hospitality, she argued, must extend to epistemological spaces—where truth is not confined to laboratories or lecture halls in the Global North, but also resides in shrines, herbs, rituals, and oral traditions passed down through generations.
As she welcomed the day’s speakers, Khanakwa reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to being more than an academic institution: a site of African self-discovery, healing, and intellectual sovereignty.
Questioning the Scientific Method and Medical Colonialism
Dickson Kanakulya, Head of the Department of Philosophy at Makerere University, issued a critique of society’s fear of “uncomfortable knowledge” and positioned Makerere as a courageous leader in pushing intellectual frontiers that others fear to approach.
“Makerere is not fearful to explore all aspects of knowledge,” Dr. Kanakulya declared. “That is what has made this institution great—we ask the questions that others are afraid to ask.”
The event—attended by over 2,000 people both in-person and online—was part of a growing series of intellectual forums led by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) that challenge conventional paradigms of science, truth, and African knowledge systems.
Dr. Kanakulya used the platform to interrogate the longstanding hierarchies that have historically labeled indigenous knowledge as superstition or witchcraft. He drew attention to how rituals, symbols, and metaphysical practices in African traditions have been ridiculed, while similar elements in Western religious and scientific institutions are normalized or revered.
“Why is it that when a Pope wears red or conducts elaborate rituals, it’s considered sacred—but when an African elder wears a leopard skin, it’s ‘witchcraft’?” he asked. “What is the psychoanalytic message behind those colors, garments, and rituals?”
Referencing comparative burial rituals—from Vatican ceremonies to the traditional burial of a Omutaka wrapped in over 200 barkclothes—he questioned the global double standards that determine which practices are called ‘holy’ and which are dismissed as irrational.
“We are not just asking religious questions—we are asking epistemological questions: who defines what knowledge is, and who gets excluded?”
Perhaps most provocatively, Dr. Kanakulya challenged blind reliance on what he called the “so-called scientific method,” especially in light of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
“COVID-19 raised a very serious question: does the scientific method work?” he asked. “When the pandemic struck, even our most decorated scientists ran and hid. Vaccines were promised, but not available. And yet, African herbal knowledge—like Professor Ogwang’s COVIDEX—saved lives.”
He praised Ogwang’s use of traditional medicinal knowledge passed down by his mother to develop a treatment that gained national certification and public trust during the health crisis, even while being initially discouraged by the scientific establishment.
Kanakulya described this contradiction as “medical colonialism”—a phenomenon where Western institutions continue to control narratives around health, healing, and legitimacy, despite relying on indigenous knowledge for drug development.
“Over 60% of pharmaceutical drugs have roots in traditional herbal medicine. Yet we are told the version made in the lab is superior to the one made by God. Why?”
Echoing themes from thinkers like Descartes, Richard Rorty, and Albert Einstein, Dr. Kanakulya urged attendees to reconsider the very nature of knowledge and reality. He connected traditional African metaphysics to emerging fields like quantum physics, highlighting how both challenge fixed notions of objectivity and material reality.
“Traditional African science believes that molecules and cells are constantly absorbing information—through light, sound, and energy. That’s what quantum mechanics now confirms,” he explained. “When elders say a stone remembers what happened, and science says DNA remains at crime scenes, are we not talking about the same phenomenon through different lenses?”
He raised challenging philosophical comparisons: summoning a person’s spirit in a water basin vs. seeing their face on a smartphone screen. Both, he argued, deal with unseen connections and transmissions of information. So, which one is called witchcraft—and why?
“The question of witchcraft is a question of epistemology. It’s not just a cultural issue; it’s about how we define reality and truth. It is time to decolonize those definitions.”
Kanakulya also connected philosophical inquiry to policy questions, especially the right to health in African constitutions. He noted that 80% of Africans rely on traditional medicine, yet it remains underfunded, un researched, and stigmatized.
“If the right to health is a human right, then herbal medicine must be mainstreamed,” he said. “We cannot continue to rely on knowledge produced in Western laboratories when we have solutions rooted in our own environment and history.”
Citing rising rates of non-communicable diseases among Africans under 30, he warned that Africa’s future is being shaped by pharmaceutical industries and researchers who are not accountable to local communities.
“They have our DNA in labs. They are designing drugs for African genes. That is medical colonialism. And you think you are free because you raise a flag on Independence Day?”
Dr. Kanakulya concluded with a call to embrace philosophy as a tool for critical inquiry and emancipation.
“Philosophy asks the uncomfortable questions. Are you in love or are you dreaming? Are you alive or are you merely existing under illusions passed down to you?”
He urged the academic community to take seriously African forms of knowledge—including metaphysical and spiritual practices—and to move beyond outdated colonial binaries of science vs. superstition.
“Witchcraft is not just in shrines. It’s in churches, markets, and technology. The real question is not whether it exists—but how we understand it, and what truths we are afraid to see.”
The remarks set a powerful tone for the evening’s dialogue and reinforced the role of the Department of Philosophy as a leading voice in deconstructing knowledge hierarchies at one of Africa’s oldest universities.
Looking Forward
The event has sparked interest in more dialogues exploring spirituality, healing, and knowledge systems. Students and staff reportedly requested future sessions, including modules on electromagnetics in traditional healing and “deep green spirituality.”
As the sun set on Makerere Hill, the session ended not with closure, but with a challenge—one issued implicitly by every speaker and participant: to keep questioning, keep listening, and to rediscover the wisdom that centuries of erasure have tried to silence.
You can access the Public Dialogue, “Traditional Spirituality, Herbal Medicine, Witchcraft and Questions of Truth “ on YouTube Video embedded below.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer CHUSS
Humanities & Social Sciences
Makerere’s US Studies Centre Hosts First Research Workshop to Kick Off U.S.–Uganda Relations Book Project
Kampala, April 28, 2025 — The Centre for United States Studies at Makerere University held its first research review workshop, marking the beginning of an ambitious academic project to publish a book examining the historical and contemporary relations between the United States and Uganda.
The workshop, held at the School of Social Sciences’ Smartroom, brought together six selected researchers to present and refine their proposals aligned with the centre’s newly launched research agenda. The agenda, supported by a startup grant from the United States Mission in Uganda, explores historical, cultural, political, and educational ties between the two nations from 1945 to the present.
Professor Paul Omach, Head of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration and Director of the Centre, officially opened the workshop. In his address, he urged researchers to stay focused on the core theme of the project and adhere strictly to research timelines to ensure timely publication of the book.
“Your work must speak to each other. The book must reflect a coherent theme, and delays in submission will only undermine its relevance,” Prof. Omach emphasized.
Prof. Omach urged researchers to remain disciplined with deadlines and cautioned against delays. “We started this workshop late today, and that’s not a good sign,” he said. “If we don’t follow timelines, the entire publication risks becoming outdated before it even goes to print.”
The centre, established in March 2025, is housed within the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, School of Social Sciences in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS). The centre aims to promote scholarship on U.S. foreign policy, cultural influence, and international relations, while fostering academic exchanges between Ugandan and American institutions.
Dr. Sylvester Kaweesi, the Principal Investigator and lead of the research agenda, emphasized the strategic importance of the workshop.
“The objectives were to clarify what is expected from the researchers, to deepen their understanding of the theme of relationality—especially its conceptual and emotional dimensions and to help researchers refine their proposals,” Dr. Kaweesi explained.
Dr. Kaweesi described the workshop as a success. “The presentations were spot-on. The researchers are well mobilized and clearly up to the task. What remains is sharpening their arguments and guiding them to collect data that supports their focus,” he said.
Presenters included Dr. Nicholas Sempijja, who is exploring how American jazz has influenced Ugandan popular music. “I want to show that cultural influence isn’t just about politics—it’s embedded in everyday life,” he said.
Ms. Patience Mbeki, a PhD student at the Makerere Institute of Social Research, presented her study on the impact of American education models on Uganda’s system. “I am particularly interested in how values are transmitted through curricula,” she said.
Other topics included counter-terrorism cooperation (Dr. Mafumbo Charlotte and Dr. Kibirige Nakaiza), the Peace Corps’ role in local development (Dr. Bernard Luwererkera), democracy promotion (Mr. Bwire Lumumba), and constitutionalism and the rule of law (Dr. George Okiror).
As part of the roadmap, researchers will engage in secondary literature reviews before progressing to primary data collection. A second research seminar will be held to assess their progress.
The workshop also featured a session on academic writing and scholarly publishing, led by Prof. Fred Muyodi and Dr. Godwin Anywar, who emphasized the need for greater visibility of African scholarship.
They addressed the challenges African researchers face in publishing and encouraged scholars to leverage tools like social media and other digital platforms.“You may know how to write,” said Prof. Muyodi, “but it’s critical to be reminded of scientific writing standards, target journals, and how to reach your audience effectively.”
Researchers were trained in identifying appropriate journals, managing references, and using social media to disseminate their work.
Dr. Kaweesi underscored the broader value of the centre’s initiative. “This research agenda aligns perfectly with Makerere University’s vision to become a research-led institution and contributes to our internationalization strategy by fostering U.S.-Uganda academic partnerships,” he noted.
The centre plans to publish the final output—a peer-reviewed edited volume with an international academic press, possibly Routledge or another U.S.-based publisher. In addition to the book, the centre will host public dialogues and academic seminars to further disseminate findings and engage wider audiences.
The Centre for United States Studies at Makerere University is set to become a vital hub for dialogue, scholarship, and academic exchange, offering fresh perspectives on the dynamic and often complex relationship between Uganda and the United States.
Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer, CHUSS
-
General1 week agoCall for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2025/2026
-
General5 days agoAccommodation during the Recess Term: 2024/2025
-
Humanities & Social Sciences2 weeks agoOver 2,000 Attend Makerere’s Dialogue on Traditional Spirituality, Herbal Medicine, Witchcraft and Questions of Truth
-
General5 days agoMak Targets 30% Graduate Student Enrolment
-
General2 weeks agoPhase 1 of e-Learning initiative at Makerere University registers remarkable achievements