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

Kampala | Makerere University 29^th 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

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.

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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