Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-04-17 10:00:50
Journalists and communications personnel in Uganda recently received training on promoting ethical and professional conduct within the media landscape. The two-day workshop, held at the American Center Kampala and organized by the US Embassy, emphasized the importance of journalists acting as responsible stewards of information, ensuring accuracy and fairness in their reporting.
Officials stressed the significance of journalists maintaining independence and adhering to a professional code of ethics. This includes avoiding bias, striving for objectivity, impartiality, balance, and fairness in reporting, particularly in the current age of widespread online misinformation. Mr. Suhail Mugabi, the US Embassy Press and Media Coordinator, urged journalists to use their powerful tool of journalism responsibly to build their careers, communities, and country.
The workshop also highlighted the crucial role of journalists in promoting human rights, transparency, and accountability—essential elements for a healthy democracy. Mr. Mugabi discouraged organizations from offering journalists transport refunds, as it could potentially create undue influence on reporting. He emphasized the importance of journalists maintaining independence and integrity in their reporting.
Mr. Johnson Mayamba, a US Exchange alumnus and Sub Editor at Monitor Publications Limited, emphasized the need for journalists to be proficient in fact-checking in the digital age, where news is saturated with misinformation. He highlighted the importance of equipping oneself with digital literacy skills to differentiate truth and facts from misinformation and propaganda. For communications officers, he stressed the importance of facilitating free access to information to enable journalists to report accurately, allowing citizens to make informed decisions.
Mr. Francis Ekii, the American Spaces Program Specialist, encouraged participants to apply for various US exchange programs to acquire new knowledge and sharpen their skills to perform better in their roles. The training concluded with a clear message for journalists and communications personnel to uphold ethical standards, maintain independence, and prioritize the dissemination of accurate and transparent information to the public.
In conclusion, the workshop served as a reminder to journalists and communications professionals in Uganda of the essential principles of ethical conduct and professionalism in the media industry. By upholding these values and embracing their roles as responsible stewards of information, journalists can contribute to a more informed and empowered society.
Read the original article on Uganda Monitor
