Uganda Mandates Compulsory Cadre Course for Journalists at Kyankwanzi

The Ugandan government has made it mandatory for all journalists to undergo a cadre course at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, a move that has sparked debate within the media industry.

The directive was confirmed by Minister Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, who delivered a message from the Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, during a stakeholder meeting with media owners and executives at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) headquarters in Bugolobi, Kampala.

According to Minister Barugahara, the order comes directly from President Yoweri Museveni, who set June 30 as the deadline for journalists to complete the training. The government argues that the "few days' course" is designed to help media professionals navigate the complexities of modern journalism, particularly in addressing misinformation, upholding ethical reporting, and managing the security implications of media content.In his remarks, Barugahara emphasized the role of media owners and editors in preventing the spread of harmful information, calling for greater consistency and accuracy in news reporting.

UCC Executive Director George William Nyombi Thembo backed the decision, noting that media regulation is not just about press freedom but also about national security. He urged media owners to be mindful of the broader implications of their content on the country’s stability.

The decision has received mixed reactions from journalists and media organizations. Some view it as a government effort to indoctrinate the press, while others believe it could offer valuable training in professional ethics and media management.

Critics argue that the move tightens state control over journalism, potentially limiting press freedom and editorial independence. 

Some media professionals fear that the government could use the training to push a pro-state narrative and suppress dissenting voices.

While details on the course structure remain unclear, the requirement has already raised concerns about journalistic autonomy and the role of the state in shaping media narratives.As the deadline approaches, media houses and journalists will be closely watching how the policy unfolds and whether it will be enforced uniformly across the industry.