Stakeholders in Kyankwanzi District have joined hands in a community clean-up exercise in Bukwiri Town ahead of the World Press Freedom Day celebrations slated for this weekend.
The exercise, held as part of the pre-event activities, brought together security personnel, journalists, students, local leaders, and residents in a joint effort to improve sanitation and promote community engagement.
The initiative also highlighted the broader role of journalists in society beyond news reporting, showcasing their contribution to community development and social responsibility.
Journalists from the Greater Mubende region are expected to converge at Prince Gardens in Bukwiri for the main celebrations under the 2026 theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development and Security.”
Speaking after the clean-up exercise, Kyankwanzi District Community Liaison Officer Joseph Juko urged students to avoid criminal activities and negative peer influence.
“Students must remain focused on their education and avoid being misled by bad company. Your future depends on the choices you make today,” Juko said.
He further encouraged young people to avoid domestic conflicts, use their time productively, and prioritize educational and informative content.
Butemba Town Council Health Officer Edward Gasanga commended the collaboration between journalists, police, students, and the community, emphasizing the importance of sanitation in disease prevention.
“Many diseases in our communities are linked to poor sanitation. Let us maintain this spirit of cleanliness in our homes and workplaces,” Gasanga noted.
He called on residents to embrace proper waste disposal and hygiene practices to reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.
Kyankwanzi District Press Chairperson and host of the event, Azizi Walyendo Semakula, urged journalists to attend the main celebrations in large numbers, describing the day as an important moment for reflection within the media fraternity.
“This day is very important for us as journalists. It gives us an opportunity to reflect on our role, challenges, and responsibilities in society,” Semakula said.
Journalist Bagenda John emphasized the importance of cooperation between the media, authorities, and the public in promoting accountability and development.
“When the media, the public, and leaders work together, it strengthens trust, accountability, and national development,” he said.
The Headteacher of Butemba College Secondary School also applauded the media for supporting education and shaping positive values among young people.
“The media plays a critical role in influencing society, especially young people. We need stronger partnerships between journalists and schools to promote education and positive values,” the headteacher said.
The World Press Freedom Day celebrations are expected to feature discussions on media freedom, challenges facing journalists, accountability, democracy, and the role of the press in promoting peace and development.
