The Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, has revealed that government plans are underway to procure technology that will help regulate social media platforms, including tracking and blocking harmful online content.
Baryomunsi said the move is part of broader efforts to address misinformation, close communication gaps, and strengthen accountability in the digital space.
He added that the government is in the final stages of introducing a new national communication regulatory policy aimed at harmonising public messaging and improving coordination across the country.
“We have already tabled the new policy for review before Cabinet, and they have highlighted their comments. It is now in its final stages,” Baryomunsi said. “We also have the Computer Misuse Act in place, and many people are being held accountable under the existing law.”
The Minister made the remarks while officiating at the National Strategic Communications Committee (NSCC) stakeholders’ meeting in Kampala. The NSCC is a high-level body tasked with coordinating and centralising government communication to promote a unified national image and safeguard the country’s reputation.
He emphasised that as digital platforms continue to expand, governments must adopt technology-driven solutions to curb clearly harmful online content without undermining responsible expression.
The planned regulatory measures, he said, are intended to improve clarity, accuracy, and discipline in public communication while ensuring that digital platforms are not misused.
Baryomunsi reiterated that the government's approach seeks to balance regulation with freedom of expression, noting that the goal is not to suppress voices but to promote responsible communication that supports national development and social cohesion.
