Journalists in Kabale District have appealed for the introduction of a minimum wage, increased media independence, and stronger legal safeguards to protect them as they carry out their work.
They raised the concerns on May 3 as the world marked World Press Freedom Day, an annual event that promotes awareness about press freedom, journalist safety, and media protection worldwide. This year’s theme is “Shaping a Future at Peace.”
Job Namanya Apuuli, a journalist with Tayari Media, said meaningful press freedom cannot exist without financial stability for media practitioners.
“Many media practitioners are underpaid, work without pay, making them vulnerable and undervalued,” Namanya said.
He advocated for a structured minimum salary similar to other professions, proposing that journalists holding degrees should earn at least one million Uganda shillings.
He also called for formal employment contracts to guarantee job security, noting that many private media organisations fail to provide them.
At the same time, Enock Nyamuhaki, a reporter at Banyakigezi FM, said journalists still face restrictions in carrying out their work despite their responsibility to inform the public.
He described journalism as a dangerous profession, especially when reporting on corruption-related stories, adding that influential individuals often use their power to intimidate reporters even when there is solid evidence.
“I want to urge Parliament to strengthen legal protections for journalists, emphasizing that practicing journalism should not be treated as a crime,” Nyamuhaki said.
Jane Elizabeth Umutangana of Kigezi Television said political influence continues to undermine press freedom, particularly due to the close relationship between some media owners and politicians.
She added that security agencies, rather than protecting journalists, have in some cases violated their rights through harassment and assault while they are on assignment.
Umutangana called on authorities to respect journalists and ensure they can work in a safe and free environment.