Journalists in Kisoro District have been urged to avoid internal conflicts and disunity to strengthen their identity and professionalism.
This message underscored the World Press Freedom Day celebrations held on Saturday by the Kisoro United Journalists Association (KUJA).
The day’s activities commenced in the morning with journalists, accompanied by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF), Uganda Prisons Service, Kisoro corporate walkers, political leaders, municipal authorities, and other agencies, participating in a clean-up exercise in Kisoro Municipality.
The activities continued in the evening with a friendly football match between KUJA and the Kisoro United Boda Boda Operators (KUBO), which ended in a draw. KUJA ultimately won 4–3 in a penalty shootout. Finally, a dinner was held at Carnet Hotel in Kisoro Municipality.
Speaking as the guest of honor, Emmanuel Maniraguha, the Director of Tour Land Cottages, cautioned journalists that internal divisions and conflicts have impeded their progress. He emphasized that unity and collaboration would have enabled them to achieve greater professional milestones.
Maniraguha encouraged regular discussions as a means of addressing the challenges journalists encounter in their work.
Former Kisoro Local Council Five (LCV) Chairperson, Milton Mutabazi, condemned the increasing violations of journalists’ rights in Uganda. He highlighted brutal arrests, assaults, and intimidation as significant issues affecting the media. Mutabazi urged journalists to serve as vigilant watchdogs in the fight against corruption nationwide.
Meanwhile, Michael Bazamanza, the Mayor of the Northern Division in Kisoro Municipality, commended the teamwork and cooperation demonstrated in organizing the day’s events.
The President of KUJA, Kate Atuzarirwe, extended her gratitude to the journalists who participated in commemorating the day.
She stated that the presence and involvement of the journalists significantly enhanced the celebration, reinforcing the importance of solidarity and freedom within the profession.
Atuzarirwe acknowledged journalists for embracing and supporting the mission, vision, and objectives of the association, noting that their dedication, resilience, and professionalism embody the true spirit of journalism.
Similarly, Yatuha Lucky, the Chairperson of the organizing committee, congratulated the journalists for making the event vibrant.
He acknowledged the love, collaboration, and support shown during the preparations for the World Press Freedom Day celebrations.
