RUKUNGIRI, UGANDA – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has taken decisive action against Boona FM (91.8 FM) in Rukungiri District, ordering the immediate suspension of all programs hosted by Mr. Kakyene Namanya. This directive comes amidst allegations of professional misconduct and repeated violations of Minimum Broadcasting Standards.
The order, outlined in a letter dated July 4, 2025, from UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo, follows a complaint accusing Kakyene of airing false and malicious content. The content allegedly undermined government initiatives, specifically targeting a recent energy project launch in the region.
The controversy centers on a radio program aired on July 3, 2025, hosted by Kakyene between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. According to the complainant, Kakyene made inflammatory remarks, alleging that a power extension project launched by the Minister of Energy, Hon. Ruth Nankabirwa, alongside area Members of Parliament on July 2, 2025, was a “hoax” designed to deceive voters. The complainant further claims that Kakyene’s statements encouraged the Rukungiri community to dismiss the Ministry of Energy’s efforts, accusing Boona FM of being a platform for sabotaging government programs and obstructing regional development.
This is not the first time Boona FM and Kakyene have come under scrutiny. The UCC letter references a prior investigation in 2024, which revealed that Kakyene lacks formal journalism training or qualifications relevant to the field. Additionally, Boona FM was found to have failed to register a producer or editor with the Media Council, as required by the Press and Journalist Act.
In a directive issued on December 24, 2024, the UCC ordered the station to comply within one month and submit proof of registration. To date, Boona FM has not fulfilled this requirement, prompting further regulatory action.
In response to the latest allegations, the UCC has invoked its authority under Sections 5(1)(b), (x), (j), 31, and 45 of the Uganda Communications Act 2013. The Commission has launched a formal investigation into the complaint and issued three key directives to Boona FM:
The station must immediately suspend all programs hosted or presented by Kakyene Namanya pending the investigation’s conclusion.
Boona FM is required to submit written representations addressing the complainant’s allegations.
The station must explain why further regulatory sanctions should not be imposed for its failure to comply with the December 2024 directive.
The UCC has set a deadline of 5:00 p.m. on July 18, 2025, for Boona FM to submit its representations. Failure to comply with these directives could lead to severe consequences, including the suspension or revocation of Boona FM’s broadcasting license. The UCC’s letter underscores its commitment to protecting the public from content that breaches broadcasting standards and emphasizes the importance of responsible journalism in fostering informed public discourse.
Broader Implications
The allegations against Kakyene and Boona FM have sparked debate in Rukungiri about the role of local media in community development. Supporters of the energy project argue that Kakyene’s remarks were reckless and damaging, potentially undermining efforts to improve infrastructure in a region that has long faced power access challenges. This incident also highlights broader issues within Uganda’s media sector, particularly the challenges faced by regional stations in meeting regulatory requirements. The UCC’s insistence on registering producers and editors with the Media Council aims to ensure professionalism and accountability in broadcasting.
As the UCC’s investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on Boona FM and Kakyene Namanya. The outcome could set a precedent for how regulatory bodies address alleged breaches of broadcasting standards, particularly in cases involving politically sensitive content. The case also serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between media freedom and responsibility.
