Masindi journalists commended for unity, professionalism
He acknowledged the challenges facing journalists today, including an evolving media landscape and increasing threats to press freedom, but expressed confidence in overcoming these obstacles together.
Masindi: The former Minister for Bunyoro affairs, Earnest Kiiza has praised the journalists affiliated with the Greater Masindi Media Practitioner’s Association (GMEPA) for their unity and cooperative spirit.
Speaking as the chief guest at the association’s leadership handover ceremony at Kabalega Resort Hotel Masindi over the weekend, Kiiza emphasized the importance of the journalists’ solidarity, noting it benefits both their professional growth and the wider community.
He commended outgoing GMEPA President Steven Wandera for his effective leadership and the smooth transition of power to the newly appointed president Yosam Gucwaki. Kiiza also pledged ongoing support to GMEPA to help the association achieve its objectives and continue fostering professionalism among journalists in the district.
At the same event, Rogers Byamukama, the association’s patron, commended journalists in Masindi for their dedication to informing the public and promoting local creative talent. He praised their efforts in keeping the community informed about national events and developments.
David Kyetume Kasangaki, Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of ICT and Secretary to the Media Council of Uganda, also lauded the professionalism of Masindi’s journalists, noting that his office has received no complaints about their conduct.
He encouraged them to maintain this discipline and continue to portray the district positively. Kyetume further advised journalists to uphold journalistic principles by avoiding misinformation, disinformation, and malformation, emphasizing that ethical reporting would strengthen their credibility and help them thrive in the field.
Yosam Gucwaki, the newly elected president of the Greater Masindi Media Practitioner’s Association (GMEPA), outlined his vision for the association.
His goals include promoting professionalism and journalist welfare in Masindi, enhancing the relevance of the media in the community, and upholding high journalistic standards. “Today marks a new chapter in our association’s journey,” Gucwaki stated, pledging to protect members’ interests, promote collaboration, and ensure inclusivity.
Gucwaki acknowledged the challenges facing journalists today, including an evolving media landscape and increasing threats to press freedom, but expressed confidence in overcoming these obstacles together.
He aims to strengthen advocacy, safeguard press freedom, and promote journalists’ safety and welfare. Gucwaki also committed to fostering professional development, supporting talent growth, and establishing partnerships to advance media literacy and combat misinformation.
Outgoing GMEPA President Steven Wandera advised journalists to remain professional, especially in the politically charged environment, to avoid being exploited by politicians. He also called on media house owners to honor contracts, remit NSSF contributions, and improve journalists’ pay.
The new executive team includes Ismail Bategaka as vice president, Innocent Atuganyira as general secretary, Marion Kabagenyi as treasurer, Moses Andama as publicity secretary, and members Joel Tinkasimiire and Teddy Kabasindi, all set to serve a two-year term.
The event, attended by local leaders such as Masindi District Woman MP Florence Asiimwe and Masindi Municipality Mayor Ronald Kyomuhendo, saw pledges of support for the association’s initiatives.
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