Rwenzori journalists urged to collaborate with security agencies for regional development
“The media plays a critical role in shaping our society. I urge you to report responsibly and contribute to the transformation of our region,” she said.
Fort Portal: The Fort Portal Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Asumin Nasike has called on journalists to strengthen collaboration with security agencies to foster peace and socio-economic transformation in the Rwenzori sub-region.
Nasike made the remarks during a two-day regional security-media retreat held in Fort Portal City, organized by the Ministry of ICT.
The retreat brought together journalists and security personnel from across the Rwenzori sub-region under the theme of promoting peace and development through accurate and responsible media coverage.
Highlighting the vital role of the media in national development, RCC Nasike urged journalists to uphold responsible reporting that promotes progress and unity.
“The media plays a critical role in shaping our society. I urge you to report responsibly and contribute to the transformation of our region,” she said.
She issued a stern warning to those seeking to destabilize the region, asserting her readiness to take firm action against criminal elements.
“I will not tolerate any form of hooliganism in this area. I am experienced, and I will deal with such elements firmly,” she warned.
Nasike also emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue between the media and security organs to address misconceptions and manage the dissemination of sensitive information.
“Some information is sensitive and should be handled with discretion for the betterment of our country,” she added.
Edmund Turyatunga, Director of Media at the Internal Security Organization (ISO), also addressed participants, urging journalists to present balanced stories that highlight both government achievements and existing challenges.
“Before exposing the negative, take time to appreciate what the government has already done,” Turyatunga advised.
He encouraged District Internal Security Officers (DISOs) to remain accessible to media professionals to avoid misinformation and promote accurate reporting.
“DISOs should work hand-in-hand with information officers to spread the government’s achievements before misinformation takes root on social media,” he said.
Steven Ainganiza, Communications Officer for Kabarole District, praised the retreat for bridging communication gaps between the media and security forces. He highlighted the launch of a weekly magazine by ISO and the Ministry of ICT as a key outcome of the retreat.
“The new magazine will enable us, as government communicators, to inform the public about what the government has done and what it plans to do for our region’s development,” Ainganiza noted.
The retreat concluded with a renewed commitment from both media and security stakeholders to collaborate in promoting peace, development, and national unity through responsible communication.
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