On September 3, 2024, the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), hosted the 26th Annual Media Convention under the theme "Harnessing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Social Networks to Combat Misinformation in Uganda." The convention, provided a platform for discussing the implications of AI and social media on society and the need for effective regulatory measures to address the associated challenges.
The event, held at the Yusuf Lule Auditorium, was officially opened by the Minister of State for National Guidance, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku, attended by key figures including the Vice-Chancellor’s representative, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the Executive Director of UCC, Hon. Nyombi Tembo, UPDF’s Brigadier Felix Kulayige, as well as members of academia, media practitioners, regulators, and students.
The convention featured speeches, keynote addresses, and high-level panel discussions focusing on the implications of AI for Uganda's media and communication sector. Additionally, outstanding journalism students were recognized with Students Excellence Awards from media organizations. Dr. Adolf Mbaine, a long-serving member of the department of Journalism and Communication was honored for his exemplary service and contribution.
Long-Serving Journalism Lecturer Dr. Adolf Mbaine Recognized - Bids Farewell After 28 Years at Makerere University
Dr. Adolf Mbaine, a distinguished lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, was honored during the opening ceremony of the Annual Media Convention. The surprise recognition celebrated Dr. Mbaine's nearly three decades of dedicated service to the university.
In an emotional address, Dr. Mbaine announced his retirement at the end of the month. "This was a shock to my system, so forgive me if I blabber a few lines," he began, visibly moved. "But I'm really grateful to the Department of Journalism and Communication and to Makerere University for giving me the opportunity to serve for 28 years and five months."
Dr. Mbaine expressed his appreciation for the support he received from his colleagues, including Professor Monica Chibita, Prof. Linda Nassanga and Dr. Kezab, who were present at the ceremony. Reflecting on his career, he stated, "I have made my small contribution, I'm proud about it, and I have left behind a very formidable force that will drive the department to greater heights."
Although his remarks were impromptu, Dr. Mbaine’s heartfelt tribute to his career resonated deeply with those in attendance. As he prepares to retire, Dr. Mbaine leaves behind a legacy of dedication, mentorship, and significant contributions to the field of journalism and communication at Makerere University, Uganda and beyond.
The opening Ceremony
Hon. Min. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku Urges Collaboration and Ethical AI Use
While officially opening the convention, Minister of State for National Guidance, Hon. Kabbyanga Godfrey Baluku urged stakeholders to embrace and collaborate on artificial intelligence (AI) while emphasizing the need to combat misinformation.
The minister, an alumnus of Makerere University, expressed his pride in the institution's growth and its continued role as a center of excellence in research. "I'm very happy to be at Makerere University, my university. I was here from 1986 to 1989. The university has grown and become stronger, and we are all proud of Makerere," he stated, recognizing the university's capacity to host significant conventions like this one.
Acknowledging the rapid development and widespread adoption of AI, Minister Kabbyanga reassured the audience that AI is an unstoppable force that should not incite fear but rather inspire innovation and strategic thinking. "AI is unstoppable. So don't get scared. We are in the right place, the center of excellence, the center of research," he said, urging attendees to leverage AI to overcome challenges, particularly in combating misinformation.
The minister highlighted the dual nature of AI in relation to misinformation, describing it as a "double-edged sword" that can both exacerbate and combat the spread of false information. "Misinformation is not a new phenomenon. Technology merely amplifies it," he explained, noting that while AI can be misused to spread deceptive content rapidly, it also has the potential to analyze and filter information to promote factual narratives.
To effectively address these challenges, Hon. Kabbyanga called for collaboration among all stakeholders, including government, policymakers, tech companies, academia, and civil society. He emphasized the importance of developing robust strategies to counter misinformation and underscored the government's commitment to supporting research and education to equip communities with the skills needed to navigate the complex information landscape.
The minister also praised the recent decision by the Ministry of Education and Sports, led by First Lady Janet Museveni, to allow gadgets in schools, emphasizing the need to regulate content rather than restrict access to technology. "We are not going to avoid some of these things. What we need is to regulate content," he stated, highlighting the role of the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC) in adapting to technological advancements and ensuring responsible use of AI.
The Minister stressed the importance of ethical guidelines for AI development and the need to foster a culture of responsible AI use. He encouraged Makerere University and other educational institutions to continue their interdisciplinary research and dialogue on the intersections of technology, ethics, and communication.
"While the challenges posed by AI and misinformation may seem daunting, they also present us with a unique opportunity to shape a better future. Let us commit to harnessing the potential of AI to create a more informed, educated, and resilient community," Minister Bbabyale concluded, calling for collective action to mitigate the risks associated with AI and misinformation.
Vice-Chancellor Calls on Government to Regulate Harmful Content on AI and Social Media Networks
The Vice-Chancellor of Makerere University, represented by University Secretary Yusuf Kiranda, urged the Ugandan government to take decisive action in regulating harmful content on AI and social media networks. Kiranda emphasized the urgent need to address the negative impacts of these digital platforms.
Mr. Kiranda expressed gratitude to UCC for its support in organizing the event and highlighted the importance of the collaboration in fostering discussions on the intersection of AI, social networks, and misinformation. "We thank UCC for their generous support and all partners who have contributed to the success of this important dialogue," he said.
However, Kiranda stressed the need to go beyond the discussion of misinformation and address the broader issue of harmful content, which he described as a growing concern for society. "These platforms are having a significant impact on our lives, and it is crucial that we focus on the ethical development of AI and social networks," he noted.
He also called on public officials, particularly those at UCC, to recognize the limitations of technology and actively work to mitigate the challenges it presents. "While AI and social networks offer immense potential, the extent to which we can leverage them for good depends on how we wield these tools. We must be mindful of the harmful content that permeates these platforms and take action to address it," Kiranda urged.
Kiranda illustrated the pervasive nature of harmful content on popular social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, pointing out that such content often conflicts with Ugandan societal values and aspirations, as outlined in national plans like Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan. He called for immediate action, including the possibility of restricting platforms that perpetuate harmful content. "Some of the content is simply destroying the current and future generations. I believe that just by a click of a button, UCC can solve this problem. And we must do it now," he emphasized.
Addressing the economic argument that many young Ugandans earn income from creating content on these platforms, Kiranda called for a balance between private interests and the public good. "Why should someone make money by promoting content that destroys our society? Striking a balance between individual income and societal well-being is challenging but necessary," he stated.
Kiranda underscored the importance of robust institutional frameworks to guide the responsible use of technology. He called on UCC to take a proactive approach in regulating harmful content, likening their role to that of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) in protecting wetlands. "The same way NEMA can go and destroy developments in the wetland is the same way UCC should go and destroy harmful content on social media. We are destroying society, and immediate action is needed," he warned.
ED UCC Hon. Nyombi Tembo Highlights Urgent Need to Combat Misinformation and Disinformation
Delivering a keynote address on, “Platform shifts and impact on news/ information generation and distribution”, Hon. Nyombi Tembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), emphasized the pressing issue of misinformation and disinformation in the digital age underscoring the dual-edged nature of artificial intelligence (AI) and social networks.
Tembo began by acknowledging the transformative benefits of AI but shifted focus to its darker side, highlighting the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation as significant concerns. “We live in a world where information is at our fingertips, thanks to the digital revolution,” Tembo said. “However, this ease of access comes with a severe downside — the rapid spread of false and misleading information.”
The Executive Director stressed that misinformation, which involves the unintentional spread of incorrect information, and disinformation, which is deliberately crafted to deceive, pose serious threats to societal stability. “Misinformation and disinformation can undermine decision-making processes at both personal and institutional levels,” Tembo warned. “At a national scale, they can weaken security, disrupt public health efforts, and erode trust in democratic institutions.”
Tembo cited alarming statistics to underline the gravity of the issue, including a 2024 Global Risk Report that identifies manipulated information as one of the most severe short-term risks. He also pointed out that deep fake technology and synthetic content are exacerbating the problem, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between authentic and fabricated information. “The rise of deep fakes and voice cloning means that distinguishing reality from deception is more challenging than ever,” he said.
In addressing potential solutions, Tembo advocated for a balanced approach to regulation, suggesting that like traffic management, the digital space requires oversight to ensure accuracy and reliability. “We cannot leave such a massively consumed service to chance,” he emphasized. “A balance must be struck between maintaining freedoms and ensuring responsible use of technology.”
Tembo also highlighted the need for improved media literacy and critical thinking skills as long-term strategies for combating misinformation. He urged for early education initiatives and robust regulatory frameworks to address the challenge effectively. “Incentives and penalties for compliance must be considered seriously to manage the spread of misinformation,” Tembo concluded.
Principal CHUSS Calls for Responsible AI Use
Associate Professor Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) at Makerere University, issued a passionate call for ethical and responsible artificial intelligence (AI)
In her address, Prof. Nkabala expressed gratitude for the UCC's decision to hold the event at Makerere University, a gesture she described as a testament to the institution's commitment to fostering a responsible digital environment. “It is indeed an honor to see the confidence that the UCC has in Makerere University,” she said. “We don’t take this for granted. This celebration could have been held elsewhere, but it’s here at Makerere, demonstrating your dedication to creating a clear and ethical environment.”
Prof. Nkabala framed the gathering as more than just a celebration, characterizing it as a pivotal moment for a “clarion call to duty” regarding the ethical use of AI. She emphasized the urgency of addressing the risks associated with AI, particularly as the year 2026 approaches, warning of potential dangers if these issues are not tackled promptly. “As we approach 2026, we must recognize that the dangers of AI are very real. If we do not address them now, we could be heading towards disaster,” she cautioned.
Highlighting the dual nature of AI, Prof. Nkabala acknowledged both its positive and negative aspects. She underscored the day's discussions as crucial for understanding responsible AI use, tackling misinformation, and addressing the ethical implications of AI technologies. “Today’s discussions are not just about celebrating AI but about starting a candid conversation on our responsibilities in using these powerful tools,” she stated.
Prof. Nkabala stressed that AI itself is neutral, and it is up to humans to decide how it is used. “AI on its own has no problem; it is we who must determine how to use it responsibly,” she said. “The conversations today aim to guide us through the needs, responsibilities, and ethics required to manage the risks associated with unregulated AI.”
Prof. Nkabala Applauds Department of Journalism and Communication's Growth and Ambitious Plans
Nkabala expressed her enthusiasm for the Department of Journalism and Communication’s recent advancements. She lauded the department's contributions to media discourse in Uganda and highlighted its impact on the media industry through its alumni.
She underscored the importance of the department’s ambitious plans, including proposals to expand into a school and establish Campus FM and Television. She stressed that these initiatives not only elevate the department but also enhance the college’s stature. "These ambitious initiatives are taking the department and the college to greater heights," Nkabala stated.
Acknowledging the department's consistent celebration of the Annual Media Convention over the past two decades, she thanked the UCC for its ongoing support. The Principal reiterated the college’s commitment to the development of Campus FM and Television, emphasizing their potential to amplify student voices and contribute to national conversations. She concluded by reaffirming the college's support for future collaborations and initiatives.
Dean SLLC Highlights Media’s Role in Combatting Misinformation
Associate Professor Saudah Namyalo, Dean of the School of Languages, Literature, and Communication underscored the crucial role of media and communications professionals in addressing misinformation at the Annual Media Convention.
In her speech, Prof. Namyalo emphasized the significance of the convention’s theme, noting that in an age where information and misinformation spread rapidly, the media's role has never been more critical. "The power of AI and social networks presents both tremendous opportunities and serious challenges," she said. "This convention provides a platform to explore how these tools can be harnessed effectively to fight misinformation and uphold journalistic integrity in Uganda."
She praised the ongoing collaboration between Makerere University and the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), which reflects a commitment to advancing knowledge and addressing real-world issues. "I encourage all participants to actively engage in discussions, challenge assumptions, and contribute their expertise," Prof. Namyalo stated. "Your contributions today will shape Uganda’s media landscape and foster a more informed, connected, and responsible society."
Prof. Namyalo also highlighted the department's progress since its inception in 1988. Originally a program under the Department of Literature, the department has expanded significantly in its capacity for research and graduate training in journalism, media, and communication. "It has been inspiring to see the department's growth and its influence extend across Uganda and the region," she said.
She announced that the department is now recognized as a UNESCO Center of Excellence in journalism training in Africa. "On behalf of the school, I congratulate the department for its significant milestones. With continued efforts and collective support, we will ensure that Makerere University remains at the forefront of media and communication training and scholarship," Prof. Namyalo added.
Concluding her remarks, Prof. Namyalo urged attendees to focus on truth and accuracy in journalism by enhancing their understanding and application of AI and social networks. "May this convention catalyze new ideas, practical solutions, and a renewed commitment to excellence in this critical sector," she said.
She also extended her gratitude to the organizations supporting the event, particularly the UCC, for partnering with Makerere University to highlight misinformation in the digital era.
Head, Dr. Aisha Nakiwala Emphasizes AI’s Impact and Media’s Role
Welcoming participants, the Head Department of Journalism and Communication Dr. Nakiwala Ssembatya underscored the importance of this year’s theme, which addresses the latest developments, challenges, and opportunities in media and communications. "The rise of AI presents both significant potential and notable challenges," she said. "It is essential for us to explore how AI impacts society and our field as journalists and communicators, and how we can shape its governance, practice, and regulation in our country and beyond."
Dr. Nakiwala highlighted the dual nature of AI’s impact, noting that while it automates information spread, it also exacerbates the dissemination of misinformation. She stressed the need for a multifaceted approach to address this issue, combining critical thinking with collaborative efforts from various stakeholders.
The convention aims to foster discussions on shaping AI governance and practices in the media industry. "Our goal is to address the governance of AI and the platforms used to disseminate information in this country," she added.
Expressing gratitude to the organizing team, Dr. Nakiwala specially acknowledged Miss Yasmin Katusabe for her role as the event’s convener. "Yasmin, we are very grateful for your efforts in organizing this event," she said.
She also thanked the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Bank of Uganda, SIPESA, Uganda Tourism Board, and Oslo Metropolitan University for their support. "We hope this partnership continues for many years to come," Dr. Nakiwala said, extending appreciation to the UCC and its representatives, including Honorable Nyombi Tembo.
Dr. Nakiwala acknowledged the university management for their continued support, noting that this is the 26th year of the convention. "Your openness has been crucial to our success over the years," she concluded.
Dr. Nakiwala Calls on University Management to expedite the process of elevating the Department of Journalism to a school status and revival of the Campus FM and Television
Dr. Nakiwala re-echoed the need for the department to be elevated to a school level and to have the Campus FM and TV revived. She emphasized that the processes to elevate the department to a school of journalism, media, and communication have been completed and are awaiting a decision from the university Senate. She justified the need to elevate the department to the school status.
“Mr. Vice-Chancellor Sir, represented here by the university secretary, we told you last year that the Department of Journalism and Communication had started the processes of being elevated from the status of a department to the status of a school of journalism, media, and communication.
We intend to make this the best school, not just in Africa, but probably in the world, because, as you already know, the Department of Journalism and Communication was already recognized as one of the best center of excellence in journalism, media training, and communication. So, as we mentioned last year, we would start the processes”,
The Head informed the Vice Chancellor that the processes began, and got the approvals needed all the way from the school through the college, and the department effectively sent her proposal to senate.
“We hope and pray and request through you, Mr. University Secretary, that this proposal is given the most favourable eye so that this department can transform into the school of media, communication, and journalism. We believe that by transforming this department into the school, this university will be making the biggest contribution that it has ever made to journalism and media training in the country and in the continent”.
Dr. Nakiwala also made an urgent appeal to university management to fast-track the revival of Campus FM and Television. Established in 2005 with a frequency of 107.0 MHz assigned by UCC, Campus FM was designed to serve as a crucial training lab for journalism students, akin to the laboratories used in science disciplines. However, the station's operations were halted in 2011 due to incomplete transmitter installations and accumulated license fees. The department received technical equipment from UNESCO.
She emphasized the need for university support to resolve these challenges and restore the department's critical media training facilities. She reported that the department was working with UCC, as reported in the in the media to revive the Makerere University Campus FM and to establish the Makerere University television services.
“At that juncture, I really want to appreciate the role that UCC is making to expedite this process. I want to request through you, Mr. U.S., that the management of this university prioritizes these initiatives in terms of fast-tracking the signing of the agreements that have already been sent to the legal department so that the licenses of these facilities can be granted by the Uganda Communications Commission”
“In the same effort, I want to inform you and request you, Mr. University Secretary, that the Department of Journalism and Communication will need a lot of support, pragmatic support from the management of Makerere University. Therefore, we look forward to your assistance with all the necessary resources that we will need, human, equipment, financial, and anything else.”
“We hope and pray that your office will remain as open as it has been as we push these initiatives that we think will elevate the visibility and the importance of this university in this country and the continent”.
The Closing ceremony:
Three Journalism Students Honored with Excellence Awards at Makerere University
Three outstanding students from the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University were honored with plaques, cash prizes, and internship placements. The awards, sponsored by Vision Media Group, Daily Monitor, and the Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU), are designed to inspire and encourage excellence among journalism students.
The recipients—Mariam Najjingo, Moses Olara, and Hope Ojara—were recognized during the final session of the Annual Media Convention. The award ceremony was presided over by Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs of Makerere University Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.
Dr. Aisha Nakiwala Ssembatya, the Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, highlighted the significance of the awards .“The purpose of these Student Excellence Awards is to inspire young people to excel in their academics and to become the best professionals they can be when they enter the field,” she stated. She emphasized the department’s commitment to encouraging students to begin practicing in the media early in their academic careers.
Mariam Najjingo received the prestigious "Cranma Mugerwa Photojournalism Award," sponsored by Vision Media Group. This award, established in memory of a renowned photojournalist who worked with New Vision, has been a hallmark of the department since 1998. "The purpose of this award is to inspire young people to start a career in photojournalism," Dr. Nakiwala explained. The Late Cranma Mugerwa died at the age of 36. He was a dedicated photojournalist and writer who covered the LRA insurgency in the North across the Congo boarder and the Rwanda Genocide among other notable assignments.
Flanked by her mother, Agnes Nampijja, Najjingo expressed her gratitude, stating, "This award I'm holding is a true testament to that statement that it takes an entire village to raise a single child. It wouldn't have been possible without the unrivaled support from my friends, my lecturers, my parents. I want to say thank you so much to New Vision for recognizing my efforts. With this award, a cash price, and most importantly, an opportunity for me to learn more and grow in my career I do not take that for granted”
“To the department, Mama Aisha Nakiwala, thank you so much. You've been a mother, where my mother is away. My mother is from kiboga district, but you can't imagine she's been a mother, Dr. Fred Kakooza you've been a father I can't thank you enough. I appreciate your support, all my lecturers are my parents, Dr. Marion, Dr. Ivan Lukanda, Dr. Sarah and All my lecturers, Dr. JBI, they are my parents, and they've loved me so much”.
“My fellow students, without your support, you have been accepting to share your knowledge with me” she said
The second award, the "Tebere Mudin Journalism Award," was claimed by Moses Olara. Funded by the Nation Media Group, this award honors the best student in journalism. Olara , reflected on the challenges he faced in choosing his course of study.
“I am very excited to be on this podium to receive the award, When I was joining the university I had challenges of selecting a course. I knew what I wanted by people who were paying my fees wanted a different course. So there was a struggle between me and my sponsors to choose Journalism and Communication. This award is a justification that I made the right choice” Olara said.
Tebere Mudin Journalism Award is given away in the memory of two prolific journalists, Tebere and Mudin, who worked for the Daily Monitor for the longest time of their professional life, but unfortunately they lost their lives on their way from covering a sports story, and along Jinja Road near Lugazi town, they lost their lives. And to remember them, the Nation Media Group decided that they will be awarding the best journalism student in the Department of Journalism and Communication every year.
The final award, the PRAU Communication Award, was presented to Hope Ojara, who was also recognized as the overall best-performing student in the program for 2024. Ojara, one of two first-class students for the year, expressed deep gratitude to God, his parents, lecturers, and colleagues.
“I am so overwhelmed to be here and I am so grateful first and foremost to the Lord Jesus Christ who has stood by me and died for me. I want to say special thanks to my parents in absence. M. and Mrs. Ojara Christopher you are highly honored and respected for every contribution you have made”
“I want to thank my lectures at the department . Thank you Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, you have been amazing. you have recommended me and involved me to talk to students. i thank Dr. Adolf Mbaine for being on my case reviewing my marks, Dr. William Tayeebwa, JBImokola, Harriet and all of you.. Lastly, I thank my colleagues for the support. An d to PRAU for turning my life. This means a lot to me and I will not let you down” Ojara pledged
Working with the Department of Journalism and Communication, PRAU, awards the best communication student every year. This is the second year for this award to be running. Like all the other two, the idea is to inspire young people to work hard in this professional direction, but also to do their best when they go to the field.
DVCAA Lauds the collaboration, pledges support to the department
In his closing remarks the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi said the presentation of the Students Excellence Awards by university officials, faculty, and industry partners, served as a testament to Makerere University's ongoing commitment to fostering excellence in journalism and communication.
Prof Buyinza, lauded the convention, highlighting its importance in fostering academic collaboration and advancing the role of journalism and communication in Uganda. He expressed gratitude for the participants' contributions, stating, "We value your participation and input to our scholarship, and we have benefited greatly from your scholarly keynote address."
The professor emphasized the university's commitment to promoting access to information and upholding the principles of integrity in journalism. He noted that conventions like this one are crucial platforms for sharing best practices and setting future agendas. "Attending such events gives me a deep sense of satisfaction," he remarked, acknowledging the efforts of faculty and students in making the event a success.
Byinza also shared exciting news about the reopening of Makerere University's iconic Main Hall, which had been out of use following damage to the Ivory Tower. "Come 2nd October, we shall be back in the Main Hall, debating and discussing issues that affect our integrity and history as a university," he announced.
In addition, Prof. Buyinza revealed plans to revive the university's radio and television stations, which have been inactive for some time. He believes these initiatives will enhance Makerere's brand as a premier institution. "We are about to revive and revitalize these two sets that will contribute to our brand as a premier university," he stated confidently.
Looking to the future, Prof. Buyinza expressed optimism about the convention's impact on addressing issues related to artificial intelligence, social networks, and combating misinformation in the digital age. He emphasized the importance of robust engagements with key stakeholders, including the Uganda Communications Commission and major media houses like New Vision and Monitor, in achieving the department's transformative goals.
Buyinza, reaffirmed the university's support for the Department of Journalism and Communication's aspirations to become a school within the institution. "Senate will soon make a decision on your request to become a school, and you have an advocate in me and the Vice-Chancellor," Prof. Buyinza assured, pledging continued support for the department's growth and development.