By KT Reporter
The Human Rights Network for Journalists–Uganda (HRNJ-U) has urged journalists in the Karamoja sub-region to unite and advocate for their rights as they execute their professional duties. With support from the Royal Danish Embassy, the Embassy of Ireland, the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and Sweden Sverige, HRNJ-U trained Karamoja-based journalists on digital and physical security in preparation for the upcoming 2026 general elections.
The two-day training, which concluded on Saturday, aimed to equip journalists with the knowledge and tools to safeguard themselves and their information from physical and digital threats. During the training, facilitators emphasized the importance of solidarity among journalists, calling on them to speak out on challenges they face both in the workplace and within the community to ensure their rights are respected.
Robert Ssempala, Executive Director of HRNJ-U, noted that discrimination and a lack of unity among journalists make them more vulnerable to exploitation. “Once we have that [unity], our bosses will realize very soon that they are not dealing anymore with an individual, they are dealing with a collection of journalists. That will help us change the status quo,” Ssempala said.
He cautioned against internal conflicts and encouraged journalists to focus on what unites them.
Prossy Charlotte Ogwang, a facilitator with HRNJ-U, said that violence against journalists—especially gender-based violence—remains a major challenge, often overlooked both in the community and in media houses. Ogwang explained that the public often fails to understand and appreciate the role of journalists, resulting in hostility that has gone largely unreported.
She criticized existing media associations for not addressing the core challenges journalists face, including poor pay, toxic work environments, and exploitation. Ogwang also expressed concern over the absence of workplace policies protecting journalists, particularly women, from sexual harassment and abuse.
“We are all journalists, and we face similar challenges, but we must also remember that women journalists face a double burden. We need safer spaces not only for women but also for men affected by gender-based violence,” she said.
Edward Eninu, News Editor at Etoil FM in Kotido District, observed that female journalists would excel in the field if given a safe and supportive environment. He noted that many women in the profession have opted for radio presentation roles, where they perceive fewer risks.
“There are specific stories in Karamoja that female journalists can’t cover due to the cultural context,” Eninu said. “For example, a female reporter cannot access the Akiriket—a shrine for elders—which makes it difficult for them to cover security-related stories.”
He added that such limitations have discouraged many women from doing fieldwork. Suwed Munirah, News Editor at Ateker FM in Moroto, countered that women journalists are just as capable in the field, despite the challenges. “Many times, female journalists are undermined in their workplaces and assigned lighter duties,” she said.
“Sexual harassment—from bosses, sources, and even the community—has pushed many women away from journalism.” She urged all journalists to speak out on workplace injustices and resist suffering in silence-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
