By Richard Onapatum
JINJA: In preparation for World Press Freedom Day, journalists in Jinja District have launched a Press Freedom Week dedicated to engaging in charitable activities and promoting professional journalism.
The launch took place at Buwenge Town Council headquarters, where journalists participated in cleaning the town council and a local primary school. Additionally, they encouraged boda boda riders to adopt environmentally friendly practices by providing them with tree seedlings and fruit plants to cultivate during the week.They were accompanied by 4 schools in doing the charitable work.
Hon. Kintu Alex Brandon, MP for Kagoma North in Jinja District, served as the chief guest. He urged journalists to adhere to professional standards and ethical conduct. “Journalists should practice professional journalism and stick to ethical conduct,” Hon. Kintu emphasized.
The Minister of Youth in Busoga Kingdom, Owekitibwa Mukembo James, also addressed the gathering, urging journalists to avoid bias in their reporting. “Many journalists allow themselves to be used during political times to tarnish others’ images,” he remarked, highlighting the need for impartiality and integrity.
The event saw the attendance of notable local leaders, including Buwenge Town Council Mayor Hajji Isabirye Hassan Kinosa, Deputy Speaker of Jinja District Moses Lwokyaza, Personal Assistant to Hon. Loy Katali Mr. Ali Kirume, and NRM Registrar Mr. Kiwanuka Paul.
Throughout the week, journalists will continue to engage in various community service activities aimed at fostering a stronger relationship between the media and the community. The initiative underscores the role of journalists not only as information disseminators but also as active participants in community development.
Further more, the chairperson of Jinja district Ssematimba Clovis advised the community also take journalism as a professional work because a number of times people undermine pressmen and women
This Press Freedom Week is a signal to the commitment of Jinja’s journalists to uphold the principles of free press while contributing positively to society.