The Assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC) of Arua, Judith Bako, has urged government communicators and security agencies to strengthen collaboration in order to enhance information dissemination and counter misinformation.
Speaking at a high-level workshop organized by the Internal Security Organisation (ISO) at Desert Breeze Hotel in Arua on Thursday, Bako emphasized the need for timely and accurate communication to the public.
“Communication officers must take responsibility for keeping the public informed about regional developments. For instance, the Arua City website should be regularly updated to ensure transparency and accessibility,” she stated.
Bako also praised the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) for its role in government communication, particularly for providing free airtime. She encouraged communicators to leverage this platform to share updates on development projects and government initiatives.
To combat misinformation effectively, Bako stressed the importance of equipping government communication officers with the necessary skills.
“We must train our communication officers to verify and counter fake news with facts. A well-informed public is essential for our region’s growth and security,” she said.
She expressed concern over outdated government websites, noting that a lack of current information denies the public crucial details needed for decision-making, particularly for investors.
“Websites are the first point of reference for investors seeking information about government entities. Keeping them updated is vital,” she added.
Enhancing Communication in West Nile
The workshop, part of ISO’s ongoing efforts to improve government communication, brought together security officials and government communicators from the West Nile Region. Similar sessions have been held in Karamoja and Teso, focusing on countering propaganda and ensuring the public receives accurate information.
Maj. Edmund Turyatunga, ISO’s Director of Media, highlighted the importance of effective communication in showcasing West Nile’s transformation.
“West Nile has seen tremendous development. How do we acknowledge and communicate this progress? Communicators play a crucial role in informing the public about security and development initiatives,” Turyatunga said.
Arua City Town Clerk, David Kyasanku, emphasized the connection between security and investment.
“Arua is open for business because of the secure environment created through collaboration among stakeholders. In today’s media landscape, controlling narratives is challenging, but working together ensures accurate information is disseminated,” he noted.
Kyasanku revealed that over UGX 100 billion has been invested in Arua, demonstrating the positive impact of improved security and communication efforts.
Strengthening Government Communication
Frank Mugabi, President of the Government Communicators’ Forum and Head of Communications at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), commended ISO and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for their efforts in harmonizing government communication.
He pointed to progress made since these engagements began in Karamoja, citing the introduction of weekly publications managed by District Communication Officers in Karamoja and Teso.
“These publications provide updates on key activities, strengthening the role of communication officers and fostering collaboration among district officials. This was not the case before,” Mugabi stated.
With the rise of social media, the spread of misinformation has become a growing challenge, affecting socio-economic development. A key focus of the workshop was addressing disinformation and propaganda that have tarnished Uganda’s image both locally and internationally.
Speakers emphasized the need for government communicators to proactively engage the public, ensuring misinformation is countered before it spreads widely.
Similar workshops are planned for the Western and Central regions. Maj. Edmund noted that these initiatives will not only enhance Uganda’s global image but also build trust and confidence in government institutions and their efforts to promote peace, security, and development.
