The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has declined to adhere to a directive from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) requiring the airing of a message promoting the National Population and Housing Census 2024, citing insufficient budgetary provisions.
This decision by NAB came after the UCC instructed all broadcasters to broadcast a message from President Museveni promoting the census. The directive, issued through a statement signed by Joyce Kasirye on May 7, urged broadcasters to air the message between May 8-20, following guidelines set forth by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for free government airtime.
The statement stressed broadcasters’ duty to support the census for its success and reminded them of their obligation to cover national events and functions as outlined in the Uganda Communications Act 2013.
However, NAB Chairman Innocent Nahabwe, in a statement, acknowledged the census’s importance but expressed concerns about the lack of funding for media coverage. He pointed out that media organizations operate as commercial entities, with financial responsibilities such as licensing fees, taxes, staff salaries, and operational expenses.
Nahabwe argued that expecting compliance with directives without adequate budgetary provisions sets a troubling precedent. He emphasized the necessity of deliberate budgeting for national initiatives like the census, similar to other adequately funded programs.
NAB requested a reconsideration of the directive and sought constructive dialogue to address the concerns of media stakeholders while supporting the census. Nahabwe underscored that NAB remains committed to promoting national development initiatives and looks forward to engaging with the UCC and government institutions collaboratively.
This stance by NAB may impact the widespread dissemination of census information. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics aims to gather crucial demographic data for decision-making, but the funding dispute could hinder the success of this national program.
