Local media houses are risking closure following the public outcry over broadcasting explicit content on Ugandan airwaves.
This was revealed by Thembo Nyombi, the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), on October 18, 2024, during a press conference at the UCC headquarters in Kampala.
Nyombi noted that there is a rise in inappropriate content on various media platforms, including television, radio, and online. This content, including music lyrics, videos, and interviews, often contains offensive, obscene, indecent, and distressing material, which is in breach of Uganda Communications (Content) Regulations, 2019.
“Instances include scantily dressed performers engaging in sexually suggestive dances and songs laden with explicit sexual innuendo and inappropriate messages,” Nyombi noted.
He stressed that all media houses must ensure that all their content, including music videos and audios, is properly classified by the Uganda Media Council before it is aired out, which is in accordance with the Press and Journalist Act, Cap. 105.
Despite previous warnings and reminders, including official letters issued on August 9, 2021, and October 25, 2023, some media houses have disregarded these legal obligations.
Nyombi warned that failure to comply with the law will result in appropriate legal consequences.
Section 31 and Schedule 4 of the Uganda Communications Act 2013 stipulate that Broadcasters must ensure that any program aired is not contrary to public morality, complies with existing laws, and that adult-oriented content is appropriately scheduled. Any breach of these Minimum Broadcasting Standards will lead to punishments like suspension, fines, or revoking one’s license.
