West Nile’s security situation has significantly improved, creating a stable environment for investment and development. Officials from the President’s office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and National Guidance (MoICT & NG), have urged West Nile District Communication Officers in the region to report these positive changes and counter misinformation that may distort public perception.
During a two-day retreat held at Breeze Hotel in Arua from March 20 to 21, Arua’s Assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Judith Bako emphasized the need for accurate reporting on security and development. She noted that while crime rates have dropped, the media often focuses on negative stories rather than progress.
“Arua is a peaceful city. Petty crimes like phone snatching are no longer common, but the media rarely highlights the good. Communication officers must take responsibility for updating the public with factual and positive information,” Bako said.
Arua City Town Clerk David Kyasanku reinforced the importance of security in attracting investment. He revealed that Arua alone brings in over UGX 180 billion in investments, thanks to the stability provided by security forces. He called on communication officers to leverage this progress to enhance the region’s reputation and encourage further economic growth.
The Director of media at the Internal Security Organization (ISO) also emphasized the role of accurate communication in national security. Representing ISO Deputy Director General Col Emmy Katabazi, he identified misinformation as a major threat and urged communication officers to work closely with journalists to ensure the dissemination of reliable information.
Frank Mugabi, spokesperson for the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) and president of the Government Communication Officers Forum (GCOF), reassured communication officers that the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance (MoICT) is addressing concerns regarding their employment terms. He encouraged them to remain proactive in their roles.
The retreat, organized by ISO in partnership with MoICT and GCOF, is part of a broader effort to enhance government communication structures following President Museveni’s directive to prioritize information dissemination.
As a key outcome, West Nile communication officers launched a weekly newsletter to keep the public informed about security improvements and ongoing development initiatives in the region.
