By David Isabirye
Journalists from the different corners of the country have been trained on the necessary skills and knowledge how to report on the Special Interest Groups (SIGs).
This training was undertaken by the Electoral Commission (EC) at Hotel Africana in Kampala on Tuesday, 8th July 2025.
Over 100 journalists from the various media houses were tipped to ensure accurate and informative coverage of the SIG’s which include the women, youth, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), Persons with Disabilities, Elderly persons and Workers.
The facilitators included Patricia Aol (head of administration, caretaker human resource), John Bosco Ngabirano (senior election officer on Special Interest Groups), Abubakar Kayondo (legal department) and Julius Mucunguzi (head of public relations).
The journalists were also taken through the do’s of ethical reporting by media scholar Samuel Guma.
“The Electoral Commission is to organize, conduct and supervise regular, free and fair elections and referenda through citizen participation, stakeholder engagement and information sharing” Aol shared in her official remarks, declaring the largely interactive workshop open.
Electoral Commission Spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi emphasized the crucial role journalists play in disseminating the information to the public.
Mucunguzi encouraged journalists to provide accurate and unbiased information to their audiences.
“The media plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and informing citizens about the activities of Special Interest Groups. We urge journalists to be objective and balanced in their reporting, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions.” Mucunguzi remarked.
Topics covered:
First, the reporters were taken through all the different forms of SIG’s, key procedures and processes, composition of committees, nominations and policies for SIG elections.
The training covered various aspects of reporting on SIGs, including understanding the role and functions of SIGs, identifying and tracking SIG activities, and maintaining objectivity and independence in reporting.
Journalists who attended the training expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge on reporting SIGs.
They pledged to provide accurate and informative coverage of SIG activities, contributing to a more informed and engaged citizenry.
Seasoned media scholar Gummah took the journalists through the purpose of the media existence, functions of the media, ethics and ingredients that journalists ought to add to a good story.
As the Electoral Commission prepares to organize SIG elections, the training is timely and relevant, empowering journalists to provide comprehensive coverage of the electoral process.
