08/03/2026
PRESS RELEASE
Women Journalists in Rural Uganda Continue Reporting Despite Pressure and Safety Risks
Kasese, Uganda
As the world marks International Women’s Day on 8 March 2026, the Umbrella for Journalists in Kasese calls for urgent protection and recognition of women journalists particularly rural reporters and freelance media practitioners who continue to report the truth despite growing challenges in the political and media environment of Uganda.
Women journalists across the Rwenzori region and other rural parts of Uganda play a critical role in informing communities about governance, elections, public service delivery and human rights. However, many operate under difficult conditions marked by limited institutional support, economic insecurity and increased risks of harassment, intimidation and online abuse especially during and after election periods.
Rural reporters and freelance journalists often work without formal employment contracts, legal protection and adequate safety mechanisms. Yet they remain the backbone of local information systems, ensuring that community voices particularly those of marginalized populations reach national and global audiences.
“Across rural communities in the Rwenzori sub-region, women journalists and freelance reporters are the frontline defenders of truth and public accountability. They often report from remote areas with minimal resources and without the protections available to journalists in urban newsrooms. In Uganda’s current political climate following electoral processes, these journalists face heightened pressure and risks while covering sensitive governance and community issues. Despite these challenges, they continue to report with courage, professionalism and commitment to the public interest. Their resilience demonstrates that truth cannot be silenced. We call upon government authorities, security agencies, and media institutions to guarantee the safety, dignity and freedom of all journalists especially women and freelancers working in rural areas.” Bikeke Saimon, the Director, Umbrella for Journalists in Kasese stressed.
The Umbrella for Journalists in Kasese also recognizes the global advocacy of the International Federation of Journalists campaign “Still They Report - You Can’t Mute the Truth,” which highlights the courage of women journalists worldwide who continue reporting despite threats and intimidation.
Women journalists in rural Uganda face multiple barriers including Gender-based harassment and intimidation while covering political and community issues. Online harassment and digital safety threats, Limited legal protection and institutional support for freelance reporters, Economic vulnerability and lack of sustainable income, Safety risks during election coverage and politically sensitive reporting. These challenges not only affect journalists themselves but also undermine citizens’ access to reliable information and democratic participation.
As part of recommendations, the Umbrella for Journalists in Kasese calls on stakeholders at national and international levels to take concrete actions; Government of Uganda and Security Agencies to ensure protection and safety of journalists covering political and governance issues. Investigate and address incidents of intimidation or violence against journalists. Media Houses and Journalism Institutions should provide better protection, fair remuneration and professional support for freelance and rural reporters. Promote gender-sensitive newsroom policies and equal opportunities for women journalists.
Civil Society and Development Partners Support training, safety programs and digital security for journalists operating in rural areas. Invest in initiatives that strengthen independent local journalism.
International Media and Press Freedom Organizations continue monitoring and advocating for the protection of journalists in Uganda and across Africa. Amplify the voices and work of rural journalists who often remain invisible in global media discourse.
As Uganda and the global community commemorate International Women’s Day, the Umbrella for Journalists in Kasese reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom, supporting ethical journalism and promoting safe and inclusive media spaces where women journalists can work without fear. Still they report because the truth matters.
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