KAMPALA, UGANDA – Uganda’s communications regulator has launched a crackdown on television, radio, and online broadcasters airing obscene content, sparking concerns over freedom of expression.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) says the move aims to uphold professionalism and protect audiences, particularly children.
“There’s a resurgence of offensive, obscene, indecent and distressing material in the form of music, audios, videos and interviews across various media platforms,” UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said.
“This includes scantily dressed performers engaging in sexually suggestive dances and songs laden with explicit sex and inappropriate messages on our airwaves.”
Mr. Thembo expressed frustration over broadcasters’ disregard for guidelines. “It looks like a television house or a radio station when you don’t do this, it looks like you haven’t done your work.”
The UCC has instructed broadcasters to vet content through the Uganda Media Council. “All broadcasters, including radio and online, are hereby directed to ensure that all content is properly classified,” Mr. Thembo said.
Non-compliant outlets face severe penalties. “Failure to comply will have consequences, including suspensions, license revocation, fines… we have powers to fine any broadcaster up to 10% of your annual gross revenue.”
Mr. Thembo emphasized the commission’s goal is not to restrict freedom but to preserve Uganda’s cultural values. “We don’t want to stress these young people with content that is not beyond their pay grade; we have to protect them.”
The crackdown is part of Uganda’s efforts to enforce its communications laws, which prohibit harmful or morally objectionable content.
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