Master of Journalism and Media Studies - Main Campus

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/785

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The influence of self-censorship on political news reporting in Uganda: a Comparative study of the Daily Monitor and the New Vision newspapers
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-05) Dzaoneni, Alfred
This qualitative, cross-sectional comparative study investigated the influence of self-censorship on political news reporting in Uganda, focusing on the privately owned Daily Monitor and the state-owned New Vision newspapers. The study used the hierarchy of influences model as a theoretical framework founded by Shoemaker and Reese’s (2013). The research explored how macro and micro influences such as media ownership, political and economic pressures, and editorial policies shape political reporting. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of 14 political news reporters during the politically sensitive period from 2021 to 2025, which included the nation’s 2021 general elections. Key findings, analysed through the theoretical framework, revealed that organizational-level routines were found to interact powerfully, normalizing self-censorship across both newsrooms and creating a climate of restraint that operates at the individual level of journalistic decision-making than what earlier studies concluded that government or institutional level influences in Uganda were dominant influences to reporting. The study concludes that objective reporting is systematically constrained by a multi-layered system of influences rather than one outstanding reason and proposes strategies to foster journalistic autonomy, thereby contributing significantly to the debate on media freedom in illiberal contexts.
Credibility and trust of media among Uganda’s youth: a comparative study of the New Vision newspaper and @NewVisionWire
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-09-30) Nalubega, Shamim
This study compared Ugandan youth’s perceptions of media trust and credibility across traditional and social media platforms, exploring reasons behind the differences. It employed a cross-sectional comparative design, with a qualitative approach, focusing on New Vision newspaper and its X account (@newvisionwire). Using purposive sampling, the study targeted 20 respondents (media analysts, practitioners, and youth media users), achieving a 90% response rate. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings indicate that traditional media was regarded as highly trustworthy, valued for reliability, depth, and professional standards, while social media was appreciated for immediacy, interactivity, multimedia features, global reach, and diverse viewpoints. Concerns arose about both: misinformation and lack of analysis on social platforms, and traditional media’s slower updates, limited interactivity, and potential political or advertiser influence. Although several respondents preferred social media for general consumption, they considered traditional media as more credible. This trust in traditional media was especially pronounced during crises, where it was the primary source of information for most respondents as compared to social media. The comparative study concluded that youth value both media types for distinct purposes, with social media's immediacy and interactivity attracting younger audiences while traditional media's thoroughness and professional standards maintain its credibility advantage. This dynamic creates challenges for both sectors in adapting to changing consumption patterns while maintaining information quality. The recommendations emphasize the need for audiences to develop critical media literacy and practice information cross-verification, while the media sector should balance accuracy with innovative engagement methods. Policymakers are urged to promote media pluralism and professionalism while combating misinformation. The study suggests that future research should examine specific factors influencing platform trust, conduct longitudinal studies with larger samples, and explore cross-cultural comparisons of youth media consumption pat
Relevance of radio farming programs on the agricultural practices of coffee farmers in Mukono district
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-10-05) Nambozo, Barbra
The purpose of the study was to examine the relevance of radio farming programs on the agricultural practices of coffee farmers in Mukono District. The study was guided by the Uses and Gratification Theory, which suggests that audiences are not passive consumers of media; instead, they engage with media content based on their personal motivations and the gratifications they hope to achieve (Katz et al., 1973). A total of 40 respondents were identified from the register of 200 members of the NUCAFE coffee group in Mukono district. The researcher conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with smaller groups of 5-10 participants to identify respondents who own at least two acres of coffee plantation and had listened to a program on coffee production on the radio in the last six months. The study found that coffee farmers listen to the on-farm radio program; however, the frequency with which they engage with it differs and is not regular. Sometimes, the farmers miss out on critical discussions, especially on coffee farming because they do not know when they will be scheduled. Radio listeners are not just passive partakers of knowledge, they ought to be involved in developing content, including schedules for the radio programs. The study further found that whereas the information disseminated is considered appropriate, it risks being misunderstood because it lacks practical aspects. 10 Additionally, the high cost of airtime, internet bundles and poor signal also prohibit small-scale rural farmers from giving feedback to the radio programme hosts. The study recommends the use of innovative and participatory approaches in developing content for radio programs, particularly on coffee farming, to enhance their relevance to the farmers.
The perceived consequences of mis/disinformation on youth using social media
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-09-29) Tushabe, Harriet
This study examined the consequences of mis/disinformation among youth using social media in Fort Portal City, Uganda, focusing on how misleading content spreads, the forms it takes, and its influence on perceptions, decisions, relationships, and trust. Guided by Uses and Gratifications Theory and Framing Theory, the study adopted an interpretivist qualitative case study design. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and two Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). In total, 20 youth aged 18-30 participated, capturing experiences and shared interpretations of mis/disinformation within social media networks. Findings showed that mis/disinformation often circulated through trusted networks and compelling content rather than deliberate deception. Participants shared unverified information because of fear, urgency, concern for others, confidence in senders, or the desire to appear informed. Mis/disinformation commonly concerned health, politics, religion, security, and economic opportunities, appearing through voice notes, screenshots, short videos, memes, and localized messages. These formats increased credibility. Reported consequences included confusion, fear, reputational damage, weakened institutional trust, risky health decisions, strained relationships, and reduced confidence in official information. Despite these effects, many participants demonstrated awareness of the risks of sharing unverified content. Some regretted previous sharing decisions and adopted practices such as pausing, checking sources, comparing information, and correcting false claims. The study concludes that misinformation or disinformation among youth in Fort Portal City is a significant but manageable challenge. It recommends timely official communication, practical digital literacy in schools and communities, engagement of trusted local leaders and media, and greater involvement of youth as responsible information gatekeepers within their online and offline networks.
Perceptions of print media coverage of persons with albinism in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-09-30) Nakyagaba, Rehema
This study analyzed perceptions of print media coverage of people with albinism in Uganda. The study sought to: identify perceived factors that influence print media coverage of people with albinism, to assess public perception of the quality of media coverage of people with albinism and to identify the perceived challenges affecting print media coverage of people with albinism in Uganda. This study utilized the descriptive research design with a mixed methods approach. With a sample size of 133 respondents, purposive and simple random sampling aided data collection. The study on perception of print media coverage of individuals with albinism in Uganda explored key factors influencing portrayal, including language, advocacy, stigma, resource constraints and cultural influences. Research revealed perceived coverage challenges including stereotypes, societal perceptions and inadequate journalist training being significant issues. Participants’ recommendations include collaboration, diversification of voices and media capacity building to promote accurate and respectful coverage. The study concludes by identifying key factors such as language, advocacy, stigma and cultural influences shaping representation. Public perception highlights mixed views on portrayal quality, urging for challenges to stereotypes, accurate information and inclusive narratives. Addressing obstacles like stigma and limited understanding can foster more ethical media coverage globally. The study recommends public education to challenge stereotypes, media training to combat stigma, international advocacy for human rights and collaboration with activists for inclusive representation of individuals with albinism. Government policy enforcement, media sensitivity training and activism-media partnerships are crucial. Diversifying voices, developing guidelines and advocating for fair coverage are key actions for stakeholders.
War or Peace Journalism? A Framing Analysis of How the Ugandan Media Covered the 2013/2014 South Sudan Conflict
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-25) Vivian Nakaliika
The study examined the extent to which peace or war journalism was employed in the coverage of the 2013/2014 South Sudan conflict, with a focus on The New Vision and Daily Monitor newspapers. It was guided by two specific objectives: first, to determine the extent to which peace or war journalism dominated the reporting of the 2013/14 South Sudan conflict in The New Vision and Daily Monitor; and second, to analyze the dominant frames used in presenting peace or war journalism in the coverage of the conflict by either newspaper. The study employed a descriptive research design with a quantitative comparative framing. Using a census sampling method, two newspapers—The New Vision and Daily Monitor—were selected for analysis of their coverage of the 2013–2014 South Sudan conflict. The research introduced new questions focusing on the dominant frames used for peace or war journalism within this coverage, addressed through secondary data analysis. Content analysis was carried out on 135 articles from The New Vision and 15 from Daily Monitor. The data was drawn from news reports, editorials, and analytical pieces published in both newspapers. The study found that peace-oriented reporting dominated media coverage of the 2013/14 South Sudan conflict in Uganda. In The New Vision, 71.1% of 135 articles promoted peace journalism, while 28.9% reflected war journalism. Although Daily Monitor featured fewer stories, only 15, all were peace focused. Most coverage emphasized dialogue, peace talks, and conflict resolution, with analysts advocating non-violent approaches. However, The New Vision occasionally presented biased, confrontational content. Overall, Ugandan media leaned toward peace journalism. The study recommends that journalists be trained on their social responsibilities, ethical reporting during conflicts and the importance of investigative journalism to promote peace and public interest.
The contribution of Tweddeko road safety campaign in reducing road accidents in Kampala metropolitan area in Uganda, a case of Tweddeko campaign in Kampala metropolitan area
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-10-03) Senkeeto Frederick David
The Contribution of Radio Journalism to the Return Home of the LRA Fighters: The Case of “Dwog Cen Paco”, (Come Back Home) Radio Programme On 102 Mega FM in Gulu, Northern Uganda.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-25) Suzan Pompila Agalo
Radio in Rwanda has been accused of sparking the 1994 genocide estimated to have killed over 800,000 Rwandese (Tutsi only), in about 100 days. This incidence blurred the hope of whether media in Africa could play positive roles. When radio assumed a reverse role in nearby regions, it was used in Burundi to counteract hate speech, in Kenya to tone down post-election violence, and in the Uganda’s LRA conflict resolution. This study investigates the contribution of Gulu - northern Uganda’s Mega FM’s, “Dwog Cen Paco”, (Come Back Home) radio programme, which grounded its messaging in the theory of Peace Journalism, to resolve the northern Uganda LRA fighter’s conflict, that had lasted over (20) twenty years. The study asked (3) three questions that includes, the strategies used to persuade the LRA fighters into returning home, the external factors that contributed to the LRA return, and the best practices used on the LRA persuasion radio programme. Using a qualitative research approach, Key Informant Interviews, In-depth Interviews and Focus Group Discussions were used to garner data through Purposive and Snowball sampling of five (5) categories of respondents that included the principal subjects of the research, who were seven (7) ex-LRA fighters, a radio journalist and two (2) religious leaders (Anglican and Roman Catholic). Other subjects included five (5) Caritas NGO staff, and sixteen (16) Gulu residents. The study emerges with pioneering recommendations to peaceful conflict resolution, and offers a viable conflict resolution foundation to scholars conducting research guided by the theory of Peace Journalism. Keywords: Media; conflict resolution; the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA); Northern Uganda Peace Journalism; Radio.
Media Ownership and its Ethical Implications on Professionalism: A Critical Look at Journalists’ Experiences at BIG FM and STEP TV in Mbale, Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-24) Prisca Adaeze Nenger
In Journalism, ethical codes serve as crucial guidelines for practitioners. However, challenges arise in fully adhering to these codes, with media ownership leading to a control syndrome over employees, thus impeding full compliance. In this study, in-depth interview was conducted using the open-ended structured interview guide to investigate the conflict between journalists' professionalism and the interests of private media owners. It examined the dilemmas faced by journalists, their coping mechanisms, and the impact of ownership controls on journalistic practices. The research focused on BIG FM and STEP TV in Mbale, Uganda as the study population. The findings indicate significant conflicts of interest and high levels of control among media owners in Mbale, Uganda. This situation pressures journalists, particularly when adhering to ethical journalism practices outlined in codes of conduct. Thus, the journalists are faced with a two-tier level of control: one from the media owners, and the other from the government. Consequently, society is left with a distorted representation of facts, political manipulation of the media, weakening of the press, and subversion of justice. The study recommends the need for continual updates and reinforcement of national journalism standards, along with ongoing legislation to tackle issues about media ownership and control. Additionally, there is a necessity to establish strong journalism unions to protect members who may be affected by conflicts of interest involving media owners. Mass sensitisation efforts are also required to support journalists and editors in upholding factual reporting across all media platforms, irrespective of owners’ interests.
GENDER DISPARITY IN TALK BACK PROGRAMS: A STUDY OF VOICE OF LANGO FM WIMEJA PROGRAM
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) Ogwang Andrew Kizito
This study examined the gender disparity in the Wimeja program on Voice of Lango FM, focusing on the reasons behind its male dominance, factors that could encourage greater female participation, and the broader societal implications of such gender imbalances. The research was grounded in feminist media theory. Using a qualitative approach, the study involved 30 participants from Lira City, selected through purposeful sampling. Data was gathered via in-depth interviews and observation. The findings revealed significant gender disparity in the program, driven by factors such as cultural stereotypes that discourage women from engaging, women’s busy morning routines, low self-esteem preventing women from participating in discussions, and economic barriers that hinder women’s ability to afford phones to call into the program. To enhance women’s involvement, the study recommends that program hosts actively encourage female participation, set up dedicated phone lines for women, and promote the use of social media platforms such as Facebook, WhatsApp, and X. Implementing these suggestions could significantly increase women’s engagement, contributing to a more inclusive media environment. The study highlights the negative consequences of gender disparity in the program, as it silences.
Facebook Communication and Faith Promotion Among Christians in Pentecostal Churches in Uganda: A Case of Gaba Community Church in Kampala
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-05-26) Francis Katende
This study examined the influence of Facebook communication on faith promotion among Christians in Pentecostal churches in Uganda, focusing on Gaba Community Church in Kampala. Using a qualitative approach, the study involved 88 participants, including church administrators, elderly members, and youth. Data were collected primarily through Focus Group Discussions and analyzed descriptively. Grounded in Elihu Katz's Uses and Gratifications Theory (1970), the research explored how individuals use media for spiritual enrichment. Findings revealed that Facebook was a valuable tool for sharing biblical teachings and church events, contributing to participants’ spiritual growth. Many viewed the platform as an important space for faith-based engagement and community building. However, challenges were also identified, including lack of physical connection, disruptive conversations, and limited accessibility—especially among male youth. The study recommends more frequent updates to the church’s Facebook page, ideally daily, to enhance interaction. It also suggests incorporating content on current events, public health updates like COVID-19, and relevant government policies to guide responsible use. These strategies aim to maximize Facebook’s potential as a tool for faith promotion while minimizing misuse.
Facebook and Political Communication: An Analysis of Uganda’s January 2021 General Elections
(2024-10-18) Pamela Amia
The study sought to analyze Facebook usage as a tool for political communication, and expression of freedom of speech during the 2021 general elections in Uganda. It examined ways through which Facebook was used as a tool of communication during the 2021 Ugandan presidential elections; investigated challenges encountered in using Facebook as a tool for freedom of expression, documented lessons learned, and proposed solutions to overcome challenges faced. The study utilized a descriptive research design with a mixed research approach. Data was collected from a sample of 568 Facebook posts with 33,807,275 engagements through content analysis and 12 interview participants. The study was premised on the Social Media Engagement (SME) theory. The study findings show that the presidential candidates used Facebook as a virtual mode of campaign to disseminate political information to the electorate. Meanwhile, the results showed that there was use of Facebook as a tool to exercise freedom of speech. Challenges highlighted included blackmail, hate speech, propaganda, government interference, and misinformation. Key recommendations, in this study, for overcoming challenges in using Facebook for political communication include leveraging alternative communication channels, building a strong following, promoting digital literacy, professionalizing social media strategies, implementing best practices on Facebook, and government involvement in facilitating internet access and promoting ICT infrastructure to enhance political efficacy and freedom of speech. For using Facebook in political communication, the study recommends growing social media following, utilizing visual content, engaging the public through live content, asking and answering questions, fact-checking content, targeting younger social media users, government enabling free elections, using social media to amplify messages and counter misinformation, and acknowledging the democratization of expression through social media.
Exploring the Representation of Women in Uganda’s Television Industry
(2024-10-21) Amon Mukamasiimwe
The purpose of the study was to explore the representation of women in Uganda’s Television media workforce. This study was guided by feminist theory in mass media studies, which stresses that women are most disadvantaged in some ways and therefore not allowed the same rights as their male counterparts. The approach was qualitative and the method was in-depth interviews with purposefully selected participants at TV West, and data was analyzed through thematic analysis. The study found out that men dominate higher positions compared to women. This study also found out that women who were promoted to high positions most preferred to work with men and not fellow women. The issues related to inflexibility, inflexibility to certain activities, and reluctance to work extra hours beyond the stipulated work schedules were an attest to this. The study further found out that women face the challenge of sexual harassment, societal pressures, the challenge of balancing family and work, thus find the Television job much costly to maintain. This study concludes that women remain underrepresented, and recommends that future researchers do a comparative study on women’s representation across different Televisions in Uganda, and also investigate the mode of training of television professionals in Uganda.
Analysis of Audience Participation in Community Radio Programmes in Eastern Uganda. A Case Study of Delta Community Radio, Soroti (Uganda)
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-10-11) Leah Atai
Realistically, a major thesis project like this can never be credited to a single person’s work but to an entire team. I therefore, extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation to all those who have contributed to the successful completion of this study. In the pursuit of understanding the intricate dynamics of community radio programming in Eastern Uganda, this research endeavors would not have been possible without the support, guidance, and contributions of numerous individuals and organizations. First and foremost, the almighty God for bestowing upon me the knowledge and granting me the courage to face adversity. Secondly, a heartfelt appreciation is extended to the management and staff of Delta Community Radio in Soroti District for their invaluable cooperation and openness in granting access to vital resources and facilitating the necessary arrangements for data collection. Special gratitude is extended to the participants of this study, whose willingness to share insights, experiences, and perspectives has enriched the depth and breadth of the research findings. Their engagement has been instrumental in shedding light on the nuances of audience participation in community radio programs. The academic and professional guidance provided by mentors, advisors, and peers throughout the research process is deeply acknowledged and appreciated. Their expertise and encouragement have been indispensable in shaping the trajectory of this study and refining its methodologies. Furthermore, appreciation is extended to the communities of Eastern Uganda, whose vibrant culture, diverse voices, and unwavering support have been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. Lastly, heartfelt thanks are extended to family members and loved ones for their unwavering support, patience, and understanding throughout the journey of conducting this research. This acknowledgement is a testament to the collaborative spirit and collective effort that underpins the pursuit of knowledge and understanding. May this research endeavor contribute meaningfully to the advancement of community radio programming and audience engagement in Eastern Uganda and beyond.
Journalists Experience in Covering Corruption. A Case of Daily Monitor Newsroom
(Uganda Christian University, 0023-05-24) Lydia Nanyondo
The purpose of the study was to explore the practices among journalists covering corruption in Uganda. Its specific objectives included understanding the experiences journalists face in covering corruption, exploring the challenges of journalists in covering corruption and exploring the influence of Journalistic practice in covering corruption issues within Uganda. The study adopted a qualitative approach using in-depth interviews to collect data from a sample of 12 Journalists from Daily Monitor Media House. The data was collected through in-depth interviews using an interview guide and during analysis and inductive thematic approach was adopted. Oe of the key findings of the study was Journalists faced institutional challenges such as institutional incarceration, lawsuits, equipment destruction and fear for life.
The Role of Radio in Facilitating Women’s Participation in Development Initiatives in Rural Areas: A Case Study of Voice of Kigezi
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-17) Jatim Morris
Is radio broadcasting of development programmes in rural areas helpful to women's participation in development initiatives? This study examines the role of Voice of Kigezi radio station in promoting women's participation in development initiatives in Kabale Central Division. A sample of twenty-four (24) respondents was obtained through purposive sampling. These included village women, Voice of Kigezi staff and government officials. Interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect data. The data was coded and analysed using Atlas.ti 8. It was found that Voice of Kigezi radio, through the broadcast of development programmes, has aimed to create an enabling environment for women to participate in the various development initiatives in the region; providing women the opportunity to express their opinions and participate in discussions on development projects in the region, creating avenues for free health services and legal advice, and informing and educating women about the various development initiatives in the region, empowering women among others. However, financial constraints, lack of a women's listening forum, limited programmes for women, fear of some women in the region to participate in discussions, male dominance in broadcasting the development programmes, stereotyping, betrayal by the implementing agencies and the geographical nature of the region continues to prevent the station from facilitating women’s participation in the development initiatives in the region effectively. The study recommends that the government through its regulatory body - UCC - should have a clear policy on how radio stations can create equal access and participation in the production of development programmes and distribution of jobs in radio stations. A policy to create development programmes that specifically target women is also strongly recommended. Secondly, the management of Voice of Kigezi should establish a listeners' forum for women, set up toll-free telephone lines for key development programmes, ensure that evaluation of programmes is included in the strategic plan, publicise the objectives of the development programmes and the vision and mission of the station and finally, the station should strengthen its communication approach through a participatory communication model. Key words: Radio, Participation, Development Initiatives and Broadcasting
Representation of Sports Women in the Media: A Case of the New Vision and Daily Monitor Newspapers in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2024-05-13) Julian Brenda Aheebwa
The main objective of this study was to analyze the representation of sports women in the two Ugandan leading dailies, the New Vision and the Daily Monitor. 619 articles that were published in both papers from January 1st to April 30th, 2016 were analyzed to examine the prominence given to women in sports stories, considering story placement, size of the stories, frequency, and the presence of female sources. Employing a quantitative content analysis approach, the study aimed to address a notable research gap concerning media discourse, gender, and marginalization in sports coverage. Theoretical frameworks such as agenda setting, framing, and liberal feminism were utilized. Results revealed disparities in the coverage of sports women compared to their male counterparts, even in newspapers purportedly advocating for gender equality. These findings underscore persistent challenges in achieving gender parity in sports journalism and call for efforts to enhance the visibility and representation of women in sports media.

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