FORT PORTAL, UGANDA — President Yoweri Museveni has voiced strong disapproval of the increasing trend among Members of Parliament (MPs) and journalists in establishing private radio stations in rural Uganda, deeming it an unnecessary and counterproductive practice.
During a meeting with journalists from the Tooro region at the state lodge in Fort Portal on Sunday 18. May 2025 Museveni questioned the rationale behind political figures investing in personal media outlets instead of leveraging existing government communication platforms.
His remarks followed the conclusion of his regional tours aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the Parish Development Model (PDM).
Mr. Museveni, who began his address by characterizing journalists as “rumor-mongers” and “poor,” expressed astonishment at the growing interest in private radio ownership among political leaders.
He suggested that if these individuals had crucial messages to disseminate, they should utilize the complimentary airtime offered by government radio stations to mobilize communities for development.
He further attributed the persistent financial struggles of journalists to their employment by “poor people” who exploit them.
The President alluded to potential government revisions of media licensing criteria to address the exploitation of media personnel and promote professionalism within the sector.
Recent disclosures from a senior official at the Uganda Communications Commission revealed that only approximately 20 percent of radio stations in the country are profitable, with a similar percentage breaking even, while the majority are struggling to survive.
Concerning the ongoing PDM monitoring, Museveni encouraged journalists to investigate and report instances of individuals mismanaging PDM funds, enabling appropriate action to be taken.
He explained his utilization of a sampling methodology to assess the program’s impact, expressing optimism that even a small number of successful beneficiaries could serve as exemplary farmers, inspiring others within their communities.
