Ministers Discuss UBC's Future and Broadcasting Priorities

Uganda's efforts to strengthen public broadcasting and Government communication received renewed attention as the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance continued its familiarisation engagements with its agencies through a visit to the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) on 8th July 2026. The engagement was led by the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Rt. Hon. Justine Lumumba Kasule, accompanied by the Minister of State for Information, Hon. Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo; Ms. Sophia Nantongo, Under Secretary and Acting Permanent Secretary; and other senior Ministry officials. The visit formed part of the Ministry's ongoing familiarisation programme, giving the political leadership an opportunity to see UBC's operations first-hand, interact with staff and discuss the future of Uganda's national broadcaster. The delegation toured UBC's television studios, radio facilities, newsroom, production suites and Master Control Centre, gaining a first-hand view of how content is produced, edited and transmitted across television, radio and digital platforms. During the tour, the Ministers interacted with staff and inspected broadcasting equipment used for news production, television programming and live broadcasts. They also visited the newsroom, where editorial teams coordinate news gathering, editing and production for different platforms. and also held a live show on Star FM discusiing the Ministry plans with its audience. The tour also showcased modern 4K broadcast cameras and high-performance video production systems. It provided an opportunity to discuss how UBC can continue modernising its operations while ensuring staff have the skills needed to work with changing broadcasting technologies. Welcoming the delegation, UBC Managing Director Winston Agara described the Corporation as a public service broadcaster whose responsibility extends beyond commercial interests. That public service role is reflected in UBC's reach. The Corporation operates 11 FM radio stations and broadcasts in more than 26 Ugandan languages, helping Government information reach communities in languages they understand. Its regional stations also provide space for local content and communication on national development programmes. The conversation extended to Uganda's music and creative industry. During the tour, the Minister asked how much space UBC gives to local music, particularly young artists producing contemporary music in Ugandan languages. She encouraged the Corporation to continue using its platforms to promote home-grown talent, culture and creative expression. Attention then turned to one of the biggest questions facing public broadcasting: how to reach every part of the country. Management briefed the delegation on Uganda's transition from analogue to digital television and explained that Digital Terrestrial Transmission relies on a network of terrestrial masts. This can make it difficult to reach some remote, mountainous and sparsely populated communities. UBC presented plans for a Direct-to-Home satellite broadcasting platform that would allow households across Uganda to receive local free-to-air television channels without paying monthly subscription fees. The proposed technology could extend television services to communities that are difficult to reach through the existing terrestrial network. For Rt. Hon. Lumumba, wider national coverage is particularly important in border communities where citizens may receive stronger radio and television signals from neighbouring countries. She said access to national broadcasting strengthens people's connection to their country and ensures they receive reliable information about Government programmes and national affairs. Addressing management and staff after the tour, the Minister thanked UBC for its contribution to public information, peace, national development and Government communication. "You carry the responsibility of national guidance. You are the voice that informs, educates and unites our people. Your work supports national development, promotes peace and gives confidence to both Ugandans and investors," she said. She recognised UBC's role in communicating Government programmes, including the Parish Development Model, and encouraged the Corporation to continue producing content that helps citizens understand national priorities and opportunities. Looking ahead, the Minister called for continued investment in modern broadcasting technology and staff training to ensure the national broadcaster keeps pace with changes in the media industry and serves audiences effectively across different platforms. The discussion also explored how UBC could make better use of its strategic assets to support future growth and investment in technology, infrastructure and programme production. The Minister encouraged management to think creatively about sustainable income generation and more efficient use of existing resources. She also proposed exploring renewable energy solutions, including installing solar panels on suitable buildings to reduce electricity costs and free resources for other priorities. Another opportunity identified during the visit was closer collaboration between UBC and the Uganda Institute of Information and Communications Technology on practical skills development. Such a partnership could give students hands-on experience in broadcasting, media production and digital communication while allowing UBC professionals to share industry knowledge with the next generation. The Minister also called for stronger coordination across the ICT and National Guidance sector, with regular meetings bringing together agency heads and their deputies to address common priorities, share expertise and improve collaboration. The visit ended with a clear focus on the future: a modern national broadcaster with wider reach, better technology, skilled professionals, stronger local content and closer collaboration across the sector.