A new phase in Government communication has begun with the appointment of Mr Alan Kasuja as Executive Director of the Uganda Media Centre, marking a renewed focus on coordination, clarity, and public engagement in how Government communicates its priorities and programmes.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, noted that the communication landscape has evolved significantly, requiring a more coordinated and strategic approach.

He highlighted the recent approval of the Government Communication Policy, which will strengthen public relations and improve coordination and harmonisation of Government messaging across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), local governments, and Uganda’s missions abroad. He also congratulated Mr. Kasujja on his appointment and recognised the contribution of former Executive Director Ofwono Opondo, commending his service and congratulating him on his election to Parliament.

The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr Aminah Zawedde, described the transition as timely, noting that communication is central to governance and public engagement. “As we expand digital connectivity, we must ensure that citizens are not only connected but also well informed,” she said, emphasising the role of the Uganda Media Centre in bridging information and public understanding.

In his remarks, Mr Kasujja expressed gratitude to His Excellency, the President, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for the opportunity to serve his country, Uganda.

“Government communication is not merely a public relations exercise. It is central to nation-building,” he said. “We must tell our national story in a way that supports Uganda’s tenfold growth agenda, with a coordinated approach that builds public trust and responds effectively in a fast-evolving digital environment.”

Mr Kasujja outlined his priorities, including strengthening coordination across the government, aligning communication with national development goals, and building structured partnerships with the private sector.

He also emphasised investment in capacity building. “We will prioritise the training and skilling of communication practitioners, streamline government messaging across MDAs, and establish a coherent national narrative that reflects our development priorities,” he said.

He pledged to serve with integrity, dedication, and purpose, while strengthening collaboration with media stakeholders to ensure that government communication remains credible, responsive, and accessible.

The outgoing Acting Executive Director, Mr Obed Kamugisha Katureebe, was commended for his service, particularly for ensuring continuity and stability during the transition period, and for effectively managing the Centre in an acting capacity. He congratulated his successor and expressed appreciation to the Ministry leadership and staff for their support.

About Alan Kasujja
Mr. Alan Kasuja is a seasoned Ugandan journalist and media professional with over 30 years of experience in broadcasting and public communication.

He has worked with leading media organisations, including the BBC, where he served as a presenter on Newsday and host of Africa Daily. He previously worked with Capital FM and Sanyu FM and co-moderated Uganda’s first televised presidential debate in 2016.

He brings extensive experience in strategic communication, media relations, and storytelling, which is expected to strengthen the Uganda Media Centre's role in communicating Government programmes and national priorities.

Photo credit: Nile Post News