The All Saints Cathedral Nakasero played host to an important media engagement organized by the Diocese of Kampala, underscoring the pivotal role of journalists in society.
The event, attended by around 100 participants, aimed to foster a stronger relationship between the church and the media, emphasizing the significance of ethical journalism and the promotion of positive narratives.
The Very Rev. Canon Rebecca Nyegenye, the Provost of All Saints Cathedral Nakasero, opened the gathering with a powerful message about the indispensable role journalists play.
“Journalists are a beacon not only for the church but for the entire population; people consume what journalists publish or write,” she remarked.
Rev. Nyegenye highlighted the necessity of supporting journalists in their efforts to produce accurate and informative content.
Rev. Oyugi Peter, the chief facilitator of the event, echoed these sentiments. He stressed the importance of ethical journalism and integrity, urging journalists to focus on local stories that showcase the church’s involvement in the community.
“Bad news has covered everything; we must recognize the good and write about it,” he stated, calling for a balance in news reporting that includes positive and uplifting stories.”Rev. Oyugi stated
Rev. Peter also encouraged journalists to seek guidance through prayer, drawing inspiration from Bible verses such as 1 Timothy 4:12 and Colossians 3:24. He emphasized the need for journalists to set an example in their conduct and to remember that their work serves a higher purpose.
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity,” he quoted from 1 Timothy 4:12. Colossians 3:24 was a reminder that, “Since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” he asdded
Addressing the issue of colonial ideologies in storytelling, Rev. Peter urged journalists to reclaim the African narrative. “I want to give the example of the African story where whites come and discover physical features—that’s colonial ideology which is not paid attention to and it has killed our African story,” he said, calling for a more authentic representation of African stories.
Zambali Bulasio Mukasa, the president of the Church of Uganda Media Association (CHOUMA), voiced concerns about the lack of engagement from church leaders towards journalists. He noted that this disconnect has led to disunity among Christian journalists and hindered their efforts to register the association. “We try to come near the church, however, the church leaders are not paying attention to us,” he observed, highlighting the need for better collaboration.
Rev. Misuseera Mukadde Ayigga, in charge of Mission and Evangelism at All Saints Cathedral Nakasero, reminded journalists of their noble mission with a reference to Isaiah 52:7.
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.’ So they have been positioned to do that job with integrity and trustworthiness,” he said, reinforcing the idea that journalists are entrusted with a sacred duty to share truth and hope.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to ethical journalism and a stronger partnership between the church and the media. Both parties recognized the vital role that journalists play in shaping public perception and the importance of their work in promoting positive change in society.
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