Arua City, Uganda – March 21, 2025 – The Internal Security Organisation (ISO) has underscored the importance of effective communication in promoting West Nile’s transformation and countering the spread of misinformation. This call was made during a high-level workshop held at Desert Breeze Hotel in Arua, aimed at enhancing collaboration between government communicators and security agencies.
Speaking at the event, Arua Assistant Resident City Commissioner (RCC), Judith Bako, stressed the critical role government communication officers play in ensuring the public receives timely and accurate information. She urged government agencies to prioritize regular updates on their platforms, specifically citing the need to keep the Arua City website current and transparent.
“Communication officers must take responsibility for updating the public on regional developments. An updated website enhances transparency and attracts potential investors,” Ms Bako emphasized.
She also lauded the Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) for providing free airtime to disseminate government information, encouraging communicators to leverage this platform to highlight development initiatives.
Bako further pointed out the growing challenge of misinformation and fake news, calling for continuous training of communication officers to verify and counter false information effectively.
“A well-informed public is key to our region’s growth and security,” she added.
ISO’s Director of Media, Maj. Edmund Turyatunga, echoed similar sentiments, highlighting how effective communication is vital in showcasing the transformation West Nile is undergoing. “West Nile has changed tremendously. Communicators play a crucial role in informing the public about the security and development efforts happening in the region,” Maj. Turyatunga stated.
Arua City’s Town Clerk, David Kyasanku, also emphasized the link between security and investment.
He noted that over Shs100 billion has been invested in Arua, attributing this to the city’s secure environment and the teamwork of various stakeholders.
“We are in a world of media blasts where controlling information is difficult, but working together ensures the right narratives reach the public,” Kyasanku said.
The President of the Government Communicator’s Forum, Mr. Frank Mugabi, praised ISO and the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance for their efforts in harmonizing government communication. Mugabi, who is also the Head of Communications at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), highlighted the success of similar engagements held in Karamoja and Teso, where weekly publications by District Communication Officers have significantly improved information dissemination and collaboration.
He cautioned against the unchecked spread of misinformation, particularly via social media, warning that it negatively impacts socio-economic development.
The workshop focused on strategies to combat disinformation and propaganda, encouraging proactive sharing of factual, verified information through various media channels. Participants agreed that strengthening communication skills and inter-agency collaboration would be key in countering false narratives and building public trust.
ISO announced plans to roll out similar workshops in Uganda’s Western and Central regions, aiming to solidify a unified communication approach nationwide. Maj. Turyatunga expressed optimism that these initiatives will enhance Uganda’s global image, while fostering confidence in government institutions' efforts toward peace, security, and development.
