SECTOR 2

The public broadcaster, UBC, has several television and radio stations. Some
have opened up more recently, increasing the diversity of offerings.
Digitisation also presents the potential for further growth in the broadcast
sector; the Constitution and privatisation laws have helped to provide an
opportunity for more media outlets to enter this space. However, “there is
need for streamlining and realignment, as a greater sense of professionalism
is (rightfully) being imposed by the market.”
Panellists noted that although provisions exist to promote a diverse media
landscape, “we liberalise everything, but we know in practice that if a media
house is seen to be to the left, there will be a small caveat. When looking
at the hard stuff, government – which is one of the biggest spenders – may
impose restrictions.”
Currently, there are no tax breaks or subsidies to support the sustainability
of print media houses, despite the exceptionally high costs associated with
printing. There are efforts to advocate for decreases in the taxation of regional
print media, “but nobody will hear of that.”
No subsidies or tax breaks exist for private broadcasters either.

Scores:
Individual scores:
1

Country does not meet indicator

2

Country meets only a few aspects of indicator

3

Country meets some aspects of indicator

4

Country meets most aspects of indicator

5

Country meets all aspects of the indicator

Average score:

40

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER UGANDA 2016

3.5 (2012 = 1.7; 2010 = 1.8; 2007 = n/a)

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