SECTOR 3

Broadcasting regulation is transparent
and independent; the State broadcaster
is transformed into a truly public
broadcaster.
3.1 Broadcasting legislation has been passed and is implemented that provides for a conducive environment
for public, commercial and community broadcasting.
Uganda’s broadcasting legislation does not distinguish between the three tiers
(i.e. public, commercial and community broadcasting), although Section 93(r) of
the Communications Act of 2013 notes that, “The Minister may make regulations
relating to the regulation of community broadcasting.”
With regards to the terms and conditions of a licence, Section 39(2) of the Act –
without making explicit mention of ‘community broadcasting’ – also notes that,
“A licence may include the provision of services to rural or sparsely populated
areas or other specified areas and other conditions specified in Schedule 6.”
(Aside from noting that, “(1) A licence issued under this Act may include the
following conditions (c) the provision of services to disadvantaged persons”;
Schedule 6 does not make any distinctions with respect to public, commercial or
community radio).
The Uganda Broadcasting Corporation Act of 2005 establishes the UBC as being
100% wholly owned, but not 100% funded by the government. Section 5 of
the Act speaks to the transformation of the UBC as a public (as opposed to state)
broadcaster.

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:

52

AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER UGANDA 2016

4.2 (2012 = 1.3; 2010 = 1.8; 2007 = 2.6)

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