Media outlets have been encouraged to incorporate discussions on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into their daily content to accelerate the goals’ implementation by 2030. This call was made during a side-event focused on achieving the SDGs with the involvement of civil society organizations, media, and youth. The event was organized by the United Nations Association of Uganda (UNAU) at Forest Cottages Naguru.
During the panel discussion, Charity Ahimbisibwe of civil society highlighted the media’s critical role in speeding up the SDGs’ implementation. She emphasized the need for media to use their platforms to educate the public about the SDGs.
“According to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), we have over 250 radio stations. These provide numerous opportunities to disseminate information about the SDGs and foster discussions,” Ahimbisibwe remarked.
Emmanuel Kirunda, Secretary General of the Uganda Journalists Association, underscored the importance of media partnerships in promoting and implementing the SDGs, showcasing the strength of collaboration. However, he pointed out that financial constraints and state interference pose significant challenges to the media’s ability to extensively cover and interrogate SDG-related issues.
“We must acknowledge the media’s current struggles, such as state interference and financial pressures, which hinder their capacity to report on and promote the SDGs,” Kirunda explained.
At the event, George Muwanguzi, President of UNAU, presented the Youth Voluntary National Review Consultation Report 2024. He highlighted Uganda’s youthful demographic, with over 78% of the population under the age of 30, and called for greater youth engagement to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
“We need to mobilize young people now so that by 2030, significant progress has been made, laying a strong foundation for ongoing efforts. The SDGs will continue beyond 2030, so sustained action is crucial,” Muwanguzi stated.
