The Uganda Media Women's Association (UMWA) has successfully concluded a three-day training workshop for journalists in Karamoja, aimed at fostering a gender-sensitive approach to storytelling.
This initiative marks a significant step toward empowering the Karamoja community, which has long been steeped in patriarchal traditions.
"Journalists must be deliberate about including women's voices in their stories," emphasized Margret Sentamu, Executive Director of UMWA.
"The media is a powerful tool for shaping perceptions, and it's high time we ask ourselves: What do we think about women and the media?"
In Karamoja, women have historically been excluded from key decision-making platforms, such as the revered Akiriket meetings, with even female journalists facing barriers to access.
UMWA's training sought to address these obstacles by equipping journalists with the skills to report inclusively and challenge societal norms that marginalize women's voices.
Connie Osoru, UMWA's Program Coordinator, urged journalists to focus on public accountability stories, highlighting their transformative potential.
"It is these stories," she said, "that will lift Karamoja and Uganda as a whole. Journalists have the power to shine a light where it's most needed."
The training was hands-on, with practical assignments, group presentations, and plenary sessions.
On the second day, UMWA facilitated a focus group discussion with women leaders from Moroto, where journalists engaged in candid conversations about their working relationships with women leaders, identifying gaps in collaboration.
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"We need a united front," said Laila Ndagire, UMWA's Program Officer. "When journalists and women leaders work hand in hand, we pave the way for meaningful development."
The workshop concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening collaboration between journalists and women leaders.
The group resolved to maintain regular dialogue and work toward amplifying women's perspectives in the media.
Chlethilda Babiterere, Gender Officer for Women, stressed the importance of inclusivity in development. "Development is only sustainable when no one is left behind. Men and women must walk this journey together."
The training left participants inspired and equipped to bring a more gender-sensitive approach to their reporting.
With the skills gained, Karamoja's journalists are now poised to rewrite the narrative, ensuring that gender inclusivity becomes a central pillar in their stories.
