KAMPALA, UGANDA — Uganda’s communications regulator has vowed to seize the transmitters of media houses that broadcast immoral content, in a bid to crack down on the proliferation of explicit material on the country’s airwaves.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) said it will take drastic action against media outlets that fail to comply with the country’s broadcasting regulations, which prohibit the airing of content that is deemed obscene, indecent, or offensive.
“We will not hesitate to seize the transmitters of any media house that insists on broadcasting immoral content,” Nyombi Thembo, UCC Executive Director. “We have a responsibility to protect the public from harmful content, and we will take all necessary measures to ensure that our regulations are enforced.”
The UCC’s move comes amid growing concerns about the increasing explicitness of content on Ugandan radio and television stations. Many Ugandans have expressed outrage over the airing of songs and videos that contain explicit language, nudity, and other forms of indecent content.
The UCC has already identified several songs and media houses that it says have been broadcasting immoral content, and has warned them to desist from doing so or face the consequences.
The regulator has since suspended the airing of several popular songs, citing their explicit content and potential harm to the country’s moral fabrics.
The UCC ED announced the suspension Tuesday, saying the songs promote values that are detrimental to society.
The commission has directed all broadcasters to stop playing the songs, which include “Enkudi,” “Dooze,” “Okwepiicha,” “Enyama” and “Omunio” by musicians Lil Pazo and Gravity Omutuju.
He cited concerns about the increasing explicitness of content on Ugandan airwaves and in public performances.
The regulator has also warned organizers and promoters of public entertainment events to obtain authorization from the commission before staging their events.
Thembo said offenders will face regulatory sanctions, including possible prosecution.
The regulator’s move has been welcomed by many Ugandans, who say it is long overdue. “We are tired of being bombarded with explicit content every time we turn on the radio or television,” said Pr. Martin Ssempa. “It’s time for the UCC to take action and protect our values.”
The UCC has assured the public that it will not abuse its powers, and that its sole intention is to protect the public from harmful content.
