Ugandan Journalists Equipped to Tell Reproductive Health Stories Effectively

Kampala, Uganda – In a bid to improve the quality of reporting on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) in Uganda, a group of journalists from various media outlets have undergone a comprehensive training program.

The training session, held recently at Skyz Hotel in Kampala, a Ugandan capital, was led by Mulyowa Amon, a renowned expert in SRHR. The program aimed to equip journalists with the necessary skills and knowledge to report accurately and effectively on SRHR issues.

According to Ronnie Tusingwire, SRHR Alliance Programmes Coordinator, the training was designed to address the gaps in SRHR reporting in Uganda. “We want to support journalists in doing their job effectively, and to provide them with the information they need to report on SRHR issues accurately and responsibly,” Tusingwire said.

The training covered a range of topics, including Uganda’s policies and laws related to SRHR, as well as international laws and conventions that protect SRHR. Journalists were also trained on how to report on SRHR issues in a way that is sensitive, informative, and engaging.

Reproductive health refers to the physical, emotional, and social well-being of an individual in relation to their reproductive system and processes. This includes: Menstrual health, Pregnancy and childbirth, Family planning and contraception, Abortion and post-abortion care and Sexual health among others. This makes it critical and essential to have access to accurate information, education, and healthcare services to maintain good reproductive health.

Tusingwire emphasized the importance of accurate and responsible reporting on SRHR issues. “Journalists play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and holding leaders accountable,” he said. “We want to support them in doing their job effectively, and to provide them with the information they need to report on SRHR issues accurately and responsibly.”

The training program is part of a broader effort to improve SRHR reporting in Uganda. It is hoped that the training will lead to more accurate and responsible reporting on SRHR issues, and ultimately contribute to a better understanding of these issues among the general public.