Sexual harassment declines in Uganda’s newsrooms

What the report says

A new study presented to the Uganda Editors’ Guild says sexual harassment in Uganda’s newsrooms has eased over the past five years, but it remains common. According to The Independent Uganda’s report from Kampala, the research found the share of journalists experiencing harassment fell from nearly 53% in 2020 to 40% in 2025. The survey was conducted by Women in News, in partnership with St. George’s University and BBC Media Action, and included 205 journalists nationwide, with 116 women and 89 men.

The findings suggest women continue to face the greatest burden in most categories. Verbal harassment was the most frequently reported form, while physical and online harassment were also widely cited. The report noted an unusual pattern in rape disclosures: more men than women in the sample reported having been raped. Researchers said some male survivors stayed silent because they feared job loss. The article also says many victims, regardless of gender, do not report abuse because they worry about retaliation or career damage.

Women in News trainer Carolyne Nakazibwe urged media houses to improve reporting systems and create safer workplaces, including independent handling of complaints. She also said the group is prepared to help through training for journalists, editors and media owners. The presentation prompted discussion about false complaints, with Vision Group’s Francis Kagolo warning that some allegations can be used to cover poor performance, while Nakazibwe said such cases are limited and should not deter employers from taking reports seriously.

The report comes amid broader concerns about newsroom conditions and press freedom in Uganda. The article also cites earlier research and journalist groups that have long described harassment as a factor pushing women out of media work or away from leadership roles.