The French Embassy in Uganda has joined forces with the Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) to train journalists in digital investigations and fact-checking, in a new initiative aimed at promoting credible and responsible journalism in the digital era.
The three-day workshop taking place in Kampala has drawn over 30 parliamentary correspondents and media practitioners. It focuses on enhancing their ability to identify false information to verify online sources and counter misinformation that threatens public trust and democratic discourse.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, French Ambassador Xavier Sticker commended Ugandan journalists for their contribution to public accountability and democratic governance. He emphasized that accurate information remains vital for an informed and resilient society.
“Reliable journalism is essential to democracy. In an age of manipulation and digital distortion, journalists must be equipped with the tools to defend truth and public trust,” Ambassador Sticker said.
UPPA President Moses Mulondo welcomed the partnership describing it as timely and necessary. He noted that misinformation and deepfakes continue to distort public understanding and undermine professional journalism especially during politically charged periods.
The training introduces participants to open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools, verification of photos and videos, ethical reporting standards and techniques for authenticating digital evidence. Facilitators also guided journalists on online safety, digital ethics, and the responsible use of artificial intelligence in newsroom investigations.
According to the organisers, the partnership between UPPA and the French Embassy forms part of a broader effort to build media literacy and resilience across Uganda. Future sessions will extend to regional reporters to strengthen professional standards nationwide.
Ambassador Sticker reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting the growth of independent media, noting that well-trained journalists serve as “pillars of democratic accountability.”
Media analysts have lauded the initiative as a timely step towards strengthening the integrity of Uganda’s journalism landscape ahead of the 2026 general elections, when misinformation is expected to surge across digital platforms.