Nyanzi Martin Luther Requests For Media Freedom From Ugandan Government.

*UGANDAN ONLINE BROADCASTERS AND PUBLISHERS DEMAND MEDIA FREEDOM: A CALL TO ACTION FOR INDUSTRY REFORM*

Nyazi Martin Luther, CEO of Apex Media, has called for media freedom for online broadcasters and publishers in Uganda, highlighting the challenges faced by online media practitioners, including heavy taxation and exclusion from government accountability.

The Plight of Online Broadcasters and Publishers

Online broadcasters and publishers in Uganda pay significant taxes, including:

- *Data costs*: To operate online and provide content to their audiences

- *Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) license fees*: To obtain the necessary licenses to operate as online broadcasters and publishers

- *Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) taxes*: To comply with tax laws and regulations

Some of the affected online publishers include:

- *The Observer*: A leading online news platform in Uganda

- *Direct Press*: An online publication known for its in-depth analysis and news coverage

- *Red Pepper*: A popular online news website in Uganda

- *Nile Post*: An online news platform providing news, analysis, and insights on Uganda and East Africa

- *Daily Express*: An online news website covering current events, politics, and entertainment in Uganda

- *Witnessing*: An online news platform focused on news, analysis, and feature stories

The Cost of Starting an Online Media Outlet

Starting an online TV, radio, and news website requires a significant investment, ranging from $15,000 to $100,000, depending on the scale and ambition of the setup. Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs:

- *Initial Investment*: $15,000 to $100,000

- *Broadcasting licenses and permits*: $500 to $3,000

- *Audio equipment and studio setup*: $5,000 to $20,000

- *Software tools and analytics*: $1,000 to $3,000

- *Website development*: $1,000 to $5,000

- *Marketing and branding*: $2,000 to $10,000

Converting these costs to Ugandan Shillings (UGX), assuming an exchange rate of 1 USD = 3,700 UGX, the estimated costs would be:

- *Initial Investment*: 55,500,000 UGX to 370,000,000 UGX

- *Broadcasting licenses and permits*: 1,850,000 UGX to 11,100,000 UGX

- *Audio equipment and studio setup*: 18,500,000 UGX to 74,000,000 UGX

- *Software tools and analytics*: 3,700,000 UGX to 11,100,000 UGX

- *Website development*: 3,700,000 UGX to 18,500,000 UGX

- *Marketing and branding*: 7,400,000 UGX to 37,000,000 UGX

President Museveni's Remarks

Luther also referenced an incident where President Museveni seemed to dismiss the role of journalists, particularly online broadcasters, saying "even giving rumors is a job" when reminded about monthly reports on the Parish Development Model (PDM). This remark has sparked controversy and highlighted the need for greater media freedom in the country.

Launch of National Association of Online Broadcasters

To address these issues, Luther announced plans to launch the National Association of Online Broadcasters, aiming to advocate for media freedom and promote the interests of online broadcasters and publishers.

Call to Action

Luther is calling upon all online broadcasters and publishers to join this fight for media freedom. Interested parties can reach out to the National Association of Online Broadcasters and Publishers via email: [email protected].

Implications

The launch of the National Association of Online Broadcasters is expected to have significant implications for the media landscape in Uganda, potentially leading to:

- *Increased Advocacy*: For media freedom and improved policies for online broadcasters and publishers

- *Greater Recognition*: Of the role of online media in promoting democracy and accountability

- *Level Playing Field*: For all media practitioners in Uganda, ensuring online broadcasters and publishers have a voice in policy-making processes.