Security forces and journalists in Karamoja came together today to clean Moroto Town in a show of unity marking World Press Freedom Day.
Personnel from the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Uganda Police Force, Anti-Stock Theft Unit, and intelligence agencies worked alongside media professionals and community leaders to clean up public places, including Moroto central market, referral hospital, bus terminal and extended donations to patients.
Mr Timothy Eodu, News Editor at Akica FM, praised the security forces for their community engagement. “As the media fraternity from Karamoja, we commend the joint security forces for their unwavering cooperation over the years,” he said. “While there may have been occasional incidents, our overall relationship has remained strong and productive.”
Mr Eodu noted such initiatives build trust between security agencies and the public while promoting national values.
Major Isaac Oware, UPDF 3 Infantry Division Public Information Officer, stressed the importance of media-security collaboration. “We recognise the cardinal role of the press in security operations and in transforming communities through purposeful communication,” he said. “We need each other – there can be no informed society without the media, the fourth estate.”
Police spokesperson Mike Longole said the cleanup reflected the strong working relationship between security forces and journalists in Karamoja. “These efforts reflect our commitment to peaceful co-existence, mutual respect, and transparent information sharing,” he added.
World Press Freedom Day, established by the UN in 1993, highlights media freedom’s importance and honours journalists who have died doing their jobs.
The Moroto event demonstrated how security forces and media can work together beyond their traditional roles to serve communities.
