The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col.Edith Nakalema has underscored the role of media personalities and social media influencers in keeping the general public informed.
“I just want to thank you for the good job you are doing. Thank you for making us informed and supporting our office. I organised this meeting to say thank you,” Col. Nakalema said.
Col. Nakalema made the remarks while meeting a group of media talk show hosts, panelists, radio contributors and social media influencers at SHIPU offices in Kampala.
She also thanked her guests for supporting and creating awareness of the roles of SHIPU to the public.
“All your contributions are highly appreciated.”
Col. Nakalema further rallied the media personalities and Social media influencers to work together with the government to see how they can push Uganda forward in order to achieve the much desired socio-economic transformation.
“Many people speak about the good things the government does irrespective of their political affiliations. Another thing, Uganda is for all of us, if you see any wrong anywhere, please inform us immediately so that we see how we deal with that problem while the evidence is still in place,” she noted.
“You should also use the media to fight criminality.” Additionally, Col. Nakalema tasked the social media influencers to
mobilise their fellow young people to love Uganda.
“You have a challenge to go and look for your colleagues and tell them to love their country. It is not only about speaking for the government but also bringing others on board and making them feel that they are part of
the government and love their country. I'm not mobilising for the ruling party but I'm mobilising the young people to love their country,” she said.
The Director of the Government Citizen Interaction Centre (GCIC), Ms.Marcella Karekye underscored the role of the media people in the country but reminded them that they still remain Ugandans, and they must do what they can to protect the image of their country.
“By and large, Uganda is a good country with good leadership, we must be grateful. Of course, politics exists, but we must be reasonable while dealing with it,” Ms. Karekye said.
The former Attorney General, Hon. Fred Ruhindi lauded Col. Nakalema for meeting people from all walks of life, with an aim of creating a common conscience among Ugandans.
“Just a small candle can diminish a big shade of darkness. Col.Nakalema you are the light of Uganda in darkness. Let's support the common good and national interest because it has no color, we all need development,” Hon. Ruhindi said.
Mr. Patrick Mulindwa, a media personality and businessman, urged the media people to leverage technology for continued growth in their career.
“Journalists play an important role in the development of a country. They can make or break the country,” he said.
Media panelist, Mrs. Buchana Justine Namakula also commended Col.Nakalema for being a good public servant, saying that if Uganda had only 10 Ugandans with her character, the country would be far ahead in terms of governance.
Ms. Margaret Ssekamanya Sserunjogi, an official at Top Radio and TV,thanked Col. Nakalema for the invite and recognizing their role in the country.