Media professionals have been urged to take a more active role in promoting scientific knowledge and combating misinformation that threatens agricultural advancement in Uganda and across the region.
This call was made during a regional media training session held at Masindi Hotel on Thursday, where Dr. Sadik Kassim, Deputy Director General for Agricultural Technology Promotion at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), addressed journalists on the importance of science-driven reporting.
Dr. Kassim appealed to the media to embrace their responsibility as defenders of scientific truth and credible partners in the advancement of agricultural innovation.
He emphasized the power the media holds in shaping public opinion and warned against the growing influence of anti-science activism that undermines progress.
He explained that disinformation campaigns are often strategic and deliberately target journalists, knowing that they are constantly in pursuit of new and compelling stories.
“Science and technology is the next panacea for the human race,” Dr. Kassim stated.
He pointed out that the world’s population is rapidly increasing, while the amount of available land remains unchanged.
He explained that this imbalance presents serious challenges that only science can effectively address.
“If we don’t secure food, we cannot secure peace,” he said. “Populations without food are unsettled.”
Dr. Kassim highlighted the gains Uganda has made through the adoption of agricultural research and technologies.
He noted that scientific interventions have led to crops that are more resistant to drought, pests, and diseases, and have shorter maturity periods, higher yields, and increased suitability for industrial use.
He warned that without these innovations, Uganda would have suffered significant losses in its agricultural capacity.
He credited science with saving numerous food systems and livelihoods across the country.
He called for a stronger public appreciation of science’s vital role in society.
Dr. Kassim also challenged both researchers and journalists to cultivate mutual trust and credibility in order to better serve the public interest.
He urged scientists to be more transparent and to communicate their findings in simple and relatable terms.
He advised journalists to commit to fact-based reporting and to thoroughly verify information before publishing.
He emphasized the need for the scientific community to develop effective communication strategies that simplify research data for broader consumption.
He encouraged journalists to shift their focus beyond just reporting challenges in the agricultural sector and to start highlighting the innovative solutions science is offering.
He revealed that NARO is considering the introduction of media awards to recognize excellence in science communication.
He said such awards would help inspire journalists to craft impactful stories that highlight innovation, resilience, and transformation in agriculture.
He further encouraged media practitioners to remain up to date with developments in science and technology.
He stressed the importance of building strong professional networks and continually seeking new knowledge.
The training event in Masindi is part of NARO’s broader campaign to equip journalists with deeper insights into agricultural research and its critical role in ensuring food security, economic stability, and climate resilience.
Frank Mugabi, NARO’s Senior Communications Officer, expressed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening the connection between science and society.
He said this connection can only be realized if the media plays its central role in accurately conveying the real story of agriculture in Uganda.
