Empowering Ugandan journalists and protecting children online in the age of Artificial Int

Empowering Ugandan journalists and protecting children online in the age of Artificial Intelligence

By Kajumba Gorret 16 June 2026

As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to transform the digital landscape, Ugandan journalists are receiving specialized training to strengthen online safety, personal data protection, and responsible use of emerging technologies.

Consent, in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), is conducting an online capacity-building programme that began on 23 April 2026. The initiative has brought together journalists from across Uganda to improve their understanding of safer internet practices and data privacy in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Opening the programme, Bwambale Bernard, Head of Programmes at Consent, emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and must be equipped to navigate both the opportunities and risks presented by digital technologies.

He explained that the programme includes eight sessions on safer internet use and three sessions on personal data protection, giving participants practical knowledge on protecting themselves online, securing digital information, and responding to emerging cyber threats.

Building Data Protection Awareness

Participants were guided through Uganda’s legal framework on privacy and data protection by David Othieno, Manager for Compliance and Investigation at the Personal Data Protection Office (PDPO).

His sessions focused on journalists’ responsibilities when collecting, processing, and handling personal information in line with the Data Protection and Privacy Act.

Navigating AI Safely

Another facilitator, Byamugisha Peter, explored how AI is reshaping journalism and digital communication.

He highlighted challenges such as misinformation, deepfakes, synthetic media, phishing, scams, fraud, identity theft, and social engineering, while also introducing practical tools that can help journalists protect their data and work securely online.

Participants from different regions, including Tusiime Christopher and Tumwebaze Philip from the Toro sub-region, praised the initiative and appealed for future physical training sessions to further strengthen AI literacy and digital safety skills.

Spotlight on Children's Online Safety

Alongside journalist training, Consent also used its fifth Media League Series to address the growing risks children and young people face online.

Moderating the session, Bwambale Bernard observed that children are spending more time in digital spaces than ever before through smart devices, chatbots, video games, voice assistants, and learning applications powered by AI.

He explained that AI systems increasingly influence children's online experiences by recommending videos, articles, music, and social connections, while warning that these technologies also introduce significant risks if not accompanied by adequate safeguards.

Among the major concerns discussed were online predators, sextortion, cyberbullying, harmful content, phishing, identity theft, scams, and misinformation.

Bernard urged parents to maintain open conversations with their children, monitor internet use, establish healthy screen-time limits, and make use of privacy settings and parental controls.

He also cautioned that excessive internet use can contribute to poor physical health, emotional stress, reduced family interaction, neglected responsibilities, and missed opportunities for real-life social engagement.

Participants Call for Greater Awareness

Busiku Swaibu from Mbale noted that the expansion of free Wi-Fi services has made internet access easier for children, often without parental supervision, increasing exposure to harmful online content.

He stressed the need for continuous public sensitization on both the benefits and dangers of internet use.

Another participant, Ndyamuhakyi Enock, called on the Uganda Communications Commission to strengthen regulations concerning the appropriate age for internet access among young users.

The discussions also highlighted the long-term consequences of cyberbullying, emphasizing that emotional and psychological harm can discourage victims from seeking help.

Participants agreed that identifying and reporting online abuse remains essential in preventing further harm.

As the training programme continues, organizers hope it will contribute to a more digitally resilient media sector while encouraging safer internet practices for journalists, children, and families across Uganda.