The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced a new directive for all broadcasters, online content providers, and social media users in Uganda, instructing them to stop promoting and sharing songs and programs considered vulgar and obscene.
The Commission specifically pointed out certain songs by artists Gerson Wabuyi, also known as Gravity Omutujju, and Yasin Mukasa, known as Lil Pazo, which were discussed during the dialogue. Among the tracks cited include “Enkudi, Dooze, Okwepiicha, Enyama, and Omuniongo” which the participants claim feature vulgar language, inappropriate innuendos, and suggestive terms that could harm public morality.
UCC’s directive demands the immediate suspension of the airing of these songs, as well as any programs discussing their content, until investigations into the matter are concluded.
The move follows a multi-stakeholder dialogue that took place on December 9, 2024, at the Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC), where participants expressed significant concerns about such content on the moral and cultural values of society.
In communication seen by this publication, the UCC argues that the sings are contrary to the Minimum Broadcasting Standards as enshrined in Schedule 4 of the Uganda Communications Act and the Uganda Communications (Content) Regulations 2019.
Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director of the UCC, stressed that the Commission is prepared to take regulatory action or initiate criminal proceedings against anyone who disregards this directive.
He said the subject songs are prohibited content, and it is an offence for any broadcaster or show presenter to broadcast prohibited content.
“The Commission has taken note of the public outcry and the concerns raised during the dialogue. Content that contains vulgar, obscene, or offensive language has no place in our society,” reads the dosument signed by Nyombi.
Last week the Prime Minister of Buganda, C. P Mayiga banned the same songs from the kingdom’s radio and TV stations.