Opinion

To understand how today’s youth perceive the legacy of these martyrs, we spoke to some Uganda Christian University (UCU) students. Their reflections suggest that the fire of 1886 has not gone out, it has simply changed form.

As a journalist, I am not outside this reflection. Our profession is meant to speak uncomfortable truths. But we do not always succeed. The pressures are real from economic to political and sometimes to personal fears.

What is the first thing that comes to your mind when someone says “mental health”? 

Do you take a deep sigh of concern and think Butabika? Depression? Rich kids who can’t get a grip? Spiritual battles? Or do you acknowledge that it is an important aspect of your life and listen for ways to better it?

First and foremost, any type of violence against journalists is simply wrong. Assaulting journalists jeopardises the core values of a free press and the critical role they play in society.