Central Region Media Personnel Undergo Atomic Energy Sensitization

By Ivan Kaahwa

The Uganda Atomic Energy Council is conducting a sensitization workshop for selected media personnel in the central region on the application of nuclear technology in Uganda. The workshop aims to equip journalists with relevant information on the regulation of the peaceful application of atomic energy. This includes raising awareness about the national nuclear regulatory regime. Deogratias Luwalira, the Secretary and CEO of the Atomic Energy Council, highlighted the council’s role and mandate to regulate and facilitate the peaceful application of atomic energy during his opening remarks at the workshop.

The CEO emphasized that nuclear energy is utilized in various sectors such as industries, agriculture, hospitals, clinics, health centers, education, research institutions, and security, making it a vital aspect that encompasses the entire economy. He mentioned that this is the fourth workshop aimed at retooling media personnel on the application of nuclear energy, having previously covered the eastern, western, and northern regions, with the central region being the current focus.

Luwalira stressed the importance of the media in informing the public, underscoring the need to support media personnel in understanding the subject matter and reporting accurately on nuclear energy, which can be complex for many in the Ugandan context. He emphasized that without regular engagement, the subject of nuclear energy remains unique and misreporting could have consequences in society. Journalists, he noted, are key stakeholders in the sector and play a crucial role in disseminating information on matters of atomic energy. He highlighted that accurate and authentic information can foster acceptance of the technology among consumers of information.

The Atomic Energy Act is undergoing amendments to incorporate mechanisms for informing the public about the safety aspects of regulated practices. Luwalira informed the participants that the government has made significant investments in establishing nuclear power plants for electricity generation, aimed at promoting socioeconomic transformation, industrialization, and development. He emphasized that it is rare to achieve socioeconomic transformation without applying nuclear technology.

Luwalira encouraged journalists to be aware of the benefits and dangers of nuclear technology and how it can be sustainably managed amidst associated threats.

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