Eight Journalists Honoured at Inaugural Standards & Metrology Media Awards

By Our Reporter

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS), in partnership with TradeMark Africa, has recognised eight journalists for outstanding reporting on quality standards, fair trade and consumer protection at the inaugural Standards & Metrology Media Awards.

The awards ceremony, held at UNBS headquarters in Bweyogerere, Kampala on March 23rd 2026 brought together media practitioners, development partners and government officials to celebrate excellence in reporting on Uganda’s quality infrastructure.

The recognition follows a nationwide media engagement programme that trained 150 journalists across five regional hubs earlier this month.

A total of 64 stories published between March 12 and 19 were submitted and assessed by an independent panel from the Makerere University Department of Journalism and Communication, based on accuracy, impact and depth.

UNBS Executive Director James Kasigwa said the media plays a critical role in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.

“A country is only as strong as its standards, and a standard is only as strong as the public’s belief in it,” Kasigwa said, describing the winners as “quality ambassadors” who simplify technical information for the public.

Regional winners each received Shs500,000 and a certificate of excellence. They include Jesse Johnson James (Northern), Ssekimuli Fred (Greater Kampala Metropolitan), Phoebe Masongole (Eastern), Kiiza Innocent (Western) and Davis Buyondo (Central).

At the national level, Chowoo Willy was named Best Male Journalist, while Doreen Bazio won the Best Female Journalist category. Lydia Felly Akullu received a special mention for her investigative report on banned cosmetics.

Anna Nambooze, Country Director of TradeMark Africa, said strengthening standards and certification is key to boosting Uganda’s trade competitiveness.

“Certification is the key to unlocking Uganda’s export performance. When the media highlights the success of standard-compliant MSMEs, they drive national competitiveness in regional and global markets,” she said.

The awards are part of a broader initiative supported by UK International Development aimed at improving awareness and uptake of standards. The programme, implemented by Ultimate Multimedia Consult, has also led to the establishment of dedicated “standards desks” in 12 media houses to enhance coverage of quality and consumer protection issues.

UNBS says the initiative is expected to contribute to increased compliance with standards, improved product quality and expanded access to regional and international markets, including under the African Continental Free Trade Area.