Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a sweeping directive to all television and radio broadcasters, online communication service providers, and social media users in Uganda, ordering an immediate halt to the airing, promotion, and discussion of specific songs deemed to contain vulgar and obscene content.
The directive, signed by UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo, follows public outcry and resolutions from a multistakeholder dialogue held on December 9, 2024, at the Uganda National Cultural Centre (UNCC).
At the center of the controversy are popular Ugandan artists Gereson Wabuyi, also known as Gravity Omutujju, and Yasin Mukasa, known as Lil Pazo.
Their songs “Enkudi,” “Dooze,” “Okwepiicha,” “Enyama,” and “Omunio” have been singled out for containing “veiled words and statements” considered vulgar, obscene, and harmful to the moral and cultural fabric of Ugandan society.
The Commission’s hardline stance is seen as part of broader efforts to regulate media content in Uganda, raising questions about the balance between preserving cultural values and respecting artistic freedom in a rapidly evolving digital era.
The UCC referenced Section 31 and Schedule 4 of the Uganda Communications Act and the 2019 Content Regulations to justify its actions.
These laws prohibit the broadcasting of material that offends public morality, includes profanity, or presents explicit sexual matters in an offensive manner
Citing its mandate to uphold broadcasting standards, the Commission directed broadcasters to:
- Immediately suspend airing the identified songs on all platforms until investigations are concluded.
- Halt programs discussing the content of these banned songs.
- Cease broadcasting any material deemed vulgar or obscene.
The Commission warned broadcasters that violating this directive could result in criminal prosecution or regulatory sanctions, including suspension of broadcasting licenses.
Artists and Public Reaction
Gravity Omutujju and Lil Pazo are well-known figures in Uganda’s music industry, with significant followings.
The ban has sparked debate, with supporters of the directive praising it as a step toward safeguarding societal values, while critics argue it could stifle creative freedom and artistic expression.
“This is an overreach,” said one media analyst who asked to remain anonymous. “It sets a dangerous precedent for censorship under the guise of protecting morality.”
However, others applauded the move, saying children needed better role models and that music should uplift, not corrupt.
Gravity recently said his music was purely for entertainment, not corrupting the public’s morals.
What Next
The UCC emphasized that its investigations into the matter are ongoing and that broadcasters should comply with the directive until a final decision is made. It also encouraged the public to report any violations to its toll-free hotline.
