admin | September 3, 2026
For Sarah Mawerere, a producer at Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) Radio-Butebo in eastern Uganda, radio is one of the most effective tools for helping communities understand disease outbreaks and respond with accurate information rather than fear.
During the recent Ebola outbreak, Ms. Mawerere’s role includes gathering verified information from Uganda’s Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization, interviewing health experts, and providing updates that local-language presenters translate for listeners across eastern and central Uganda.
Ms. Mawerere says, “Radio is the most listened-to source of information in Uganda, especially in rural communities. It allows people to ask questions, seek clarification, and receive trusted information in the languages they understand.”
Much of UBC’s health programming focuses on addressing misinformation about Ebola. Some people believe the disease does not exist. The station also works to correct misconceptions about Ebola transmission and regularly shares practical guidance on prevention, including proper hand hygiene, recognizing symptoms, avoiding unnecessary physical contact, and following recommendations from health authorities.
One live radio program highlights how easily public health messages can be misunderstood. During a religious program that includes Ebola prevention messages, a listener questions why wearing a mask is being discussed, believing masks are only necessary for COVID-19 while handwashing is enough to prevent Ebola.
Ms. Mawerere says, “The listener thought one disease meant washing hands and another meant wearing a mask. He did not realize that different viruses can require several preventive measures.”
After she explains that following all recommended health measures helps reduce the spread of disease, another listener calls the station to thank her for clarifying the difference between Ebola and COVID-19.
Ms. Mawerere says, “That moment showed me how important it is for radio presenters to clear up confusion during health crises by providing accurate information in ways people can easily understand.”
The experience reinforces the importance of verifying every message before it reaches listeners. Ms. Mawerere relies on information from Uganda’s Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization, and health experts, while avoiding technical language that may confuse audiences.
Ms. Mawerere says, “Rumours spread quickly in communities, but many people still turn to radio for trusted information. Broadcasters have a responsibility to verify the facts, share reliable information, and give people hope instead of fear.”
Looking ahead, she believes broadcasters should receive ongoing training to strengthen their ability to report during disease outbreaks and prepare reliable information resources before emergencies occur.
Ms. Mawerere says, “Our role is not only to inform people but also to help communities protect themselves by sharing accurate, practical information they can trust.”