Freedom of Expression, Association, and Assembly – Sauti Stream 2

Despite constitutional guarantees, exercising the freedoms of peaceful assembly, expression, association remains a challenge in Uganda. Using interactive radio and SMS, the second Sauti Stream campaign by TRAC FM and Chapter Four Uganda held a nationwide conversation on perceptions and implementation of these rights to guide advocacy and policy.

POLL 4

If the government was to extend small business loans, who do you think should be given priority?

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Total Responses

Total

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Unknown Responses

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Radio Stations

Radio Stations

BACKGROUND

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RADIO STATIONS

Radio 1

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POLL QUESTION.

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Location Responses

Campaign Background

In Uganda, exercising the freedoms of expression, assembly, and association remains a challenge due to restrictive laws, political intimidation, and lack of awareness. The second Sauti Stream Campaign was designed to gather citizen perspectives on these rights and promote informed debate. Using interactive radio programs and SMS-based polling, the campaign engaged the public on key civic issues affecting governance and democracy

Partners and Scope

The campaign was a collaboration between TRAC FM and Chapter Four Uganda, supported by 11 partner radio stations across the country. Local scholars, civic leaders, and human rights experts contributed to the design of poll questions and discussions. The campaign reached 86 districts, collecting 62,066 responses from citizens on their experiences with civic freedoms.

Objective and Impact

The campaign highlighted critical gaps in public awareness and access to civic freedoms, revealing that many Ugandans refrain from expressing concerns due to fear of consequences or political pessimism. Findings from the campaign informed recommendations for legislative review and advocacy by Chapter Four Uganda, especially on the topic of rules for the registration of Community-Based Organizations. By amplifying citizen voices, the second Sauti Stream Campaign also contributed to strengthening democratic participation and public debate and discussion.

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