Church of Uganda Family TV has officially launched its long-awaited Luganda news bulletin, Amafefete, which will air daily at 6:00 PM. The launch ceremony was held on Sunday at Church House in Kampala, featuring a thanksgiving service presided over by the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu.
In his sermon, Archbishop Kaziimba highlighted the divine roots of journalism, referencing the biblical account of Angel Gabriel delivering the news of Mary’s conception to Joseph.
“Journalism started with God,” he said, urging journalists to uphold truth, professionalism, and balance in their reporting.
He expressed concern over the increasing spread of misinformation by some media outlets, warning that fake news can foster hatred and mistrust in communities. The Archbishop also cautioned against airing inappropriate or distressing content that could erode moral and societal values.
“It is only Church of Uganda Family TV and very few stations where you can comfortably watch with your children, in-laws, and people of all age groups without fear of encountering inappropriate content. Sometimes, I avoid watching the news on certain stations because it keeps me awake with stories of murder, theft, and other distressing reports,” he remarked.
Archbishop Kaziimba also called for unity and responsible communication as Uganda approaches the next general elections.
“We must focus on issues and manifestos rather than attacking personalities, tribes, religions, or racial backgrounds. Corruption must be rejected so that all people of God can benefit from His services,” he urged.
Representing the Chief Guest, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda Kingdom, Owek. Patrick Luwaga Mugumbule, Speaker of the Buganda Kingdom Lukiiko (Parliament), commended the Church of Uganda for establishing Family TV and launching Amafefete.
He described the station as a transformative platform anchored in Christian values.
“Church of Uganda Family TV stands for accuracy, Christianity, professionalism, and development-focused news. On behalf of the Buganda Kingdom, I congratulate the Church of Uganda on this milestone,” Owek. Mugumbule said.
Amos Mwesigye, Managing Director of Church of Uganda Family TV, said the introduction of the Luganda bulletin was in response to public demand. He reaffirmed the station’s commitment to accurate and extensive news coverage, supported by a growing network of reporters and bureau chiefs across the country.
Speaking on behalf of the sponsors, Ann Nakangu Rashida of Post Bank Uganda emphasized the bank’s shared values with Family TV.
“Beyond supporting Family TV because of our shared commitment to social and economic transformation, we are also collaborating with the Church of Uganda to design a retirement benefits and pension scheme for Bishops, Clergy, and other Ministers,” she revealed.
Rev. Eng. Emmanuel Mwesigwa, Director of Shoma Christian Academy and Chaplain of St. Kakumba Chapel at Kyambogo University, affirmed the academy’s support for Family TV programming aimed at promoting quality education and fact-based content.
Samuel Bakutana, President of the Church of Uganda Provincial Fathers’ Union, called on Ugandans to invest in and support Family TV both financially and through contributing quality news content.
“Let us own this platform. It reflects our values and has the potential to influence society positively,” he said.
