Mbarara City, Uganda – April 17, 2025
In an effort to strengthen government communication at the grassroots level, District Communication Officers (DCOs) and District Internal Security Officers (DISOs) from the South Western sub-region successfully concluded a two-day joint communication retreat in Mbarara City. The retreat, held at Dreamwood Hotel from April 16–17, was spearheaded by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in collaboration with the Internal Security Organization (ISO).
The retreat brought together key communication and security stakeholders from across the region to discuss the modernization of government communication, forge stronger partnerships, and enhance the flow of accurate, timely, and citizen-focused information at district level. 
Addressing participants during the opening session, representatives from the Ministry of ICT & NG emphasized the need for district communication to keep pace with digital advancements while remaining deeply connected to community realities.
“The future of public service communication lies in our ability to collaborate across sectors, harness technology, and speak directly to the needs of our people,” one official noted. “This retreat is not just a meeting—it is the beginning of a new chapter.”
Key sessions focused on aligning district communication with national priorities, countering misinformation, and utilizing modern platforms to amplify public awareness campaigns. DISOs and DCOs also explored joint strategies to build public trust and ensure consistency in messaging, especially during times of crisis or emergency.
Participants commended the retreat’s format, which encouraged interactive dialogue, peer learning, and joint planning. DCOs and DISOs shared success stories and challenges from their respective districts, highlighting the value of mutual support and coordinated efforts.
A Milestone Moment: Magazine Launch
Capping off the retreat was the official launch of the District Communication Officers’ magazine, a new platform dedicated to showcasing government communication at the grassroots level. The magazine will feature district stories, case studies, citizen feedback, and expert insights—serving both as a knowledge-sharing tool and a celebration of the evolving role of DCOs across the country.
Looking Ahead
As participants departed Mbarara on the afternoon of April 17, the sense of renewed energy and purpose was palpable. With clear action plans and strengthened partnerships, the South Western region now stands at the forefront of transforming government communication across Uganda.
