The Independent (Uganda)
| Type | Weekly Newsmagazine |
|---|---|
| Format | Print and Online |
| Owner(s) | Andrew Mwenda (through The Independent Publications Limited) |
| Founder(s) | Andrew Mwenda |
| Editor | Andrew Mwenda |
| Founded | 2007 |
| Language | English |
| Headquarters | Kampala, Uganda |
| Website | www |
The Independent is a Ugandan news magazine and online publication based in Kampala, known for its investigative journalism and critical coverage of politics, society, and culture. Founded in 2007 by Andrew Mwenda, a prominent journalist and political analyst, it operates as a weekly print magazine and a daily online platform. The publication has gained recognition for its in-depth investigative journalism, critical analysis of current affairs, and often controversial takes on Ugandan politics and society[1][2][3]
Overview
[edit]The news magazine covers general and business news. It also has dedicated sections for news analysis, Eastern African regional news and a features section. It comes out in glossy print, but it is also available on the Internet. It is published in English only.[4]
Published every Friday, The Independent offers a comprehensive review of the week's events, with a strong focus on political commentary, economic analysis, social issues, and business news. Unlike daily newspapers, it aims to provide a more reflective and analytical perspective, delving deeper into the underlying causes and implications of news stories. Its target audience includes policymakers, business leaders, academics, and the general public interested in a more nuanced understanding of Uganda and the East African region.[4]
It has won awards, including a 2015 African Media Initiative award for investigative journalism. Its online platform has expanded its reach to the Ugandan diaspora, particularly in Europe and North America. The Independent remains a vital source for informed analysis in a media landscape often polarized by political affiliations.[5]
History
[edit]The paper was founded in April 2007, by Andrew Mwenda, who sought to create a platform free from corporate and government influence. Mwenda, a former Daily Monitor journalist, aimed to fill a gap in Uganda’s media by offering in-depth analysis and bold reporting.[6] The magazine quickly gained attention for its exposés on government mismanagement and human rights issues. In 2010, it expanded to an online edition, increasing its reach.[7]
Content and coverage
[edit]The magazine features investigative reports, political commentary, and features on culture, business, and sports. Its online platform offers daily news updates, opinion pieces, and multimedia content. Notable stories include exposés on public sector corruption and coverage of opposition movements. The publication has also reported on regional issues, such as conflicts in the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. Its editorial tone is critical but balanced, aiming to foster public debate.[3]
Challenges
[edit]The Independent has faced significant challenges, including government pressure and financial constraints. In 2008, Mwenda was briefly detained over a story critical of the government, sparking protests from media groups. The publication has also struggled with advertising revenue, relying on subscriptions and donor support. Despite these hurdles, it maintains editorial independence, avoiding sensationalism common in some Ugandan tabloids.[8]
See also
[edit]- List of newspapers in Uganda
- Media in Uganda
- Andrew Mwenda
- Achola Rosario
References
[edit]- ^ BBC News (2011-07-13). "Uganda media: The print press". BBC News. Retrieved 20 June 2024.
- ^ "African collections". Stanford Libraries. Stanford Libraries. Retrieved 18 July 2018.
- ^ a b "Uganda's Media Landscape: Key Players". Uganda Media Centre. Retrieved 23 June 2025.
- ^ a b African Centre for Media Excellence (2018-05-22). "The rise and influence of Andrew Mwenda and The Independent". African Centre for Media Excellence. Retrieved 20 June 2024.
- ^ "African Media Awards 2015". African Media Centre. Retrieved 23 June 2025.
- ^ "Andrew Mwenda and The Independent's Rise". Retrieved 23 June 2025.
- ^ The Independent (Uganda) (2024). "About Us". The Independent (Uganda). Retrieved 20 June 2024.
- ^ Uganda, The Independent (2008-09-10). "How Andrew Mwenda was arrested". The Independent Uganda. Retrieved 24 June 2025.