Uganda is not ready for digital migration

Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) continues to be a threat to universal access and affordability of local TV signals under digital migration in Uganda despite the June 2015 deadline. Many Ugandans may forget about TV if UCC goes ahead to switch off analogue TV signals without readiness.

Set-up boxes are crucial for the move to digital migration but UCC has only about  ten approved vendors according to its Website for the entire country. The set-top boxes are still costly for an average Ugandan. Set-up boxes are between Shs 120,000 and Shs 200,000 depending on features. The average Ugandan may opt for DVD entertainment. If more Ugandans are off TV after final digital migration roll-out, some local TV stations may collapse since they rely on advertising revenue justified by their viewership base. When viewership is low, then advertisers may stop their advertising. What will happen to local TV stations that can not afford the expected high fees for their signal to be carried digitally?

The Communication Authority of Kenya recently shut down analogue signals over a row with NTV, QTV, KTN and Citizen. Many TV viewers in Kenya were affected. The incident gives UCC a number of lessons. There are still unresolved issues surrounding digital signal management between UBC and UCC.The Ugandan Company supposed to handle the signal has been alleged to be operating without a license.The process may end up in court battles.

The coverage of the digital signal is still limited to only about a 70 kilometre radius from Kololo.Retailers of set-up boxes are communicating the same. When will the entire country be covered? This leaves the rest of Uganda with the Pay-TV option which is costly. UCC has failed to push for a ‘must carry all free policy’ to force all Pay-TV firms to air local FTA channels even when subscription expires. The absent digital migration law would help address this. We will continue with Digital migration challenges as long as no law is enacted.

Ignorance about the migration process limits universal access. Gaps in public awareness have worsened the situation.UCC has not helped even with misleading Pay-TV adverts that seem to imply that the only way to receive the new digital channels is to acquire their decoder.

The option to use internet to watch TV after the analogue switch off  is not viable considering the unreliable internet coverage services in the country. It is true that flat screens TVs today have Wi-fi and almost each local Ugandan TV channel has a developed a TV mobile app. But how many can afford internet costs?

The other option to pick the digital signal is to use the integrated digital television sets that come with in-built decoders. Has UCC engaged Ugandan based TV manufacturers to explore the option?

Power is also another bottleneck to universal access of digital signals in Uganda.UCC needs to work with the private sector to develop alternative power sources. There are no battery or solar powered set-up boxes.

Access to information should be a right to the poor and rich. UCC should fully engage all stakeholders.UCC will deliver a lot if it fully engaged radio listeners’ and TV viewers’ clubs across the country. There is need to create a fund to ensure universal access of signals by availing set-up boxes to the poor at a subsidised fee or no cost. There is need for every Ugandan to advocate for removal of taxes on digital migration equipment.UCC must allocate more six months to run two sets of analogue and digital signals simultaneously.

Ivan .N. Baliboola

PR and organisational diagnosis specialist

nbaliboola@gmail.com

BEING IVAN's WIFE

Yes yes, pearl of the female race

Her beauty is smelt everywhere

Like the blue skies

In her, a stream of degrees flow

She wakes up early in the morning

She Fetches water

She Picks food in the garden

She throws all the food in the market

In the evening, she comes home with food paper cramps

She talks about how to roll paper cramps with Ivan the husband

She lives only two duplicates of her.

She sits in my eyes

And rockets to my moon

- Ivan Baliboola (2013)

 

 

 

 

 

Top 6 Ugandan PR Blunders -January crises 2015

January had less PR scandals. This article strictly offers academic insight meant to create awareness about crisis PR management. Therefore it should be used for educational purposes and not viewed as an attack on institutions or individuals.  It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda which is still a young profession. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. I commend the inclusion of Best Crisis Management Award category in the PRAU Excellence Awards. PR Practitioners need to be fully involved in crises from the start.

1)         Uganda police officer allegedly beats up journalist with an electric cable

Local media reported about the Old Kampala Division Police Commander (DPC) Joram Mwesigye who hit the WBS TV cameraman Andrew Lwanga with an electric cable while on duty. This was during    a  protest march by youth activists under their organization Unemployed Youth. His camera was not spared either. The journalist was allegedly detained in a police cell after the incident despite the pain he was going through. It was after other journalists intervened that he was then rushed to a health facility. The incident pictures and videos went viral on social media. This caused public outcry. Uganda police was again portrayed as inhuman. The following day, journalists under their rights body, Human Rights Network for Journalists Uganda (HRNJ-U) condemned actions by the DPC.Uganda Police leadership came out and publicly apologized to the media fraternity which was good PR. The incident raises questions on the type of training police officers go through and their disciplinary mechanisms. The Uganda Police force   spokesperson Fred Enanga said that actions of individuals cannot be tagged on the entire force. This was a reassuring positive message from the police.The DPC has since been arrested and arraigned in court over the incident which was assign of goodwill from the Uganda police. Some Kampala Lawyers pledged to offer free legal services to the battered journalist

2)         Archbishop of the Church of Uganda Stanley Ntagali publicly refuted Luke Orombi‘s alleged demon attacks.

The mighty man of God publicly disagreed with his former predecessor over demons . Recently, there were media reports indicating that retired Archbishop Rt Rev Luke Orombi claimed to have been attacked by demons at Namirembe. This was a wrong move on Ntagali's side to publicly disagree on a controversial issue. The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda Stanley Ntagali publicly opposed claims by Christians about the presence of demons and demonic attacks. Ntagali was preaching at the 8th West Ankole Youth convention at Bweranyangi in Bushenyi and said there should not be any more talk of demonic attacks and presence among Christians. Archbishop Ntagali’s responses caused mixed reactions among Christians. It was hard to confirm what Archbishop Ntagalis response meant. Did he mean that   there are no demons at all in the world? Or demons are just psychological?

3)         Katongole omutongole alleged sexual scandal.

The Bukedde Tv’s Full dose presenter Katongole was in news for alleged defilement. Katongole Omutongole organized a press conference to respond to the issue. He distanced himself from the incident. He also strategically came with his partner Titi.This brought more credibility to the story. He also explained that he was happily married with children. Katongole further explained how his wife means a lot to him and why she is still with him even after all the false defilement accusations.

4)         Katumwa alleged defilement

Kampala Businessman Katumwa was arrested over alleged defilement and locked up at Katwe Police station. He was later released pending investigations. The PR tactic he did was to get media to listen to his side of the story.

5)         Leaked Sextape of Robin Mweruka

There was a leaked sex video of allegedly Robinah Mweruka that went Viral on social media platforms. She reads ‘Agataliko Nfufu news’ and hosts ‘the Omuntu W’abantu show’ on Bukedde TV. The man in the Video was not allegedly her Husband. It raises issues of adultery and reputation damage. The reputation of her workplace and her personal image was dented.

Local TV anchor Sanyu Robinah Mweruka finally came out to speak about her sextape and rubbished the sextape as false. She has successfully cleaned her reputation and storm is no more. Police took over the matter. There is little you can do about a leaked sex tape. You either turn the sex tape issue into a PR stunt or   keep quiet till it is no longer a topic of discussion.

6)         Speculative rumours about Minister Frank Tumwebaze’s suspension.

Rumours were spreading fast on social media alleging that the Minister for Kampala and presidency Frank Tumwebaze was suspended .The government moved fast and reassured the public. The minister for security Muruli Mukasa clarified that the minister in charge of the Presidency and Kampala Capital City Authority Frank Tumwebaze, Tumwebaze was on official leave which would end on February 2.Minsiter Frank Tumwebaze  also communicated  the same  which calmed the situation.

Ivan N. Baliboola 

PR & organizational diagnosis specialist

nbaliboola@gmail.com

The author has worked with some of the most well-known and influential East African brands in construction, governance, manufacturing, healthcare, Insurance, fashion, supermarket, Insurance, cosmetics, and banking. He carries a wealth of experience in marketing, Public relations, crisis management, reputation management, organisational diagnosis, content marketing and social media. He is a proud Award winner of a prestigious Public Relations Association of Uganda excellence award. He has volunteered his life to addressing environment and health related causes. He is also a blogger, professional critic, and strategist. He has published over 300 articles through online and traditional media (newspapers and Magazines)

The writer assumes no responsibility for contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

Your doctor should know about your health resolutions.

New year’s health resolutions are easy to make but tough to implement. If you treat health resolutions as wish lists then you will never have results. Your doctor should be involved in making your health resolutions from the start to be successful. You can not plan, start, and measure progress of health resolutions based on what other people want or what society wants. Some health activities may not be safe for you hence the need to check with your doctor first.

It is advisable to decide on your health resolutions after a general body check-up. Resolutions must also be specific. The results from the general body medical check-up are crucial in setting achievable health targets of .The general body check-up comes with the advantage of having an idea of your current health state and discussing with your doctor on how to proceed with your health in the new year.

Have strategies for success. Ensure resources are available to successfully implement the resolutions for example buy jogging shoes and get gym membership. Make your doctor part of the monitoring system by scheduling one or more follow-up appointments along the way. You could ask a loved to help you track your progress. There are many smart phone apps and other digital gadgets available for tracking weight loss and fitness. Ensure that your health resolutions are on daily “to-do list” and make them a priority.

 

Ivan.N.Baliboola

nbaliboola@gmail.com

 

Women should start asking men out

The World is slowly becoming a nation of spectators which has resulted into laziness. We watch people date; clean, build and fight live on TV in series but cannot take the initiative to do the same ourselves. We forget to do what we must do. The issue of a woman reaching out to man for love attracts cultural and religious criticism which is wrong. In the public eye, a female is considered cheap the moment she gets a man   herself. The recent provisional Uganda census results confirmed the fact act that women outnumber men in Uganda. It becomes an automatic call for a woman to take up competition for the few men present or wait forever.

Women should remember that you do not find a man of your dreams in your dreams. You look for him or make him. If you want it, face it head-on. Women should stop thinking that men are angels to know their wishes and feelings towards men. Some men are shy or slow to do anything. In this era, social media is easing instant communication with sites like whatsapp or Facebook. You can say what you want instantly. If a woman gets the courage to ask a man out, a man may be obliged to accept.

A female is in a better position to suggest and convince a man to love her. Making the first move may or may not be limited to words only. Remember Ruth in the bible. Ruth played her part to win love from Boaz according Ruth 3:7-8.Women have the best tools of work in this area of starting relationships. They can resort to actions as they speak better than words. Tools like Suggesting facial expressions, handshakes, and hugs can boost the strategy.

If Supermarkets came up to satisfy the desire of self service, why are women not selecting their partners? It is a free world. In restaurants, some people wait to be asked to order while others simply walk to the counter and place orders directly. We are living in a very impatient world. Using a go- between to speak out what is in your heart is so ancient and risky. Women should just go up to men, stand like mad cows and tell them those nice words.

With the talk of emancipation, women should prove a point that they are an equal gender whether they can do what men do. There are times you put fear aside especially when it comes to love and eating. As they say necessity obeys no law .If a cap fits, wear it. Women should stop using witchcraft to get men. Proposal of an affair arises from individual interests. This is similar to internet dating and dating agencies.

We live in a free world, I ask you not to condemn women that do the first move. If you have some taste and feelings, please sort yourself before it is too late. A woman who makes the first move is usually confident which is crucial for any relationship. Why keep it to yourself and yet it is painful. This is the 21 century. How long will women wait. I believe it’s a joint responsibility as they take part in courtship. The relationship affects both the man and woman.

Ivan .N.Baliboola

nbaliboola@gmail.com

 

It's Never that Serious...: Now what?

It's Never that Serious...: Now what?: I have memories from as far back as May where everyone was chanting the ‘Can the year end already?’ tune although for me this will ALWA...

Top 8 Ugandan November PR disasters

November had more crises that attracted more public outcry. This article looks at these crises solely for education purposes.

1. Leaked nude pictures of Desire luzinda and her arrest over a debt.

Singer Desire Luzinda was humiliated when she was picked by court bailiffs and dragged to Kampala High Court over an unpaid debt. During the same period, her nude photos were leaked allegedly by her ex-Boyfriend. Her leaked nude pictures took centre stage. Some critics called it a publicity stunt to promote her career. Nudity is unacceptable in African culture. Police and the Ethics ministers have since weighed in on the matter.

Nothing would calm the crisis except ignoring it and giving it time. There was nothing that would divert media attention. Nudes had already gone viral. In one of the nude pictures, she posed with an inverted victory sign which just prolonged the crisis. People especially celebrities posed the same way and re-posted hilariously. It was wrong for her to apologise and talk about the incident in the public. Her apology did not achieve much. She did something with her career when it was too late. She released two songs. This should have been also the time to do concerts.

2. KCCA car kills 2-year-old in KCCA premise.
This is a major and inexcusable tragedy.KCCA did not quickly act when it should have thereby losing control of media coverage. This could have been a strictly one-day PR disaster. KCCA PR Machinery failed to grow with the Crisis from the word go. The Handover of burial material support items was not professionally done which affected KCCA brand.
The KCCA weakness offered politicians an opportunity to take advantage of the sad to suit their objectives. No drastic moves with proper steps in line with the KCCA’s’ mission and values were done to protect the KCCA brand. KCCA never stated their values like Excellence nor did they explain training and discipline mechanism of its staff.

3. UWA ivory theft scandal.
A local daily reported about Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) missing ivory worth 3billion from its strong room.UWA rushed to issue a public notice but the content did not explain or deny the mentioned scandal.UWA head Dr. Andrew Sseguya has since been suspended to pave way for investigations though he maintains he is on leave. This was a commendable PR move by the Tourism Ministry, government and UWA board of Trustees.

4. MTN poor services
MTN Uganda admitted that their data service had faced some challenges for a specific period of time.. Some happy MTN customers went to twitter decampaigning the brand by rolling out drop your MTN line move. There were also social media rumours of preparations for a protest match against the telecom giant. The attacks on Twitter were under the hashtag#OccupyMTN demanding better services.MTN Uganda PR machinery moved first to organise an abrupt press conference which help release uniform messages. The MTN C.E.O Gouldie apologised, and communicated the official course of action.
MTN has since started the process to refund its customers all the credit which is goodwill.MTN is known for a robust social media customer care team that is swift and responsive. On the same day of the MTN press conference, a competitor British telecom firm Vodafone also announced its partnership with Afrimax to offer voice and data services in the country.

5. Margaret Zziwa suspended as speaker of EALA
The East African Legislative Assembly(EALA) suspended its speaker Margaret Nantongo Zziwa allegedly over incompetence and disrespect for 21 days.This soiled both Uganda's image and reputation for women leaders.Margaret Nantongo Zziwa was the first woman Speaker for the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA).This crisis needs faster action on her part since her troubles have not just started.Right from the day she was elected speaker of the East African Legislative Assembly (Eala),Ms Margaret Zziwa has not had a joy-ride. Early resignation in public interest will mean honour but late censure will be more damaging.Hon.Zziwa has since issued statements trading accusations rather than patching up her damaged reputation.She alleges rivalry and intrigue. This is the time to form alliances to play her cards.

6. NKumba University strike.
Nkumba university students striked over alleged university management's decision to increase selected fees. The strike dented institution's image and sent a bad message to future employers. The university issued a public notice in Newspapers dispelling reasons fronted by students for the strike. Another Public notice has been issued communicating penalties for all students following the strike asking them to pay for damages.
Did the public relations machinery of the university act appropriately prior to the strike? Strikes may arise if the right change management tools are not applied prior. All new strategies must be rolled out with more expectation management tactics. It’s hard to strike a balance between quality education and low fees. The cost of providing education will always increase but beneficiaries are determined to resist increments. There must be something Nkumba University needs to do. Other private institutions are doing the same and you never hear a strike. There are PR strategies to slowly introduce changes without causing resistance.

7. Warid ordered to pay Shs60million to obsessions over song copyright infringement.

The Commercial Division of the High Court ordered defunct telecom company Warid, now part of Airtel, to pay Shs60 million to Obsessions Music Group for illegally using its music content as caller tunes. This was no doubt a reputation damaging case to Warid.Court observed that Warid Telecom had infringed on the copy right of the group's music when it converted and sold it to mobile phone users as caller tunes. arid had, however, in its defence said it had lawfully obtained the right to use the songs

8. Urban TV scoop on scoop pastime presenters disappointments.
Urban TV's Mary Luswata went on leave and invited whoever could sit for her to turn up for auditions. Some show fans have gone to social media to express their displeasure with those who were standing in for her. Vision group seems didn't audition for quality presenters. It is a crisis since viewers may leave a show just because the current people do not measure with Luswata's expertise, humour and command of spoken English.

Ivan .N.Baliboola
PR and Organization diagnosis specialist

The author has worked with some of the most well-known and influential East African brands in construction, healthcare, Insurance, cosmetics, and banking. He carries a wealth of experience in marketing, Public relations, crisis management, and social media. He is a proud Award winner of a prestigious Public Relations Association of Uganda excellence award. He has volunteered his life to addressing environment and health related causes. He is also a blogger, professional critic, and strategist.
nbaliboola@gmail.com

Disclaimer

This article strictly offers academic insight meant to create awareness about crisis PR communication management. Therefore it should be used for educational purposes and not viewed as an attack on institutions or individuals. It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda which is still a young profession. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. I commend the inclusion of Best Crisis Management Award category in the PRAU Excellence Awards. PR Practitioners need to be fully involved in crises from the start. The writer assumes no responsibility for contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

Blogs
http://nbaliboola.wordpress.com/
http://mediasurgeon.blogspot.com

Child death crisis: KCCA shocked on bad PR

The 2 -year old baby whose mother had been arrested by KCCA enforcement officers for hawking merchandise was run over by a KCCA vehicle in the Authority’s premises on November. This caused widespread public anger and condemnation. Any death occurrence will raise difficult questions and someone must take the blame. The arrest of mother of the child for violating existing city vending law was within the mandate of KCCA law enforcers. Removal of vendors from the streets by KCCA is commendable.

Accidents happen to good Companies all the time but the response matters.KCCA did not quickly act when it should have. This did not give KCCA more control of media coverage to lessen negative publicity. Information moves fast and the more reason KCCA had to be heavy on media. The KCCA PR Machinery failed to grow with the crisis.

The best option would be for KCCA to handle all burial arrangements not necessarily just shopping. This could have been a one day PR disaster. This KCCA oversight offered politicians an opportunity to take advantage of the sad situation to toss the   little one’s remains around to suit their objectives. The incident shows security weaknesses at City hall. Did the security team do their job?

No drastic moves with proper steps in line with the KCCA’s’ mission and values were done to protect the KCCA brand. KCCA never stated their values like Excellence nor did they explain training, recruitment, guidelines and discipline mechanism of its staff. There have been outcries against KCCA’s enforcers exhibiting heavy-handedness, even before this tragedy.

The only thing that could stop the scandal would be goodwill. There were little Goodwill activities on the side of KCCA.  Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive director Jennifer Musisi and the Kampala minister issued public apologies which are commendable but actions speak louder than words. The issue of issuing a statement to the media not in the grieving environment would not have much more impact. Certainly it didn't come across as heartfelt, if KCCA team handed over these items properly, it would not be that chaotic. A Public KCCA apology with a mother in sight would also help reduce the opposition. The KCCA team could have opted to visit the grieving family during the trying time. The Uganda police IGP Gen. Kale Kayihura has been able to calm PR Crises with simple acts like visiting victims or camping in such areas for some time.

Official facts from investigations are not out and so we can not tell who was negligent. The only immediate action that was taken was on the KCCA driver.KCCA cooperated with police and courts of law. As a number one citizen, this is commendable. The KCCA driver has since been arraigned in court. There is no mention of action to KCCA officials who   refused the mother to breastfeed.

In court of Public opinion, its emotions you have to deal with. Any move with logic may backfire. The officers on duty could be suspended pending investigations as the institution buys time for the crisis to quell.

Handover of burial material support items was not professionally done which affected KCCA brand. The KCCA ambulance from Mulago allegedly dropped the grieving family midway. No wonder the family rejected the money and items and instead returned them together with the dead body to City Hall in protest. Story portrays the absence of customer care and the inhumane behaviour among KCCA staff.

In a media interview with local daily, the mother of the child alleges that the baby did not die instantly but KCCA refused to give them an ambulance. They opted for a boda boda to rush the little one to Mulago. Click here

PR and Organisation diagnosis specialist.

Ivan.N.Baliboola

nbaliboola@gmail.com

 

Disclaimer
This article strictly offers academic insight meant to create awareness about crisis PR communication management. Therefore it should be used for educational purposes and not viewed as an attack on institutions or individuals.  It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda which is still a young profession. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. I commend the inclusion of Best Crisis Management Award category in the PRAU Excellence Awards. PR Practitioners need to be fully involved in crises from the start. The writer assumes no responsibility for contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

The author has worked with some of the most well-known and influential East African brands in construction, healthcare, Insurance, cosmetics, and banking. He carries a wealth of experience in marketing, Public relations, crisis management, and social media. He is a proud Award winner of a prestigious Public Relations Association of Uganda excellence award. He has volunteered his life to addressing environment and health related causes. He is also a blogger, professional critic, and strategist.
nbaliboola@gmail.com

Blogs
http://nbaliboola.wordpress.com/
http://mediasurgeon.blogspot.com

 

 

Backpacks- a must have trendy accessory

 bag.jpg

Make a fashion statement with a Backpack. Backpacks have been in existence since Stone Age period. According to Wikipedia, in ancient times, the backpack was used by hunters to carry meat after hunting.In many countries, backpacks are identified with students as a primary means of carrying school books.

Backpacks designers are now targeting different ages,uses,and professions. Backpacks are ideally suited towards the active lifestyle that has become so prevalent these days.

Today you find special backpacks to carry electronic gadgets, lunch boxes,clothes,bottles, flasks, documents, identity cards,raincoats, umbrellas,and sports equipment, books,baby items among other things.

Backpacks are preferred to handbags because of comfort when  carrying heavy loads.Features such as padded straps and waist straps distribute weight across the body.Backpacks are also more secure. For example if worn with two straps,its hard for anyone to snatch it.

Shopping    for the right Backpack

The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends backpacks with wide, padded shoulder straps. Narrow straps can dig into shoulders resulting in pain and restricted circulation. Backpacks with an extra strap that wrap around the waist offer better support.

Look out for suitably fashionable, attractive, health risk free backpack.Scientific studies have discovered that backpacks could cause injury if not properly used. Posture problems can also arise from improper use of backpacks

Backpacks must be comfortable. Look for padded shoulder straps, waist belts ,and sternum straps which  distribute the weight around your body to reduce the  risk of   back pains and neck pains. If you will be spending a lot of time moving with your backpack, then buy the one with rollers.

Also check if it is waterproof. It may rain and yet you have electronic gadgets inside. Feel free to confirm with the shop attendant before you buy.Zip type is also important. Look for strong zips with provisions of where to place a paddocks.

Ivan Baliboola

Are your valuables safe in that car?

In recent years,  the crime of  stealing  valuables in  cars  has  become a significant problem not only in the  city of  Kampala  Uganda , but in all major cities of the  world .

Today, breaking into a car takes seconds.Thief mainly target bags, car radios, DVD players, speakers, portable electronic Gadgets like laptops and cameras among other items.Risky places and situations include shopping malls especially  basement parking lots, social gatherings, parking lots  of residential areas like  estates, washing bays, traffic jam, poorly lit up areas, areas with many potholes, driveways ,and busy market areas with high traffic density.

Cycle of breaking into a car

 1. Target placement. Car owner leaves valuables in the car.

2. Thief window shops. Thief sees valuables or suspects a car has valuables.

3 .Temptation. Thief is tempted, evaluates the situation and makes up his mind to steal or not.

 4 . Actual break in. A thief finds means to enter the car to steal.

How cars are broken in

Easiest way is using a master key. There are a number of other sophisticated ways through which  a thief can find his way into your car besides using a master key. Recently a friend of mine had her car broken into in one of shopping mall’s parking lot in Kampala. Suspected criminals simply plucked out and dismantled the entire lock system on driver’s door to gain access to the car .They took a laptop. But how did the thief know the car had a laptop?

She adds on, the wallet with money was left alone on back seat. The whole process took mere seven minutes. The lock system was properly fixed by the thief. Car owners should not think that by hiding valuables under the seats is enough? The advanced technology helps them sensor lithium batteries. These batteries are used in laptops, cell phone and cameras.

Some people have lost their valuables in traffic jam and traffic lights junctions especially when their windows are down. In such situations chasing thieves is next to impossible as it can cause an accident. Other thieves con car owners into to offering them lifts. Along the way they turn against them.

 Some thieves apply shock and violence therapy to car owners in order to steal their valuables. They do this by smashing windscreen at once and in shock driver stops only to realise a group of thieves have surrounded the vehicle.

Precautions

Car owners should develop a mindset that a car can never be safe anywhere.  As one would not leave his television set outside on balcony or sidewalk when leaving home for work.Most important step is target removal. Thieves will target the car because of valuables. Remove valuables that can attract thieves to your car. This breaks the theft cycle by avoiding first step of target placement.

 Always leave someone in car to watch over the valuables or Park in open areas with many people and in well-lighted areas where your car can be seen. The poorly-lit isolated areas are insecure. If parking in unfamiliar neighbourhoods, or shopping areas, take a minute to check that all valuables are out of sight, or removed, before your arrival. Do not leave big envelopes on car seats. Simply remove all books and spread them. Big parcels may tempt  thieves.

Car owners who cannot avoid moving with valuables in their cars should consider on taking up an insurance policy.

Installing car alarm systems can be effective in detecting and scaring away thieves. Tinting   your car could safe guard valuables in the car. Thieves cannot see what is inside clearly.

Replace part of the original outside car lock system with a new one recommended by your mechanic to check on duplication and car thefts. Car owners should avoid giving car keys to strangers.When in public parking lots, kindly ask security personnel to watch over your car. If you can promise him a tip when you come back.

Before buying car gadgets like FM/CD/DVD radios, insist on those that are detachable. Car stereo radios, T.Vs and CD players are valuable and are targets for thieves. These can be easily detached into small portable parts and carried out of the car. Most of the car thefts can be avoided; it only takes resources and time to safeguard your valuables in that car. Remember the thief’s most valuable asset is time.

 

 

Ivan Baliboola

Top 6 Ugandan PR crises that rocked October.

October was a long month but surprisingly with few PR crises. Companies should stop assuming they can hide information or keep quiet about crises.

1. Miss Uganda leah Kalanguka crisis

Ugandans expressed mixed reactions over the new Miss Uganda Leah. The crisis arose from the disapproval of her beauty by some Ugandans online. This negatively affected the image of the current Miss Uganda and judges of the day. Their reactions are not farfetched. It was not the usual Miss Uganda that rewarded beauty. This year, Miss Uganda was for agriculture under the theme ‘promoting agriculture entrepreneurship among the youth’. There were also media reports before the Launch of this year`s Miss Uganda that it was taken over by the army, an allegation refuted by the organisers. The organiser has not come out heavily to defend their decision for Leah through public notices or more media interviews. Major opinion commentators and media have not been negative in traditional media. Miss Uganda Leah has managed well the crisis by not turning down any interview. She has also used every publicity opportunity to respond to those who think she is not beautiful.

2. Shell & Bolton International issues racist job advert

Shell & Bolton run a job advert for the post of an administrative Assistant in the a local Newspaper on October 20, 2014 restricting it to only Indian, phillipine or white applicants. This advert went viral and was a trending topic online. They were summoned by immigration department for the act. They have since run a public notice apologising and explaining the act which is a good PR move. The public notice also explains that the company had to do away with the Human resource person who was in-charge of the production of the advert. The crisis still points to the weak civil society in Uganda. We did not see activists, labour unions representatives or the HR association issuing a statement about the incident.

3. High court blocks factory from processing tobacco over pollution and health  concerns

High court ordered the removal of a tobacco and cigarette-making factory from kireka residential area within 60 days. Leaf Tobacco commodities (U) Limited was also ordered to pay costs of the case. The Judge noted that it was illegally in the area. The suit was taken to court by two university students and a city lawyer on behalf of about 500 residents who wanted court to compel them to foot their medical bills.

4. Sarah kagingo fired amidst statehouse social media fracas.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni fired Sarah who was the special assistant for communications to –update the president`s social media sites. President Museveni has since ordered police to investigate her over allegations that she directed the arrest of a person she accused of hacking into the president`s social media accounts and website. Local newspapers reported that there was a state house social media management crisis which lead to creation of parallel social sites.

 

5. Ambience closed by KCCA

 KCCA closed ambience in one of its moves to ensure safety in the city. The premises according to KCCA had no occupation permit and owners altered the initial Plan that was given by KCCA.The KCCA enforcement team backed by the Public Health and Physical planning team closed the premises as owners were preparing for their Friday Campus Nite event.KCCA alleges it wrote to management of the club demanding that he first fulfills the requirements of the occupation permit but they went ahead to  open the club to the public. The owners also altered the stair cases of the structure making them smaller than the expected size of the plan. The building also did not have fire extinguishers according to the required standards of KCCA.

    6. Court issues summons against Dr Ian Clarke for allegedly  impersonating the Kampala lord mayor.

Buganda road magistrate court issued criminal summons against Makindye division Mayor Ian Clarke for allegedly impersonating the Kampala lord mayor lukwago. Early this month Kawempe division Mayor Mubaraka Munyagwa filed a case against him.Mr Munyagwa alleged that on September 29 at a ceremony where the Mayor of Bujumbura, the capital of Burundi, was to hand over the seat of the East Africa local authorities and sports Cultural Association to his counterpart, Dr clark held out as Kampala mayor and received the instrument of power in violation of the law.Dr Ian Clark has since denied allegations.

This article strictly offers academic insight meant to create awareness about crisis PR communication management. Therefore it should be used for educational purposes and not viewed as an attack on institutions or individuals.  It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda which is still a young profession. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. PR Practitioners need to be fully involved in crises from the start. The writer assumes no responsibility for contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

Ivan N. Baliboola 

The author has worked with some of the most well-known and influential East African brands in construction, healthcare, Insurance, cosmetics, and banking. He carries a wealth of experience in marketing, Public relations, crisis management, and social media. He is a proud Award winner of a prestigious Public Relations Association of Uganda excellence award. He has volunteered his life to addressing environment and health related causes. He is also a blogger, professional critic, and strategist.

nbaliboola@gmail.com

Blogs

http://nbaliboola.wordpress.com/

http://mediasurgeon.blogspot.com

 

 

 

Top 6 Ugandan PR crises that rocked October.

Top 6 Ugandan PR crises that rocked October.

October was a long month but surprisingly with few PR crises surfacing. Companies should stop assuming they can hide information or keep quiet about crises.

1. Miss Uganda leah Kalanguka crisis

Uganda expressed mixed reactions over the new Miss Uganda leah . The crisis arose from the disapproval of her beauty by some Ugandans online. This negatively affected the image of the current Miss Uganda and judges of the day. Their reactions are not farfetched. It was not the usual Miss Uganda that rewarded beauty not brains. This year, Miss Uganda was for agriculture under the theme ‘promoting agriculture entrepreneurship among the youth’. There were also media reports before the Launch of this year’s Miss Uganda that it was taken over by the army, allegation refuted by the organisers. The organiser has not come out heavily to defend their decision for Leah. Major opinion commentators and media have not been negative. Miss Uganda has well managed the crisis by  not turning down any interview. She has also use every publicity opportunity to response to those who think she is not beautiful.

2. Shell& Bolton International issues racist job advert

Shell& Bolton run a job advert for the post of an administrative Assistant in the a local Newspaper on October 20, 2014 restricting it to only Indian, phillipine or white applicants. This advert went viral and was a trending topic online. They were summoned by immigration department for the act. They have since run a public notice apologising and explaining the act which is a good PR move. The public notice also explains that the company had to do away with the Human resource person who was in-charge of the production of the advert. The crisis still points to the weak civil society in Uganda. We did not see activists, trade unions or the HR association issuing a statement about the incident.

3. High court blocks factory from processing tobacco over pollution and health  concerns

High court ordered the removal of a tobacco and cigarette-making factory from kireka r4sidential area within 60 days. Leaf Tobacco commodities (U) Limited was also ordered to pay costs of the case. Judge noted that it was illegally in the area. The suit was taken to court by two university students and a city lawyer on behalf of about 500 residents who wanted court to compel them to foot their medical bills.

4. Sarah kagingo fired amidst statehouse social media fracas.

President fired Sarah who was the special assistant for communications –updating president’s social media sites. President has since ordered police to investigate her Over allegations that she directed the arrest of a person she accused of hacking into the president’s social media accounts and website. Local newspapers reported that there was a state house social media management crisis which lead to creation of parallel social sites.

 

 

5. Ambience closed by KCCA

 KCCA closed ambience in one of its moves to ensure safety in the city. The premises according to KCCA had no occupation permit after owners altered the initial Plan that was given by KCCA.The KCCA enforcement team backed by the Public Health and Physical planning team closed the premises as owners were preparing for their Friday Campus Nite disco.KCCA wrote to management of the club demanding that he first fulfills the requirements of the occupation permit but he went ahead opened the club to the public. The owners also altered the stair cases of the structure making them smaller than the expected size of the plan. The building also did not have fire extinguishers according to the required standards of KCCA.

    6. Court issues summons against Dr Ian Clarke sued   for allegedly  impersonating the Kampala lord mayor.

Buganda road magistrate court issued criminal summons against Makindye division Mayor Ian Clarke for allegedly impersonating the Kampala lord mayor lukwago. Early this month Kawempe division Mayor Mubaraka Munyagwa filed a case against him.Mr Munyagwa alleged that on September 29 at a ceremony where the Mayor of Bujumbura,the capital of Burundi ,was to hand over the seat  of the East Africa local authorities and sports Cultural Association to his counterpart,Dr clark held out as Kampala mayor and received the instrument  of power in violation of the law.Dr Ian Clark has denied  allegations.

This article strictly offers academic insight meant to create awareness about crisis PR communication management. Therefore it should be used for educational purposes and not viewed as an attack on institutions or individuals.  It offers a professional PR insight into Crisis management in Uganda which is still a young profession. I hope that Lessons shared can better the PR fraternity in Uganda. PR Practitioners need to be fully involved in crises from the start. The writer assumes no responsibility for contrary interpretation of the subject matter herein.

Ivan N. Baliboola 

The author has worked with some of the most well-known and influential East African brands in construction, healthcare, Insurance, cosmetics, and banking. He carries a wealth of experience in marketing, Public relations, crisis management, and social media. He is a proud Award winner of a prestigious Public Relations Association of Uganda excellence award. He has volunteered his life to addressing environment and health related causes. He is also a blogger, professional critic, and strategist.

nbaliboola@gmail.com