In the heart of Uganda’s oil-rich region, the kingdom of Bunyoro-Kitara is awash with festivities as the people celebrate a momentous occasion – the 31st coronation anniversary of their beloved Omukama. At the forefront of this joyous celebration are the region’s radio stations, which have been instrumental in serving and educating the community over the years.

The Empango celebrations, marking the Omukama’s coronation anniversary, are a grand affair, filled with cultural pomp and splendor. The festivities kick off with the Empango run, a significant event that not only showcases the region’s athletic prowess but also raises funds for a noble cause. The proceeds from this event are channeled towards initiatives that benefit the community, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to the welfare of its people.

Spice FM, a popular radio station situated in the city of Hoima, has been at the forefront of the celebrations. With its dynamic programming and community-focused initiatives, Spice FM has become a household name in Bunyoro. The station’s dedication to promoting the kingdom’s culture, traditions, and values has earned it a loyal following among the locals.

However, Spice FM is not alone in its endeavors. The region boasts a plethora of radio stations that have been diligently serving the people of Bunyoro. Radio Hoima, Kabalega FM, and Liberty FM are just a few examples of the many stations that have become an integral part of the community. Other notable mentions include Kakumiro Community Radio, Emambya FM, Kagadi Development Radio, Kagadi Broadcasting Service, Amazon FM, BBs FM, Radio 7, Biiso FM, and Kibanda FM, among others.

These radio stations have played a vital role in disseminating information, promoting local talent, and providing a platform for community engagement. They have been instrumental in shaping the cultural narrative of Bunyoro and have contributed significantly to the region’s development.

At EARs, we recognize the power of radio to impact people’s lives positively. As we celebrate the Omukama’s 31st coronation anniversary, we join hands with our partner radios in Bunyoro to honor this special occasion. We salute the Omukama for his tireless efforts in promoting the welfare of his people and preserving the kingdom’s rich cultural heritage.

As the people of Bunyoro come together to celebrate this momentous occasion, we wish the Omukama a happy 31st coronation anniversary. May this milestone mark a new chapter in the kingdom’s journey towards progress and prosperity. May the kingdom continue to thrive under the Omukama’s wise leadership, and may the people of Bunyoro remain united in their pursuit of development and cultural preservation.

Happy 31st Coronation Anniversary, Omukama!


EARS is proud to collaborate with the Nile Basin Media Network (NBMN), MiCT, GIZ, and others to empower journalists from 10 Nile basin countries in addressing the pressing issue of plastic pollution.
Over 30 journalists gathered in Kampala for a five-day workshop to deepen their understanding of plastic pollution’s impact on the environment and public health. Through field visits and citizen science, they are now equipped to bring these critical stories to light and influence change.
As Dr. Florence Grace Adongo, Executive Director of NBI, said, “Journalists play a crucial role in shaping public opinion and informing policy debates.”
We believe that through cross-border collaboration, the media can drive impactful solutions to this transboundary crisis.
Let’s raise awareness and inspire action for a cleaner, greener future!
#PlasticPollution #NileBasin #JournalismForChange #SustainableFuture #EARS #CrossBorderCollaboration

Today, we stand in solidarity with journalists and media organizations across East Africa and the world over who are championing environmental reporting amidst the global crisis.

The impacts of climate change, from droughts and floods to water scarcity and food insecurity, are deeply felt in the East African Community. With over 20 million people suffering from from the adverse effects of climate change, the need for informed discourse and actionable solutions is more critical than ever.

That’s why the role of journalists is crucial. It is through their courage, work and perseverance that we get to know what is happening across the planet.

Through initiatives like CREAM (Climate Reporting in East African Media). Led by MiCT (Media in Cooperation and Transition), JESE (Joint Effort to Save the Environment), and EARS (East Africa Radio Service), CREAM aims to address the urgent challenges posed by climate change and empower communities to take action.

Through EARS, a regional network of radio stations across Uganda, Tanzania, and Kenya has been established to foster dialogue on climate change and its implications for local communities. Radio remains the primary medium for disseminating information in rural areas, where access to smartphones is limited. By enhancing the editorial capacities of local radio stations, CREAM seeks to stimulate cross-border dialogue, raise awareness, and empower citizens to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, we recognise the crucial role of journalists in shaping public perceptions, driving policy action, and fostering global solidarity on climate change and environmental conservation. Today we celebrate Journalists, applaud their voices and support their efforts to ensure a sustainable future for all.  #PressFreedom #ClimateAction #CREAMInitiative #WorldPressFreedomDay

Happy New Year!

I hope 2025 has begun with great momentum for you and your team. It’s an honor to bring you the first edition of our EARS newsletter for the year.

2024 was a remarkable year for EARS as we continued to amplify the voices of our clients and deliver impactful results. By supporting campaigns that reached millions through harnessing the power of data, we worked tirelessly to connect brands with the right audiences through Uganda’s vibrant radio landscape.

As we welcome a brand-new year, the Ugandan media industry gears up for a dynamic period filled with immense possibilities and growth. Several events and trends in 2025 are set to drive a significant surge in radio listenership across the nation.

One of the major highlights this year is the upcoming election season. Political campaigns, updates and political discourse will dominate the airwaves, drawing in listeners eager to stay informed. Additionally, the national ID registration initiative promises to further boost media consumption, as citizens tune in to radio stations for timely updates and announcements.

With the rise in the health sector initiatives listeners will increasingly rely on radio for critical public health messages.

In an age of rampant misinformation on social and digital platforms, the need for authentic news and reliable reporting is more critical than ever. Radio remains a trusted source for credible information, making it an essential medium for fostering informed communities.

The latest National Audience Measurement (NAMS) survey data will play a pivotal role in shaping advertising strategies, ensuring that investments yield measurable results. The availability of robust media planning tools and data will empower both advertisers and radio stations to optimize their campaigns for maximum reach and engagement.

Compliance still takes center stage, as broadcasters adhere to stricter standards to ensure transparency and accountability.

As we embark on 2025, advertisers have a real opportunity for a transformative year one where data-driven strategies, authentic content, and impactful communication will define success.

For more information on radio advertising and media planning, contact us or check out our newly revamped website, complete with updated newsletters, blogs, and insightful content to keep you connected with industry trends and innovations. www.ears.ug

As the holiday season approaches, excitement is on the rise, and radio remains a powerful way to reach Ugandans ready to celebrate, spend, and engage. Advertising on radio during this festive season offers unique advantages that can make your campaign truly effective.

Radio’s reach and accessibility across Uganda makes it an ideal platform to capture audiences across urban and rural areas. With more people tuning in to radio on road trips, at gatherings, and during commutes, advertisers have a rare opportunity to connect with a broad, engaged audience. The festive season brings families together, and radio becomes the background to their celebrations, making it an influential medium to highlight holiday promotions, offers, and special messages.

Moreover, festive-season radio advertising builds immediate, memorable connections with listeners. With a heightened emotional atmosphere, audiences are more responsive to relatable, well-timed messages. For brands in sectors like retail, FMCG, hospitality, and telecom, this period can maximize visibility, as consumers are actively seeking products and services to enhance their festive experiences.

The high frequency of radio ads during this time helps brands stay top-of-mind. As people make holiday plans and purchase decisions, repetitive exposure through radio ads reinforces brand recognition. Engaging, festive-themed radio campaigns also drive loyalty and customer recall long after the holidays are over.

In a country where radio remains a trusted and widespread source of information, now is the perfect time to leverage radio advertising to create lasting impressions. With strategic planning and engaging content, brands can capitalize on the festive spirit, ensuring their message resonates with audiences across Uganda.