Kampala – Uganda

By Patricia Nakayima and Janat Nakitende

In the heart of Kampala, the annual journalism event, the Uganda National Journalism Awards convened. Culton Scovia Nakamya, a name once unknown to many, had become a beacon of journalistic excellence.

Her journey to becoming the Inspiring Female Journalist 2023 was a tale of unwavering determination and solid passion for her profession.

Culton’s journalistic odyssey had humble beginnings in the sleepy town of Kiwoko, Nakaseke district at Musana FM (rebranded to Sseke FM). With relentless curiosity, she ventured into the heart of stories others dared not tread.

From Nakaseke, Culton joined Red Pepper corresponding from Luweero. She later transitioned into television when she joined NTV-Uganda as a correspondent in the same district. She explored the depths of human suffering in the war-torn region of Luweero and unearthed tales of resilience. In 2018, she relocated to Kampala, joining Buganda’s television station, BBS –Terefayina. This decision was criticized by many but she has since proved all the critics wrong.

Her stories transcended borders, revealing a different version of storytelling.

It is her persistent courage that catches the attention of many. But it is not just her investigative prowess that set Culton apart, she has mastered a unique ability to weave narratives that touch the soul, making her stories resonate with people from different walks of life.

She has also mastered the art of using different mainstream and social media platforms to advocate for free press. She is an outstanding

As she stood before the European Union Ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek to receive the prestigious Inspiring Female Journalist Recognition award, Nakamya knew that her journey had only just begun. Her mission, fueled by an unwavering commitment to truth, was to continue shining a light on the world’s hidden stories, inspiring others to join her in the pursuit of a free press in an ailing democratic space.

“Her journey has been punctuated by remarkable achievements having secured multiple regional and national journalism accolades. As time has unfolded, this inspiring journalist has transitioned seamlessly into a figure of prominence, casting a far-reaching influence beyond her media house. Her journey serves as an inspiration to the entire field particularly to emerging talent, underscoring that dedication, skill, and passion for the greater good can truly transform the course of journalism, making it a force for positive change in society”. Announced the mc.

Those following the 2023 Inspiring Woman Journalist Award recipient must know that social media is her digital megaphone. With so many tweets and posts, she champions the right to truth, information, and press freedom in Uganda, unyielding in her pursuit of a world where journalism thrives without restraints. Her online presence amplifies voices silenced by oppression, sparking conversations on free press.

In 2022, she founded Her Story Uganda, a feminist news company revealing the untold stories of women, and challenging stereotypes against women.

The Inspiring Female Journalist Awards is sponsored by an anonymous person who committed to gifting Ugx 2M to the winner every year, through the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) the organizers of the annual Uganda National Journalism Awards.

At the same awards ceremony, Nakamya won the Arts & Culture, and Education reporting categories.

In his remarks, the European Union ambassador to Uganda Jan Sadek acknowledged ACME’s role in fostering a free press in Uganda and championing excellence.