BULOBA, WAKISO: 21 December, 2025 – On Saturday, December 21, 2025, members of the Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) temporarily traded the high-stakes corridors of the August House for the serene greenery of Forest Park, Buloba, to celebrate the end of a demanding and eventful year.
The annual End of Year party served as a vital “de-stressing” retreat for one of Uganda’s most credible journalists’ associations. The day was marked by an abundance of food and drinks, high-energy games, entertainment and spirited merrymaking, providing a rare chance for the Fourth Estate to relax and bond.
Addressing the gathering, the UPPA President, Samuel Ibanda, delivered a speech centered on the dual themes of professional unity and personal empowerment. While acknowledging the daily hustle of reporting on national policy, he urged members not to let their careers define their entire financial future. ”Beyond our daily assignments at Parliament, we must prioritize personal development,” Mr. Ibanda emphasized. “Explore opportunities for additional income, embrace the culture of saving, and ensure you are building a life that remains stable both during and after your time in parliamentary reporting.”
He also expressed that UPPA continues to stand out as the most credible professional journalist association in Uganda, the reason why government through the Uganda Media Council recently adopted members of UPPA to serve on its board. He urged members to utilize this opportunity both push for a better working environment but also for their career advancement.
The event also drew praise from Tusiime Apollo, the former UPPA Secretary General who lauded the current executive for their commitment to keeping the association together through such social engagements. He thanked the organizing committee for delivering what he described as a “glamorous and well-coordinated event,” noting that such cohesion is the bedrock of the association’s credibility.
Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 UPPA Awards:
A highlight of the festivities was the internal awards ceremony, where members voted to recognize outstanding personalities within their ranks. The winners included:
Most Supportive Member: Isaac Senabulya (Recognized for his unwavering assistance to colleagues).
Smartly Dressed Member: Rachel Nakassi (Awarded for maintaining a sharp, professional image).
Most Social Personality: Moses Namayo (Celebrated for his charisma and ability to connect the team).
Beyond the celebrations which were crowned with cutting a cake, the day featured productive “way forward” discussions. Members held informal sessions to address journalist welfare, discuss the expansion of their professional networks, and identify strategic opportunities available for the association heading into 2026.
As the sun set over Buloba, the UPPA members departed not just with memories of a great party, but with a renewed sense of purpose and solidarity to tackle the challenges of the coming year.
