Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Executive Masters in Media Leadership and Innovation (EMMLI)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Denis Galava
Department
Graduate School of Media and Communications
Abstract
The Observer newspaper in Uganda has built a solid reputation as an impartial, independent, and analytical publication that adheres to the ethical principles of good journalism. Founded and run by a small team of journalists, the newspaper has weathered many storms, including financial crises, political intimidation, newsroom equipment seizure, and the early death of the vision carrier, Kevin Aliro. This study analyzes and records the approaches used by The Observer's editorial staff to keep the newspaper afloat during two turbulent decades of financial, political, and economic difficulties. In contrast to other newsrooms that are frequently defined by strict hierarchies between reporters and editors, the founding editors established an informal, open-door culture at The Observer. This culture is recognized for fostering a sense of camaraderie among employees, akin to a close-knit family that has persevered through the most difficult financial periods. For instance, The Observer's journalists are free to work for multiple employers to augment their pay. The study concluded that The Observer has missed some opportunities to innovate, increase revenue, and engage audiences as per the shifting media trends. The Observer, thus, faces an urgent need to make more prudent financial investments if the publication is to survive and maintain its independence for the ensuing years.
Recommended Citation
Amelia ,Nakitimbo .M.(2025).Media viability in resources-constrained newsrooms :The case of Observer Newspaper in Uganda.(Unpublished)
Included in
Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Journalism Studies Commons, Mass Communication Commons, Social Media Commons
