By Our Reporter
The 6th edition of the Uganda Social Media Conference draws nigh. To be held under the theme “Digital democracy in a post-pandemic world”, it will take place this week, starting Wednesday, 25th August.
The 2-day event will gather stakeholders from Government, civil society, research, academia, and policy makers for an all-round exchange on the impact of social media in society today.
The conference is organized by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) who have confirmed that over 30 speakers have been lined up for the event.
Among the speakers is Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer at Makerere University and Research Fellow of American Council of Learned Societies who will deliver the keynote address.
Other speakers include: Agnes Igoye, the Deputy National Coordinator Anti-Trafficking – Directorate of Immigration; Adonia Ayebare, the Ugandan Ambassador to the United Nations; Dr. Paul Kasenene, a Wellness and Nutrition Specialist; Ms. Anna Reismann, Country Director of KAS Uganda; Raymond Mujuni, Investigative Journalist; and Awel Uwihanganye, Founder of LéO Africa Institute, among others.
The event will feature different panel discussions where several topics will be discussed including: Digital Diplomacy —The rise of algorithms and implications for big tech in African Institutions, Governments and Individuals; Impact of social media on mental health; Re-framing the climate change agenda on social media; Social media and Elections in Africa; and Citizen journalism vs digital newsrooms. These will be deliberated on during day one of the event.
On day two, the discussion will centre on topics that include: Tackling emerging digital threats —Extremism, trafficking and Radicalization; and The rise of Global Social movements and social media.
The day’s sessions will each close with a live performance from Aka Dope band.
The conference will be held in a hybrid format with onsite participants hosted at the Kampala Serena Hotel while other interested participants can register to attend virtually on the conference web portal here. Alternatively, individuals can follow proceedings live on the KAS social media platforms.
The conference is free to attend.
