Determinants of participation in political communication in Uganda’s broadcast media: Implications for women

Abstract

What are the determinants of participation in political communication in Uganda? What are the implications for women’s participation in political communication? These questions are answered by examining public affairs programming in the country’s broadcast media. This study is influenced by the limited participation of women in political communication and was conducted by case study and content analysis designs. The findings suggest that, while determinants of participation were deemed gender neutral, men remained the key participants and women often reject opportunities to participate. Some determinants are enablers while others are dis-enablers. The determinants include the problem, politics, programme role, performance, producer and presenter role, profession, personality and policy. Women tend to reject opportunities to participate. Therefore, increased women’s participation in political communication will depend in part on their interest, willingness and commitment to participate, and favorable policies. There is a need to address the fear of participation among women.