By Joseph Masereka
For those who wake up to her show, Evelyn Kabugho has that fascinating voice and humorous banter that sets them off to new day’s start. Her show, Yamabika (a Lukonzo word for cockcrow), on Light FM is one of the most popular in Rwenzori sub-region. But behind that voice is a bold 24-year-old female journalist whose work has had her clash with powerful politicians in Rwenzori.
The Pearl Times’ Joseph Masereka had a chat with Evelyn Kabugho on her lifestyle and job experience – first, the hard truths and later to the soft stuff. The following are the excerpts from the chat:
I hear you have received threats at work, what exactly is happening?
This is true. I’m being threatened because of applying journalistic ethics, especially exposing wrong elements in government who don’t want to be exposed, for example the corrupt elements.
Who is threatening you?
Politicians and their supporters. I can’t reveal them here but they know themselves and what they do. The people also know them.
What has been your worst moment in practicing journalism?
Eeeeee, in 2023 when I got an intention to sue letter from Hon. Ferigo Kambale, the MP for Kasese Municipality.
What did you do to the Honorable?
I wrote a story about his workers who were about to lose their jobs because the MP publically announced that he was looking for financial assistance to help him in running his TV during a public event in Kasese Town.
And this year I was suspended from air after Hon. Florence Kabugho, the woman MP Kasese District, accused me of defamation on air. You know how they misuse the law and don’t want to be talked about.
Any great opportunities? What have you achieved from journalism?
Of course, I have received connections from covering different events. I have been able to look after my family and siblings, run my shop. I have travelled to cover stories and have been able to make friends and helpful networks. I am excited to have been selected to be among those who will attend youth parliament scheduled for 16th August.
What is your message to others practicing journalism?
Let them work hard and always apply journalism ethics in whatever they do.
Let’s now talk about some even more interesting stuff, Ms Kabugho, do you have a boyfriend?
No.
Why?
That is not in my plans for now because of the nature of my work. I am still working towards a good future and I don’t want someone who will complicate my life by giving me hard time and stress.
Which food do you like most?
Cassava tapioca and greens.
Do you know how to cook it?
Yes I do.
What else do you enjoy doing?
I love to kiss! But I do it as a sign of greeting and love; it is not for everyone. My kissing depends on one’s health, love for him and how they smell.
Interesting, especially coming from someone who says she is single! Anyway, how do you manage single life at your age?
I have the grace to control myself. Single life can be good and bad. Good part of it, it doesn’t stress and you do you things at your own time without pressure. Negatively, single life hinders you in planning because you lack someone to plan with and sometimes results into uncalled for spending of resources.
Evelyn Kabugho in a second
Age: 24
Job: Radio presenter and field reporter (does Yamabika morning show alongside Joablet Kuhuhania after which she heads to the field)
Schools attended: Green valley PS, Nyabugando Parents PS and Kamasasa PS all from Mpondwe-Lhiubiriha Town Council; Karambi SSS before pursuing journalism and media studies.
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