Blogs and Youtube channels are the new fundamental sources of information as they will replace ordinary media in terms of reliability. While the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) is not done with telecom operators, the body has come out to show interest in regulating all forms of online media.
Social media and online private blogs headlining the new information trends, With Facebook live videos redefining the way users receive real-time news and information. UCC’s move is directed on making sure every media platform uses their true identity.
Mobile money scams and online fraud have become the order of the day as many users have been victimized through simple new tricks. Well, UCC’s new regulation will see your favorite blog have its true identity just like Techjaja upgraded to https to serve you better.
Borrowing a leaf from the rampant online cases filed against microbloggers making Facebook their view expression site. UCC itself failed to identify many of these including popular political bloggers who incite users to rally against Government programs. However, the body made its intentions clear through part it’s public notice that read.
All online data communication service providers including online publishers, online news platforms, online radio and television operators are therefore advised to apply and obtain authorisation from the commission with immediate effect
In reference to the United Kingdom where the online creative economy contributes 5% to their total GDP. UCC’s new regulation task will see online blogs and vlogs generate more taxes as per their licenses which may be issued out to them.
What UCC’s new move to regulate blogs implies
According to UCC officials, the new regulation is expected to take effect on April 2nd, 2018. But then, how will UCC track private blogs that don’t even host their blogs/websites from the country? Nevertheless, UCC’s new order will see every content published on licensed Youtube channels and blogs regulated by the body.
Bloggers, Vloggers, and Microbloggers signifying website bloggers, video bloggers, social media bloggers respectively will not have any chance to dodge the new regulations but rather comply. Just like UCC made their intentions clear that any user/company offering data, video and online sound services will have to be authorized by the body or else be shut down. Some have seen this a move for government to gag online platforms, but we are yet to see how this goes in the near future.
