CNN journalist Larry Madowo clapped back at a critic on social media who questioned his promotion of a positive story about Uganda. The user, calling herself Madam CEO, asked Madowo how much personal effort he put into sharing a recent CNN interview with Ugandan wildlife vet Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. Madowo’s blunt reply stated he is a journalist, not a tourism official.
The exchange followed his post of a clip from a two-part feature filmed in London, which sparked debate about who bears responsibility for promoting national stories. Many users agreed with Madowo, arguing that Ugandans themselves should lead in marketing their country’s positive narratives instead of expecting international correspondents to do so. One comment pointed out the irony of people trolling Madowo with more energy than they use to share good news.
The interview itself focused on Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka’s pioneering work as Uganda’s first wildlife veterinarian. She explained that the field barely existed when she started, as the old mindset was to let nature take its course. She noted that human encroachment changed everything, especially for species like the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which are confined to a small habitat. Her advocacy began after observing tourist visits stressing gorilla groups during her student days, leading her to push authorities for a dedicated wildlife vet role.
The exchange followed his post of a clip from a two-part feature filmed in London, which sparked debate about who bears responsibility for promoting national stories. Many users agreed with Madowo, arguing that Ugandans themselves should lead in marketing their country’s positive narratives instead of expecting international correspondents to do so. One comment pointed out the irony of people trolling Madowo with more energy than they use to share good news.
The interview itself focused on Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka’s pioneering work as Uganda’s first wildlife veterinarian. She explained that the field barely existed when she started, as the old mindset was to let nature take its course. She noted that human encroachment changed everything, especially for species like the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which are confined to a small habitat. Her advocacy began after observing tourist visits stressing gorilla groups during her student days, leading her to push authorities for a dedicated wildlife vet role.
