Ssemaganda Moses Hope

National

September 11, 2026

Government Salutes Mother Mary Kevin’s Legacy of Faith, Education and Service

 The Government of Uganda has commended the enduring legacy of Mother Mary Kevin Kearney, recognising her remarkable contribution to education, healthcare, faith and compassionate service to communities in Uganda.The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon Dr JC Muyingo, represented the Vice President of the Republic of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Maj. Jessica Alupo, at the 4th Mother Mary Kevin Memorial Lecture held on 11 September 2026, where he joined Catholic Church leaders, religious institutions, government representatives, members of the Friends of Mother Mary Kevin Association and other distinguished guests to celebrate the life and work of the Servant of God.The Government used the occasion to appreciate the Catholic Church fraternity and the Little Sisters of St. Francis for continuing to preserve and advance Mother Mary Kevin’s values, particularly her commitment to improving the lives of ordinary people through education, healthcare and social service. Mother Mary Kevin’s legacy remains deeply connected to Uganda’s development story, particularly through her emphasis on education as a powerful tool for transforming individuals and generations. Her work also demonstrated the importance of extending healthcare and compassion to vulnerable communities, principles that continue to resonate with Uganda’s development priorities today.  Speaking on behalf of the Friends of Mother Mary Kevin Association, the Acting Chairperson noted that the memorial lecture is not merely about remembering history, but about drawing inspiration from Mother Mary Kevin’s life and translating her values into meaningful service in contemporary Uganda.The association, inaugurated on 20 October 2007 by the then Vice President Prof. Gilbert Bukenya, was established to preserve and propagate Mother Mary Kevin’s legacy. Its continued activities have provided a platform for individuals and institutions inspired by her life to promote compassionate service and human dignity. The Government recognises that the contribution of the Catholic Church and its religious institutions to Uganda extends far beyond spiritual ministry. Over the years, the Church has been a longstanding partner in providing education, healthcare, social services and support to vulnerable communities, complementing Government efforts to improve the wellbeing of Ugandans. Dr Muyingo’s representation of the Vice President at the memorial lecture further reflected the Government’s appreciation of this longstanding partnership and its commitment to working with the Catholic Church and other faith-based institutions in advancing national development.The memorial lecture also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect on the challenges facing society today, including access to quality education and healthcare, opportunities for young people and the protection of vulnerable people.  The Friends of Mother Mary Kevin Association has expressed determination to strengthen partnerships with Government, the Church, academia, the private sector, development partners and communities so that the values associated with Mother Mary Kevin can continue to produce practical and sustainable impact.The Government commends the Friends of Mother Mary Kevin Association, the Franciscan Missionary Sisters for Africa, the Little Sisters of St. Francis and all institutions and individuals who continue to keep her legacy alive.  As Uganda continues to pursue development that places human welfare and dignity at the centre, the life of Mother Mary Kevin remains a powerful reminder that meaningful transformation begins with a commitment to serve others.

National

September 11, 2026

Speaker Oboth Urges Ugandans to Protect Peace and Support Government Efforts

 Speaker of Parliament Rt. Hon. Jacob Markson Oboth has called on Ugandans to jealously protect the peace and stability the country has enjoyed, describing national peace as the foundation upon which meaningful development and social progress are built.  Oboth made the call while speaking at the burial of Dennis Wakula, son of the Bishop of Central Busoga Diocese, Rt. Rev. Patrick Wakula. He urged Ugandans to recognise the importance of stability and support efforts by the Government and other institutions aimed at maintaining peace across the country. The Speaker said the development witnessed in different parts of Uganda can only be sustained in an environment where citizens are able to live and work in peace. He noted that roads, schools, health facilities, businesses and other development programmes require a stable environment to deliver lasting benefits to communities. He credited the Government for its efforts in maintaining national peace and security, while cautioning that preserving stability should not be viewed as the responsibility of Government alone. According to Oboth, citizens, political leaders, religious leaders, cultural institutions and other stakeholders all have a role to play in protecting the country’s social fabric.He further encouraged Ugandans to respect and support leaders who have been elected by the people at different levels of governance, saying effective leadership requires cooperation between leaders and the communities they serve. Oboth stressed that national cohesion does not happen automatically but requires deliberate efforts from both citizens and leaders. He called for greater responsibility in public discourse and urged Ugandans to embrace issues that unite the country rather than those that deepen divisions.The Speaker’s remarks came as mourners gathered to bid farewell to Dennis Wakula, with the occasion also providing an opportunity to reflect on the values of unity, service and responsibility that remain important to the country’s future.  He said Uganda’s progress should be protected by ensuring that differences in political, social or other views do not undermine the broader national interest.Oboth also emphasised the importance of leaders remaining committed to serving their communities and working together with citizens to address challenges affecting them. He said the country’s future depends largely on the ability of Ugandans to preserve unity and stability while pursuing development. 

Featured

September 10, 2026

Government Expands Higher Education Access as 2,790 Students Secure Loans for 2026/2027

 The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Education and Sports, has approved 2,790 students to benefit from the Higher Education Students’ Financing Scheme (HESFS) for the 2026/2027 academic year, as part of continued efforts to expand access to higher education for academically qualified students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.The successful beneficiaries were officially released on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at an event presided over by the Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo, who officially released the list of successful student loan beneficiaries under the 13th cohort of the Government Students’ Loan Scheme.  The latest cohort comes at a time when demand for government support for higher education continues to rise, with the Ministry receiving 10,615 applications compared to 7,125 applications in the previous academic year, representing a 48.9 percent increase.Speaking at the release, the Commissioner for Higher Education Students’ Financing Scheme, who represented the Permanent Secretary, commended the Government for sustaining the loan scheme as an important intervention in widening access to higher education, particularly for students who may otherwise be unable to meet the cost of university and other tertiary education.  Of the 10,615 applications received, 8,005 applicants were found eligible, while 2,610 applications did not meet the requirements. A significant number of the unsuccessful applications were attributed to incomplete submissions, with 1,452 applicants failing to provide all the required documentation.The selection of the 2,790 successful beneficiaries was undertaken using a three-tier model designed to promote fairness, geographical equity and consideration of financial vulnerability. Under the model, 30 percent of applicants were considered through the District Quota system, another 30 percent were allocated to districts and cities proportionate to their share of eligible applicants, while 40 percent were selected based on their socio-economic vulnerability.The Ministry said the approach has ensured representation from all parts of the country, including districts that have historically recorded low participation in the Students’ Loan Scheme such as Amudat, Buvuma, Kalangala, Karenga, Kotido and Moroto.The selection process was supported by the Integrated Loan Management Information System (ILMIS), which automatically generated applicants’ Proxy Means Test scores. The assessment considered socio-economic background, academic performance, household characteristics, vulnerability factors, disability, parental loss, geographical considerations and other affirmative-action factors.  The system-based process was designed to minimize human interference and strengthen transparency, accountability and fairness in determining beneficiaries.Of the 2,790 students selected, 1,400 are female, representing 50.2 percent, while 1,390 are male, representing 49.8 percent. A total of 2,019 beneficiaries will pursue undergraduate degree programmes, while 771 will pursue diploma programmes.The scheme has also increased support for Persons with Disabilities, with 64 students with disabilities among the successful beneficiaries. The beneficiaries will be able to pursue eligible Science and Humanities programmes under the provisions applicable to students with disabilities. Among the programmes attracting the highest number of beneficiaries are Bachelor of Science with Education, with 581 students, Engineering with 498, Computer Science with 313, and Health Care Management with 284 beneficiaries.The Government has set aside Shs10.720 billion for the first-year cohort. Although the original budget was planned to support 2,400 students, the Ministry will now support 2,790 beneficiaries, helped by the lower unit cost associated with the programmes taken by many of the successful applicants. The loans will cover tuition fees, functional fees and research fees payable to the respective tertiary institutions, as well as aids and appliances for eligible students with disabilities. The funds will be disbursed directly to participating institutions rather than being paid to individual students.The number of universities participating in the scheme has also increased from 25 in the 2025/2026 academic year to 33 this year, comprising 11 public universities and 22 chartered private universities, alongside other tertiary institutions offering approved diploma programmes. The Higher Education Students’ Financing Scheme was established under the Higher Education Students’ Financing Act, 2014, as amended in 2024, with a mandate to facilitate access to higher education for eligible Ugandan citizens at affordable rates.The scheme seeks to increase equitable access to higher education, support qualified students who cannot afford higher education, promote regional balance, support programmes considered critical to national development and maintain a sustainable revolving loan fund.  The Ministry has urged successful applicants to follow the communication from the Ministry regarding the next steps. Beneficiaries will receive notifications through SMS, the Ministry website and official social media platforms. They will subsequently be required to sign loan agreements, which will be administered through their respective institutions before funds are disbursed.The continued expansion of the Students’ Loan Scheme reflects Government’s broader commitment to ensuring that lack of financial capacity does not prevent deserving Ugandan students from acquiring higher education and the skills needed to contribute to national development. As the 13th cohort begins its journey, the Ministry of Education and Sports has congratulated all 2,790 successful beneficiaries and encouraged them to use the opportunity responsibly by pursuing their studies diligently and contributing to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

Global

September 9, 2026

Government to Write Off Shs35 Billion Tea Factory Tax Arrears, Says Tayebwa

 The government is set to write off more than Shs35 billion in tax arrears owed by tea factories as part of a wider intervention aimed at reviving Uganda’s struggling tea industry, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has said.Tayebwa announced the development on Tuesday while representing President Yoweri Museveni at the burial of the late Mrs Edna Kentaro Baryaruha in Bushenyi District.He said the arrears will be waived as soon as Parliament resumes from recess.  The decision follows sustained efforts by Members of Parliament from Greater Bushenyi and other tea-growing areas to address challenges facing the sector.“The minister directed that, when we resume Parliament, we will write off tax arrears worth more than UGX 35 billion. I want to thank MPs from Greater Bushenyi who have worked hard on this issue,” Tayebwa said.The planned tax relief is expected to ease the financial burden on tea factories, some of which have struggled with accumulated debts and other operational challenges amid a prolonged crisis in the sector.  Tayebwa said the government was also working to streamline other issues affecting the management and operations of tea factories. He noted that accumulated tax obligations had become a major obstacle hindering the resumption of operations at some factories.“The other issues will also be streamlined to ensure that factories are run better,” he said.Tayebwa also revealed that the government is undertaking a deeper review of the tea sector to support long-term sustainability of the sector.  The announcement comes amid growing concern over the future of Uganda’s tea industry. Tea prices fell sharply in the past year as international demand weakened while large volumes of tea continued to enter the market, creating an oversupply that pushed auction prices down.Political and economic disruptions in key importing countries, including Sudan, further reduced demand for East African tea. Uganda, which relies heavily on the Mombasa auction and mainly produces CTC black tea, was particularly exposed to these market shocks.  The price slump has also been compounded by concerns over tea quality and rising production costs. High fertiliser and input prices have made it harder for farmers to properly maintain their plantations, affecting the quality and quantity of green leaf supplied to factories.When factories earn less from exports, their ability to pay farmers and meet operating costs is squeezed, creating a cycle of low farmer payments, declining investment in tea gardens and financial distress among processors.  But Tayebwa said the government has a bigger plan for the tea sector, which includes a Shs212 billion investment.The money, he revealed, has been earmarked for investment in the tea industry, but only factories that demonstrate that they are efficiently and effectively managed will qualify for the funds.President Museveni last year in Bushenyi, engaged tea farmers and processors over the crisis facing the sector.

Religious

September 6, 2026

Minister Muyingo Urges Catholic Faithful to Strengthen Families, Education and Fight Poverty

 The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, has called on Catholic faithful to strengthen their faith, nurture their children in Christian values and embrace education and hard work as key tools in building stronger families and fighting poverty.Dr. Muyingo made the call while attending Holy Mass at St. Athanasius Catholic Church in Bukasa Sub-Parish, Kasana-Luweero, where he joined Catholic faithful, church leaders and community leaders for the service and supported the ongoing construction of the church. As part of his support towards the project, Dr. Muyingo gave Shs5 million to contribute to the ongoing works. The church leadership revealed that more than Shs60 million is still required to complete the remaining construction works.  Addressing the faithful, Dr. Muyingo thanked them for keeping their faith and urged parents to take greater responsibility for the spiritual and academic development of their children.He encouraged Catholic parents to ensure that their children grow up knowing and practising their faith, noting that the family remains a critical foundation in shaping responsible, disciplined and God-fearing citizens. Dr. Muyingo also urged parents to prepare adequately for the return of children to school, ensuring that they are enrolled and provided with the necessary scholastic requirements to enable them to study effectively.Beyond education and faith, Dr. Muyingo encouraged the faithful to embrace hard work and productive activities as a way of improving household incomes and overcoming poverty. He also appreciated the Catholic community for supporting the Government’s development efforts, urging them to remain focused on activities that improve the wellbeing of their families and communities.The Mass was led by Rev. Fr. Brian Luyombya Mukiibi, Parish Priest of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, Ziroobwe, who delivered a strong message on the Christian responsibility to love and care for one another.  Fr. Mukiibi expressed concern over people who deliberately hurt others and, in some cases, go as far as making accusations that lead to their fellow citizens being taken to court.He called upon Christians to embrace forgiveness, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, reminding them that faith should be reflected in how they treat other people.The priest also commended Dr. Muyingo for his humility and willingness to support community initiatives, urging Christians to emulate his spirit of service.  The service was also marked by the baptism of children, formally welcoming them into the Catholic faith and reinforcing the church’s role in nurturing the next generation.Church leaders expressed appreciation to Dr. Muyingo for standing with the congregation during the ongoing construction works.John Baptist Musugu, a teacher and member of the church community, thanked Dr. Muyingo for supporting the project, saying the Minister’s contribution had provided encouragement to the congregation as it continues mobilising resources to complete the church. Other leaders, including Abdoni Mugerwa and Charles Nsubuga, together with other church leaders, also praised Dr. Muyingo for responding to the needs of the congregation and encouraged Christians and well-wishers to continue supporting the project.  Dr. Muyingo’s Personal Assistant, Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale, also commended the Minister for his service in the Ministry of Education and Sports and his continued commitment to supporting community initiatives.

Religious

September 5, 2026

SDA Church Launches Initiative to Restore Hope Through Digital Evangelism

 By Saul MutunziThe Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda, has today launched an initiative aimed at giving hope to faithfuls and everyone at large. The launch was led by pastor Tom Ogal  and President of Seventh-day Adventist Church in Uganda, Archbishop Samuel Kajoba, and the celebrations has been held at Najjanankumbi in Wakiso District. In his preaching, Ogal urged the people of God to use their phones in preaching the gospel and also comforting the believers around the world.  "We urge young people to use their phones by preaching the gospel because this channel is very important but many people have used it badly. So, today, we have launched this initiative to remind our people that we can use the phones wisely by sharing the word of God. I therefore, encourage you to always use your gadgets very well. We all know that our major mission is to preach the word of God, so, this is a good opportunity for us to reach out to many people because many people have lost hope in everything that's why they are engaging themselves in various acts", president said.  "This hope is what everyone needs. Many women are hopeless and don't know what to do. Young people have been using their phones falsely, but through this initiative, their lives will be transformed", he said. The president also delivered his condolence message to the people of Tooro Kingdom following the death of King Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV , who died last week and will be buried on 12th September 2026.  "As the church, we stand with the people of Tooro Kingdom, after the death of their King. We strongly pray for them and asking God to comfort them because only God is the one who can understand what they are going through. We pray for the kingdom and also pray for the one who will succeed him in that position. We have a Church in Tooro Kingdom and our pastors have been representing us.   We want to confirm to the people of Tooro Kingdom that we are with you in this trying moment and we assure you that you are in our prayers ", Kajoba added. The launch has been attended by the vice secretary general of national resistance movement _ Hon. Rose Namayanja, and others

Happening Kati

September 5, 2026

Hon. David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga Pledges Stronger Support for Buganda Kingdom in 12th Parliament

  The Member of Parliament for Busujju County in Mityana, Hon. David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga, has reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the Buganda Kingdom and contributing positively to matters of common interest as Uganda prepares for the 12th Parliament. Kalwanga was among legislators from the Buganda region who came together under the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, a platform that brings MPs from across the Kingdom together to engage on issues concerning Buganda while continuing to fulfil their constitutional responsibilities to their respective constituencies.The engagement also provided an opportunity for the legislators to interact with the Katikiro of Buganda, Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, who has continued to encourage leaders from Buganda to maintain a strong connection with the Kingdom and contribute to the wellbeing and development of its people. Hon. Kalwanga praised Buganda Kingdom for its historic contribution to Uganda’s cultural identity, heritage and socio-economic development, noting the importance of preserving the values and institutions that have shaped communities across the region.He pledged to support the Kingdom within his mandate as a legislator, particularly through constructive participation in Parliament and collaboration with fellow MPs on matters where a collective voice can benefit Buganda and its people.Kalwanga said the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus offers legislators an important avenue to consult, share ideas and work together on issues of common interest, while each MP remains accountable to the people who elected them.  He also commended the leadership of Buganda for continuing to engage elected representatives, saying such interaction strengthens dialogue between the cultural institution and leaders serving in Uganda’s national Parliament.As he looks towards the 12th Parliament, Hon. David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga pledged to serve diligently and contribute to initiatives that promote unity, development, cultural preservation and the wellbeing of the people of Buganda, while fully undertaking his national parliamentary responsibilities.  His commitment reflects a desire to see legislators from Buganda work together constructively, ensuring that the Kingdom’s legitimate interests can receive appropriate attention while MPs continue to effectively represent their individual constituencies.

Featured

September 5, 2026

SEETA University Welcomes 2026/2027 Freshers with Comprehensive Orientation Programme

 SEETA University has concluded a comprehensive orientation programme for students joining the institution for the 2026/2027 academic year, equipping freshers with essential academic, social, leadership and life skills to help them confidently adjust to university life.The four-day programme, which ran from Tuesday, September 1 to Friday, September 5, 2026, brought together newly admitted students for a structured introduction to the university, its academic environment, expectations and opportunities. The orientation began with student reception and registration, hostel allocation and fees verification, giving freshers an opportunity to settle into the university community and complete key administrative requirements.Throughout the programme, students were introduced to the university’s vision, mission, values and expectations, while university officials and student leaders guided them on the responsibilities that come with joining higher education. Under the theme “Know Your University and Adjust to University Life,” students were taken through student leadership and representation, students’ rights and responsibilities, discipline and the university code of conduct. They also participated in question-and-answer sessions, giving them an opportunity to seek clarification from university officials. Academic preparedness was a major part of the orientation, with students guided on programme registration, attendance, assessment and academic progression. A campus tour was also conducted to help freshers familiarise themselves with the university environment and facilities.The programme then shifted focus to academic success, wellbeing, leadership and career development, under the theme “Learn, Grow, Participate and Lead.”Students received guidance on library and research skills, proper referencing and avoiding plagiarism, as well as the use of ICT, the student portal, e-learning and responsible digital citizenship.  The university also placed emphasis on the wellbeing of its students, with sessions addressing health, hygiene, wellness, healthy lifestyles, counselling and mental wellness, including guidance on managing pressure associated with university life.Freshers were further equipped with practical knowledge on financial responsibility, budgeting, personal safety, security and emergency procedures, reinforcing the importance of responsible decision-making while at university. Speaking during the orientation programme, Academic Registrar Dr. Mbago Ronald said SEETA University had registered new students for the 2026/2027 academic year, noting that the institution’s overall enrolment has now grown to about 1,400 students within just one year.  Dr. Mbago’s remarks highlighted the continued growth of the university and the increasing number of students joining its academic community.The final day of the orientation focused on “Know Your Faculty and Network,” with students receiving faculty-specific guidance from academic deans. They were also taken through university education and preparation for a better future before concluding with personal administration.  The orientation programme was designed to go beyond simply introducing students to the university. It sought to prepare them for the full university experience by combining academic guidance with leadership, discipline, personal development, health, financial literacy, digital skills and career preparation.SEETA University is therefore welcoming the 2026/2027 intake with a strong emphasis on helping students learn, grow, participate and lead, while encouraging them to take advantage of the academic and personal development opportunities available throughout their university journey.  The successful completion of the orientation marks the beginning of a new academic chapter for the freshers, as they now transition into their respective programmes and begin building the knowledge, skills, networks and experiences that will shape their future careers.

Political

September 2, 2026

Breaking News Hon Agnes Kirabo Wins NRM National Women Council Vice Chairperson Seat

 Hon. Agnes Kirabo has been elected Vice Chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) National Women Council, following today’s National Women Council primaries.Kirabo’s victory places her among the newly elected national NRM women leaders tasked with providing leadership and strengthening the participation of women across the Movement’s structures, from the grassroots to the national level.  Her election has been welcomed as a significant achievement for the former youth leader, who has built experience in political leadership, mobilisation and representation. Kirabo previously served as the Central Region Youth Member of Parliament, giving her experience in representing young people and engaging in national policy and political affairs.She now joins the new national women leadership team headed by Ann Lumumba Ruyondo as Chairperson, with Kirabo as Vice Chairperson, Hope Natukunda as Secretary for Finance, and Among Shakila Mwenyi as Publicity Secretary.  The election of the four leaders follows the NRM’s efforts to consolidate its women’s structures and strengthen internal participation and leadership ahead of the party’s broader political activities.Kirabo’s victory also comes with the responsibility of representing and coordinating the interests of millions of NRM women across the country, while supporting mobilisation, unity and participation within the Movement.  The NRM has congratulated the newly elected leaders and thanked all candidates who participated in the primaries, saying their participation contributed to the party’s internal democratic processes.  Congratulations to Hon. Agnes Kirabo upon her election as NRM National Women Council Vice Chairperson. Her new role gives her an opportunity to build on her previous leadership experience and contribute to strengthening women’s leadership and mobilisation within the Movement.

Global

September 1, 2026

Minister Musasizi Calls for Stronger Capital Markets to Drive Uganda’s US$500bn Economy by 2040

 By Mutuunzi SaulKAMPALA — Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development Henry Musasizi has urged Uganda’s capital markets to play a bigger role in mobilising the long-term financing required to transform the country into a US$500 billion economy by 2040.Musasizi made the remarks on Tuesday during a media engagement held at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala, where the Capital Markets Authority (CMA) outlined preparations for its forthcoming celebrations and highlighted developments in Uganda’s capital markets.  The Minister said Uganda’s capital markets have grown significantly over the past three decades, evolving from a relatively nascent industry into an increasingly important component of the country’s financial system.He said that by August 2026, domestic market capitalisation had reached Shs24.28 trillion, while the corporate bond market had mobilised about Shs290 billion. Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), he added, had approximately Shs7.08 trillion in assets under management.  According to Musasizi, the growth demonstrates increasing participation in formal investment, improved access to alternative sources of financing for businesses and the growing contribution of capital markets towards mobilising long-term capital.He said the Government’s Tenfold Growth Strategy, which targets a US$500 billion economy by 2040, will require substantial long-term financing to support infrastructure development, industrialisation, commercial agriculture, tourism, energy, housing, manufacturing, technology, innovation and the expansion of Ugandan enterprises.“This ambition cannot be achieved through Government expenditure or bank financing alone,” Musasizi said, stressing the need for deeper, stronger and more effective capital markets.  The Minister also called on Ugandans to shift from a culture focused mainly on saving towards one that embraces investment, saying increased financial literacy and investor education are necessary to enable ordinary citizens to participate in investment opportunities while protecting their savings.He further emphasised that investor protection should remain central to the development of Uganda’s capital markets, supported by strong disclosure requirements, market surveillance, enforcement, sound corporate governance and increased public awareness.  Meanwhile, Capital Markets Authority Chief Executive Officer Josephine Okui Ossiya said the Authority has transformed from a small institution into an organisation with a broader responsibility to connect Uganda’s savings with investment opportunities.Ossiya said that during the first year of implementation of CMA’s new five-year strategic plan, 63 percent of the 43 strategic indicators had been achieved or exceeded, while work-plan implementation stood at 99.5 percent.She said assets under Collective Investment Schemes had reached approximately Shs7 trillion, while total funds mobilised through the capital markets stood at approximately Shs23.4 trillion.  Public understanding of capital markets, Ossiya added, had increased to 60.8 percent, while the number of Collective Investment Scheme investor accounts had reached 241,000.The developments, she said, demonstrate growing participation in Uganda’s investment ecosystem and the expanding role of capital markets in mobilising resources for economic development.  The officials said strengthening capital markets will be critical in providing Uganda with alternative sources of long-term financing as the country pursues accelerated economic growth and the ambitious US$500 billion economy target by 2040.

Education

September 1, 2026

Minister Muyingo Opens Shs5.5 Billion Three-Storey Teaching Facility at MUBS

 KAMPALA, September 1, 2026 — The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Dr. John C. Muyingo, has officially opened a new three-storey teaching facility at Makerere University Business School (MUBS), Nakawa Campus, following a Government investment of more than Shs5.5 billion in the modification of the facility. The new facility is expected to significantly expand MUBS’ teaching and learning space while providing a modern environment for academic excellence, innovation, creativity, research and skills development as the institution continues to respond to the growing demand for higher education.  Speaking during the official opening ceremony on Tuesday, Minister Muyingo commended the Government, under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for continuing to invest in education infrastructure, describing the investment as a strategic contribution to Uganda’s human capital development and socio-economic transformation. “This occasion represents much more than the commissioning of a new building. It is an investment in knowledge, skills, innovation and, ultimately, the future of Uganda,” Dr. Muyingo said.He noted that Uganda’s rapidly growing and youthful population presents both opportunities and responsibilities for the education sector, requiring institutions of higher learning to expand access while maintaining high standards of teaching, learning and research. Minister Muyingo challenged MUBS to ensure that the new facility translates into improved academic outcomes, stressing that the success of the investment should ultimately be measured by the quality of graduates produced and their contribution to Uganda’s development.He urged the institution to use the facility as a centre of academic excellence, creativity, innovation and problem-solving, saying universities should increasingly become places where society turns for practical solutions to national challenges. The Minister also highlighted the rapid transformation taking place in the global economy as a result of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, automation and emerging business models. He said universities must continuously review their curricula and teaching approaches to ensure that graduates acquire relevant and practical competencies.He particularly pointed to the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) approach being rolled out across universities and tertiary institutions by the National Council for Higher Education, saying it will be critical in equipping learners with skills that respond to the needs of the modern economy. According to Dr. Muyingo, Uganda needs graduates who can think critically, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, embrace technology, solve problems and create opportunities for themselves and others.“Our education system must move beyond preparing young people merely to look for jobs. It must increasingly prepare them to create jobs, enterprises and solutions,” he said.He further called for stronger collaboration between universities and the private sector, urging employers to become active partners in shaping the skills produced by institutions of higher learning.  He said industry should work closely with universities through internships, mentorship, research collaboration, practical training and technology transfer so that the skills acquired in classrooms remain relevant to the workplace.MUBS Principal, Prof. Moses Muhwezi, welcomed the Government’s support towards the development of the institution and commended the various stakeholders whose efforts contributed to the completion of the facility.Prof. Muhwezi said the new teaching block will strengthen the School’s capacity to provide quality learning in a modern environment and support its broader institutional agenda of advancing academic excellence, research, innovation, digital transformation and engagement with industry.  He emphasised the importance of ensuring that the infrastructure is fully utilised to improve the learning experience and equip students with the knowledge and practical competencies required to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s economic transformation.The Chairperson of the MUBS Council, Mrs. Olive Lumonya, also commended the Government for its continued investment in the institution and recognised the role played by the Council, Management, staff, students, technical teams and other stakeholders in bringing the project to completion. Mrs. Lumonya emphasised the need for responsible utilisation and proper management of the facility, noting that sustainable infrastructure development requires strong governance, accountability and a culture of maintenance.  Minister Muyingo also urged students to take full advantage of the new learning environment, reminding them that Government, parents and other stakeholders are making significant investments in their education.He encouraged students to use the classrooms not merely to obtain certificates but to acquire knowledge, skills and competencies that can enable them to create meaningful opportunities for themselves and others.“Be curious, ask questions, read widely, and learn beyond the classroom. Build your networks and seek practical experience. Above all, uphold integrity in all that you do,” he advised.  The Minister stressed that Uganda needs not only educated citizens but also ethical citizens, noting that knowledge without integrity cannot contribute to the building of a prosperous nation.He also urged MUBS Management and students to take good care of the facility, calling for proper mechanisms for preventive maintenance, safety, cleanliness, accessibility and responsible use of the building.  Dr. Muyingo further encouraged MUBS to maximise the use of technology within the new facility by supporting blended learning, digital collaboration and access to knowledge beyond the physical classroom.He commended the architects, engineers, contractors, consultants, project managers and technical teams involved in the project for translating the vision into a modern teaching facility. The Minister said the project demonstrates what can be achieved when Government, institutions and other stakeholders work together towards a common purpose.