Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Featured

August 29, 2026

Minister Muyingo Inspects Progress of Shs30 Billion Public University Project in Busoga

 IGANGA, August 2026 — The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to quality higher education in the Busoga Sub-region, with close to Shs30 billion invested in infrastructure and facilities for the establishment of a public university in the region.The investment is part of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s Government’s deliberate efforts to expand equitable access to higher education, strengthen human capital development and ensure that Ugandans across the country have access to quality, relevant and practical education and training.The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Dr. John C. Muyingo, on Friday inspected progress towards the establishment of the public university in Busoga, visiting the facilities in Iganga to assess the progress of works, quality of workmanship, maintenance and plans for effective utilisation of the infrastructure.  Minister Muyingo expressed satisfaction with the progress made, saying the investment provides a credible foundation for the future university and demonstrates accountability and value for money in the utilisation of public resources.He commended the project Taskforce, contractors, supervisors and all stakeholders for their contribution towards the development of the facilities, particularly the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces Engineering Brigade for its role in the construction works.Minister Muyingo emphasised that the infrastructure is not an end in itself, stressing that the ultimate measure of the investment will be the quality, relevance and impact of education and training delivered within the facilities. He directed that the laboratories, workshops and libraries be adequately equipped, made fully functional and properly maintained to support practical, hands-on learning.He further directed that academic programmes should align with Government’s emerging Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) agenda and respond to the needs of industry, employers and other stakeholders in Busoga and beyond.According to Minister Muyingo, the institution, once fully established, should produce graduates who are innovative, competent, employable and capable of creating jobs, contributing directly to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.He said Government remains committed to formally establishing, recognising and celebrating the investment once all the necessary requirements have been fulfilled and the university is ready to operate.Minister Muyingo clarified that the formal establishment of the university will follow the requisite legal, financial, administrative and institutional approvals, which he said are necessary safeguards to ensure that the institution opens properly, sustainably and on a firm institutional foundation.He appealed to the people of Busoga and all stakeholders to remain patient and continue cooperating with Government as the necessary processes are concluded.In the meantime, Minister Muyingo called upon the Taskforce, local governments, security agencies and other stakeholders to protect, maintain and safeguard the facilities already developed. He stressed that every shilling invested by Government must deliver value to the people, urging all responsible authorities to ensure that the infrastructure is preserved and put to productive use.The development of the public university in Busoga reflects President Museveni’s continued emphasis on expanding education opportunities, developing Uganda’s human capital and ensuring that Government investments in education contribute to national development.  Once fully established and operational, the institution is expected to provide increased opportunities for higher education in the Busoga Sub-region while supporting teaching, research, innovation and skills development in line with Uganda’s national development priorities.

Education

August 28, 2026

Minister Muyingo Calls for Stronger Parliament–Education Ministry Partnership to Transform Education and Sports

 KAMPALA, UGANDA — August 28, 2026: Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, has called for a stronger partnership between Parliament and the Ministry of Education and Sports to accelerate Uganda’s human capital development and ensure that public investments in education and sports translate into tangible results for Ugandans.  Dr. Muyingo made the call on Friday while officially opening an induction workshop for members of the Sectoral Committee on Education and Sports of the 12th Parliament at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.Held under the theme “Strengthening Legislative Capacity, Promoting Good Governance, and Enhancing Effective Service Delivery,” the workshop is aimed at strengthening the capacity of committee members to effectively execute their legislative, oversight and accountability responsibilities in the education and sports sector. Dr. Muyingo said education and sports remain critical foundations for Uganda’s social and economic transformation, stressing that the success of national development priorities depends on strategic leadership, effective oversight and close collaboration between the Executive and Legislature.He challenged the Committee to view its mandate as both legislative and transformational, particularly as Uganda implements the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and works towards its long-term economic transformation ambitions.  Among the key areas that require sustained attention, he said, are reforms in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), curriculum and assessment, higher education capacity and human capital development.Dr. Muyingo said TVET reforms under the 10-Fold Programme should ensure that young Ugandans acquire practical, market-relevant skills that respond to the demands of industry and the economy. He also highlighted the importance of strengthening curriculum and assessment through institutions such as the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), Uganda Health Professions Assessment Board (UHPAB) and Uganda Vocational and Technical Assessment Board (UVTAB) to ensure that Uganda’s education system produces graduates with relevant competencies for employment, innovation and job creation. The Minister said Uganda must now shift greater attention from simply increasing enrolment to ensuring that learners actually acquire the knowledge, skills, values and competencies they need to succeed.He identified improving learning outcomes rather than enrolment alone as one of the eight major priorities of the Education and Sports Sub-Programme, alongside foundational literacy and numeracy, teacher effectiveness, curriculum relevance, assessment and learner retention.Dr. Muyingo further emphasised the central role of teachers in transforming the education system, calling for sustained attention to teacher recruitment, equitable deployment, professional development, motivation, performance and accountability. He said teachers must be adequately equipped to implement new curricula and respond to the rapidly changing demands of technology, the labour market and society.The Minister also called for stronger connections between education, skills development and Uganda’s productive sectors, particularly through TVET and STEM/STEI subjects, which he said can equip young people with competencies to innovate, create employment and contribute to national economic transformation.  He noted that the recently enacted TVET Act, 2025, provides an important opportunity to strengthen Uganda’s skills-development system and make it more responsive to the needs of industry and the wider economy.Dr. Muyingo further called for greater commitment to equitable and inclusive education, with particular attention to learners in disadvantaged communities, children with disabilities, girls and other vulnerable groups.He said the sector must continue addressing infrastructure and staffing gaps, including establishing primary schools in underserved parishes and secondary schools in sub-counties that do not have them.  On technology, Dr. Muyingo said digital transformation is no longer an optional addition to education and called for greater use of digital technologies to improve teaching, learning, assessment, education management and teacher development, while addressing the digital divide.He also urged the Committee to support efforts to reposition sports as an important economic, social and human development opportunity rather than treating it merely as recreation or competition.According to the Minister, sports contributes significantly to health, employment, national identity, social cohesion, tourism and Uganda’s international image.  He said the Ministry has prioritised early talent identification and systematic development, strengthening physical education and school sports, protecting and expanding sports infrastructure and improving the welfare of athletes in order to promote sports excellence.Dr. Muyingo also stressed the importance of strengthening school monitoring and inspection to ensure compliance with Basic Requirements and Minimum Standards and to ensure that recommendations arising from inspection reports are properly followed up.He called for stronger governance, accountability and value for money across the entire Education and Sports sector, urging Parliament to play its oversight role by scrutinising sector budgets, analysing legislation and monitoring project implementation.  The Minister said achieving the country’s education and sports priorities requires a strong and harmonious relationship between the Executive and Legislature, grounded in constructive oversight, fiscal responsibility and mutual accountability.He urged the newly constituted Committee members to use the induction workshop to build a shared strategic vision, familiarise themselves with parliamentary tools and procedures and establish a firm foundation for effective service to Ugandans during the 12th Parliament.  Dr. Muyingo reaffirmed the Ministry of Education and Sports’ commitment to an open-door policy, transparent engagement and a robust partnership with the Committee, saying cooperation between the two institutions will be critical in strengthening service delivery and advancing Uganda’s human capital development agenda.He subsequently declared the induction workshop officially open and wished members fruitful deliberations.  The engagement provides a strategic platform for the new Sectoral Committee to align its legislative and oversight responsibilities with the Ministry’s priorities and strengthen efforts to make education and sports powerful drivers of Uganda’s social and economic transformation.

Happening Kati

August 27, 2026

Migrant Workers' Voice Wins Wezesha Award for Humanitarian NGO of the Year 2026

 Kampala, Uganda  August 27, 2026Migrant Workers' Voice (MWV), a Uganda-based advocacy and humanitarian organisation, has been named the **Humanitarian NGO of the Year 2026** at the prestigious **Wezesha Awards**, organised by the Wezesha Group in Kenya.The award recognises MWV's outstanding work in protecting the rights and welfare of migrant workers, providing legal aid, emergency assistance, and community-based development initiatives that have transformed the lives of vulnerable Ugandans at home and abroad.  The announcement was made during the **Wezesha Awards 2026** ceremony held on **8th August 2026* at the PrideInn Plaza Hotel, Signature Mall, Mombasa Road, Nairobi, Kenya under the theme: "Youth Power: Protecting Democratic Gains, Advancing Justice and Promoting Open Governance."  The Wezesha Awards celebrate individuals and organisations whose work is transforming communities while empowering the next generation of leaders. This year's theme reflects the belief that young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow they are leaders today. Through active civic participation, accountability, innovation, peacebuilding, and community service, young people have the power to strengthen democracy, promote justice, and shape transparent and inclusive governance.Mr. Kayonde Abdallah, Executive Director of Migrant Workers' Voice, expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating:  "This award belongs to the migrant workers, their families, and our dedicated team who work day and night to protect the vulnerable. It is a testament to the power of collective action, youth leadership, and unwavering commitment to human dignity. We remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that no migrant worker is left behind."  MWV's initiatives include emergency repatriation support, legal representation for victims of trafficking and labour exploitation, and community based development programmes that empower returning migrants and their families.The Wezesha Awards aim to recognise and celebrate excellence in youth leadership, civic participation, accountability, innovation, peacebuilding, and community service across Africa. The 2026 edition calls upon governments, the private sector,  development partners, civil society, and the public to invest in young people and support initiatives that create lasting social impact.Migrant Workers' Voice's win underscores the growing recognition of Uganda's civil society organisations in addressing migration governance, human rights, and humanitarian challenges on the continent.Migrant Workers' Voicewww.migrantworkersvoice.org

Education

August 27, 2026

NCHE Launches Five-Year Strategic Plan to Strengthen Quality, Relevance and Accountability in Uganda’s Higher Education Sector

 KAMPALA, UGANDA — August 27, 2026: The National Council for Higher Education (NCHE) has launched its Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards and Client Charter, setting a renewed direction for strengthening the quality, relevance, accessibility and responsiveness of higher education services in Uganda.The instruments were launched on Thursday at the NCHE offices in Kyambogo, Kampala, by the Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. John C. Muyingo, who described the occasion as an important milestone for Uganda’s higher education sector. Dr. Muyingo said the documents go beyond administrative requirements, describing them as important instruments for improving governance, accountability, transparency and quality service delivery within the higher education sector.On behalf of the Government of Uganda and the Ministry of Education and Sports, the Minister commended the NCHE leadership and staff for developing the instruments, noting that they provide a five-year strategic direction for the Council and a framework for monitoring the effectiveness and efficiency of its services. He called on NCHE management and staff to ensure that the Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards and Client Charter become practical tools guiding planning, budgeting, staffing, regulation and engagement with stakeholders.“Every staff member should understand the contribution they are expected to make, every client should know the standard of service they are entitled to receive, and Management should be able to demonstrate, with evidence, the results achieved,” Dr. Muyingo said. The Minister further urged NCHE to use the new strategic instruments to support Uganda’s integration into the regional and international higher education system.He highlighted the emerging East African Common Higher Education Area as an opportunity for Uganda to strengthen recognition of academic qualifications, promote mobility of students and professionals, and enhance collaboration among institutions of higher learning.Dr. Muyingo noted that Uganda’s higher education system must continuously adapt to a rapidly changing environment characterised by technological advancement, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, evolving labour-market demands, climate change, demographic pressures and increasing internationalisation of education. He identified six priority areas that should receive particular attention during implementation of the new instruments: putting quality assurance at the heart of higher education; strengthening employability and relevance; promoting research, innovation and knowledge transfer; embracing technology; strengthening integrity and accountability; and ensuring inclusiveness.The Minister also challenged NCHE staff to uphold professionalism, integrity, courtesy and efficiency in their daily work, emphasising that every interaction with a client presents an opportunity to build public confidence in Government and Uganda’s higher education system.  He reaffirmed the Ministry of Education and Sports’ commitment to providing policy guidance, strategic oversight and sector coordination to support effective implementation of the NCHE Strategic Plan, Service Delivery Standards and Client Charter.The Ministry, he said, will also continue advocating for the resources required by NCHE to effectively execute its mandate while ensuring that its programmes and services remain aligned with Government policies, national development priorities and broader education sector goals.Dr. Muyingo further encouraged NCHE clients and stakeholders to actively engage with the Council and provide timely, constructive feedback on service delivery.He urged clients not to remain silent where services are delayed or established standards are not met, saying the new instruments should empower stakeholders to demand better and more accountable services.  The launch reflects the Government’s broader commitment to strengthening Uganda’s higher education system through improved quality assurance, effective regulation, innovation, accountability and responsive public service delivery.Dr. Muyingo congratulated NCHE upon the achievement and thanked all stakeholders who contributed to the development of the strategic instruments.

Education

August 26, 2026

Uganda’s Education Ministry Releases 87 Scholarship Beneficiaries for Studies Abroad

 KAMPALA — The Ministry of Education and Sports has officially released 87 Ugandan students who have secured scholarships to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programmes in various disciplines at institutions of higher learning abroad.  The beneficiaries are set to undertake their studies in countries including China, Pakistan, India, Hungary, Cuba, Indonesia and the United Kingdom, among others. About 99 percent of the students will pursue Science-related programmes, reflecting Uganda’s continued focus on developing a highly skilled workforce in science, technology and other specialised fields critical to national development.  The students were formally released during a ceremony held at the National Archives and Records Centre in Kampala, attended by officials from the Ministry of Education and Sports, parents and other stakeholders. The ceremony was presided over by Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Dr. JC Muyingo, who congratulated the beneficiaries upon securing the scholarships and urged them to approach their studies with discipline, commitment and determination to excel.  Dr. Muyingo also commended the parents for the important role they have played in supporting their children and encouraged them to continue guiding and supporting them throughout their academic journey.Speaking at the ceremony, Hajji Muzamiru Mukwatampola, Acting Commissioner for Higher Education, explained the scholarship opportunities and appreciated the Government and the countries that have continued to provide Ugandan students with opportunities to pursue higher education and specialised training abroad. The scholarships also demonstrate the benefits of Uganda’s strong diplomatic and bilateral relations with countries across the world. Through Government-to-Government cooperation, educational partnerships and longstanding diplomatic ties, Uganda continues to secure opportunities for its citizens to access advanced education, specialised skills, science and technology in different parts of the world.   Countries such as China, India, Hungary, Cuba, Pakistan, Indonesia and the United Kingdom have continued to cooperate with Uganda in education and other areas of human-capital development, creating opportunities that are contributing to the growth of a skilled and knowledgeable workforce.The Member of Parliament for Bujenje County in Masindi District, Hon. Patrick Kasumba, together with Evans Aryabaha from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, encouraged the beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunities and remain good ambassadors of Uganda throughout their stay abroad.  Representing the scholarship beneficiaries, Vivian Twijuka thanked the Government and the scholarship-giving countries for the opportunity, pledging that the students would remain focused on their studies and use the knowledge and skills acquired to contribute to Uganda’s development.Parents also expressed appreciation to the Government for supporting their children and creating educational opportunities that will shape their professional and personal futures.  The occasion also provided an opportunity to recognise the contribution of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and the NRM Government towards expanding access to education and strengthening Uganda’s international partnerships.The continued investment in education, coupled with Uganda’s positive relations with countries around the world, is enabling more Ugandans to access specialised training and international academic opportunities that can support the country’s socio-economic transformation.  Dr. Muyingo thanked the scholarship-giving countries for their continued partnership with Uganda and reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to seeking more opportunities for Ugandan students to study abroad.He urged the beneficiaries to remain disciplined, respect the laws and cultures of their host countries and remember that they are ambassadors of Uganda. He further challenged them to return with knowledge, skills and expertise that can be applied to address Uganda’s development needs.Dr. Muyingo subsequently formally released the 87 scholarship beneficiaries, sending them off with a message of responsibility, academic excellence and service to Uganda as they embark on their respective programmes abroad.   The development is another reflection of how Government’s investment in education, international cooperation and Uganda’s strong diplomatic relations continue to open new opportunities for young Ugandans while strengthening the country’s human capital for sustainable national development.

News

August 25, 2026

BREAKING NEWS : Full Figure Under Pressure as Lawyers Demand Proof of Presidential Adviser Appointment

 KAMPALA, UGANDA — Salt TV presenter Jennifer Nakangubi, commonly known as Full Figure, is facing fresh scrutiny after lawyers representing Miyingo Benson and Single Mothers Alliance Ltd demanded that she produce an official appointment instrument proving that she serves as a Presidential Advisor.  The demand has been made in a rejoinder filed by Kasiko Advocates before the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), following a complaint over remarks allegedly made during Salt TV’s Omusunsuzi programme broadcast on 17 June 2026.The dispute centres on a programme discussing “Operation Fika Salama,” during which the lawyers allege that Nakangubi and presenter Charles James Ssenkubuge made defamatory and unverified statements concerning their clients, including allegations that Miyingo Benson was a “notorious ex-convict.” UCC had earlier directed Salt TV to respond to the complaint and submit a recording of the programme as part of its preliminary investigations into alleged violations of the Minimum Broadcasting Standards and the Uganda Communications (Content) Regulations, 2019.In its response dated 19 August 2026, Salt TV denied violating broadcasting standards, maintaining that the discussion was conducted in the public interest and that Nakangubi participated in her capacity as a Presidential Advisor, commenting on matters within her mandate.However, in their latest submission to UCC dated 25 August 2026, Kasiko Advocates have challenged that explanation, arguing that Salt TV has not provided an appointment instrument or other official documentation proving Nakangubi’s alleged status as a Presidential Advisor.The lawyers say Nakangubi introduced herself during the 21 August 2026 UCC meeting as a Salt TV presenter rather than as a Presidential Advisor.They have therefore asked UCC to compel both Salt TV and Nakangubi to produce an “Instrument of Appointment” or official letter from the Public Service Commission establishing her alleged position and authority. The lawyers further argue that Salt TV should explain whether the programme carried a disclaimer indicating that the views expressed by Nakangubi were personal and not those of the broadcaster.Lawyers want UCC to take actionKasiko Advocates have asked UCC to investigate the broadcast, summon the relevant parties and establish the sources and documentary evidence behind the allegations aired on the programme. Among their requests is for Salt TV and the presenters to provide evidence supporting claims concerning the alleged criminal history of Miyingo Benson, land transactions involving Nalubega Edisa and Nakiwala Jesica, and other allegations aired during the programme. They have also asked UCC to consider sanctions against Salt TV, including possible action against its broadcasting licence, should the Commission establish that the station breached its regulatory obligations.The lawyers further want UCC to consider directing Salt TV to suspend the two presenters from hosting Omusunsuzi pending completion of the investigation.Salt TV stands by its broadcastSalt TV, however, has rejected the allegations and maintained that its broadcast did not breach minimum broadcasting standards.In its response to UCC, the station stated that it had supporting material that informed the discussion and submitted a recording of the programme to the regulator.Salt TV also said it remained committed to fair, balanced and responsible broadcasting and was ready to provide further clarification and evidence to UCC.The matter is now before the Uganda Communications Commission, which is expected to assess the competing submissions and determine whether the broadcast violated Uganda’s broadcasting laws and regulatory standards.At the centre of the latest confrontation is the question of whether Jennifer Nakangubi was appearing on the programme in an officially recognised capacity as a Presidential Advisor—and whether Salt TV can substantiate that claim with an appointment instrument.Kasiko Advocates have demanded that the document be produced, while Salt TV maintains that Nakangubi participated in her capacity as a Presidential Advisor. The UCC investigation will ultimately determine whether any regulatory breach occurred.

News

August 25, 2026

BREAKING NEWS : President Museveni Instructs CDF Muhoozi to Release Former Speaker Anita Among

 President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has instructed Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba to release former Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among from house arrest.The development was announced by Gen. Muhoozi in a post on his official X account, in which he said that the President, whom he referred to as “Mzee,” had instructed him to release Among.  “Mzee has also instructed me to release AAA from house arrest. We shall do that as well.”The announcement marks a major development in the high-profile saga surrounding the former Speaker, who has been under tight security restrictions since May following investigations into allegations of corruption, illicit enrichment and abuse of office.  Among, who also represents Bukedea District Women’s Constituency, was subjected to investigations by multiple government agencies after security agencies searched her residences and office. The Inspectorate of Government subsequently submitted its investigation report to President Museveni, while a related case file was later reported to have been forwarded to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for review and guidance.  The former Speaker has remained largely away from public view during the period of confinement. In August, however, she made a virtual appearance in Parliament, allowing her to participate in proceedings without physically attending the House.Her confinement had also attracted concern from leaders and legislators from the Teso sub-region, who appealed to President Museveni to forgive her and allow her greater freedom, particularly amid reports concerning her health.  The latest directive from President Museveni, as communicated by Gen. Muhoozi, therefore signals a significant shift in the circumstances surrounding the former Speaker. Gen. Muhoozi’s announcement now puts the focus on the implementation of the President’s directive and what the release of Among will mean for the investigations and other matters that have surrounded her since her removal from the position 

Crime

August 23, 2026

Justice for Dr. M.B. Kasasa: Family Demands Fairness in Mutungo Land Dispute

 The family of the late medical trailblazer Dr. Mohammad Buwule Kasasa is demanding justice and a fair legal resolution in the long-running Mutungo land dispute, arguing that the renowned doctor was subjected to more than two decades of costly litigation despite successive court decisions recognizing his ownership of the contested property.  According to his son, Dean Buwule Kasasa, the dispute dates back to 2002 and has passed through the High Court and Court of Appeal, with the courts ruling in Dr. Kasasa’s favour. The family maintains that the legal record established that Dr. Kasasa was a bona fide purchaser for value and that the transfer of the land was undertaken through legally recognized processes.  The family particularly points to the 2022 Court of Appeal decision, which upheld the earlier High Court position in favour of Dr. Kasasa. They argue that the ruling was significant because the appeal had been heard by a panel of three Justices and again rejected the claim against Dr. Kasasa.  The family says the matter became even more painful after Dr. Kasasa died on 9 June 2024, with his relatives alleging that prolonged litigation and the withholding of money due to him contributed to his inability to access treatment he wanted abroad. They insist that his death should not mark the end of the quest for justice. At the centre of the current controversy is a memorandum reportedly reached between representatives of the Kasasa estate and the Muteesa estate in January 2026. The majority of Dr. Kasasa’s family has strongly opposed the agreement, arguing that it departed from the earlier court decisions and was reached without the participation and consultation of all relevant beneficiaries and advisers named in Dr. Kasasa’s Will.  The family has also questioned the circumstances surrounding the memorandum, particularly its timing shortly before the retirement of the then Chief Justice, Owiny-Dollo, who had presided over the process. They argue that the agreement should not override established judicial findings or deprive the wider Kasasa family of their rights.  Dean Kasasa says the family is not seeking special treatment but wants the matter determined according to the law and the evidence already presented before the courts.He argues that Dr. Kasasa should not continue to be portrayed publicly as a land grabber when, according to the family’s account, government land records, previous transactions and court decisions supported his claim to the property.  The family further maintains that Dr. Kasasa had a long-standing connection with Buganda and was not an outsider to the institution. He served as a medical doctor in Mengo, contributed to the return and coronation celebrations of Kabaka Mutebi and was involved in institutions associated with the Kingdom.For the Kasasa family, therefore, the Mutungo dispute is no longer simply about land. It is about justice, the integrity of court decisions, the rights of an estate and the reputation of a respected Ugandan medical pioneer who died after years of litigation.  The family is calling for the courts to independently examine the contested memorandum and ensure that any settlement respects the law, the deceased’s Will, the rights of all beneficiaries and previous judicial determinations.Their message is simple: Dr. Kasasa fought the case in court for more than 20 years; his family now wants the final chapter to be written by justice, not compromise that they believe undermines the law.

People

August 21, 2026

Hon Nalule and Hon Acan Reconcile, Call for Unity and Protection of Marginalized Groups.

 ‎In a rare show of political reconciliation, Hon. Safia Juuko Nalule, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission and former National Female MP for Persons with Disabilities, today visited Hon. Acan Joyce Okeny, Minister of State for Disability Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development.‎‎The two Renowned political rivals for over 20 years, met to mend fences and discuss national issues affecting vulnerable groups.‎‎In a meeting held today at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the leaders committed to work together to advance inclusion, equity and service delivery for persons with disabilities, women and youth.‎‎Welcoming Hon. Nalule, Hon. Acan described the engagement as a step toward healing and responsible leadership. She said public office demands service above personal differences.  ‎“Politics is seasonal, but service is permanent. Our people don’t care about our political history. They care about schools, health, jobs and dignity,” Hon. Acan said. “I don’t hold any grudges. She is always welcome to my office because we are here to work for the country and our people.”‎‎The Minister emphasized that gains made through affirmative action must be protected and not reversed under government rationalization. She pledged closer collaboration between MGLSD and the Equal Opportunities Commission to fast-track disability-inclusive policies and programs. She also urged political leaders to prioritize dialogue over confrontation, arguing that Uganda needs leaders who can disagree in politics but cooperate in governance.‎‎On her part, Hon. Nalule said the visit was intended to mend a relationship that has long been tense and to build consensus on issues affecting vulnerable Ugandans.‎‎She expressed concern over the proposed merger of the Equal Opportunities Commission with the Uganda Human Rights Commission, warning that it would weaken specialized mandates.  ‎“The proposed merger will sabotage the specific and vital roles played by each institution. It would be good for the country if the two commissions are left to work independently,” Hon. Nalule said.‎‎She explained that the EOC’s core mandate is to eliminate discrimination and ensure equitable access to opportunities, while the UHRC focuses on the broader promotion and protection of human rights. Combining them, she argued, risks diluting focus on affirmative action and inclusion programs.‎‎Hon. Nalule said she will engage government officials, especially Ministers, to review the proposal to avoid what she termed “a regrettable mistake.” She maintained that keeping the two bodies separate will strengthen accountability and ensure no group is left behind in national development.‎‎The discussions come amid ongoing government efforts to rationalize agencies and commissions aimed at improving efficiency and reducing public expenditure.‎

National

August 20, 2026

COSASE Committee Commends UCAA Progress During Oversight Visit to Entebbe International Airport

 The Parliamentary Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (COSASE), led by its Chairperson Hon. Muwada Nkunyingi, MP for Kyadondo East, has conducted an extensive oversight visit to Entebbe International Airport, assessing operations, infrastructure development, aviation safety and investments being undertaken by the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA). The visit provided members of the committee with an opportunity to directly assess how airport operations are conducted on a daily basis and to appreciate the progress being made in strengthening Uganda’s aviation infrastructure and service delivery.During the tour, the COSASE team inspected several key areas of the airport, including passenger-handling facilities, baggage operations, cargo facilities, aviation safety installations and other critical operational sections. One of the major projects inspected was the new Baggage Handling Terminal, which is at an advanced stage of completion. The facility is expected to enhance baggage-handling capacity, improve efficiency and further support smooth passenger processing as Entebbe International Airport continues to serve growing numbers of travellers.The committee also toured the air cargo facilities, where members assessed the handling of imports and exports. The cargo section remains an important component of Uganda’s international trade infrastructure, connecting businesses and exporters to regional and international markets through air transport. A key highlight of the inspection was the assessment of newly procured airport fire-fighting trucks and other emergency-response equipment. The modern fire-fighting equipment is an important investment in aviation safety, strengthening the airport’s capacity to respond rapidly and effectively to aircraft incidents, fires and other emergencies.  The MPs also inspected other equipment procured by UCAA as part of ongoing efforts to modernise airport operations and improve safety, efficiency and service delivery.The committee members expressed appreciation for the progress witnessed at the airport, noting that the investments in infrastructure, equipment and safety systems demonstrate continued efforts to position Entebbe International Airport as a modern and efficient international gateway.  The inspection also enabled COSASE to identify areas that require further discussion and engagement with UCAA management. The issues noted during the visit will be subjected to further scrutiny during committee meetings as Parliament continues to exercise its oversight responsibility over public institutions and statutory authorities.For COSASE, the visit goes beyond simply inspecting facilities. It provides Parliament with an opportunity to establish whether public investments are delivering the intended value, whether facilities and equipment are being effectively utilised, and what additional interventions may be required to improve service delivery.  For UCAA, the inspection offered an opportunity to showcase the progress achieved in upgrading Uganda’s aviation infrastructure while also receiving parliamentary feedback on areas that require continued attention.The visit therefore reflects a constructive partnership between Parliament and UCAA, combining oversight, accountability and support for institutional improvement.With Entebbe International Airport serving as Uganda’s principal international gateway, investments in modern passenger facilities, baggage systems, cargo infrastructure, emergency response and aviation safety remain critical to supporting tourism, trade, investment and the wider national economy.  The COSASE oversight visit has consequently provided a strong platform for further engagement between Parliament and UCAA as Uganda continues to modernise its aviation sector and strengthen the standards and capacity of Entebbe International Airport.

Education

August 18, 2026

Hope Nyago Calls on Kololo High School Students to Embrace Sports and Shun Bad Habits

 Kampala, Uganda — Former Headteacher of Jinja Secondary School, Madam Hope Nyago, has challenged students of Kololo High School to embrace sports as a powerful tool for discipline, talent development and personal transformation, urging them to use their time and energy positively instead of engaging in bad habits.  Nyago was representing the Guest of Honour, Hon. Cissy Mulondo, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, General Duties, at Kololo High School’s annual Sports Day held under the theme “Education for Self-Employment through Skills and Talent Promotion.”Speaking to the students, Nyago shared her personal experience of using sports to transform Jinja Secondary School, where she served as Headteacher, explaining that sports can play a major role in making a school stronger while also helping students become disciplined and focused.  She said her experience at Jinja Secondary School demonstrated that when students are given opportunities to participate in sports, their energy can be channelled into productive activities that improve discipline, confidence, teamwork and responsibility.Nyago, who is also the founder of Busoga United Team, encouraged Kololo High School students to take sports seriously and view their talents as potential pathways to their future.  She challenged students who may be involved in undesirable behaviours to make deliberate decisions to change direction and invest their efforts in sports and other constructive activities.According to Nyago, sports give young people a positive environment in which to compete, develop friendships, learn discipline and discover abilities that may eventually become careers.  She also emphasized that success in life requires more than academic qualifications, urging students to identify their talents early and work consistently to develop them.“Sports can make a school stronger,” Nyago told the students, drawing from her own experience of using sporting activities as part of school leadership and student discipline.She noted that sports can also contribute to physical and mental well-being, helping learners remain active while developing qualities such as resilience, perseverance, leadership and the ability to work as a team.The Sports Day brought together students from different communities across Kampala, making the event an important platform for interaction, unity and talent development. Kololo High School, located in the heart of Kampala City, continues to attract learners from diverse backgrounds, including young people from less-privileged communities.  Nyago’s message therefore resonated with the wider purpose of the school’s Sports Day, which seeks to ensure that learners are not only academically prepared but are also equipped with practical skills, talents and positive values for life beyond school.The competitions featured football, netball, walking races, sack races, bicycle races, peeling races, board games and other activities, giving students an opportunity to demonstrate their abilities outside the classroom.  Elephant House emerged as the overall winner and also won the football competition, while Golden House, the second runner-up, received a jersey from the Guest of Honour’s delegation. Nyago also conveyed a reward of Shs500,000 to the young people and school band drummers.The Headteacher, Dr. Hajat Amina Buyinza, and Deputy Headteacher Hakim Sseviri commended the students and organisers for putting together a successful celebration.Sseviri also appreciated the Government of Uganda for its continued support to the education sector, including the phased enhancement of teachers’ salaries, and for maintaining the peace and security that allows schools to conduct both academic and co-curricular activities.  For Nyago, however, the message from the Sports Day went beyond winning trophies. It was a call for every student to make good choices, discover their potential and use sports as a pathway towards discipline, self-confidence, opportunity and a productive future.  Her experience at Jinja Secondary School and her involvement in developing football through Busoga United provided the students with a practical example of how sports can become an instrument for transforming young people’s lives and strengthening the institutions in which they study.