Ssemaganda Moses Hope

National

March 30, 2026

Speaker Anita Among Joins Mourners in Gulu for Funeral of Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo

The Rt. Hon. Anita Among today joined family, friends, and mourners at Christ Church Parish in Gulu for the funeral service of Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo, father of the late former Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Oulanyah. The solemn service brought together a cross-section of national leadership, including Alfonse Owiny-Dollo, political leaders, ministers, Members of Parliament, and other dignitaries who gathered to pay their final respects and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family. In her message of condolence, the Speaker conveyed heartfelt sympathies on behalf of Parliament, honoring the life and legacy of Mzee Okori as a devoted patriarch whose values and guidance contributed to shaping the leadership of his late son and the nation at large. Mzee Nathan Okori Adiyo passed away on March 20, 2026, at St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor following a period of illness. Following the church service, the funeral cortege proceeded to Lalogi in Omoro District, where a vigil is being held at the deceased’s ancestral home. Burial is scheduled to take place on March 31, 2026.The Speaker reaffirmed Parliament’s solidarity with the Oulanyah family during this period of mourning and extended prayers for strength, comfort, and peace. 

Global

March 30, 2026

Uganda's Labour Migration Regime: A Legal Facade Masking Systemic Trafficking

 By Kayonde Abdallah.Kampala, March 27, 2026.Let me be blunt: Uganda's labour migration industry is crumbling right before our eyes, turning what should be a lifeline for thousands into a pipeline for modern-day trafficking. I've seen it firsthand families torn apart, workers stranded overseas, regulators pointing fingers while migrant brothers and sisters suffer exploitation that no Ugandan deserves. Weak laws, massive jurisdictional gaps, and responsibilities dumped on the wrong shoulders have left our people exposed to abuse and slavery abroad.  For this industry to survive, we must confront these glaring failures head-on: regulators with no power overseas, agencies juggling impossible roles, and workers ditched the moment they land (Mugisha, 2023). This isn't just critique it's a wake-up call backed by hard facts.Take the Employment (Recruitment of Ugandan Migrant Workers Abroad) Regulations, 2021 they hand oversight of workers in places like Saudi Arabia or the UAE to the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, of which it also delegates to licensed recruitment agencies on signing to receive a licence, which is laughable because they have zero authority there. The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961, Article 3) and Consular Relations (1963, Article 5) make it crystal clear: protecting nationals abroad is the job of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through embassies and consulates, not some labour ministry back home (UN, 1961; UN, 1963). Gender Ministry staff can't step into foreign courts, settle onsite fights, or enforce contracts halfway across the world.  The result? Over 10,000 domestic workers repatriated in distress since 2022, victims of a system that pretends to protect but can't lift a finger (MLGD, 2025).Then there are the recruitment agencies, forced to lock up UGX 100 million in bank guarantees for two years under Regulation 12, yet they're stuck in Uganda with no offices or reach in destination countries making them useless for real protection after workers are deployed (Statutory Instruments 2021 No. 85). How's a Kampala outfit supposed to chase legal claims or check on welfare in Riyadh? Their responsibility vanishes when licenses expire or guarantees are pulled, leaving workers high and dry. On top of that, these agencies are saddled with a toxic conflict: chase commissions from employers while shielding the very workers they recruited on shoestring budgets. It pushes them to cut corners slapping on illegal fees, rushing sham orientations just to undercut rivals on "cheaper slots" in markets like Saudi Arabia that are drying up (USDS, 2024).The 2021 Regulations fixate on licensing recruiters (Regulations 5-15) but completely ghost the migrant workers they're meant to shield, dumping them into a brutal "state of nature" with no rules, voice, or backup once they're abroad (ULII, 2021). These folks sign contracts before even getting basic orientation or skills training, then get hit with breaches overseas with zero say in who's watching over them. If an agency shuts down, who's left holding the bag? This negligence spits in the face of ILO Convention 181 and tarnishes Uganda's name with lawsuits and bad press (ILO, 1997).  Repatriation talk sounds nice, but it's a fantasy workers tasting UAE salaries of USD 400-800 a month won't rush back to our jobless economy without a minimum wage, where youth unemployment hits 42% and living costs choke everyone (UBOS, 2025). Those same push-pull factors driving them out are still here, yet the focus is on "reintegration" instead of beefing up embassy support onsite. Without strong consular help, sending them home feels like punishment, not rescue (IOM, 2024).Don't get me started on so-called "bilateral agreements" like Jordan's, where agencies won't even accredit themselves it's trafficking dressed up as partnerships (HRW, 2023). Migrant workers can't join NOTU or COFTU unions, so they build their own through umbrella body, but government "call centres" for overseas Ugandans sideline them, shovingNOTU without a shred of jurisdiction abroad. NOTU has no Vienna powers in Saudi Arabia; it's just scummy opportunism dressed as support (FUMWA, 2025).  The whole externalization game is on its knees, agencies screaming about the Gender Ministry's toothless rules, medical centers ripping off folks with meningitis vaccine fees, training spots hawking fake "orientations" before contracts are even signed. Cutthroat competition means the lowest bidder wins the hiring contract, dooming innocent Ugandans to slavery, beatings, and worse while our global rep tanks (Daily Monitor, 2025).Even the shiny NDP IV bangs on about security, factories, and skills but barely nods at labour migration, ignoring the unemployment tsunami pushing people out and doing nothing for onsite safety nets (NPA, 2025).  ConclusionUganda's labour migration regime is a trafficking enabler, not a protector. Reforms demand: Foreign Affairs-led oversight with empowered consulates; mandatory destination offices for agencies; worker-led Adiministration in governance; skills-focused pre-departure training; monitored BLAs; and NDP integration. Absent this, externalization implodes, condemning workers to slavery while squandering remittances (20% of GDP). Policymakers must act let history indicts them for complicity.

National

March 30, 2026

Uganda Vision 2040: A Blind Spot on Labour Externalization Betrays Potential National Transformation Dreams

By Kayonde AbdallahKampala, March 29, 2026.Look, I've got to call it like I see it, Uganda Vision 2040, that big 2013 dream they sold us about turning this country from peasant struggles into a $500 billion middle-income powerhouse by 2040, has a massive hole right in its heart. Labour externalization? Not even a whisper. Yet every year, tens of thousands of our brothers and sisters board flights to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar you name it chasing any job that pays better than waiting for handouts back home. Some get trafficked, others just scrape by, sending back remittances that keep this economy afloat at 20% of GDP (UBOS, 2025). How do you write a "transformation" blueprint and pretend this lifeline doesn't exist? It's like planning a feast but ignoring the farmers feeding everyone.  The Vision talks a big game tenfold GDP growth, per capita income jumping to $9,500, shiny pillars like roads, energy, oil, human capital, and those ATMS sectors (agriculture, tourism, minerals, science). NDP IV is supposed to double GDP in five years through foreign cash and EAC handshakes. Sounds great over tea, right? But walk through any village or Kampala slum, and you'll see youth 42% unemployed, no minimum wage in sight packing bags for the Gulf because "modernizing agriculture" hasn't put food on their tables yet (World Bank, 2024). Last year alone, over 120,000 left officially, probably double that unofficially (MLGD, 2025).  These aren't lazy folks; they're the Vision's unsung heroes wiring back $1.4 billion while building Dubai skylines that fund our own oil dreams.And the hypocrisy burns. Vision bangs on about skills and innovation, but what's the "training" these migrants get? A quick orientation where they sign shady contracts before learning their rights, then shipped off to kafala hellholes (USDS, 2024). Agencies extort slot fees, clinics overcharge for meningitis jabs, and the Gender Ministry pretends to oversee it all while having zero power in Riyadh straight violation of Vienna rules that put Foreign Affairs in charge (UN, 1961). Workers come back broken, 15,000+ distressed since 2022, with no reintegration plan because who wants to return to the same jobless mess that pushed them out? (HRW, 2023).  NDP IV's private sector love-in ignores how recruitment sharks are killing the golden goose competition means cheaper slots, rushed prep, more abuse. Bilateral deals like Jordan's? Paper tigers with no monitoring. Meanwhile, remittances outpace tourism and rival minerals, stabilizing our shilling when oil delays hit. Vision acts like domestic jobs will rain down, but without harnessing this diaspora muscle skills transfer, diaspora bonds, proper consular help it's all smoke.  This blind spot screams elitism. Planners in suits chase FDI fantasies while mums in Wakiso fund kids' school fees from housemaid wages (FUMWA, 2025). Rwanda courts its diaspora; Philippines has OWWA protecting theirs. Us? We export people like cash crops and forget them (OECD, 2023).Wake up, Uganda Vision 2040 needs a rewrite. Make externalization Priority Area Five: beef up embassies with labour attachés, force agencies to have overseas offices, ban illegal fees, build FUMWA into policy, train real skills, lock in solid BLAs.   Turn remittances into development bonds. Otherwise, this "transformation" is just exporting our potential to Gulf deserts while dreaming big at home. Our people deserve better than being the invisible engine of a plan that won't admit they exist.

National

March 27, 2026

Government Boosts Support for Butabika School of Psychiatric Nursing as Over 400 Graduate 🎓

 Kampala, Uganda — The Government of Uganda has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening mental health services by increasing support to the country’s only psychiatric nursing training institution, Butabika School of Psychiatric Nursing. This announcement was made by the State Minister for Higher Education, John Chrysostom Muyingo, during the school’s 7th graduation ceremony held in Butabika. More than 400 psychiatric nursing students successfully completed their training, marking a significant milestone in addressing the growing demand for mental health services in Uganda. While addressing the graduates, Dr. Muyingo urged them to embrace their profession with dedication, utilize their skills to serve communities across the country, and extend services to underserved rural areas. He also pledged increased government support to expand training capacity, improve infrastructure, and grow the number of mental health professionals nationwide. The ceremony was also attended by Safina Musene, Commissioner for Health Education and Training, and Harriet Kwaggala, Principal of the institution. Dr. Musene emphasized the urgent need to strengthen mental health services across Uganda, noting that the country still faces a shortage of skilled personnel. She encouraged graduates to uphold professionalism and compassion while handling patients. Ms. Kwaggala congratulated the graduates upon completing what she described as a demanding but vital course. She highlighted the school’s commitment to producing competent and disciplined mental health practitioners capable of serving in diverse communities. Some of the graduates also expressed gratitude for the training received at Butabika School of Psychiatric Nursing. One graduate noted that the skills acquired would help them not only treat patients but also raise awareness about mental health in their communities, especially in rural areas where stigma remains high. Prior to the ceremony, Dr. Muyingo toured the school and planted a commemorative tree, symbolizing government commitment to advancing mental health education and services. The graduation of over 400 mental health nurses from Butabika School of Psychiatric Nursing highlights Uganda’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its mental health system and expand access to essential services, particularly in rural and underserved areas. 

Education

March 26, 2026

Joy as Parents Applaud Seeta High School Mukono Mbalala at Thanksgiving Mass for Exceptional 2025 UACE Results

 Seeta High School Mbalala in Mukono District has marked its exceptional 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) performance with a thanksgiving Mass, drawing praise from parents, teachers, and the wider school community. The thanksgiving celebration was led by Rev. Fr. John Mary Walugembe of Lubaga Archdiocese, beginning with a solemn procession and vibrant choir hymns that set a tone of gratitude and celebration. The event brought together parents, students, teachers, and members of different faiths across the Seeta Schools community. In a show of appreciation, attendees offered both monetary and material gifts during the offertory. Delivering his sermon, Fr. Walugembe prayed for the current Senior Six candidates, asking for God’s guidance as they continue their academic journey. He encouraged them to remain disciplined, focused, and grounded in faith as they prepare for their final examinations. He also challenged students to make meaningful use of their academic achievements, emphasizing that excellence should extend beyond the classroom and contribute positively to national development. He urged current candidates to remain confident and aim even higher. The celebration also provided an opportunity to recognize the dedication of teachers and members of the school management committee. They were honored with awards and cash tokens in appreciation of their commitment to academic excellence. The Seeta Schools Board also commended the school for its outstanding performance, while parents expressed their gratitude through additional tokens of appreciation. Speaking at the event, Headteacher Mr. Boniface Ssebukalu expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, noting that the school had exceeded its academic targets. While the initial goal was to have 20 students score 20 points, the school achieved 27 students at this top level. He attributed the success to a combination of strong academic mentorship, discipline, and continuous support from the school founders, Dr. J.C. Muyingo and Mrs. Rose Muyingo, whom he praised for their unwavering commitment to the institution.Mr. Ssebukalu also encouraged parents to consider Seeta University for their children, particularly in emerging and market-driven fields such as Artificial Intelligence. Student leaders, including Hellen Tumwebaze and Rondove Jumba, expressed gratitude to both teachers and parents for their support and encouraged prospective learners to join Seeta High School. Parents, led by Catherine Agero, commended the teaching staff for their dedication and consistent delivery of quality education. Some parents shared personal testimonies about the transformation they have witnessed in their children. One parent noted that their child had previously struggled academically but significantly improved after joining Seeta High School, saying, “My child joined Seeta when they were academically weak and lacked confidence. Through the guidance and commitment of the teachers, we have seen remarkable improvement, and today we are celebrating results we never imagined.” Another parent highlighted how the school supported their child despite persistent health challenges, saying, “There was a time my child was frequently in and out of school due to illness, and we feared this would affect performance. But the school stood with us, offering both academic and emotional support. Today, we are proud of the results achieved.” In the 2025 UACE results, Seeta High School Mbalala presented 308 candidates. Of these, 27 scored 20 points — with 14 in sciences and 13 in arts — while 32 scored 19 points, 44 scored 18 points, and 39 scored 17 points. The rest of the candidates also recorded commendable performances. 

Political

March 25, 2026

Fred Bangumya Rwakaizi Secures NRM Nomination for East African Legislative Assembly Race Amid Strong Backing from Party Heavyweights

 Fred Bangumya Rwakaizi has officially been nominated to contest for a seat in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), following a high-profile event held today at the National Resistance Movement Secretariat. The nomination exercise, presided over by Dr. Tanga Odoi, drew the attendance of several influential leaders within the ruling party, signaling strong internal support and momentum behind Rwakaizi’s candidacy. With over a decade of parliamentary experience and a solid background in trade and regional integration, Rwakaizi enters the EALA race as a seasoned contender. His campaign is anchored on aligning national parliaments with regional resolutions passed in Arusha, strengthening regional security, and advancing free trade across East African member states. Rwakaizi has previously expressed concern over the gap between policy formulation at the regional level and implementation at the national level, questioning why laws passed by EALA are often not enforced within member countries. He maintains that stronger coordination will be key to ensuring the success of the East African integration agenda. On regional security, he emphasized that sustainable trade and economic growth depend on stability, pointing to ongoing challenges in South Sudan as a reminder of the risks posed by insecurity. Analysts say the strong showing of support from senior NRM figures during his nomination places Rwakaizi in a favorable position as the race gains momentum. The presence of top party leaders is being interpreted as a vote of confidence in his leadership, experience, and vision for the region. If elected, Rwakaizi has pledged to prioritize effective implementation of EALA policies, enhance regional cooperation, and protect economic activity across the East African Community. 

Global

March 22, 2026

Presidential Advisor Dr. Jim Tibuhaburwa Strengthens Uganda–South Africa Industrial Ties in Meeting with DEZZI Leadership

 Uganda is steadily positioning itself as a strategic hub for investment and industrial growth across Africa, and recent engagements by Dr. Jim Tibuhaburwa highlight a deliberate push toward strengthening continental partnerships. In a significant step toward deepening economic ties with South Africa, Dr. Tibuhaburwa recently held a high-level meeting with the leadership of DEZZI, a renowned African manufacturer of heavy machinery serving critical sectors such as forestry, mining, agriculture, and construction. The engagement underscores Uganda’s proactive approach to attracting investment while fostering collaborations that align with Africa’s broader industrialization agenda. DEZZI has distinguished itself as a company that designs and manufactures equipment specifically engineered for African environments, addressing the continent’s unique terrain, climate, and operational demands. With a growing presence across Southern, Central, and West Africa, the company has built a strong reputation not only for producing durable machinery but also for providing comprehensive after-sales services, spare parts availability, and customized technical solutions tailored to local needs. During the meeting, discussions centered on potential areas of collaboration that could enhance productivity and industrial capacity within Uganda and beyond. The focus extended beyond the supply of machinery to the development of sustainable systems that support long-term economic growth. Dr. Tibuhaburwa emphasized that DEZZI’s model represents the kind of Africa-driven innovation capable of transforming industries across the continent by combining localized manufacturing with reliable service networks. Beyond industrial and investment discussions, the meeting also offered an opportunity to showcase Uganda’s cultural and agricultural strengths. Dr. Tibuhaburwa introduced the DEZZI leadership to Uganda’s world-class coffee, presenting it not merely as an export product but as a symbol of the country’s identity and heritage. This gesture reflected Uganda’s broader approach to investment diplomacy, where economic engagement is complemented by cultural exchange and relationship-building. The interaction highlighted a growing recognition that successful investment conversations are not solely about infrastructure and technology, but also about connection, trust, and shared values. By integrating culture into economic dialogue, Uganda is positioning itself as a unique and compelling partner on the global stage. As Africa continues to advance its agenda for regional integration and self-driven growth, partnerships like this demonstrate the importance of leveraging African expertise and strengthening intra-continental collaboration. Uganda’s engagement with DEZZI signals a forward-looking vision where industry, agriculture, and cultural identity intersect to create sustainable opportunities. With continued outreach to strategic partners across the continent, Uganda is reinforcing its position as an attractive destination for investment while building relationships that extend beyond transactions. The meeting with DEZZI leadership not only marks progress in industrial cooperation but also reflects a broader commitment to shaping a more connected, innovative, and prosperous Africa. 

Religious

March 20, 2026

Muslim Leaders Call for Lasting Faith, Discipline, and Unity Beyond Ramadan in Wakiso

 Wakiso, Kampala Metropolitan Area — Uganda — Muslim leaders in Wakiso District have called on believers to uphold the values of truthfulness, discipline, and unity cultivated during Ramadan, emphasizing that these principles must define everyday life beyond the holy month.Delivering his message to the faithful, the Wakiso District Chief Khadi, Sheikh Sowed Zubair Kayongo, underscored the importance of honesty and sincerity as core pillars of Islamic faith. He reminded Muslims that truthfulness (obwesimbu) is not seasonal but a lifelong obligation that distinguishes true believers and earns them the reward of Allah. “A Muslim must remain truthful at all times—during Ramadan and after—so that they may be among those who attain success in this life and the hereafter,” he emphasized. At Masjid Jamia Kimwanyi in Wakiso District, the Eid Khutbah was delivered by Sheikh Umar Sekalembe, Head of Da’wah in Kira Twaleh. His sermon centered on the continuity of good character beyond fasting.Sheikh Sekalembe urged Muslims to remain steadfast in acts of worship such as daily prayers (Swalah), charity (Zakat), and maintaining good relations with others. “Ramadan was a period of training and self-discipline. Its true success is measured by how we live after it. Let us remain consistent in doing الخير (good) and fearing Allah in all situations,” he said.The leader of Kira Twaleh, Sheikh Daudah Wasajja, commended Muslims for the unity, cooperation, and dedication displayed throughout Ramadan, noting that communities came together in worship, charity, and mutual support. He urged believers to safeguard that unity and transform it into a permanent strength for community development and peaceful coexistence. “The unity we witnessed during Ramadan should not fade after Eid. It must continue guiding us as one ummah,” Sheikh Wasajja noted.Adding a broader social perspective, Kira Twaleh PRO and political aide to Hon. Minister Dr JC Muyingo, Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale, called on parents to take primary responsibility in nurturing morally upright children grounded in Islamic teachings. He stressed that building a strong and disciplined generation begins at home through instilling values such as respect, responsibility, and fear of Allah (Taqwa). “Our children must grow with strong morals and faith. Parents have a duty to guide them on the right path,” he stated.Tamale further encouraged Muslims to embrace hard work, entrepreneurship, and self-reliance as essential tools in addressing poverty within their communities. “Islam promotes dignity through work. We must unite and actively fight poverty through effort and determination,” he added. 

National

March 19, 2026

From Forest to Academic Powerhouse Kakoola High School with Over 1800 Students Celebrates UACE And UCE 2025 Excellence in Bamunanika

 Kakoola High School in Bamunanika, Luweero District has once again demonstrated the transformative power of education after registering outstanding performance in the 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) and Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) examinations. The thanksgiving ceremony, held on Thursday, March 19, brought together over 1,800 students, parents, teachers and the wider community to celebrate academic success and reflect on the importance of education in shaping the future. The Mass was led by Rev. Fr. Dr. Gerald Wamala, Dean of Mulajje Deanery and Parish Priest of Mulajje Parish under Kasana-Luweero Diocese. In his message, he called upon parents across Uganda, especially those in rural areas, to take a more active role in supporting their children’s education. He emphasized that providing scholastic materials, guidance and consistent follow-up is essential in enabling learners to succeed. “Parents must take full responsibility in supporting their children’s education. What you provide today shapes their tomorrow,” he noted. He further cautioned students to remain disciplined and avoid destructive behaviors such as drug abuse, alcoholism and other negative influences, particularly as they advance to higher levels of education. Kakoola High School, a sister campus to Seeta Schools, stands today as a powerful symbol of transformation. What was once a forest in Kakoola village has grown into a vibrant centre of learning, founded through the vision of John Chrysostom Muyingo, Owek. Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo, and Rose Muyingo, Mrs. Rose Muyingo. Now a government-aided school, Kakoola High School has steadily risen to rank among Uganda’s top-performing schools, reflecting a strong academic foundation and commitment to inclusive education. Headteacher Mike Wagaba commended the students and teaching staff for their dedication and teamwork, noting that the success achieved is a result of consistent effort, proper planning and effective teaching. He highlighted that the availability of adequate learning materials and the commitment of teachers have enabled learners to perform competitively at the national level. A unique feature of the school is its commitment to accessible education. All day scholars study free of charge, a deliberate initiative introduced by Owek. Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo to ensure that children from all backgrounds are given an opportunity to learn. Through the Bamunanika Education Fund (BEF), Owek. Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo currently supports over 800 students, providing education opportunities to vulnerable learners across Bamunanika and the wider Luweero region. In addition, more than 200 students have benefited from scholarships to Seeta University, further extending the impact of this initiative. As part of recognizing excellence, the school awarded UGX 1,000,000 to each student who scored 20 points in the UACE examinations, enabling them to prepare for the next level of their academic journey. The thanksgiving event celebrated success at both UCE and UACE levels, with Kakoola High School registering strong performance across both categories — a clear sign of consistent academic growth. Parents and community members expressed gratitude to the school leadership and founders for their continued investment in education and the future of young people. Above all, the school community gave thanks to God Almighty for guiding their efforts and crowning their work with success. Kakoola High School continues to stand as a living testimony of how education can transform communities, guided by the shared vision of Seeta Schools — “Education for a Bright Future.” 

National

March 18, 2026

Rt Hon Anita Annet Among Calls for Inclusion of Women in Pastoral Development as She Launches African Pastoralists Women Charter at Speke Resort Munyonyo

 Kampala, Uganda – March 18, 2026 The Rt Hon Anita Annet Among today presided over the closing ceremony of a landmark continental gathering and officially launched the African Rangelands and Pastoralists Women Charter at Speke Resort Munyonyo, underscoring Uganda’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable pastoral development.Addressing delegates from across Africa, the Speaker described the event as a historic milestone that elevates the role of women in pastoralism—an area she noted has traditionally been underrepresented in policy and discourse. “Oftentimes, discussions of rangelands and pastoralism in Africa focus mainly on men, yet the story is incomplete without women,” she said, commending organizers for recognizing the central and indivisible role women play in sustaining pastoral livelihoods. The Rt Hon Speaker conveyed fraternal greetings from Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who expressed full support for the initiative. She highlighted the Government of Uganda’s continued efforts to strengthen pastoral systems through progressive policies such as the National Land Policy and the National Climate Change Act 2021. She further pointed to significant improvements in security within pastoral regions, particularly in Karamoja, attributing this progress to government-led disarmament programs and enhanced cross-border cooperation with Kenya to curb livestock theft. These efforts, she noted, have led to a marked reduction in cattle rustling while enabling broader livelihood diversification through irrigation and skills development. Emphasizing the importance of inclusion, the Rt Hon Speaker noted that the newly launched Charter seeks to amplify the voices of pastoralist women and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes affecting their communities. “I am a pastoralist woman myself. I have cattle, so the issues of pastoralist women are pertinent to me,” she stated. The gathering, aligned with the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (2026), attracted over 200 participants, including grassroots pastoralist women, government leaders, and civil society organizations from countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Benin, and Cameroon. Invoking the African philosophy of Ubuntu—“I am because we are”—the Rt Hon Speaker called for unity across the continent in addressing shared challenges related to climate resilience, land governance, and gender equity. She also applauded development partners and supporters, including GIZ, FAO, ILC, and others, for their contributions toward advancing sustainable pastoralism across Africa. Providing national context, the Rt Hon Speaker noted that Uganda’s rangelands cover approximately 44% of the country’s land area—about 84,000 square kilometers—and support over 6.6 million people. These rangelands, largely located within the “Cattle Corridor,” remain vital to the country’s socio-economic fabric. She concluded by reaffirming Uganda’s commitment to empowering pastoral communities, particularly women, through inclusive policies, regional collaboration, and sustained investment. The launch of the African Rangelands and Pastoralists Women Charter marks a significant step toward ensuring that women are placed at the center of Africa’s pastoral development agenda. 

Education

March 16, 2026

Makerere University Champion Sarah Aloyo Returns to Kololo High School to Inspire Students on Career Day

 Kololo High School in Kampala today hosted an impactful Career Day event that brought together students, teachers, and distinguished guests to reflect on the power of education and leadership. The highlight of the day was the return of former student Sarah Aloyo, who inspired learners with her remarkable academic journey.Sarah Aloyo studied at Kololo High School from Senior One to Senior Six before proceeding to Makerere University, where she graduated as the Best Overall Student with an outstanding CGPA of 4.93 out of 5.0. Competing with students from some of Uganda’s top schools, she rose to the top of her class and has represented Uganda on global academic platforms. While addressing students, Aloyo encouraged them to believe in their potential regardless of their background.“Your background does not determine your future. What matters is the discipline to use the opportunities around you, the courage to dream beyond your circumstances, and the commitment to education as a tool for transformation,” she told the students. She emphasized the importance of resilience, leadership, and mentorship, urging students to treat school as a foundation for their future rather than a routine obligation.“See school not just as a place you attend every day, but as a project for your future. Engage in leadership, seek mentorship, and position yourselves as role models for the communities you come from,” she added.  Headmistress Emphasizes Importance of Career Guidance The Headmistress, Dr. Aminah Buyinza, highlighted the significance of Career Day in shaping students’ ambitions and exposing them to real-life success stories. She noted that such engagements help learners understand the value of hard work, discipline, and education in building successful careers. Dr. Buyinza encouraged students to remain focused on their academic goals and take advantage of opportunities provided by the school and government education programs.  Deputy Headteacher Praises Government Support  The Deputy Headteacher, Hakeem Sseviri, explained that Kololo High School accommodates students from many Kampala suburban communities, including those from challenging backgrounds. He noted that educating students exposed to numerous social pressures requires dedication from both teachers and administrators. Mr. Sseviri appreciated the continued support from the National Resistance Movement government and the Ministry of Education and Sports for sustaining the Universal Secondary Education initiative, which helps many students access education. “Through government support, many of these young kings and queens are able to stay in school and pursue their dreams,” he said.  Celebrating Academic Excellence  The event also celebrated students who performed exceptionally well in the recent UACE examinations, where the best-performing learners achieved 19 points, while several others attained maximum scores across their subjects. School leaders congratulated the candidates for their dedication and urged current students to emulate their discipline and determination.  Inspiring the Next Generation  The Career Day event concluded with renewed motivation among students, many of whom were inspired by Aloyo’s journey from Kololo High School classrooms to academic excellence at Makerere University. The school leadership reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing talent, leadership, and academic excellence among students from all backgrounds, proving that great success can begin from any classroom.