Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Events

February 12, 2026

Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo Calls for Strong Parenting and Discipline at Nakato Gift’s Introduction Ceremony in Busiika

Busoke Village, Busiika Town Council – Bamunanika, Luweero District-The Hon. Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo today attended the introduction ceremony of Nakato Gift and her husband Ivan, who travelled from Canada, in a colorful traditional event held at the home of Ssalongo Kaddu Nsiyaabwe in Busoke Village, Busiika Town Council.The ceremony brought together family, local leaders, elders, and community members to witness the traditional introduction, a significant cultural milestone symbolizing unity between the two families. In his remarks, Hon. Dr. Muyingo underscored the critical role parents play in shaping the future of their children. He urged parents to invest intentionally in educating, disciplining, and mentoring their children. “Parents must do all it takes—in the right way—to educate their children, teach them discipline at home, mentor them, and raise them in the fear of God,” he stated. He emphasized that Nakato Gift’s achievements and character reflect the strong foundation laid by her parents. “If it wasn’t the good foundation Nakato got from her parents, she couldn’t have become what she is today. It is our collective responsibility to raise children who will make us proud,” Hon. Muyingo added. Host and father of the bride, Ssalongo Kaddu Nsiyaabwe, commended Hon. Muyingo for his dedication to the education of children in Uganda, particularly in Bamunanika. He noted that Nakato benefited from the Bamunanika Education Fund (BEF), an initiative spearheaded by Hon. Muyingo to support learners in the constituency. “Hon. Muyingo has a good heart towards the children of Uganda, especially here in Bamunanika. He is part of Nakato’s journey through the Bamunanika Education Fund,” Ssalongo Kaddu remarked. Also addressing guests, Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale called upon citizens to focus on productivity and unity following the recently concluded National General Elections. He emphasized reconciliation and forgiveness among communities. “The time for politics has ended. Now is the time to focus on work and development. Let us forgive one another for any misunderstandstandings that may have occurred during the elections,” Wasswa said. Hon. Muyingo congratulated Nakato and Ivan upon their union and encouraged them to build their marriage on mutual respect, faith, and shared responsibility. He urged the couple to uphold family values, remain disciplined and hardworking, support each other’s ambitions, and stay connected to their cultural roots. One respected village elder who spoke during the ceremony reminded the couple that marriage is built on patience and respect. “Marriage is not only about celebration; it is about endurance, understanding, and prayer. If you respect each other and keep God at the center, your home will stand firm,” the elder advised. The ceremony concluded in celebration, symbolizing unity, cultural pride, and the continued importance of family values within the Bamunanika community. 

Education

February 12, 2026

722,730 Learners Eligible as State Minister Dr. J.C. Muyingo Launches 2026 S1 Placement Exercise, Emphasizes Fairness, Equity and Transparency

 Kampala, 12 February 2026 – The Ministry of Education and Sports has officially launched the 2026 Senior One (S1) Selection and Placement Exercise, with the Hon. Minister of State for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, presiding over the ceremony held at the UMA Show Grounds in Kampala.Dr. Muyingo conveyed warm greetings from the Minister of Education and Sports, H.E. Janet Kataaha Museveni, who also serves as the First Lady of the Republic of Uganda. He also extended commendations from his fellow Ministers of State for Primary Education and Sports. According to results released by the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), 722,730 out of 786,981 candidates who sat the 2025 Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) passed, representing approximately 92 percent eligibility for progression to secondary schools and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions.Dr. Muyingo emphasized that the majority of these learners are beneficiaries of the Universal Primary Education (UPE) programme, introduced nearly three decades ago to expand access to education, particularly for children from economically disadvantaged households. He noted that the placement exercise is a critical national responsibility that will shape the academic journeys and future opportunities of thousands of young Ugandans. The Minister underscored three guiding principles for the 2026 placement process: fairness, transparency and equity. He stressed that learners must be placed strictly on merit and in accordance with established guidelines, without discrimination based on religion, gender, region, background or economic status. He further emphasized that the integrity of the exercise must be upheld to maintain public confidence, and called for special attention to vulnerable learners, including girls, learners with disabilities and those from disadvantaged communities. Government continues to expand post-primary opportunities to absorb the growing number of learners transitioning from Primary Seven. Since 2019, 204 Seed Secondary Schools have been constructed and operationalized, with 55 more at various stages of completion. In addition, over 200 community schools have been grant-aided to receive staff wages and Universal Secondary Education (USE) capitation grants. Following the enactment of the TVET Act in 2025, Government has established 42 Community Polytechnics across the country, alongside approximately 100 privately owned community polytechnics, providing alternative pathways for skills development and employment. Parents and learners were encouraged to embrace vocational education as a viable progression route.The Ministry also raised concern over reports of unauthorized compulsory charges in some USE schools, contrary to Section 9 of the Education (Pre-Primary, Primary and Post-Primary) Act, 2008. Dr. Muyingo cautioned headteachers against imposing unapproved fees that frustrate parents and undermine Government policy. He further warned against the illegal establishment of boarding facilities in USE schools, reiterating that USE institutions are designated as day schools intended to serve learners within their respective sub-counties. Government pledged firm action against any violations of education policies and regulations. Dr. Muyingo reminded school leaders of their duty to ensure that institutions remain safe spaces free from violence, abuse, discrimination and exploitation, emphasizing that headteachers are not only administrators but also moral leaders whose example shapes school culture.He concluded by urging all stakeholders to conduct the placement exercise with diligence, integrity and a strong sense of national responsibility before officially declaring the 2026 S1 Placement Exercise open.

Featured

February 12, 2026

Mukono District Sensitizes Nakifuma–Naggalama Business Community on Small-Scale Enterprises* *with GKMA-UDP Support, Rallies Traders to Embrace Emyooga and PDM

 Mukono District, with support from the Government of Uganda through World Bank funding under the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area – Urban Development Program (GKMA-UDP), has engaged the business community of Nakifuma–Naggalama Town Council in a sensitization drive aimed at strengthening small-scale enterprises as a pathway to improving livelihoods and fighting poverty.The engagement brought together small-scale business owners from the four parishes of Nakanyonyi, Kiggagga, Jumayi, Bamusuuta, and Nakifuma. In attendance were district technical staff, political leaders, facilitators, and town council officials. The district team was led by the District Planner and GKMA-UDP Focal Person for Mukono District, Mr. Collines Ssebadduka, alongside the Principal Commercial Officer, Mr. Ntege Kenneth, Ms. Zamu Najjuma, and other facilitators. The Principal Town Clerk of Nakifuma–Naggalama Town Council, Mr. Kizito Francis Walubi, and political leaders led by the Area Mayor, Mr. Walusimbi Isa Nvule, also participated in the engagement.In his address, Mr. Kizito Francis Walubi informed participants that the sensitization exercise marked the beginning of a broader initiative that will be extended to other parishes within the town council. He encouraged business operators to adopt smart management practices and maintain cleanliness and order at their workplaces, emphasizing that presentability plays a significant role in attracting customers, regardless of the size of the enterprise.The Area Mayor, Mr. Walusimbi Isa, urged residents to develop a culture of investment rather than consumption. He noted that even small start-up capital can transform lives if profits are consistently reinvested to expand businesses steadily.Hon. Lutaya Twaha Kamya, the Deputy Mayor and Councillor for Busuta Ward, described capital as a “strong weapon” for business growth and development. He further encouraged community members to actively participate in communal activities and to plant trees and fruit trees at their homes, highlighting their environmental and nutritional benefits.During the training sessions, facilitator Mr. Nsilo Wilber guided participants on the importance of formalizing their businesses through registration, maintaining proper records, planning effectively, and conducting market surveys. He emphasized that recording all purchases and sales is essential for tracking business performance and planning for expansion. He also encouraged entrepreneurs to join registered small and medium enterprise groups that offer loans at relatively low interest rates.Another facilitator, Mr. Rogers Muwonge, stressed the need for business operators to develop Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure progress and ensure sustainability. He advised participants to make their enterprises resilient to daily uncertainties in order to minimize unnecessary losses and expenses.Ms. Zamu Najjuma encouraged attendees to embrace government wealth creation programs such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM). She also informed parents and guardians about the Presidential Initiative on Skilling the Youth, a fully funded program targeting youth aged 18 to 35 years who possess National Identification Cards.She highlighted that the Presidential Industrial Hub in Kayunga offers practical skills training in tailoring, welding, bakery, carpentry, shoe making, and other trades. According to her, over 100 youth from Mukono District have already benefited from the initiative, with more than UGX 50 million available in the SACCO to support graduates upon completion of their training. The six-month program is fully funded by President Museveni through State House, and the next intake is expected in March.The sensitization engagement left many business operators better equipped with practical knowledge and renewed determination to strengthen their enterprises.By promoting proper business management practices and encouraging participation in government wealth creation programs, Mukono District continues to empower communities to fight poverty, increase household incomes, and contribute meaningfully to local economic development.

National

February 12, 2026

Rot at Mbarara Referral Hospital New IGG Naluzze intervenes

 The Inspector General of Government (IGG), Justice Aisha Naluzze, on Wednesday made an impromptu visit to Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, uncovering a range of challenges affecting service delivery at the facility.Among the issues identified were a non-functional CT scan machine that has been idle since June 2025, a digital X-ray unit with expired films, and severe congestion that has left some patients sleeping in tents or admitted under beds.  The IGG also noted complaints of patients being charged money but waiting for weeks without receiving treatment, as well as reports of fees ranging between Shs200,000 and Shs750,000 levied on patients seeking MRI, CT scan, and X-ray services, among other concerns.

Featured

February 12, 2026

IGP Abbas Byakagaba Recommends Construction of 1200 housing units for police

Today, the Inspector General of Police, Abas Byakagaba, assessed the progress of the construction of 1,200 housing apartments at Naguru Barracks.  The IGP commended the Uganda Police Force Construction Unit for the impressive quality of work and steady progress achieved so far, and urged the team to expedite the construction process so that they can proceed to initiate additional accommodation projects for officers.   The IGP was accompanied by the Director of Operations, AIGP Frank Mwesigwa, the Director of Logistics and Engineering, AIGP James Apora; the Under Secretary–UPF, Mr. Aggrey Wunyi; and several other senior officers. 

Education

February 9, 2026

Minister Muyingo Inaugurates 12th UNEB Board on Behalf of First Lady Janet Museveni, Calls for Integrity and Innovation

Kampala, February 9, 2026 — The Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. John Chrysostom Muyingo, has officially inaugurated the 12th Board of Directors of the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) on behalf of the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet K. Museveni, with a strong call for integrity and innovation in the management of national examinations. The inauguration ceremony took place at Hotel Eliana and marked an important milestone in efforts to strengthen the integrity, credibility, efficiency, and effectiveness of Uganda’s national assessment system. In a speech delivered on her behalf, Hon. Museveni underscored the critical role of UNEB in national development, noting that the credibility of national examinations directly affects public trust in the education system. She thanked God for the successful conduct of the 2025 examinations and called on the new Board to safeguard the integrity of the assessment process. The Minister explained that the 12th UNEB Board was appointed in accordance with Sections 6(2) and 6(3) of the UNEB Act, 2021, and comprises a diverse range of stakeholders, including representatives from Government, universities, other education institutions, agencies, and persons with disabilities. She congratulated the Chairperson and members on their appointments and expressed confidence in their experience, competence, and commitment to public service. Hon. Museveni reminded Board members of their statutory responsibility as the governing body of UNEB, charged with providing strategic direction, ensuring sound governance, and overseeing the effective execution of the examinations mandate. She urged them to uphold professionalism, accountability, and ethical conduct while working closely with Management to improve service delivery. She further encouraged the Board to adopt a forward-looking approach in addressing emerging issues such as examination security, digital transformation, inclusiveness, and alignment with national education goals. Government support to UNEB, she noted, would continue, alongside firm expectations of prudent resource management, strict adherence to due process, and zero tolerance for examination malpractice. The Minister commended the outgoing 11th UNEB Board for notable achievements, including oversight of the implementation of Competence-Based Assessment (CBA) under the new Lower Secondary Curriculum, timely release of PLE, UCE, and UACE results despite funding challenges, significant reduction in examination malpractice, development of key policies, and initiation of the e-Assessment and Digital Centre. She acknowledged the financial constraints facing UNEB and pledged to engage her Ministry to improve funding to enable the Board effectively deliver on its mandate. The Executive Director of UNEB, Mr. Dan Odongo, cautioned members of the newly inaugurated Board against falling prey to individuals seeking favours or undue influence that could undermine the integrity of the examinations process. The newly inaugurated 13-member Board is chaired by Prof. Celestino Obua, who retained his position for a second term. As the 12th Board assumed office, members were urged to serve with a strong sense of responsibility, teamwork, and patriotism, mindful that their decisions will have a lasting impact on millions of learners and the future of the nation. 

Education

February 9, 2026

Minister Muyingo Appeals to Parents to Return Children to School as New Term Begins

Kampala —The Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo, has today appealed to all parents and guardians across the country to ensure that children report back to school promptly as the new school term officially begins today. In a statement marking the opening of the term, the Minister thanked parents for their continued support in keeping children safe during the holiday period and emphasized that learning activities commence immediately at the beginning of the term, contrary to the misconception held by some parents that the first weeks are unproductive. “I wish to thank parents and guardians for the care they have given to our children during the holidays. As the term begins today, I strongly urge all parents to take their children back to school without delay. Teaching and learning start on the very first day of the term,” Dr. Muyingo said. The Minister called upon teachers and school administrators to be fully prepared to receive learners, stressing the importance of professionalism, punctuality, and commitment to duty from the first day. He reminded schools that early-term activities, including orientation, lesson introduction, and assessment planning, are critical to academic success. Dr. Muyingo further underscored the responsibility of schools to ensure that essential services such as food, accommodation, and general welfare are adequately provided to support learners’ well-being and concentration. In addition, the Minister directed school inspectors and education officers to actively carry out their supervisory roles to guarantee that all schools provide a safe, disciplined, and conducive learning environment. “I call upon inspectors of schools to do their job diligently. They must ensure that schools are open, teachers are present, learners are engaged, and the learning environment is safe and supportive,” he added. The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working with parents, teachers, and education stakeholders to uphold quality education standards nationwide. Dr. Muyingo concluded by urging parents not to delay, noting that regular attendance from the first day of term is essential for learner discipline, continuity, and academic achievement. 

Crime

February 3, 2026

Migrant Workers Voice Slams Syria Over Alleged Beheading of Ugandan Vicky Ajong, Demands Urgent Kampala Intervention

 Kampala, Uganda  February 3, 2026In a blistering protest letter to Uganda's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Migrant Workers Voice Organisation has unleashed fierce condemnation of the Syrian government's reported beheading of Ugandan citizen Vicky Ajong, accused of murdering her employer, and issued an unequivocal call for immediate diplomatic action to rescue her.  The organisation's letter, drafted in the strongest terms, brands the execution as a "barbaric, inhumane, and illegal" atrocity that demands high-level state-to-state engagement from Kampala. It urges the Ugandan Embassy in Cairo accredited to Syria at 66 Road 10, Maadi to act "with utmost urgency" in investigating, intervening, and securing Ajong's safety.  No Legal Basis for Employment or Trial.Migrant Workers Voice argues that Uganda lacks any bilateral labour agreement with Syria, rendering any transport of Ugandans there tantamount to human trafficking and forced labour—violations of international law like the Palermo Protocol. "Whoever transports Ugandans from Uganda to Syria... trafficks them and exposes these nationals to forced labour and exploitation," the letter states.It further contends the employer had "no legal rights" to hire Ajong without a formal contract, insisting authorities interrogate events for signs of duress, abuse, or coercion common in such cases. Ajong's denial of legal counsel breaches due process under the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and customary law, the group asserts.Vienna Convention Invoked for Immediate Action.  Citing the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations (1963), the letter declares: "Uganda and all other states are entitled to protect all their citizens abroad regardless of their travel status." It commands the government to act "immediately, without hesitation or delay" via demarches, UN channels, or other means, warning that inaction equals "dereliction of duty" and complicity.The protest highlights Syria's instability, absence of formal Ugandan diplomatic presence until recent pledges, and risks to migrant workers under UN conventions as additional grounds voiding the sentence.Global Call to Arms. Migrant Workers Voice rallies international bodies, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, UN Human Rights Council, and African Union to intervene urgently, dispatch observers, and halt the execution. "The blood of Vicky Ajong stains the hands of inaction," it warns, demanding confirmation of engagement within 24 hours.The letter, copied to the President, Foreign Minister, Uganda's Cairo mission, and UN officials underscores rising concerns over Ugandan migrants in high-risk destinations amid deepening Uganda-Syria ties. As Kampala weighs response, the case spotlights vulnerabilities in unregulated labour migration.

Education

January 30, 2026

SEETA JUNIOR SCHOOL MUKONO RANKED BEST IN UGANDA WITH 100% FIRST GRADE PLE RESULTS

 Mukono, Uganda – Seeta Junior School Mukono (Nabuti Campus) has been ranked the best primary school in Uganda after an extraordinary performance in the recently released Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) results. In the 2025 PLE examinations, all 140 candidates (100%) from Seeta Junior School Mukono attained First Grade results, a rare national achievement that reflects exceptional academic standards and sustained excellence. Of the 140 candidates, 56 learners scored Aggregate 4, and even the lowest performer achieved a strong result 8 Aggregates , demonstrating the school’s consistent success across its entire candidate cohort. The Head Teacher, Mr. Brian Sserugo, thanked the school’s founders, Hon. Dr. J.C. Muyingo and Mrs. Rose Muyingo, for their visionary leadership and investment in quality education. He attributed the performance to the dedication of both learners and teachers, and the strong academic culture at the school. Seeta Junior School Mbalala – Mukono  Seeta Junior School Mbalala also delivered strong results. Out of 196 candidates, a significant 181 attained First Grade results, reinforcing the reputation of Seeta Junior as a top-performing educational institution nationally. The Deputy Head Teacher, Mr. Paddy Kyazze, noted that the achievement was driven by teamwork between parents and teachers, strong school leadership, and a supportive learning environment.  Seeta Junior School Ntinda Campus – Seeta, Mukono  At Seeta Junior School Ntinda Campus (Day School), all candidates who sat the PLE successfully passed, contributing positively to the overall performance of Seeta Junior Schools. The Head Teacher, Mr. Lazarus Olupot, emphasized the school’s commitment to academic growth and learner development. National PLE Context  According to the latest statistics released by the Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB), 91,990 candidates nationwide attained Division One (First Grade) in the 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations, representing an improvement in the number of first grades compared to 2024. In total, 817,883 pupils sat the exams nationwide, with the First Grade percentage increasing year-on-year.    Seeta Junior School Mukono continues to set the benchmark for academic excellence in Uganda through effective leadership, quality instruction, and a learner-centered approach that produces top results year after year. 

Events

January 28, 2026

Makerere University Guarantees Timely Release of Transcripts Ahead of 76th Graduation Ceremony

 Makerere University has announced a major breakthrough in its academic administration, confirming that all graduands of the 76th Graduation Ceremony will receive their academic transcripts before or immediately after graduation, effectively resolving a long-standing challenge that affected previous ceremonies. The announcement was made during a press conference held on January 28, 2026, at Makerere University. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, confirmed that all transcripts have been fully processed, finalized, and officially handed over to College Principals, making them available for collection from respective Colleges even ahead of the graduation ceremony. “This has been a major concern in the past, and we deliberately addressed it,” Prof. Nawangwe said. “I am pleased to confirm that this time around, no graduand will leave Makerere without access to their academic transcript. The transcripts are ready and already with the Colleges.”The 76th Graduation Ceremony will take place from February 24th to 27th, 2026, at the Makerere University Freedom Square, starting daily at 8:30 a.m. Over the four days, the University will confer degrees and award certificates to 8,432 graduands, comprising 185 PhDs, 2,034 Master’s graduates, 6,043 Bachelor’s degree holders, 137 Postgraduate Diplomas, and 33 specialized postgraduate diploma recipients.Prof. Nawangwe also announced that the University has registered a 30 percent increase in graduate output compared to the 75th graduation ceremony, attributing the growth to Makerere University’s strategic emphasis on graduate education and research-led training. “This growth reflects our deliberate policy to strengthen postgraduate education as a pillar for research, innovation, and national development,” he noted. The Academic Registrar reaffirmed the University’s readiness and appealed to graduands to complete all required clearances in time. He emphasized that the Registrar’s Office has worked closely with Colleges to ensure accuracy, completeness, and timely delivery of academic records. “We urge all graduands to clear any outstanding obligations, confirm their details on the Senate graduation list, and liaise with their respective Colleges for transcript collection,” the Academic Registrar said. “This year, our systems are aligned to ensure a smooth, dignified, and student-centered graduation process.” Graduands are reminded to clear tuition and graduation fees, verify their names on the official graduation list, and familiarize themselves with the graduation schedule to confirm their specific day of graduation. Graduation gowns will be issued starting February 2, 2026, from the University Hall (Dining Hall), Monday to Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., upon presentation of proof of payment, a student number or National ID, and confirmation on the Senate list. Attendance at the graduation ceremony will be strictly by invitation, with each graduand permitted to invite two guests. Graduands are advised to arrive at the Freedom Square by 7:00 a.m. on their graduation day to allow for security checks and orderly seating. The University has also designated specific parking areas and access points to facilitate smooth traffic flow and crowd management.To support graduands further, the Academic Registrar’s Office and the Graduation Committee will, starting February 2, 2026, operate an information tent outside the Senate Building to handle inquiries and provide guidance throughout the pre-graduation period. The timely release of transcripts marks a significant institutional milestone for Makerere University and sends a strong signal to stakeholders across Uganda’s education sector of the University’s renewed commitment to efficiency, accountability, and improved student services. 

Political

January 27, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: NRM Endorses Anita Among, Tayebwa for Top Parliamentary Posts in 12th Parliament

 Kampala — The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) has endorsed Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among for the position of Speaker of the 12th Parliament and Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa for Deputy Speaker. The decision, reached at a CEC meeting held today, clears the way for the two incumbents to be fronted by the ruling party when Members of Parliament convene to elect the Speaker and Deputy Speaker at the first sitting of the new Parliament.  Party Endorsement Ahead of Parliamentary Vote  In Uganda’s parliamentary system, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker are elected by MPs through a plenary vote. However, the NRM—being the majority party—traditionally endorses candidates ahead of the vote, a move that often determines the final outcome due to the party’s numerical strength in the House. The endorsement signals the party’s preference for continuity and stability in parliamentary leadership as the country transitions to the 12th Parliament.  Background: Rt. Hon. Anita Among  Rt. Hon. Anita Annet Among has served as Speaker since 2022. She previously represented Bukedea District as Woman Member of Parliament and has held various leadership roles within Parliament and the NRM party structures. During her tenure as Speaker of the 11th Parliament, Among presided over major legislative processes, including the passage of key government bills, budget approvals, and committee work. She has been credited by party supporters for enforcing parliamentary rules and steering legislative business in line with the ruling party’s agenda.  Background: Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa  Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa has been Deputy Speaker since 2022 and previously served as MP for Ruhinda North in Mitooma District. Before becoming Deputy Speaker, Tayebwa was the NRM Chief Whip, a role in which he coordinated party positions and mobilized support for government legislation. As Deputy Speaker, he has chaired plenary sessions and overseen parliamentary committees, gaining recognition for his grasp of procedure and legislative management.  What to Expect Next  The election of the Speaker and Deputy Speaker will take place during the first sitting of the 12th Parliament. While opposition parties may nominate alternative candidates, the NRM’s majority in Parliament places Among and Tayebwa in a strong position to retain the top legislative offices.