Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Journalist at Kampala Media TV

730 published articles

Articles by Ssemaganda Moses Hope

Showing 12-22 of 730 articles
Museveni’s Grandson Ruhamya Joins UPDF After Sandhurst Graduation Featured

Museveni’s Grandson Ruhamya Joins UPDF After Sandhurst Graduation

 President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s grandson, Ruhamya, has joined the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) after successfully graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, marking a significant step in his military career.  Ruhamya graduated alongside his colleague, Bakyira, following their military training at one of the world’s best-known military academies. The two young officers are now expected to begin their professional military service, bringing with them the training and leadership skills acquired during their time at Sandhurst.  President Museveni announced and celebrated the development in a message addressed to Ugandans, particularly the younger generation whom he refers to as the “Bazzukulu.” He congratulated Ruhamya and Bakyira and welcomed his grandson into what he described as his “big family of UPDF.”  “Congratulations Ruhamya, congratulations Bakyira,” Museveni said.The President also congratulated the parents of the two young officers, recognising their role in supporting their children through the demanding journey that has culminated in their graduation and entry into military service.Museveni used the occasion to encourage young Ugandans to consider military service as a career that can provide discipline, training and a strong foundation for leadership and public service.  “Young Ugandans, Army service gives you good foundation,” the President said.Ruhamya’s graduation from Sandhurst adds a new chapter to the Museveni family’s long association with Uganda’s military establishment. President Museveni himself has a longstanding military background, having played a central role in Uganda’s armed struggle in the 1970s and 1980s before becoming President in 1986.  The UPDF, which evolved from the National Resistance Army (NRA), has since grown into Uganda’s national armed forces, with responsibilities including defending Uganda’s territorial integrity, maintaining national security and participating in regional and international peace-support operations.For Ruhamya, completing training at Sandhurst represents a rigorous professional milestone. The academy has trained military officers from Britain and numerous countries around the world, with its programmes emphasising military leadership, discipline, decision-making and service.  In his message, Museveni also reflected on Uganda’s journey, thanking God for protecting the country and enabling it to confront what he described as its numerous challenges.He further thanked God for blessing the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and its precursors for more than 60 years, linking the occasion to the broader historical journey of the movement.The President’s message comes as the country continues to emphasise professional military training and leadership development within the UPDF, particularly as Uganda maintains a role in regional security and peace-support efforts.  Ruhamya and Bakyira now join the ranks of young Ugandan officers beginning a new phase of service after completing their training abroad.
Seeta Junior School Uses Sports to Build Patriotism, Teamwork and Future Leaders Education

Seeta Junior School Uses Sports to Build Patriotism, Teamwork and Future Leaders

 Seeta Junior School has used its annual Sports Day to promote more than physical fitness, turning the event into a platform for nurturing patriotism, teamwork, discipline, confidence and leadership among learners.The colourful event at Seeta Campus brought together pupils, teachers and school administrators for a day filled with competitive sports, entertainment and talent development, with learners taking part in activities including motorbike races, ball games, running races and other sporting competitions. The Chief Guest, Sister Dr. Mary Grace Akiror, Deputy Head of the Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) Secretariat and Anti-Corruption Unit at the Office of the President, urged learners to love their country and grow into responsible citizens who can contribute positively to society. She said young people have an important role to play in building a better Uganda and encouraged them to embrace unity, teamwork and integrity from an early age.Sister Dr. Akiror also commended the founders and management of Seeta Schools for creating opportunities that enable learners to develop their talents beyond the classroom. She noted that collective effort and a strong sense of responsibility can contribute to overcoming challenges such as corruption. The Sports Day featured spirited competition among four houses—Power Rangers, X-Men, Transformers and Wakanda—as learners showcased their abilities in different sporting disciplines.The Headteacher, Lazarus Olopot, said sports are an important part of a child’s development, noting that learners should not only excel academically but also be encouraged to discover and develop their talents through co-curricular activities.He explained that participation in sports helps learners build confidence, discipline, teamwork and the ability to work with others.The competition culminated in a closely contested house championship, with Power Rangers emerging overall winners with 566 points. X-Men finished second with 532 points, followed by Transformers with 450 points and Wakanda with 411 points. The successful event underscored Seeta Junior School’s commitment to holistic education—combining academic excellence with sports, talent development, character formation and patriotism to prepare learners for responsible leadership and active participation in society.
Kololo High School Uses Sports to Promote Talent, Skills and Self-Employment Among City Learners Education

Kololo High School Uses Sports to Promote Talent, Skills and Self-Employment Among City Learners

 Kampala, Uganda — Kololo High School has held its annual Sports Day, bringing together learners from different communities across Kampala in a colourful celebration aimed at promoting talent, physical fitness, teamwork and practical skills under the theme “Education for Self-Employment through Skills and Talent Promotion.”The event was presided over by the Guest of Honour, Hon. Cissy Mulondo, Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, General Duties, whose message was delivered by Madam Hope Nyago, former Headteacher of Jinja Secondary School.  In her message, the Minister commended Kololo High School for maintaining sports as an important component of education, noting that sports provide learners with opportunities to identify and develop talents that can contribute to their future livelihoods.The Minister emphasized that physical fitness and sports should not be viewed merely as recreational activities, but as part of holistic education capable of preparing young people for opportunities beyond the classroom.She encouraged learners to embrace sports alongside their academic studies, pointing out that talent in areas such as football, athletics, netball and other sporting disciplines can open doors in the employment and professional world.  Madam Hope Nyago also conveyed the Minister’s appreciation for the longstanding friendship between her and the school community, as well as her support for activities that are in line with the Ministry of Education and Sports calendar.Sports Day at Kololo High School comes at a time when the school continues to bring together young people from different backgrounds within Kampala City. Located in the heart of Kampala, the school serves learners from a wide range of communities, including young people from less-privileged and densely populated areas of the city. The gathering of these learners on one field, competing together while respecting one another, makes the annual sports event an important platform for unity, discipline and social transformation.  Beyond physical fitness, participation in sport helps young people develop discipline, teamwork, leadership, resilience, confidence and the ability to work towards common goals. The school’s emphasis on combining academic learning with co-curricular development therefore provides learners with a broader foundation for life beyond school.  The Headteacher, Dr. Hajat Amina Buyinza, welcomed the learners’ participation and the colourful display of talent during the annual celebration, emphasizing the importance of nurturing learners beyond academic achievement. The Deputy Headteacher, Hakim Sseviri, commended the participating houses for the quality of their performances, emphasizing that the focus was on meaningful participation and developing learners’ abilities rather than simply pursuing numbers.Sseviri also appreciated the Government of Uganda for supporting the education sector through the regular payment and phased enhancement of teachers’ salaries, noting the importance of motivated teachers in delivering quality education. He further expressed appreciation for the continued peace and security in the country, saying a stable environment enables schools to conduct learning and co-curricular activities effectively.  The school community also maintained its tradition of providing learners with a special lunch during the annual celebration, adding to the excitement and sense of community at the event.Two participating students described the Sports Day as an important opportunity to come together outside the classroom, interact with colleagues and discover their abilities. They highlighted the value of sports in building confidence, teamwork and discipline while encouraging fellow learners to take advantage of the sporting opportunities provided by the school.  The competitions featured a wide range of activities, including football, netball, walking races, sack races, bicycle races, peeling races and board games, alongside entertainment from the school band and drummers.Several houses took part in the different competitions, with Elephant House emerging as the overall winner and also triumphing in the football competition.The Guest of Honour further rewarded the young people and members of the school band with Shs500,000, while Golden House, which finished as the second runner-up, received a jersey as part of the recognition of the learners’ efforts.  The celebrations ended on a high note, with students, teachers and guests joining together to celebrate talent, sportsmanship and the role of education in preparing young people not only for employment, but also for self-employment and productive participation in society.For Kololo High School, the annual Sports Day is therefore more than a competition. It is a demonstration of how education can bring together young people from different backgrounds, nurture their talents and equip them with the confidence, discipline and practical skills needed to shape their own future.
Government Education Programmes Changing Lives as Nakaseke Schools Record Remarkable Growth National

Government Education Programmes Changing Lives as Nakaseke Schools Record Remarkable Growth

Nakaseke District | August, 2026Government education programmes are continuing to change lives and expand access to secondary education in rural communities, with schools in Nakaseke District recording significant growth in student enrolment and infrastructure development.One of the institutions reflecting this progress is Blessed Seed Senior Secondary School Nakaseke, which has grown from about 200 students at its humble beginnings to more than 800 learners in less than five years.  The development highlights the growing demand for secondary education and the role of Government-supported schools in bringing education services closer to communities.The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo, has commended parents who actively take responsibility for the education of their children, urging them to continue working closely with schools to ensure that learners remain in school and benefit from available education opportunities.  Dr. Muyingo delivered the message through his Political Assistant, Wasswa Abdulkarim Tamale, during a school function at Blessed Seed SS Nakaseke, where students showcased their talents through music, dance, drama and other performances.The Minister pledged continued support to the school, commending the administration, parents and the wider school community for their commitment to supporting Government education programmes and improving the learning environment.He also supported the students with Shs2 million to assist them in acquiring outfits and other requirements for music and games activities. The school administration welcomed the support, describing it as an encouragement to learners and staff as the institution continues to grow.In his remarks, the Headteacher, Jethro Benedict Kazungu, explained that Blessed Seed SS Nakaseke started with approximately 200 students but has expanded to more than 800 learners in less than five years.He attributed the growth to the confidence of parents and the commitment of the school community, but noted that the rapid increase in enrolment has created pressure on the available infrastructure. Kazungu appealed to the Government, through the Ministry of Education and Sports, to support the school with additional structures, noting that the existing facilities were initially designed to accommodate about 300 students.He also requested that the school be elevated to Advanced Level (A-Level) and formally authorised to offer A-Level education, enabling more learners in the area to continue their education closer to home. The Headteacher also recognised the contribution of parents towards improving the school, noting that their support has enabled the construction of important facilities, including a school fence and gate, which have strengthened security and improved the general learning environment.Kazungu further appealed for support towards teachers’ accommodation, explaining that the school has more than 40 members of staff while the six existing accommodation units are insufficient to house them. He said providing more teachers’ accommodation is particularly important because the school is located in a rural area, where having teachers staying near the institution would improve their availability and support effective learning.The growth of Blessed Seed SS Nakaseke demonstrates the increasing demand for secondary education and the importance of continued investment in schools, particularly in rural communities.  With enrolment rising from about 200 to more than 800 students in less than five years, the school is becoming an example of how Government education programmes, parental involvement and community participation can work together to expand opportunities for young people.
Museveni Urges Luweero Secondary School to Prioritise Science Education at 60th Anniversary National

Museveni Urges Luweero Secondary School to Prioritise Science Education at 60th Anniversary

 President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged the Luweero Secondary School community to place greater emphasis on science education to equip learners with practical skills needed for national development.President Museveni’s message was delivered by the Minister of State for Finance and General Duties, Hon. Cissy Mulondo, who represented him as the chief guest during celebrations marking 60 years since the establishment of Luweero Secondary School.The President also contributed Shs40 million towards the construction of a new administration block at the school, while Gen. Salim Saleh contributed Shs20 million towards the same project. The Acting Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo, represented by his Political Assistant Waswa Abdulkarim Tamale, contributed Shs10 million towards the administration block.In his message, Dr. Muyingo called upon parents to take good care of their children during the holiday, urging them to provide proper guidance, supervision and support.He further encouraged families to embrace government programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and EMYOOGA, saying participation in these initiatives can help households increase their incomes and improve their livelihoods. State Minister for Kampala Joseph Kabuye Kyofatogabye, who represented Gen. Salim Saleh at the event, assured the Bishop and school leaders that government’s primary interest is to ensure that public services are delivered effectively.His remarks followed concerns raised over the conduct of some government officials during inspection and monitoring of government-aided schools in Luweero District.  Kyofatogabye said government had no intention of fighting school administrators or religious leaders, but warned that authorities would intervene if the situation deteriorated.“Our intention is to ensure that government services are delivered. We are not fighting anyone, but if the situation gets out of hand, we shall not sit back and watch,” Kyofatogabye said. The Bishop of Luweero Diocese, Rev. Wilson Kisekka, cautioned government officials against what he described as intimidation of school administrators during inspections and monitoring of government-aided schools.Bishop Kisekka said alleged threats by some officials had created fear among education workers and could disrupt the operations of Church-founded schools receiving government support.  He urged government officials to respect the administrative structures of Church-founded schools, warning that interference could affect their ability to deliver education services.The Bishop also attributed part of the tension to political leaders whom he accused of encouraging parents to resist school contributions while threatening to have school administrators arrested.Several leaders attending the ceremony supported the Bishop’s concerns.  The celebrations brought together government officials, religious leaders, education stakeholders, former students and members of the community to commemorate six decades of Luweero Secondary School’s contribution to education.The school used the occasion to raise funds towards the construction of an administration block, with contributions from President Museveni, Gen. Salim Saleh and Dr. JC Muyingo among those supporting the project.
Tayebwa Says Dan Odongo’s Journey Should Inspire Public Servants Announcement

Tayebwa Says Dan Odongo’s Journey Should Inspire Public Servants

 Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa has described the career of Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) Executive Director Dan Odongo as an example of diligence that should inspire public servants across the country.Speaking at the launch of Odongo’s book, From Humble Beginnings: The Journey of a Teacher Who Rose to Lead a Nation’s Trust, on Friday evening at Hotel Africana, Tayebwa said Odongo’s record at UNEB demonstrated what public service should be about. He said Odongo had successfully led the national examinations body without attracting persistent questions from Parliament over his performance or accountability.“When you are in a public office and you never see Parliament quarreling with you or knocking on your door, you consider yourself a successful and diligent performer,” Tayebwa said.He said Odongo’s story was important because it showed that leadership is defined by commitment to the people one leads.“Leadership is not about titles; it is about service, honesty, and commitment to the people one leads. A title may open the door, but only one's actions earn lasting respect,” Tayebwa said. The Deputy Speaker also noted that Odongo’s journey from a rural upbringing and the classroom to the leadership of UNEB demonstrated that teachers can play an important role in national service.“To every teacher present and educators across Uganda, the story of Dan affirms that the classroom is not a place of limitation, but a powerful launching pad for national service,” Tayebwa said.Odongo, who has led UNEB since 2016, documents in the book his journey from a humble childhood in Ofiru village in Lalogi, Omoro District, to becoming the head of the institution responsible for Uganda’s national examinations.  In his remarks, Odongo said the book was written to document his journey and share the lessons he had learned along the way.“Some journeys deserve to be documented, not because of how far somebody has risen, but because of the lessons found along the way,” Odongo said.  He said his journey had taken him from a rural village through difficult circumstances and challenging assignments before he eventually became Executive Director of UNEB, describing the position as one of the most challenging jobs in the country.The book traces his early years, education, teaching career and eventual rise through the ranks at UNEB, where he was appointed assistant secretary in charge of biological sciences in 1989 before eventually becoming the institution’s chief executive.
210 Coffee Farmers Trained in Greater Masaka as Thomas JM Global Export Strengthens Link to Global Markets Featured

210 Coffee Farmers Trained in Greater Masaka as Thomas JM Global Export Strengthens Link to Global Markets

 By Saul Mutuunzi13 August 2026Thomas JM Global Export has stepped up efforts to strengthen Uganda’s coffee value chain after engaging and training 210 coffee farmers from Greater Masaka in Matete Subcounty, Sembabule District.The farmers were engaged by a team from Thomas JM Global Export, headquartered in Kabusu, Lubaga Division, Kampala, and led by Country Director Dr. Jim Tubuhaburwa. The team was hosted by Haji Kamada, Chairman of the Coffee Farmers Association, during the engagement  The training focused on coffee quality, traceability and international quality standards, equipping farmers with knowledge needed to produce coffee that can compete effectively in premium international markets.Sembabule is an important coffee-producing area with potential for both Robusta and Arabica coffee, supported by a growing community of farmers committed to improving the quality and productivity of their coffee.  The engagement is part of Thomas JM Global Export’s commitment to developing a transparent, reliable and traceable Ugandan coffee supply chain that connects farmers directly to buyers in Europe, the United States and other international markets.By working closely with farmers and promoting quality and traceability from the farm to the export stage, the company seeks to establish a stronger foundation for long-term partnerships with international coffee importers, roasters and distributors. Thomas JM Global Export is also inviting European, American and other international coffee buyers looking for high-quality Ugandan coffee with a trusted and traceable origin to explore partnerships with the company and Ugandan farmers.Uganda remains a significant coffee-producing country, with coffee serving as one of the country’s major agricultural export earners and providing livelihoods for millions of farming households.According to the company, Thomas JM Global Export was established to create greater opportunities for Ugandan coffee farmers by linking them to reliable international markets and investors, while ensuring farmers receive better value for their hard work.
Tibuhaburwa Takes Uganda’s Investment and Tourism Drive to Europe National

Tibuhaburwa Takes Uganda’s Investment and Tourism Drive to Europe

 By Mutuunzi Saul13 August 2026Uganda’s efforts to attract quality investors, tourists and new business opportunities have received fresh momentum following an investment and tourism engagement tour by Independent Presidential Advisor on Trade and Investment, Mr. Jim Tibuhaburwa, across Europe.  Tibuhaburwa visited Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, Denmark and Sweden, where he engaged investors, business leaders and other stakeholders on opportunities available in Uganda, particularly in trade, investment, tourism and the energy sector.He described the European tour as productive and inspiring, expressing optimism that the engagements will translate into meaningful opportunities for Uganda and its people, especially young people seeking employment.  Tibuhaburwa said attracting more investment into Uganda can help create jobs and expand economic opportunities for young people, which can contribute to addressing some of the social challenges associated with unemployment.In Italy, Tibuhaburwa was hosted by the owner of Tenute Silvio Nardi, where he toured the estate and experienced the traditions and investment behind Italy’s wine industry.  “As an Independent Presidential Advisor on Trade and Investment, I was honored to be invited by the owner of Tenute Silvio Nardi to visit their beautiful estate in Italy and experience firsthand the passion, tradition, and dedication behind some of Italy’s finest wines,” Tibuhaburwa said.He noted that such engagements go beyond business opportunities, saying they also help build trusted relationships, promote cultural understanding and create lasting connections between people and countries.  During his engagements in the Nordic region, Tibuhaburwa also held discussions on innovative power transmission and electricity grid solutions being implemented by GE Vernova across the region.He said the experience provided valuable lessons on how technology and strategic investment are shaping the future of the energy sector.  Tibuhaburwa also highlighted Uganda’s tourism potential, emphasizing the need for sustainable development, international partnerships and investment to attract more global visitors.“This was so inspiring. We also exchanged ideas about Uganda’s tourism sector and its immense potential to attract more global visitors through sustainable development, partnerships and investment,” he said.The European tour is part of Tibuhaburwa’s continued international engagements aimed at marketing Uganda as an attractive destination for investment, tourism and trade.He has also used such international engagements to promote Ugandan products, particularly coffee, by connecting local businesses and producers with potential international buyers. These efforts are expected to open new markets for Ugandan products, increase export earnings and contribute to the country’s economic growth.Tibuhaburwa says sustained international engagement is essential in positioning Uganda as a competitive investment destination while creating opportunities for Ugandans to access new markets, employment, technology and strategic partnerships.
Hon Kalwanga: Africa Must Unite to Harness Its Wealth and Strengthen Its Global Voice National

Hon Kalwanga: Africa Must Unite to Harness Its Wealth and Strengthen Its Global Voice

Uganda’s representative to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and Busujju County Member of Parliament, Hon. David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga, has called on African leaders to strengthen cooperation, uphold human rights and improve the continent’s image internationally.Kalwanga says African leaders have a responsibility to present a positive image of their countries to the rest of the world, arguing that the conduct of leaders and institutions can significantly influence how Africa is perceived internationally. The Pan-African Parliament is an organ of the African Union established in 2004 to provide a continental platform through which African peoples and their representatives can participate in discussions and decision-making on issues affecting the continent. It is based in Midrand, South Africa, and brings together representatives from AU Member States. (Pan-African Parliament⁠)Unlike a national parliament that directly legislates for one country, the PAP currently operates primarily as a continental deliberative, consultative and oversight institution. Its mandate includes discussing matters affecting Africa, making recommendations, promoting human rights and democracy, encouraging good governance, supporting the harmonisation of laws and policies, and contributing to Africa’s integration and development. (Pan-African Parliament⁠)  The Parliament conducts much of its detailed work through its Permanent Committees, which examine emerging issues facing the continent and contribute to parliamentary debate and recommendations. The PAP has eleven Permanent Committees, alongside its Plenary and other parliamentary structures. (Pan-African Parliament⁠)Against this background, Kalwanga says Uganda and other African countries must use the continental platform to advance cooperation and address challenges collectively.He says his recent engagements at the Pan-African Parliament, including discussions involving South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, have produced encouraging outcomes and could help deepen relations among African countries.  Kalwanga says the discussions have demonstrated the importance of African countries working together rather than approaching continental challenges in isolation.He notes that Africa is endowed with enormous natural resources, including minerals, gold and oil, but argues that greater continental cooperation is necessary if African countries are to translate these resources into tangible improvements in the lives of their people. According to Kalwanga, stronger cooperation should enable African countries to increase their collective bargaining power, promote trade and investment, and pursue development strategies that ensure the continent benefits more from its own resources.His message comes at a time when the Pan-African Parliament is seeking a stronger role in advancing African integration. Addressing the opening of the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Legislature in July 2026, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa also called for a stronger and more empowered PAP, deeper continental integration and greater implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area. (Pan-African Parliament⁠) Kalwanga, however, says Africa’s development agenda must go hand in hand with respect for human rights and democratic values.He has therefore urged Ugandan leaders and citizens to avoid actions that violate human rights, warning that such conduct can damage Uganda’s international reputation and create a negative perception of the country.  He says African leaders should instead demonstrate responsible leadership, respect for the rule of law and commitment to the dignity and rights of citizens.For Kalwanga, the Pan-African Parliament provides an important opportunity for Uganda to contribute to continental conversations while also bringing African perspectives and priorities into discussions on governance, development, peace, security and economic integration.He has consequently urged Ugandans to have confidence in their representatives at the continental level, saying Uganda’s delegation has already made significant progress within a relatively short period and remains committed to advancing the country’s interests while contributing to Africa’s broader development agenda.  The PAP’s official mandate includes promoting human rights and democracy, good governance, transparency and accountability, peace and stability, continental solidarity, economic recovery and cooperation among African countries and regional economic communities. (Pan-African Parliament⁠)Kalwanga says the ultimate objective should be to build an Africa that speaks with a stronger collective voice, protects the dignity of its people and makes strategic use of its resources to deliver prosperity for its citizens.
Czech Parliament Speaker Names Baby Gorilla ‘Tomáš’ During Uganda Visit National

Czech Parliament Speaker Names Baby Gorilla ‘Tomáš’ During Uganda Visit

 The Speaker of the Parliament of the Czech Republic, Rt. Hon. Tomio Okamura, has named a newborn mountain gorilla “Tomáš” during his visit to Uganda, describing the name as a symbol of friendship between Uganda and the Czech Republic.Okamura proposed the name while trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in south-western Uganda, where he was accompanied by Uganda’s Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa. The name was suggested after Tayebwa asked the Czech Speaker to propose a name for the newborn gorilla.“Something like Tomáš,” Okamura said.He explained that while Tomio is a Japanese name, Tomáš is a Czech name. In English, it becomes Thomas, which is also Tayebwa’s Christian name.Okamura said the name would serve as a lasting reminder of his visit to Uganda and a symbol of the friendship and cooperation he hopes to strengthen between the two countries.“It should be a start, or a sign, of our friendship and help build our relations,” Okamura said. Tayebwa thanked Okamura for making the trip to Uganda, saying the visit provides the country with an opportunity to promote its tourism potential to the Czech Republic and Europe more broadly.He said gorilla trekking remains a unique experience for him despite having visited Bwindi several times.“For me, it always feels like the first time whenever I come here,” Tayebwa said, adding that every visit offers a new experience because of the interaction with the gorillas.  Tayebwa said watching the gorillas, particularly the way they care for their young, reminds visitors of the importance of protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.“We learn a lot from them. But every day, they give you a reason to protect nature,” he said.He also encouraged Ugandans to explore their own country before travelling abroad, urging citizens to take advantage of Uganda’s diverse tourism attractions.  “I urge Ugandans to come here and tour our country. I see very many going to Dubai. Going where? First, come and see the beauty of our country,” Tayebwa said.He noted that Ugandan citizens pay significantly less for gorilla trekking permits compared to foreign tourists, making the experience more accessible to Ugandans.Tayebwa said Uganda also intends to use major international events to market the country as a tourism and investment destination. He pointed to Uganda’s expected hosting of the OACPS–European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly next year, which is expected to bring together more than 500 delegates from Europe, Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific.  Tayebwa, who serves as President of the OACPS and Co-President of the OACPS–EU Parliamentary Assembly, said the gathering will provide Uganda with an important platform to showcase its tourism potential to an international audience.“We hope to host the EU-Africa-Caribbean-Pacific Parliament next year in Uganda, where we will be having over 500 delegates from all over Europe and the rest of the world,” he said.Okamura said tourism presents an important area where Uganda and the Czech Republic can strengthen their relations, highlighting Prague, the Czech capital, and Uganda’s mountain gorilla trekking experience as two world-class tourism attractions that could provide a foundation for deeper cooperation.  “Prague is a top destination. A top tourist destination. Gorilla trekking is also world top. So this is two top things,” Okamura said.Tayebwa also commended Uganda’s embassy in Germany, particularly Ambassador Steven Mubiru and his team, for facilitating Okamura’s visit to Uganda.The visit highlights the growing potential for Uganda and the Czech Republic to deepen their relations through tourism, parliamentary diplomacy and people-to-people exchanges, while using Uganda’s unique natural heritage to attract more international visitors.
KCCA Executive Director Sharifa Buzeki Leads Weyonje Clean-Up Campaign in Nakawa Happening Kati

KCCA Executive Director Sharifa Buzeki Leads Weyonje Clean-Up Campaign in Nakawa

 By Mutuunzi SaulKampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Sharifa Buzeki has led a Weyonje clean-up campaign in Nakawa Division, Kampala, as part of efforts to promote proper waste management and a clean environment across the city.  The exercise brought together KCCA officials, local leaders and members of the public, who participated in a number of activities, including cleaning blocked drainage channels and sensitising residents on proper garbage sorting and disposal.Residents and local leaders welcomed the initiative, saying the campaign would contribute to improving sanitation and creating a cleaner and healthier environment in their communities.  Speaking to journalists during the exercise, Buzeki said the campaign is being conducted across Kampala’s five divisions as part of KCCA’s efforts to encourage residents to take greater responsibility for maintaining a clean environment.  “I want to appreciate everyone who has joined my team today to clean this place. This initiative is aimed at promoting a clean environment and reminding our people that it is very important for everyone to be clean,” Buzeki said.  She noted that poor sanitation can contribute to preventable illnesses, forcing families to spend significant amounts of money on treatment, particularly at a time when many households have limited incomes.Buzeki said KCCA will continue with the Weyonje campaign because of the positive results it has already generated in different parts of the city.On concerns about the lack of adequate public toilets in parts of Nakawa, Buzeki said KCCA would work with local leaders to explore possible solutions.She stressed that every division should have clean and accessible public toilets to serve residents who cannot afford private facilities.  “I want to assure you that Kampala Capital City Authority will continue to make sure that the environment is clean. About the issue of constructing a public toilet in this place, we shall see what to do, because every division must have a clean public toilet to enable our residents who can’t afford private toilets to use those ones,” she said.The area LC I Chairman, Robert Kayanja, thanked KCCA for extending the campaign to their community and pledged that local residents would continue maintaining the cleanliness achieved through the exercise.  Kayanja urged residents to take sanitation seriously, noting that many diseases can be prevented through proper hygiene and a clean environment.“We are thankful that KCCA has come to our division. We have been seeing this campaign happening in various divisions, but we are so happy and delighted that today we are the ones hosting the campaign,” Kayanja said.He encouraged residents to remain vigilant about cleanliness, warning that the cost of treating diseases can be high for ordinary families.  The Weyonje campaign is part of broader efforts to improve sanitation, waste management and environmental cleanliness in Kampala through community participation and public awareness.

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