Ssemaganda Moses Hope

National

December 17, 2025

GOVERNMENT REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO CREATIVE INDUSTRY WITH UGANDA ONE FESTIVAL LAUNCH

Story by Nagita Aidah.Kampala, Uganda - The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, in collaboration with Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS), SBL Media, and other creative stakeholders, has officially launched the UGANDA ONE FESTIVAL, a national celebration of Uganda's creative and cultural economy. The launch, which took place on December 17, 2025, marks a significant milestone in the country's efforts to promote the creative industry as a key driver of economic growth and job creation.Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, affirmed the government's commitment to the sector, stating, "The Creative Industry is central to Uganda's job creation and identity."  The UGANDA ONE FESTIVAL, scheduled for January 8-9, 2026, is a pioneering two-day event that will unite thousands of creatives, performers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural leaders to showcase Uganda's creative and cultural wealth across nine domains.Sylvia Owori, Chairperson of the National Organizing Committee, emphasized the festival's economic potential, saying, "This festival is an economic engine. We are unlocking the full potential of Uganda's creative economy."The festival promises to be a groundbreaking event, showcasing Uganda's rich cultural heritage and creative talent.Herbert Mugisha, the CEO of the Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS), explained that UPRS is a collective management organization (CMO) legally mandated to collect and distribute royalties on behalf of musicians in Uganda.  He emphasized that music is intellectual property, and its commercial use necessitates payment to the creator, likening it to paying for rent or electricity, and dispelling the myth that music is free.  The CEO announced that UPRS has reformed, implemented new systems, and rebranded with the tagline "Let Music Pay," as it celebrates its 40th anniversary, having been incorporated in 1985.

National

December 17, 2025

U.S. DONATES MINXRAY PORTABLE X-RAY UNITS TO UGANDA TO BOOST TB DIAGNOSIS

Story By Nagita Aidah The United States government has commissioned 14 ultra-portable MinXray digital X-ray units equipped with artificial intelligence software for advanced TB diagnosis in Uganda.   The units were handed over to Uganda's Ministry of Health on December 15, 2025, as part of efforts to enhance TB diagnosis and treatment in the country.The U.S. government has also provided 33 solar power backup systems to support TB testing, enabling real-time community-based testing of over 1,300 sputum TB samples per day and diagnosing 69 TB cases during integrated health screening outreaches.This initiative is part of the US-Uganda health cooperation and demonstrates the impact of American innovation in global health security.  The U.S. government has also provided 48 additional digital X-ray units to the Ministry of Health, increasing the total to 65, which have already screened over 150,000 people and identified more than 4,600 TB cases for timely treatment. Hon. Betty Amongi, Minister of Gender, Labour and Social Development, emphasized the government's commitment to strengthening health systems and improving access to quality healthcare services. The deployment of MinXray units is expected to screen over 110,000 individuals for TB and diagnose an estimated 3,600 TB cases, with additional referrals for other lung conditions. The initiative is a significant step towards reducing TB incidence and improving lung health in Uganda, and demonstrates the shared commitment of the U.S. and Uganda to life-saving services and health security.

National

December 17, 2025

Government Strengthens Health Training Institutions with New Isuzu Buses

 Mulago, Kampala — The Government of Uganda, under the leadership of the National Resistance Movement (NRM), has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening health training institutions across the country with the handover of four brand new 2024 model Isuzu buses worth UGX 2.7 billion.The buses were officially handed over at Mulago Nursing School in a ceremony presided over by the State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, who represented the Minister of Education and Sports and First Lady, H.E. Janet Kataaha Museveni. In a speech delivered on her behalf, Minister Janet Museveni emphasized that government remains focused on equipping health training institutions with the necessary infrastructure and transport to improve training and ultimately enhance health service delivery nationwide. The Minister noted that investing in training institutions is a strategic approach to producing well-equipped and motivated health professionals who can effectively serve communities across Uganda. Dr. JC Muyingo reiterated government’s position, urging beneficiary institutions to ensure that the buses are strictly used for official duties. He warned that any misuse of the vehicles for personal activities would attract disciplinary action, underscoring government’s commitment to accountability and value for public resources. The Commissioner for Health Education and Training, Hajjat Safina Kisu Musene, commended the NRM government and the Ministry of Education and Sports for consistently supporting the training of health practitioners. She noted that improved transport will ease student fieldwork, supervision, and institutional operations. Representatives from the beneficiary institutions expressed gratitude to government for the timely support, saying the buses will greatly enhance training activities and service delivery. The beneficiary institutions include: Kabong College of Nursing and MidwiferySchool of Hygiene, MbaleMedical Laboratory Training School, JinjaBushenyi School of Nursing In addition to the four Isuzu buses, government support to health training institutions also includes other utility vehicles such as double cabin pickups to facilitate administration and outreach activities. This latest intervention highlights the continued commitment of the Ministry of Education and Sports, under the stewardship of First Lady Janet Museveni, and the NRM government to strengthening human capital development and building a resilient health system for Uganda. 

Crime

December 17, 2025

Fresh Allegations Emerge as Matanda Irrigation Project Dispute Deepens More Top leaders Named

 A land dispute linked to the Matanda Irrigation Project has taken a new turn following fresh allegations by a landowner who claims that a coordinated network of officials, local leaders, and private individuals is behind what she describes as an unlawful takeover of her family land. Mrs. Joy Christine Tusiime, a Kampala resident, has formally petitioned the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, asking for investigations into the conduct of government agencies involved in the project, which is being implemented by the Ministry of Water and Environment with funding from the World Bank. Mrs. Tusiime alleges that the valuation and land acquisition process was rushed and lacked transparency, leaving affected landowners with little opportunity for consultation or redress. She maintains that decisions concerning her land were imposed without following lawful procedures. According to her account, tensions escalated when she declined to accept terms she considered unfair, after which she was allegedly arrested under circumstances she describes as arbitrary and intimidating. She says the incident forced her to temporarily leave the country out of fear for her safety. She further claims that project implementers later moved onto her land, demolishing property and destroying livestock, food stores, and other belongings. Mrs. Tusiime alleges that sections of land not earmarked for acquisition were also taken over during the exercise. In a new statement, Mrs. Tusiime has named individuals she alleges played a role in what she terms a coordinated land-grabbing effort. Among those she mentions are the Kanungu Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Ambrose Amanyire, whom she accuses of working with alleged land grabbers and certain local leaders. She also names Kamusime Ronah, Mwesigye Ambroze, LC3 and LC1 leaders from Kyamutima, as well as individuals identified as Rechal Allen and Emily, among others. These claims remain allegations and have not yet been independently verified. Mrs. Tusiime further alleges that police officers in Kanungu District worked alongside officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment during the demolition exercise, providing security as her property was destroyed. Despite discussions around compensation, Mrs. Tusiime insists that she never accepted nor considered it, stating that the land is ancestral family property held in trust for future generations. She argues that its cultural and familial significance was ignored during the acquisition process. She is now calling on the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, under the leadership of Brigadier General Henry Isoke, to intervene, investigate the allegations, and address what she describes as serious irregularities. She has also warned that the project should not proceed on her land unless the dispute is resolved amicably and lawfully. The unfolding dispute has renewed debate around land acquisition for large infrastructure projects, particularly those supported by international financiers. As attention turns to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, many observers say the case could become a key test of accountability, transparency, and respect for land rights in Uganda’s development agenda. 

National

December 16, 2025

Youth Urged to Uphold Peace as Seeta University Hosts 36th UNSA General Assembly

 The atmosphere is vibrant and energetic at Seeta University, Mbalala–Mukono, as over 2,000 youth leaders from across Uganda gather for the 36th Uganda National Students’ Association (UNSA) General Assembly and Council Meeting. As the country approaches the January 2026 General Elections, security and national leaders have called upon young people to remain peaceful, patriotic, and responsible during the electoral season. While officiating at the opening ceremony, Maj. Gen. Henry Masiko cautioned youth—particularly Generation Z—against being drawn into acts of violence or unrest. He emphasized that Uganda remains a peaceful nation and warned against politicians who may exploit young people for personal political interests. “Love your country, respect leadership, and focus on being productive citizens,” Gen. Masiko urged, noting that security agencies remain alert to ensure national stability. The General Assembly has brought together student leaders from secondary schools and universities, with every district represented. The gathering also serves as a platform for electing new UNSA leaders, including the association’s President and executive team. Addressing delegates, Ms. Hellen Sseku, the President’s Private Secretary in charge of national ideology, encouraged youth to stay hopeful and proactive. She highlighted government plans to prioritize youth empowerment in the coming term, particularly through education, skills development, and financial support for unemployed graduates. “Young people should move beyond dependency and instead create opportunities for themselves,” she said, revealing initiatives aimed at providing startup capital to graduates to stimulate entrepreneurship and economic growth. The Acting Vice Chancellor of Seeta University, Mr. Ronald Mbago, commended UNSA for entrusting the institution with hosting such a national event, describing it as a milestone for the young university. Government was also represented by the Ministry of Education and Sports, where Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, through a commissioner, reminded youth leaders of their responsibility as future leaders. He called on them to be disciplined, health-conscious, time-aware, and exemplary in conduct. UNSA continues to play a vital role in shaping responsible, informed, and united youth leadership. With President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as its Patron, the association remains a key platform for youth engagement, dialogue, and national development. As the 2026 elections draw nearer, messages from Seeta University echo a common theme: peace, patriotism, and purpose among Uganda’s youth. 

Featured

December 16, 2025

OVER 300 GET FREE MEDICAL SERVICES IN AMAANI COMMUNITY INITIATIVE'S KIREKA HEALTH CAMP. Kireka, Kira Municipality

Story By Nagita AidahAmaani Community Initiative (ACI) conducted its Fourth Annual Community Health Camp in Kireka on 12 December 2025 as part of its ongoing community health programming. The outreach was organised during the Christmas season to support families to celebrate in good health and to encourage responsible living as communities prepare to enter the New Year. Speaking during the outreach, Ms. Sandra Namarome, Board Chairperson of Amaani Community Initiative, explained that the health camp was implemented as part of ACI’s structured community health approach, aimed at promoting early health-seeking behaviour, preventive screening, and timely referral, while reinforcing the use of existing government health facilities for continued care. Amaani Community Initiative is a Christian organisation anchored in the love of Jesus Christ, whose faith informs its commitment to serve communities with compassion, dignity, and integrity. During the Christmas season, the organisation expresses these values through practical service, including promoting health and well-being for all.The health camp was implemented in a manner that complements routine facility-based services, creating an entry point for community members to access screening, basic treatment, health education, and referral, and strengthening linkages with nearby public health facilities. Services provided during the outreach included screening for tuberculosis and respiratory illnesses, HIV, malaria, cervical cancer, pregnancy-related conditions, and urinary tract infections, as well as eye care services with treatment provided. Clients received treatment and medicines on site, while those requiring further care were referred to appropriate government health facilities. Clinical services were led by health workers from Kira Health Centre IV, working in collaboration with Bweyogerere Health Centre III, with support from the Ministry of Health. Additional support was provided by the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), while Malaria Consortium Uganda supported malaria diagnosis and treatment through the provision of malaria testing kits and medicines.  A health worker from Kira Health Centre IV emphasised the importance of regular medical check-ups, noting that early detection and timely referral are essential for managing both communicable and non-communicable conditions. A resident who benefited from the outreach expressed appreciation for the availability of medicines and services, noting that the camp helped families address health concerns promptly. The outreach reached over 300 community members, including adults and children. Commonly identified conditions included urinary tract infections and respiratory illnesses, while elevated blood pressure was noted among some clients. Health workers encouraged community members to maintain healthy weight, regular physical activity, adequate hydration, and routine health check-ups, particularly during the festive season.The initiative contributes to advancing Good Health and Well-Being, reducing inequalities in access to essential health services, and strengthening partnerships, in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—notably SDG 3, SDG 10, and SDG 17.  Amaani Community Initiative appreciates the collaboration of the Ministry of Health, and the support of the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and Malaria Consortium Uganda, as well as the contribution of local community leadership, volunteers, and community members whose participation made the outreach successful.

Exposed

December 15, 2025

Matanda Irrigation Project Under Scrutiny as Landowner Cries for State House Anti-Corruption Intervention

 The implementation of the Matanda Irrigation Project has come under intense scrutiny following allegations of irregularities, intimidation, and abuse of authority raised by a landowner affected by the project. Mrs. Joy Christine Tusiime, a resident of Bukasa–Muyenga in Kampala, has petitioned the State House Anti-Corruption Unit seeking an independent investigation into the valuation, land acquisition, and compensation processes undertaken by various government agencies under the project, which is overseen by the Ministry of Water and Environment and funded by the World Bank. In her complaint, Mrs. Tusiime questions whether legally required procedures were followed before and during the acquisition of land for the project. She alleges that the process was rushed, lacked transparency, and failed to adequately consult affected landowners, with key decisions imposed without proper engagement. She further alleges that she was arbitrarily arrested after declining to accept terms she considered unfair, describing the incident as unjustified and intimidating. Following the arrest, Mrs. Tusiime says she was forced to leave the country temporarily out of fear for her safety, raising concerns about how disputes linked to public projects are handled. Mrs. Tusiime also claims that project implementers later demolished property and extended works onto sections of land that were never part of the approved acquisition. She alleges that her homes, livestock, food supplies, and other property on the land were destroyed in the process. In her complaint, Mrs. Tusiime pins responsibility on the current Resident District Commissioner (RDC) of Kanungu, Mr. Ambrose Amanyire, whom she accuses of conniving with alleged land grabbers and some local leaders to facilitate the takeover of her family land. She further alleges that police in Kanungu worked in connivance with officials from the Ministry of Water and Environment during the destruction of her property, claims that have not yet been independently verified. Although compensation was discussed, Mrs. Tusiime insists that she never considered or accepted it, emphasizing that the land in question is ancestral family land held across generations. She maintains that its status was ignored during the valuation and acquisition process. She has now formally appealed to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, headed by Brigadier General Henry Isoke, to investigate the conduct of the Ministry of Water and Environment, local government officials, and security agencies involved. She has asked the Unit to address the cited irregularities to ensure a fair, lawful, and transparent process. Mrs. Tusiime further emphasizes that the Matanda Irrigation Project should not proceed on her land unless these issues are resolved amicably and lawfully, warning that ignoring the grievances risks deepening mistrust and injustice. The matter has drawn wider attention to concerns surrounding the implementation of large government infrastructure projects—particularly those funded by international financiers—and the need to uphold land rights, accountability, and due process. Observers note that the outcome of this case could set an important precedent for how development projects balance public interest with the rights of affected citizens. 

Featured

December 15, 2025

BAMUNANIKA COUNTY NRM GRASSROOT MOBILIZATION GAINS MOMENTUM

 The NRM Grassroot Campaign Program in Bamunanika County continues to register strong progress as leaders move together with one purpose — protecting the gains and securing victory for the NRM and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. Today’s mobilization activities kicked off successfully in Katagwe Parish, Kamira Town Council, where NRM leaders engaged supporters from six villages. The team later proceeded to Makonkonyigo Parish, also in Kamira Town Council, reaching four villages in a well-coordinated and high-energy exercise.  The mobilization was led by Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo alongside Wasswa Abdulkarrim Tamale, working closely with local leaders and party structures. The engagements reflected unity, discipline, and renewed commitment among NRM leaders and supporters at the grassroots.  Targeting 90% Support for Museveni and NRM Flag Bearers  Addressing the gatherings, Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo emphasized that the NRM is aiming for 90% support for H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and all NRM flag bearers at every level. These include:H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni – PresidentDr. Kiyini Lule – Bamunanika CountyHon. Kirabo Agnes Nantongo – District Woman MPAnd all other NRM leaders down to the lowest level   Key Messages Delivered  Hon. Muyingo called upon supporters to: Uphold peaceful electionsShow respect for one another throughout the political seasonTurn out massively to vote NRMReach out to those who may not yet believe in the party and win their hearts through dialogueReflect on the good achievements of the NRM over the last 40 years, emphasizing that the party has been trusted and tested to lead Uganda forward  Positive Observations on the Ground  The mobilization exercise revealed encouraging signs: Many youths are returning to the NRM, inspired by unity and renewed focusGrassroot campaigns have strengthened unity among leaders, bringing them together for one common causeThe entire team is now working with one clear goal — total NRM victory  As part of Greater Luweero, Bamunanika County once again demonstrates its historic role as a strong pillar of the NRM. With unity, discipline, and grassroots strength, leaders and supporters remain committed to protecting the gains of peace, stability, and development under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. 

Crime

December 12, 2025

KITAGWENDA LC5 CHAIRPERSON CHARGED AND REMANDED OVER SELLING DISTRICT JOBS

The State House Anti-Corruption Unit, in collaboration with the Police and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) have arrested and arraigned, Kitagwenda District LC5 Chairperson, Mushemeza Ismail Kambanda before the Kamwenge Magistrates Court on multiple charges of obtaining money by false pretenses. He has been remanded until January 6, 2026.  Kambanda, along with other accomplices still at large, allegedly defrauded several  job applicants between the years 2024 and 2025 promising them jobs mainly in the Nursing and Midwifery departments of Kitagwenda District despite there being no job openings.  Several residents of Kitagwenda district  lodged complaints against the LC5, alleging that he extorted money from them by promising jobs in the district that never materialized. Victims reported being lured into paying amounts ranging from 5 to 15 million shillings to the LC5 chairperson, either directly or through his agents, after which they received fake appointment letters along with counterfeit minutes from the District Service Commission.Upon attempting to take their positions, the victims discovered that their appointment letters were fake and that the jobs did not actually exist. When they sought for a refund from the LC5, he refused to return their money and as a result, the victims reported the matter to the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, which collaborated with the Kitagwenda Police and local leaders to initiate an investigation. Once the LC5 learned about the inquiries, he abandoned his office and went into hiding for several months until he was arrested.H.E the President has for a long time  re-echoed his commitment to fighting corruption espescially in recruitment at Districts and District Service Commissions. So far,  the unit has carried out investigations in over 30 districts including Mpigi, Gomba, Kyankwanzi, Mukono among others and and over 15 officials have so far been arraigned before courts of law on different charges relating to the sale of government jobs.

Education

December 11, 2025

Government Hails 5132 Graduates as Kyambogo University Holds Its 21st Graduation Ceremony

Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, has congratulated 5,132 students who successfully completed their studies during Kyambogo University’s 21st Graduation Ceremony. The message was officially delivered by Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo, Minister of State for Higher Education. The ceremony was attended by: Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo, Minister of State for Higher Education (representing the First Lady and Minister of Education)Prof. John Yakobo Okedi, ChancellorProf. Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya, Vice ChancellorHon. Gen. Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, Minister of State for Trade, Industry, and CooperativesOther university leaders, parents, guardians, and staff    Government Continues Strong Support for Higher Education  Chancellor Prof. John Yakobo Okedi and Vice Chancellor Prof. Eli Katunguka-Rwakishaya applauded the ruling government for its continuous investment in the higher education sector. Prof. Katunguka shared that the university graduated 3,157 male and 1,981 female students, including 367 First Class achievers and 23 PhD awardees.   Best Students Share Their Gratitude  Nakasango Teddy Charity, Best Overall (CGPA 4.98):“Kyambogo University has shaped me academically and personally. I thank my lecturers and family for their constant support.”Guma Francis, Best in Humanities (CGPA 4.93):“This achievement strengthens my passion for Guidance and Counselling. I appreciate the university and government for providing a supportive learning environment.”    A Parent From a Low-Income Background Shares His Joy  Mr. Samuel Ssenyonga, a parent from a humble background:“I worked hard with little, but seeing my child graduate today is a blessing. I thank Kyambogo University and the government for keeping education open to all families.”    Chancellor Prof. John Yakobo Okedi Praises Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo for Stabilizing the University In a heartfelt tribute, Prof. John Yakobo Okedi thanked Hon. Dr. JC Muyingo for his leadership during Kyambogo University’s most challenging moments. “There was a time when Kyambogo University faced deep challenges, and closure was almost unavoidable. Through your guidance and intervention, Hon. Dr. Muyingo, stability was restored. We appreciate your commitment to this institution,” Prof. Okedi said.    Message from the First Lady and Minister of Education  Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni congratulated all graduates and emphasized the importance of aligning higher institutions with the Competence-Based Curriculum, set for full rollout in the 2027/2028 academic year. 

National

December 11, 2025

UGANDA CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS DAY, URGES END TO ELECTION VIOLENCE AHEAD 2026 GENERAL ELECTION.

By Nagita Aidah  Ugandans have been urged to end election violence ,this has been reached during the celebrations of the international human rights day at Golf course hotel in kampala under the national theme, "Strengthening Democratic Space, Upholding Freedom of Expression, Speech, Association, Media, and Security of Persons in the 2026 General Elections,"Mariam wangadya the chairperson of the Uganda National Human Rights Commission highlighted UHRC's mandates (Article 52, Uganda Constitution): promoting civic awareness, monitoring government compliance with human rights treaties. "Despite pockets of incidents, the human situation in 2025 is not dire. We need vigilance, tolerance, and professionalism," she said.Julius Muchunguzi, spokesperson of the Uganda Independent Electoral Commission, emphasized that freedoms of expression, speech, association, media, and personal security are fundamental to actualizing the right to vote and choose leaders, as enshrined in Uganda's 1995 Constitution. "The right to vote is based on informed choices. Candidates must express themselves, present agendas, and engage with people," he said, noting electoral laws outline do's and don'ts to protect rights.  While initial election stages were peaceful, challenges arise during campaigns. "Ugandans are capable of peaceful conduct... these negative incidents are preventable and should be addressed," Muchunguzi added.George Musisi, an aspiring MP in Kira Municipality, discussed processions, stating guidelines should derive from law, specifically the Public Order Management Act, which classifies processions as public meetings requiring police notification. "The notification for campaign programs harmonized by the commission suffices, negating the need for separate daily notifications," he said.