COMMISSIONER SEKU URGES BUSOGA STUDENTS TO PROTECT THEMSELVES FROM HIV/AIDS

The Commissioner for the National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) at State House, Ms. Hellen Seku has urged students in Busoga sub-region to respect their bodies and avoid behaviors that could expose them to HIV/AIDS. While addressing students during a visit to Jinja Secondary School yesterday, Ms. Seku emphasized the importance of discipline, self-respect, and education as key tools in protecting young people from risky lifestyles. She encouraged students, especially girls, to remain focused on their education and avoid peer pressure, make wise life choices until the right time and circumstances for relationships come. Quoting the Bible from the Book of Hosea Chapter 4:6, she reminded students that lack of knowledge can destroy communities. Ms. Seku also encouraged them to develop a strong reading culture and focus on their studies if they want to succeed in life. “If you don’t research and you don’t read, you will always be the last, while those who read and research will always shine,” Ms. Seku told the students, urging candidates in Senior Four and Senior Six to aim for excellent results. The commissioner further emphasized the importance of environmental cleanliness in schools, urging students to keep classrooms, toilets, and bathrooms clean, avoid littering, and plant more trees. She commended the leadership of the school for maintaining a clean environment and encouraged students to build a culture of discipline and responsibility. Ms. Seku also paid tribute to teachers for their dedication to shaping the future of the country, describing them as among the most patriotic citizens because of the sacrifices they make to educate young people despite limited resources. “A teacher made me who I am today,” she said, calling on students to appreciate their teachers and work hard to achieve their dreams. The head teacher of the school, Mr. Balimusangayo Isaac, informed the commissioner that the institution is struggling with very old buildings and structures that require urgent renovation. He appealed to government authorities to support the school in rehabilitating the aging facilities to provide a better learning environment for students. In response, Commissioner Seku promised immediate attention to the renovation of the existing structures and pledged support for the construction of new ones. She also assured the school administration that efforts would be made to provide a school bus to help students with transportation. Commissioner Seku is currently conducting a seven-day monitoring and evaluation tour of schools and institutions across the districts in the Busoga sub-region to promote patriotism, education, and youth empowerment. ENDS

2026-03-17

COL. NAKALEMA TIPS YOUTH ON INTENTIONAL FATHERHOOD

The head of the State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), Col. Edith Nakalema has tipped the youth on intentional fatherhood. Intentional fatherhood is the proactive, conscious practice of raising children based on deliberate values and long-term goals rather than reactive, impulse-driven habits. It focuses on building deep, secure connections and structured environments to nurture a child’s specific character and emotional needs. “Many children complain that their parents have abandoned their responsibilities,” she said. Col. Nakalema made the remarks today during an interactive session with the youth at the SHIPU offices in Kampala. Col. Nakalema noted that she was lucky she grew up in the hands of caring parents despite their humble background. “Our father was there in our lives. I experienced that physical presence, and he prayed for us every day so I know what father's love means to a child,” she revealed. “There's a lot of outcry among the parents and children regarding the parenthood matter. Many children yearn for their parents' [especially father’s] love. Reactive fatherhood is causing resentment between fathers and their children.” Col. Nakalema noted that the physical presence of a father in the lives of his wife and children was key in keeping a family intact. “Money is not everything in a family, what brings peace and contentment is the presence of a father in the family. I urge you, young men, to give security and protection to your children,” she said. “Those saying that high class working ladies disrespect their husbands, it's a lie. Despite having a higher rank in the army than him, I highly respect him because he has been in our lives. I truly respect him because I know he is the head of the family.” Col. Nakalema further requested the youth to be change agents in their communities in ensuring intentional fatherhood/parenting. Mr. Jacob Akuguzibwe alias DJ Jacob Omutuzze revealed that he became a street kid at a very young age of 8 years but thanked God that He transformed his life. “I passed through a lot of challenges, even sexual exploitation while on the streets. Fortunately, while still on the street, I got a chance to meet the First Son and his sisters who gave me some money which I used to pay my school fees and left the street. Businessman Patrick Bitature also paid my school fees,” he said. “Due to the disconnection between the children and parents, the young ones are facing a lot of challenges both physical and psychological. Such challenges have led to single motherhood among young girls, drug abuse, among others.” DJ Jacob added that due to his background, he decided to start helping young single mothers by offering them emotional and material support. “Leaders should help us remind parents of their responsibilities,” he said. He also called upon the government to regulate social media content, explaining that some irresponsible content has also been part and parcel in steering moral decay and breaking of families in society. Mr. Asla Musisi said what has destroyed families are some selfish parents who don't care about the future of their children. “Some parents separate without considering what will happen to their children. They only care about themselves. Down there, we have marriages not families,” he said. “Weak policies have also destroyed families.” Mr. Muda said many fathers no longer want to take care of their families, this has forced many children to fend for themselves, through immoral activities such as prostitution. Ms. Patricia Nakayima said modernisation has played a big role in breaking families. “People copy a lot from social media and in this current era, some women are so demanding and when a man fails to fulfil, a family can break up.” Uganda National Students Association (UNSA) president, Ms. Shillah Ainembabazi proposed that intentional fatherhood/parenting topics should be discussed from the grassroots to ensure that the whole society is engaged. “This will help us to equip families on what needs to be done in order to deal with challenges affecting our families,” she said. “I was raised by a poor single mother after the death of my father and I also became a single mother at a very young age. The person who made me pregnant ran away because he was also young. Even right now when you tell him to come and see his child, he fears. So, you can see that there's that disconnection between him and his child.” The meeting was also attended by the Executive Director of Uganda Manufacturers Association, Dr. Ezra Muhumuza and Rev. Dr. Ben Tumuheirwe.

2026-03-17

MUSEVENI PRAISES CHIEF JUSTICE OWINY-DOLLO’S DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AT GRAND HOMECOMING IN GULU

A cross-section of national leaders, cultural and religious figures, family members, friends, and wananchi gathered at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu City today for a homecoming ceremony held in honour of His Lordship Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo, the retired Chief Justice of the Republic of Uganda. The event celebrated his distinguished service to the nation and his significant contributions to the administration of justice. The ceremony brought together leaders from across the country as well as members of the public who paid tribute to the former Chief Justice for his commitment to the rule of law, integrity in public service, and efforts toward national unity and reconciliation. In his address, His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, congratulated Chief Justice Emeritus Owiny-Dollo on the recognition accorded to him by his community, describing the honour as a fitting celebration of integrity, dedication, and patriotism. President Museveni commended the people of Acholi for recognizing leaders who have contributed to building strong national institutions and promoting peace and unity across Uganda. The President particularly thanked Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo for three key contributions. First, he praised his integrity in public service, noting that despite persistent concerns about corruption in some sectors, he had never heard Owiny-Dollo associated with corrupt practices. Second, he recognized his contribution to strengthening Uganda’s judiciary, especially his support for the expansion of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms—an approach the President has long advocated to ease court congestion and improve access to justice. Third, the President commended Owiny-Dollo’s role in promoting unity and reconciliation in Northern Uganda, particularly during the region’s recovery after years of conflict. President Museveni also used the occasion to highlight the importance of economic transformation through household participation in productive activities. He emphasized the government’s strategy of promoting small-scale enterprises that are suitable for households with limited land, including poultry for egg production, dairy farming, coffee growing, fruit cultivation, fish farming, and other high-value agricultural enterprises. The President explained that the strategy focuses on intensive agriculture rather than extensive farming, noting that crops such as cotton, maize, sugarcane, and rubber require large land holdings and are therefore less suitable for smallholder households. He further stressed the importance of producing for markets, cautioning against encouraging farmers to produce commodities without assured demand. The President noted that Uganda must take advantage of expanding markets within the East African region and across the African continent, while guiding farmers toward enterprises that guarantee sustainable income. President Museveni observed that Uganda’s economic transformation will largely be driven by millions of small-scale producers working collectively across the country. He cited examples from regions such as Masaka, where smallholder farmers have significantly increased production of commodities such as coffee and milk. According to the President, empowering small producers ensures that more households earn income and participate directly in national development. Before inviting the President to address the gathering, Chief Justice Emeritus Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo expressed his profound gratitude to H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for attending the ceremony and for his longstanding support to Northern Uganda. He thanked the President for the role he played in restoring peace and stability in the region after years of conflict, noting that this peace had enabled communities to rebuild their lives, pursue education, and strengthen institutions. Looking ahead, Owiny-Dollo announced that his next major focus would be championing community revival and wealth creation across the Acholi sub-region, noting that decades of conflict had left many households economically disadvantaged. He called on communities to move beyond the rhetoric of past conflicts and instead focus on rebuilding their livelihoods through productive economic activities. The retired Chief Justice emphasized the need for people-centered wealth creation initiatives, including the productive use of large expanses of idle land and the adoption of mechanized agriculture led by communities themselves. He noted that ongoing efforts supported by Operation Wealth Creation, under the leadership of Gen. (Rtd) Salim Saleh, had already begun supporting agricultural mechanization in the region. Owiny-Dollo also proposed the establishment of an irrigation scheme at Agoro to enhance agricultural productivity and urged government to review the impact of socio-economic empowerment funds that have been injected into Northern Uganda over the years to ensure they are achieving their intended outcomes. He further called on leaders across Acholi—including political, cultural, and community leaders—to take responsibility for driving socio-economic transformation in their respective areas. He suggested that local by-laws could help encourage households to actively participate in wealth creation initiatives. In remarks delivered on behalf of the Chief Justice Flavian Zeija, the Hon. Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo thanked Owiny-Dollo for his distinguished service to the country and his steadfast commitment to strengthening Uganda’s justice system. He commended his dedication to upholding the rule of law, promoting integrity within the judiciary, and inspiring public confidence in the administration of justice. Speakers at the event also praised Chief Justice Owiny-Dollo for his integrity and leadership, noting that throughout his career he has remained committed to fairness, justice, and service to the nation. They particularly highlighted his role in promoting unity and reconciliation in Northern Uganda during the country’s recovery from years of conflict. The ceremony featured traditional Acholi cultural performances, prayers, and tributes from leaders and community members, reflecting the deep respect and appreciation the community holds for the former Chief Justice and his contributions to national development. President Museveni concluded by encouraging leaders and communities across the country to continue working together to strengthen institutions, promote unity, and accelerate Uganda’s socio-economic transformation.

2026-03-14

NSPC LAUNCHES MENTAL HEALTH SESSIONS FOR STAFF, URGES FAMILIES TO RETHINK YOUTH MENTAL WELLNESS

State House's National Secretariat for Patriotism Corps (NSPC) has launched mental health awareness lessons for its staff in a move aimed at promoting wellbeing and addressing the growing mental health challenges among the Ugandan youth. Speaking during the first session today, the Commissioner- NSPC, Ms. Hellen Seku urged families across Uganda to stop attributing children’s struggles to witchcraft and instead recognize mental health as a serious issue that requires proper attention and support. Ms. Seku noted that many young people are silently battling mental health conditions and that society must confront the problem with openness and understanding. “Families should stop thinking that when their children face challenges, it is because they have been bewitched. Many of our youth are affected by mental health conditions and as a nation we must address this issue seriously,” she said. She also commended the staff of the NSPC for participating in the awareness session, emphasizing that such engagements are important in building supportive workplaces. “I thank my staff for participating in this activity today. Let this be a lesson to other organizations to encourage their staff to take part in mental health lessons and discussions. It is the only way we can understand the wellbeing of those we lead and what they are going through,” Ms. Seku added. Mental health experts say the initiative comes at a time when mental health disorders among youth are becoming increasingly common. According to Ms. Florence Namyaalo, a Psychiatric Clinical and Public Health Officer with the Transcultural Psychosocial Organization Uganda, the problem is both national and global. Ms. Namyaalo explained that worldwide, between 15 and 20 percent of young people experience mental health challenges. “In Uganda, the situation is particularly worrying,” she said. A recent report by the Ministry of Health-Uganda, indicates that about 191,000 youth in the Buganda sub-region are living with mental health conditions, with urban areas such as Kampala recording higher cases compared to other parts of the country. Health professionals attribute the rise in mental health problems to several factors, including unemployment, family conflicts and relationship challenges. Many young people, Ms. Namyaalo noted, resort to alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes and khat in an attempt to cope with stress. “Everyone is at risk, and it is okay not to be okay,” she said, urging young people to seek support and avoid harmful coping mechanisms. Experts recommend simple steps to protect mental wellbeing, including getting adequate sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise and seeking support from family, friends or community groups. Ms. Namyaalo encouraged young people experiencing distress to speak up and seek professional help when necessary, noting that early intervention can prevent more severe mental health outcomes. She also called on communities, institutions and organizations to play a greater role in identifying individuals who may be struggling and encouraging them to prioritize their wellbeing. “When the people around us are healthy and supported, we all live better lives,” she said.

2026-03-14

YOGA YOGA JAJJA: UGANDANS GATHER AT KOLOLO TO CELEBRATE PRESIDENT MUSEVENI'S ELECTION VICTORY

Thousands of Ugandans today gathered at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds for the “Yoga Yoga Jajja” event to celebrate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s recent election victory. President Museveni was re-elected in January during the 2026 general election. He secured 7,946,772 votes, representing 71.65% of the valid ballots cast, according to the Independent Electoral Commission. The full-day event, organised by Ms. Aminah Mukalazi, the Head of the State House Local Content Unit, attracted large crowds who turned up to express gratitude and support for the President, in what organizers described as both a thanksgiving and a celebration of national unity. During the event, the President who was accompanied by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, thanked supporters and renewed his call for wealth creation, accountability, and national unity. President Museveni also expressed gratitude to the organizers, particularly Ms. Mukalazi, who spearheaded the celebrations. “I greet you all. I want to thank our daughter Aminah Mukalazi for organizing these celebrations, and I thank all the groups that participated in the campaign. I also thank all Ugandans who are not here but supported the NRM,” the President said. He also thanked God for what he described as decades of victories throughout Uganda’s struggles. “I want to thank God for the victory and the many victories He has been giving us. For the last 55 years, since 1971, we have been in struggles, and God has always given us victories,” he noted. The President said that while the event celebrated political victory, it should also remind Ugandans of the importance of economic empowerment and hard work. “You have heard of our sister Aminah Mukalazi. She is celebrating the political victory, but she is also reminding everybody to work and create wealth in their homes,” he said. President Museveni emphasized that Uganda’s transformation depends on wealth and job creation, particularly in key sectors of the economy. “The issue of wealth and job creation is very important. It should be done in sectors such as commercial agriculture, manufacturing, services and ICT. Every adult in Uganda should ensure that he or she is engaged in productive work,” he said. The President noted that poverty in some households is one of the reasons some young people end up on the streets. “You heard the young man who said he once stayed on the streets. That problem comes from homes that lack the capacity to support their children. That is why since 1995 we have been encouraging wealth creation under the message of ‘Bonna Bagagawale,’ so that every household can prosper,” he explained. He pointed to government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model as key tools for moving more Ugandans from subsistence living into the money economy. “About 70% of Ugandans are now in the money economy, but there are still about 30 percent remaining. That is why programs like the Parish Development Model are important,” the President said. He urged citizens to closely monitor government programs in their communities to ensure that funds benefit the intended beneficiaries. “All of you belong to a parish and in towns it is called a ward. Elect committees and follow up on the Parish Development Model money so that you know who has received it and how it is being used,” he advised. On national budgeting, President Museveni called on Ugandans to encourage their Members of Parliament to support government priorities that focus on improving livelihoods. “Tell your Members of Parliament to support my budgeting where we prioritize the livelihoods of our people. If you want money, we must start with wealth creation programs like PDM before other expenditures,” he said. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to free education in public schools. “We want our children to study free of charge in government schools, but we must first fight poverty so that families can support their children,” he added. The President also raised concern about drug theft in some health facilities and urged communities to demand accountability. “Immunization has gone very well, but the problem in some health centers is treatment. These health centers are here in Uganda not in Congo or South Sudan. If there is theft of drugs, the people must demand answers,” he said. President Museveni warned against corruption, particularly individuals who allegedly sell government jobs. “Do not tolerate corruption. We hear about people selling government jobs. Why don’t you report them so they are arrested? Many government workers are honest, but the few corrupt ones must be exposed,” he said. The President further noted that improving roads remains a priority for the government. “The next struggle is to ensure that our roads are in good condition. There are issues which I know about, and we shall solve them,” he said. He also highlighted the importance of promoting local content in national projects to create opportunities for Ugandan businesses. “Local content means that if something can be done by Ugandans, they must be given priority. For example, the Standard Gauge Railway will need materials such as cement sleepers, and these can be produced locally,” he said. President Museveni assured investors that Uganda remains open for business but warned that corruption will not be tolerated. “Investors come with their own money, but what they do not want is corruption. When I get information about corruption, we deal with those responsible,” he said. On her part, the Vice President, H.E Jessica Alupo congratulated the President on his victory and thanked Ugandans for supporting peace and development. “Your Excellency, thank you for steering the campaign teams with excellence, which enabled us to secure a victory that was not contested. I thank the people of Uganda for supporting peace, security and development,” she said. H.E Alupo also commended the First Lady, Maama Janet, for her efforts in the education sector. “Maama Janet, thank you for the hard work in the Ministry of Education and Sports and for the Senior Six results that have just been released,” she added. Addressing the gathering, Ms. Mukalazi said the turnout itself was a strong indication of the public’s affection and confidence in President Museveni’s leadership. “Mzee and Maama, the people are very happy that you are here today. This gathering is a clear symbol that Ugandans love you and appreciate your leadership,” she said. Pastor Robert Kayanja, who led prayers of thanksgiving, thanked God for President Museveni’s life, leadership, and the country’s continued stability. “Today we have come back to thank the Heavenly Father. We do not take it for granted that God has given Mzee and Maama life and granted them victory,” Pastor Kayanja said. He also prayed for continued unity and cooperation in the region, asking God to guide efforts toward the East African Federation and stronger economic integration. “We pray that the Lord will grant the leaders wisdom as they work towards East African cooperation, a common market and eventual federation,” he added. Pastor Kayanja further prayed for the next five years of leadership, asking that government policies continue to uplift Ugandans and ensure food security across the country. “For the five years to come, we pray that whatever the government does will be intentional and aimed at ensuring that Uganda feeds its people and that love for our country grows stronger,” he said. The “Yoga Yoga Jajja” victory celebration combined prayers, entertainment, and public testimonies. The event was also attended by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, Ministers, Members of Parliament, religious and cultural leaders, among others.

2026-03-13

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI MEETS MASAKA NRM LEADERS, CALLS FOR FOCUS ON REAL ISSUES AFFECTING CITIZENS

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has today met National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in Greater Masaka at State Lodge, Masaka. He urged them to focus on addressing the real challenges affecting the wananchi (citizens), exposing corruption at local levels, and promoting government programmes aimed at improving livelihoods. The meeting was organised by Masaka City Woman Member of Parliament-elect, Hon. Justine Nameere. President Museveni criticised some leaders for spending too much time in political arguments instead of addressing the needs of ordinary citizens. “It is unfortunate how some leaders waste time in Parliament talking instead of looking at the real issues and reaching the ordinary people. Leaders must expose wrongdoing and demand solutions to the problems affecting the wananchi,” the President said. He warned that silence in the face of corruption undermines public trust and weakens service delivery. “Keeping quiet about thieves and corruption in your areas is unacceptable. If leaders at the district level are corrupt and Members of Parliament fear to expose them, then the whole system rots,” he added. The President also challenged NRM leaders to confidently speak about the achievements of the government instead of fearing criticism. “Some NRM leaders fear to talk about the achievements of the government because they worry about criticism from the population. This is wrong. Instead of keeping quiet, you should promote government programmes and explain what has been achieved,” he said. On national unity, President Museveni cautioned against sectarianism, describing it as a dangerous force that divides communities along tribal and religious lines. “The other poison is sectarianism, dividing people based on religion and tribe. This is dangerous and we must not allow it,” he emphasised. The President commended Hon. Nameere for her courage and initiative in organising the meeting, recounting how he first encountered her when she was young and later brought her to work as an advisor. He also recalled the circumstances surrounding her election victory. “When she contested for the Masaka city Woman MP seat, there were attempts to rig the votes but she insisted on a recount, and when the votes were counted again, she won. That shows courage,” he said. To illustrate the importance of unity across communities, President Museveni shared a personal story about how his education was supported through cattle sales to traders from different backgrounds. “I went to school in the 1950s and 1960s because my father was able to pay the school fees by selling cattle in the monthly auction markets of Ntungamo. The buyers were businessmen from different backgrounds, including Walusimbi-Mpanga from Kampala, Bukyenya from Mbarara and Shear, a Muzungu operating from Ishaka who supplied cattle to feed miners at Kilembe,” he said. “Who, then, supported my education apart from my father? Certainly not only the Banyankore or my church denomination,” he added, stressing that development has always depended on cooperation among diverse communities. President Museveni further urged leaders to mobilise the wananchi to embrace government wealth creation programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Operation Wealth Creation (OWC). “NRM has always focused on the real issues affecting the people. In the past we faced challenges like insecurity, lack of schools and health centres. Today the main issue we are fighting is poverty,” he said. He explained that the Parish Development Model was introduced to ensure that government support directly reaches households through parish-level structures. “We decided that those above 18 years should engage with the PDM funds at the parish level because districts and sub-counties were too far from the ordinary person,” he noted. The President urged leaders to actively promote these programmes in their communities. “Use and embrace government programmes to solve the issues in society,” he said. On her part, Hon. Nameere thanked President Museveni for meeting the leaders and for his continued guidance to the people of Masaka. “I want to thank the President for sparing time to meet us and for the wise counsel he has given to us as leaders. His guidance will help us refocus on serving our people and promoting the government programmes meant to improve the livelihoods of the wananchi,” she said. She also pledged to continue mobilising leaders and communities in Masaka to support government initiatives aimed at fighting poverty and fostering development.

2026-03-11