Opinions | MINISTRY OF ICT AND NATIONAL GUIDANCE

15 November 2025

MUSEVENI SELLING MESSAGE OF PEACE, ACHIEVEMENTS, WEALTH CREATION AND HOPE

Today, the presidential election campaign trail is in its eighth week, and NRM presidential candidate, Yoweri Tibuhaburwa Kaguta Museveni remains the leading contender, selling message of peace, stability, achievements, perseverance and hope. Museveni is routing for the consolidation, protection, and expansion of transformational gains that Ugandans have individually and collectively made over the last four decades. Museveni’s message is consistently on health, education and wealth for all Ugandans. And clearly, NRM now already with eleven MPs declared unopposed by the Independent Electoral Commission out of a house of 529 seats after the closure of nominations three weeks ago, is in an unassailable position to continue as the dominant party in the next parliament. Yours truly, this columnist, is among the bunch of the eleven elected unopposed, as MP for Older Persons Eastern Region covering forty districts in Busoga, Bukedi, Bugisu, Sebei, and Teso. Whatever else you may be hearing and seeing could only be background noise and sideshows to decorate this season’s democratic process The reception, campaigns, political, and electoral standing in Teso, Karamoja, Bugisu, Sebei and Bukedi regions stomped this week, like Lango, Acholi and West Nile covered earlier, indicate without any exaggeration that Museveni and NRM will again sweep clean the polls come January 2026. Nevertheless, NRM campaigners must hold the rope-end tight, persuasively engage with Ugandans to ensure that the ground is firm and get the voters to the ballot boxes on polling day 15 January. As for the opposition candidates, their collective manifesto seems to be anti-Museveni rhetoric, with Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Mubarak Munyagwa, Elton Joseph Mabirizi lost in the woods, and if it were not for barren brevity, they would have called off their respective campaigns, but are still holding out stiff necks. Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC) and Robert Kyagulanyi a.k.a. Bobi Wine (NUP), in the absence of police interference and their own orchestrated violence to enlist cheap media headline, are seen to be only hanging by a thread. Some, including the so-called democracy activists are murmuring and wondering aloud that the presidential campaigns have been dull. In fact many civic organizations that pass for election observers cannot justify their existence and are finding difficulties to attract funding. The US and European diplomatic missions in Uganda, too, could be filing nothing salacious about the ongoing elections because there are no arrests, teargas and street-battles against lawless opposition groups. Ugandan journalists and their media outlets also seem bored and cannot build a name because many have failed to understand the reasons for the political calmness this time round. Indeed, some could be gnashing for a storm after calm, but the security agencies should deny them that evil wish. Others like Kyagulanyi, is mostly selling political fetish (talisman), giving his gullible audiences, especially the young people, that success comes easily, without hard, creative, innovative, consistent and disciplined purposeful endevours. But luckily, Kyagulanyi’s message is no longer a tiding wave. Ugandans having observed him since 2021, he and his group are falling on the proverbial barren soils. Some pundits consider the possibility of Kyagulanyi as replacement of Yoweri Museveni, however remotely, as an embarrassment to, and failure of the NRM. And for some reason, Mugisha Muntu, a former army commander, well over twenty-seven years ago, and in spite of being touted by some people as one of the most disciplined, and doing his second bid for the presidency, has failed to gain credible electoral traction. It is not very clear what Muntu stands for in this election. At his rate, Munto will be lucky to be beaten to the fourth position behind his former tormentor, Nandala Mafabi when both were still in FDC. As Museveni winds up Bukedi, indications are bright that he will again carry the region in 2026 as has done previously.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

14 November 2025

UPC’S AKENA’S BLAME GAMES OVER HIS PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS SOUND CHILDISH

UPC’s Akena’s Blame Games Over His Presidential Ambitions Sound Childish By Obed K Katureebe The contested Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President General, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has embarked on a campaign of blaming President Yoweri Museveni for his recent political misfortunes. Akena missed the nomination deadline to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2025/26 elections due to a court ruling questioning his legitimacy as UPC party president. This ruling followed a petition filed by senior UPC officials, Joseph Othieno and Dennis Enap, who challenged his continued stay in office beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms. Strangely, after this internal party dispute, Hon. Akena has resorted to accusing President Museveni of frustrating his presidential ambitions and undermining Uganda’s oldest political party. In what many observers consider exaggerated claims, he has publicly urged voters in the Lango Sub-region to reject President Museveni in the upcoming January 15, 2026, elections. In a communication dated September 22, the Electoral Commission (EC) clarified that Akena’s term as UPC President had expired on August 1, 2025, and therefore, he lacked the mandate to stand as the party’s flagbearer. Akena’s troubles were engineered by his own party colleagues, who sought to prevent his attempts to amend the party constitution and secure a third term. To them, Akena is running UPC as though it were his father’s personal estate. Speaking in Lira City during a homecoming event arranged by some loyalists, Akena accused the government of interfering with institutions to weaken UPC’s influence. These comments followed the EC’s decision to disqualify him and other UPC leaders from taking part in the presidential elections. Addressing supporters for the first time since the ruling, Akena insisted that his struggle is far from over. “Today, I decided to start with a gospel song, and the message is that my tomorrow must be greater than today. Whatever they do to me, whatever they say, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow,” Akena said. He then knelt during the national anthem in protest, urging UPC supporters to emulate the gesture as a symbol of resistance. He further claimed that he alone held the “MasterCard” capable of denying President Museveni the 50+1 victory required for an outright win. First and foremost, Akena does not own the mind and soul of the people of Lango. He seems trapped in the shadow of his late father’s near-cult-like status during his years as President of Uganda. Hon. Akena has failed to recognize that his father’s generation is long gone. Today’s voters rely on their own judgment, and they know too well what President Museveni has done for the Lango Sub-region. This is demonstrated by the overwhelming NRM victory in the 2021 general elections, where the party secured over 70% of the vote. It is therefore unlikely that Lango will be swayed by Akena’s misleading rhetoric. Akena’s blame game amounts to pure escapism. No sensible Ugandan can accept such excuses. What Akena owes his party and the nation is an apologyfirst, for violating the UPC constitution, and second, for causing the internal turmoil that left the party without a presidential candidate in the 2025 general elections. To salvage his image, Akena and his legal team have now filed a petition challenging the Electoral Commission’s decision in hopes of being reinstated as the legitimate party president and included on the ballot paper. How this will be achieved remains uncertain, given that reports indicate presidential ballot papers are already being printed. Like many leaders on the continent, Hon. Akena seems to have an inflated perception of himself, and the arrogance that accompanies it appears to have consumed him. He imagines that things must always bend to his will. His attempts to run UPC as his personal enterprise lie at the heart of the party’s current crisis. Leaders of his generation must demonstrate discipline and integrity, as they serve as role models for many who look up to them. Yet Akena insists that the government orchestrated his downfall because of his “oppositionism.” Though Akena is undeniably a prominent son of Lango, he must work on his attitude and behavioural competencies. These qualities have been the downfall of many public figures, and Akena appears no exception. Whatever direction this episode takes, Akenaand others who think like himshould draw important lessons. Hon. Jimmy Akena should simply eat the humble pie and accept his fate. Making a mistake is human, but insisting on that mistake becomes a grave offense. We all err, but we must learn to take responsibility and, where necessary, offer a sincere apology. Akena, this is one of those moments where one cannot wriggle out through blame or theatrics. The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE

14 November 2025

UPC’S AKENA’S BLAME GAMES OVER HIS PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS SOUND CHILDISH

The contested Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) President General, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has embarked on a campaign of blaming President Yoweri Museveni for his recent political misfortunes. Akena missed the nomination deadline to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2025/26 elections due to a court ruling questioning his legitimacy as UPC party president. This ruling followed a petition filed by senior UPC officials, Joseph Othieno and Dennis Enap, who challenged his continued stay in office beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms. Strangely, after this internal party dispute, Hon. Akena has resorted to accusing President Museveni of frustrating his presidential ambitions and undermining Uganda’s oldest political party. In what many observers consider exaggerated claims, he has publicly urged voters in the Lango Sub-region to reject President Museveni in the upcoming January 15, 2026, elections. In a communication dated September 22, the Electoral Commission (EC) clarified that Akena’s term as UPC President had expired on August 1, 2025, and therefore, he lacked the mandate to stand as the party’s flagbearer. Akena’s troubles were engineered by his own party colleagues, who sought to prevent his attempts to amend the party constitution and secure a third term. To them, Akena is running UPC as though it were his father’s personal estate. Speaking in Lira City during a homecoming event arranged by some loyalists, Akena accused the government of interfering with institutions to weaken UPC’s influence. These comments followed the EC’s decision to disqualify him and other UPC leaders from taking part in the presidential elections. Addressing supporters for the first time since the ruling, Akena insisted that his struggle is far from over. “Today, I decided to start with a gospel song, and the message is that my tomorrow must be greater than today. Whatever they do to me, whatever they say, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow,” Akena said. He then knelt during the national anthem in protest, urging UPC supporters to emulate the gesture as a symbol of resistance. He further claimed that he alone held the “MasterCard” capable of denying President Museveni the 50+1 victory required for an outright win. First and foremost, Akena does not own the mind and soul of the people of Lango. He seems trapped in the shadow of his late father’s near-cult-like status during his years as President of Uganda. Hon. Akena has failed to recognize that his father’s generation is long gone. Today’s voters rely on their own judgment, and they know too well what President Museveni has done for the Lango Sub-region. This is demonstrated by the overwhelming NRM victory in the 2021 general elections, where the party secured over 70% of the vote. It is therefore unlikely that Lango will be swayed by Akena’s misleading rhetoric. Akena’s blame game amounts to pure escapism. No sensible Ugandan can accept such excuses. What Akena owes his party and the nation is an apologyfirst, for violating the UPC constitution, and second, for causing the internal turmoil that left the party without a presidential candidate in the 2025 general elections. To salvage his image, Akena and his legal team have now filed a petition challenging the Electoral Commission’s decision in hopes of being reinstated as the legitimate party president and included on the ballot paper. How this will be achieved remains uncertain, given that reports indicate presidential ballot papers are already being printed. Like many leaders on the continent, Hon. Akena seems to have an inflated perception of himself, and the arrogance that accompanies it appears to have consumed him. He imagines that things must always bend to his will. His attempts to run UPC as his personal enterprise lie at the heart of the party’s current crisis. Leaders of his generation must demonstrate discipline and integrity, as they serve as role models for many who look up to them. Yet Akena insists that the government orchestrated his downfall because of his “oppositionism.” Though Akena is undeniably a prominent son of Lango, he must work on his attitude and behavioural competencies. These qualities have been the downfall of many public figures, and Akena appears no exception. Whatever direction this episode takes, Akenaand others who think like himshould draw important lessons. Hon. Jimmy Akena should simply eat the humble pie and accept his fate. Making a mistake is human, but insisting on that mistake becomes a grave offense. We all err, but we must learn to take responsibility and, where necessary, offer a sincere apology. Akena, this is one of those moments where one cannot wriggle out through blame or theatrics. The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE

08 November 2025

NRM DELIVERING PROGRESS IN LANGO (2021–2026)

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Government continues to transform lives across the Lango sub-region through visible progress in wealth creation, education, health, and infrastructure. From Amolatar to Kwania, communities are benefiting from improved livelihoods and expanded access to essential services as Uganda advances toward Vision 2040. Amolatar Over UGX 26.1 billion has been invested through the Parish Development Model (PDM), benefiting 26,000 individuals in 1,273 enterprise groups. Farmers like Opeto Tonny and Ongom Joshua have expanded their goat and poultry farms, demonstrating the PDM’s impact on household income. The Emyooga Programme has injected UGX 2.97 billion into 35 Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs), serving nearly 2,000 members, while the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) has supported 59 youth groups with UGX 287 million, creating new employment opportunities. Amolatar hosts 53 Universal Primary Education (UPE) schools, 8 Universal Secondary Education (USE) schools, and one technical institute, serving over 32,000 learners. Upgraded health centres, a new ambulance, and modern maternity wards have improved healthcare. Partnerships with the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) introduced three solar-powered irrigation systems and a valley tank, enhancing food production and security. Dokolo Dokolo has received UGX 21.9 billion through PDM, supporting 17,700 enterprise groups. The Senior Citizens Grant now reaches 8,000 older persons, while the Agriculture Cluster Development Project (ACDP) has boosted post-harvest handling. Three new Seed Secondary Schools, located at Okwongodul Lakeside, Batta, and Adeknino, were built under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UGIFT) programme. These schools provide modern classrooms and laboratories to over 4,500 learners. Health services have expanded with the addition of seven upgraded facilities, including a new maternity ward at Abalang Health Centre III, and malaria cases have been reduced by over 30% through annual mosquito net distribution. Improved roads and a UGX 1.3 billion investment in water and sanitation have increased access to clean water. The UGX 14 billion Kabalega–Mwanga Historical Site Project is positioning Dokolo as a new tourism hub in Northern Uganda. Alebtong Over UGX 18.4 billion has been disbursed through the PDM, alongside funds from Emyooga, YLP, and the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP), supporting 15,000 households in agriculture and small business. Five new Seed Secondary Schools in Awei, Angetta, Abia, Adwir, and Amugu now serve 6,000 learners, reducing dropout rates. The district has one Health Centre IV, ten Health Centre IIIs, and four Health Centre IIs, with the addition of new staff housing and ambulances enhancing healthcare delivery. Road rehabilitation under the UGX 1.3 billion Road Fund has enhanced connectivity, while electricity access now covers seven sub-counties and four town councils. Piped water systems in Amugu, Abako, and Alebtong Town Councils provide clean water to 12,000 residents. Otuke Since 2022, UGX 16 billion has been invested through the PDM, benefiting 52 SACCOs and 16,000 individuals. Complementary programs such as Emyooga, YLP, UWEP, and UGIFT have expanded opportunities for women, youth, and farmers. Otuke now hosts new Seed Secondary Schools and a technical institute in Okwang, providing vocational training to 2,000 learners. Barjobi Health Centre III was upgraded to Health Centre IV with a new operating theatre. Over 108 kilometres of roads have been opened, rural electrification now reaches nine sub-counties, and enhanced security operations have significantly reduced cattle rustling, thereby restoring peace and economic activity. Kwania Kwania has channelled UGX 12.5 billion through the PDM, empowering 12,000 households engaged in poultry and livestock. Additional support from Emyooga, YLP, and UWEP has strengthened small enterprises and created new income streams. Two new Seed Secondary Schools in Aduku and Abongomola now accommodate 3,800 students, increasing enrolment and reducing dropouts, especially among children from fishing communities. Conclusion Across Lango, the NRM Government’s investments between 2021 and 2026 reflect its commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable development. With expanded education, healthcare, roads, and enterprise support, the region stands as a model of community empowerment and resilience. Every new school, health centre, and enterprise tells a story of steady progress and shared prosperity under the NRM Government. The Writer is a Communication Officer – Ministry of ICT & National Guidance

By Fiona Luboga

08 November 2025

GENZ COPYCATS: AN EMERGING CRIMINAL THREAT TO DEMOCRACY

There is an emerging fashionable trend mimicking radical political activism by the so-called GenZs, seeking to turn their countries upside-down, morphing into criminal gangs as seen last year in Kenya, and this week in Tanzania taking advantage of election fallouts. During the 2020-2021 Uganda election, a group led by NUP purveyors, tried to create anarchy through street battles with the police, army and publicly assaulting, real or perceived political rivals but the goons were eventually neutralized through a hard tackle. They have now returned in this election on mantra “ Protest vote” foolishly hoping to use intimidation, blackmail and necked violence to have their way even when Ugandans may say no to them at the ballot box. In Kenya, following a tightly fought general election pitting William Somei Ruto, and Raila Amolo Odinga, President Ruto, the winner, introduced an economic reform law to spur revenue collection, which the political elite opposed, and tried to exploit youth concerns to oust a democratically elected government. For weeks, security forces in Kenya fought running battles with criminal gangs posing as GenZs sowing mayhem, wanton destruction and burning down whatever came to their sight. And they wrecked all this havoc, including ransacking parliament even after President Ruto withdrew the controversial legislation, and instead demanded his political scalp. The youths forcefully tore-down parliament parameter wall, ransacked it and forced a sitting to flee, all in the name of being ‘aggrieved’ with the status qou, yet destroying the very foundation of their country’s existence, attempting to rend Kenya ungovernable. It took heavy-brutal-handedness for calm to be restored in East Africa’s largest economy, and in its trail the loss of innocent lives, bloodshed, and sowing the seeds of a culture of impunity by the young people, which has now been wholesomely copied in Tanzania. Tanzania, that has been stable, secure, peaceful, and a good example for the whole of Africa, is now shaken to the core, but Tanzania must never let to fail like other African countries under whatever reason. While bad policies and governance should be opposed and vigorously challenged by citizens, old and young, it is counter-productive for the so-called aggrieved to burn down their countries particularly as they are egged on by the neo-colonial forces seeking to keep Africa underground. It appears that the American and European meddlers into Africa, having failed with the so-called Arab Spring of fifteen years ago, that distablised northern African, and sowed fire and ash, sending hundreds of thousands to death on the high seas towards Europe, have not been content, and are now returning through instigating the GenZs. Under the diabolical guise of spreading democracy, clean elections, good governance, human rights, quality jobs, and equitable prosperity which they never bequeathed when they were firmly in control as the colonialists for seven decades, they now return but only as pretenders falsely believing that Africans are too stupid to see through the scheme. African leaders and elders owe their people deals, but the GenZs should never allow themselves to be exploited or used to once again destroy, subjugate, and misdirect Africa’s emerging renaissance. We should always remember that those shenanigans took advantaged of our fore-fathers using shades of religion to capture and maintain control of our collective minds, and have so succeeded in portraying Africans as inferior in every respect. Africa, and Uganda in particular should say never-again, to foreign meddlers whatever sweetener they may offer. Uganda, has steadily emerged from deep black holes after four decades of political violence, social and economic decadence with so much blood poured down public spaces that we should learn to resolve disagreements peacefully. Uganda GenZs, both in rural and urban ought to know the opportunities they seek cannot be brought through violence, and hence should avoid the language of destruction.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

07 November 2025

THE BENEFITS THAT THE NRM AIMS TO SAFEGUARD

Our opposition colleagues have raised concerns regarding the accomplishments that the National Resistance Movement (NRM) asserts it will maintain in the upcoming term if re-elected. The opposition contends that there are no achievements worth safeguarding. While their assertions may hold some truth, particularly in light of the ongoing unresolved issues, it is inaccurate to claim that the ruling party has not made any advancements over the past forty years. It is crucial to recognize the facts and acknowledge contributions where they are warranted. I was born at a time when the ruling party had just assumed power; thus, my knowledge is somewhat limited. Nevertheless, accounts from witnesses and research reveal that insecurity was rampant in Uganda and other African nations. Ugandans, along with numerous other Africans, lived in trepidation prior to the NRM's ascension to power. Following its rise, the NRM initiated efforts to establish peace, stability, and security by overcoming armed opposition factions such as the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA), Alice Lakwena's Holy Spirit Movement, and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF). It established a disciplined, professional, and community-oriented force (UPDF) that refrains from seizing citizens' property, in contrast to the previous military regime. The NRM has fostered regional stability through peacekeeping and security operations, particularly in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and has actively participated in regional efforts to combat insurgent groups. Additionally, it spearheaded disarmament initiatives, especially in the Karamoja sub-region, to mitigate cattle rustling and improve local security. Currently, the stability, peace, and security within the country enable individuals to travel freely at any time without interruptions, and businesses function beyond standard hours, cultivating a sense of safety and stability. The promotion of peace, stability, and security has facilitated the infrastructure development across multiple transport modes that includes roads, air, water and railway. As of September 2025, Uganda has approximately 6,287 kilometres of paved (tarmac) roads. These roads are essential to the national road network, connecting various borders of the country. The government is continuously improving and expanding paved roadways to connect all regions of the country, even though a significant portion of the national network remains unpaved. The focus is on enhancing the paved road infrastructure through both new constructions and restoration initiatives. In the water transport sector, significant ports are undergoing upgrades, and the national ferry network is being expanded. Projects include the Bukasa Port Development, Port Bell, and the rehabilitation of Jinja Pier. The government operates a fleet of 13 ferries on lakes and rivers such as Lake Victoria and the River Nile. New ferries, including the MV Sigulu, have been introduced to connect remote areas and districts, including those surrounding Lake Bisina. Additionally, the MV Kaawa cargo ship was rehabilitated with support from the World Bank to enhance cargo transport on a vital triangular route. Uganda's aviation sector has seen considerable infrastructure improvements at Entebbe and various other airports, the reestablishment of the national carrier (Uganda Airlines), and a steady increase in both passenger and freight traffic. Entebbe International Airport is being expanded to raise its capacity from 2.0 million to 3.5 million passengers, with a renovated terminal and a new cargo terminal already in operation. A second airport in Hoima is under construction to support oil, tourism, and agriculture. Upcountry aerodromes such as Kisoro, Gulu, and Arua are being upgraded to enhance connectivity and tourism. The national airline has improved by acquiring new Airbus A330neos and Bombardier CRJ900s and has obtained the necessary certifications. Uganda Airlines has broadened its network to include destinations such as Dubai, Johannesburg, and Mumbai, resulting in substantial increases in both revenue and passenger numbers. Over the last forty years, Uganda's transportation industry has undergone significant improvements, marked by considerable growth and upgrades in infrastructure across multiple transport modalities, including road, air, and maritime. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA

29 October 2025

KIRUHUURAS WEALTHY; UNDERSTANDING PRESIDENT MUSEVENIS CONTEXT

While canvassing for votes in the Karamoja sub-region in recent days, Presidential candidate Yoweri Museveni urged people in the region to end nomadism and cattle rustling if they are to enjoy the government’s transformative programmes currently underway.According to his message, transformation will be derailed if the two vices are not discarded once and for all. To fully illustrate his point, he used the example of how he had since transformed the people in Kiruhuura District and made them rich through a mindset change, because they once suffered a similar problem—nomadism. The Kiruhuura people were formerly cattle nomads, just like the Karimajong, but have since been transformed after listening to the president’s correct advice. The shift from a nomadic to a settled lifestyle for the Kiruhuura people brought significant cultural and economic change, as Museveni educated them about the benefits of a settled life. These benefits included improving their animals from traditional Ankole long-horned cows that produced little milk compared to Fresian breeds that produce large quantities, thereby increasing the household income earned through selling large amounts of milk. He educated these nomads to adapt by learning to cultivate crops or by hiring others to farm for them, and by commercializing their livestock production to earn cash for their children's formal education. Museveni not only ended pastoralism among his community, he also taught them to fence their land, create water sources on their own land, and keep quality cattle breeds that add value to the owners. One of the most critical changes in settled lifestyle was living in one permanent place. When they settled down, they started eating health organic foods; they learnt to eat vegetables in addition to milk and meat. Hygienic foods clearly replaced milk as a staple food in their community. As a result, these once poor nomads of Kiruhuura began living modern lifestyles. They built decent houses, drive nice cars, and earn not only from cows but from crop husbandry because they were taught to diversify their farming methods. Sadly, the president’s message to the people of Karamoja has been taken out of context to imply that he was boasting that his people in Kiruhuura are rich. The other wrong implication the naysayers are attaching to the president’s message is that he seem to suggest the Karimojong are still poor simply because they either don’t value work or lack innovation. Of course those peddling such falsehoods are the usual ideologically bankrupt groups that are always looking for every opportunity to misinform and disinform to soil the name of the president. These groups have gone further to insinuate that the Kiruhura people are rich because of their association with the president, since he is one of them anyway. This is absurd. When President Museveni came to power in 1986, he picked up where he had left off. While still a student at Ntare School and the University of Dar es Salaam in the late 1960s, he knew much better that nomadism was a futile practice among his people. There are many stories of how he would gather nomads in the Ankole sub-region to educate them about the need to live a settled life. During his holidays, Museveni did not have the luxury of having fun like any young man; instead, he spent all his time educating his people about mindset change. When he finally became President, he strongly advised them against loaming the country with their cows in search of fresh pastures. He advised them, among other things, to use their lands for a few but improved breeds that give them enough milk for sale. Indeed, the Kiruhuura people heeded the president’s advice and transitioned to a permanent settled lifestyle. It is no wonder that Kiruhuura is among the first two districts in Uganda to produce large volumes of milk. Kiruhura alone produces 1.2 million litres of milk every day, about 60 per cent of the total milk produced in the country. Kiruhuura’s milk accounts for 45% of Uganda’s milk export. As a result, people’s incomes have drastically changed. Household income is among the highest in the country. Decent means of transport have been acquired,and healthy lifestyles are now a standard feature for these once haggard-looking pastoralists. Finally, what was clear in the president's message to the Karimajong is that they must adopt a mindset change and listen to his advice, as the Kiruhuura nomads did. This, however, must be peaceful and voluntary. Nomadism and cattle rustling is indeed a primitive form existence that any sensible leaders must discourage. And that is precisely what the president meant when he was counselling the Karimajong people, but not bragging at them like most biased social media keyboard warriors are quick to comment. The writer is the Ag. Executive Director Uganda Media Centre

BY OBED KATUREEBE

28 October 2025

REGIONAL BOOT CAMPS ENHANCING YOUTH CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION.

Throughout last week, UNICEF Uganda, in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, held innovation boot camps in the Greater North and Eastern regions in anticipation of this year's World Children's Day celebration, which is scheduled for November 20th under the theme "my day, my rights". They engaged young people from previous celebrations to act as change agents and advocates through regional boot camps, enabling children to gain knowledge, develop, and share solutions that benefit their communities. The regional boot camps began in Arua for the Great North, followed by the Eastern region, then the Western region, and will conclude in the Central region. The boot camps are organized under the theme "Invest in Uganda's children for a better future." I participated as part of the team responsible for the digital promotion of the boot camps. I was particularly impressed by how the youth identified various issues, proposed solutions, explained how these solutions would benefit their communities, and outlined strategies for sustaining these solutions. The innovation boot camps are part of the broader I-UPSHIFT initiative, aimed at equipping young people with skills in social innovation and entrepreneurship. The camp for the Greater North was held in Arua district, with representatives from Yumbe, Madi Okollo, and Terego districts attending from their schools, including Edena Primary School in Madi Okollo, Eleke Primary School in Yumbe, and Lygbari Primary School in Terego. The focus here was on school children who are currently enrolled. The young innovators used their problem-solving skills to tackle real-world challenges, turning ideas into sustainable, commercially viable solutions. It was truly inspiring to see creativity and purpose manifesting in their efforts. Initially, the children were guided through the stages of pitching, detailing what they would be doing and the methods involved. Subsequently, the practical component commenced with pitch preparation on Tuesday, the 20th of October 2025, referred to as the mock pitch, followed by the final pitch on the 21st of October 2025. Lugbari PS, originating from the Terego District, was declared the winner to represent Greater North at the National Finals on World Children's Day. This achievement followed their exceptional pitch, which earned them a score of 77.6 points with the Ever-Ready Club, thus securing the 1st position. In contrast, the Smart Life Skills Club finished in 2nd place with a score of 69 points. Following our conclusion with Greater North, we proceeded to the Eastern region in the Soroti district, where the emphasis was on out-of-school children. The Eastern Region boot camp included participants from the Napak, Amudat, Kotido, and Nakapiririti districts. Similar to the Greater North, participants from the Eastern region were also guided through the pitch criteria after presenting their pitch ideas, which outlined the issues they aimed to tackle. Initially, the participants had not put in more energy in the pitch but upon informing them that the two winning groups would be traveling to Kampala, I observed a notable concertation in their pitching preparations. In fact, some groups chose to remain for several additional hours to refine their pitches. The youth pitched their ideas identifying the problem, proposing a solution, demonstrating how the solution would benefit the community, and ensuring the sustainability of the solution. After the pitches concluded, the judges declared Napak district as the winner, with team Leopard achieving first place, while team Lion earned second place, both set to represent the Eastern region at the National finals in honor of the 2025 World Children’s Day. During the boot camps, young participants expressed their concerns about significant issues impacting their lives, including school drop-out rates associated with poverty, the unavailability of sanitary pads affecting girls' school attendance, restricted access to water, early marriages, deforestation, and unemployment, while promoting change through innovative strategies. The writer works with the Uganda Media Centre

SARAH NANTEZA

25 October 2025

NORTHERN UGANDA, NRM AND MUSEVENI THIS ELECTION CIRCLE

By the time you read this piece, National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate, would have wound up his first phase of campaign in northern Uganda as seen with a sea of supporters at his main public rallies sending the tongues of critics wagging in awe. As an election pitch, the NRM and its lead candidate, call him the torch-bearer, Yoweri Museveni themed “Protecting the gains” as the mantra, because each Ugandan has something, however little, to protect. It is an appropriate pitch seeing the distance so far, and many things, small and big achieved. To the small families herding cows, goats and sheep in Karamoja, the ability to settle down for the first time in life-history, is a huge personal satisfaction that opens many doors. Having a piece of cloth on one’s back, seeing children in school and not scavenging the streets, railway stations, and no menacing gun-totters on the rampage is huge. For the neighbours of Karamoja, having gone through the past three straight years without any violent cattle raids, both during day and night, leaving destructions behind the trail, is additional plusses, to NRM and Museveni. The constant and persistent loud call by candidate Museveni, for every family, home and persons to focus on mobilising for wealth creation, poverty eradication and socio-economic transformation is falling on ears ready to listen. And Museveni is chatting for broad national unity and reconciliation, but with socially balanced justice. Reconciliation without equitable justice is pretence and, therefore, hollow. back-of-beyond place, that suffered two decades of war, and before it, circles of state-inspired ethic retributions. The northern bitterness boiled, spilled and Museveni has gradually and patiently cooled it down. So, the rest, Mugisha Muntu (ANT), Mubarak Munyagwa, Robert Kyagulanyi (NUP) and Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC) maybe listened to when they go to the north, but only for being busybodies lambasting NRM and Museveni for allegedly overstaying beyond the welcome. From their respective election campaign trail, Museveni is the main problem. They make it appear as once Museveni the individual is removed from office, overnight, Uganda will become a lovely paradise without a focused national mindset change. In fact, Ugandans should see of as a political swindle. As an example, each time, Kyagulanyi tries his mouth at policy issues like mineral and oil weal, he has ended up more in failure, or misspeaking, than being coherent. Clearly, Kyagulanyi comes off as a man who is not ready or has no capacity to understand the laws governing many sectors in Uganda. Apologies, I actually don’t know why I even typed his names. In the crucible of Uganda’s politics, and elections in particular, no party pitches better than NRM. President and candidate Museveni, has been, and remains the strong torch-bearer of our current unquestioned patriotism, guardian of peace as well socio-economic transformation. Museveni’s public rallies have been well-attended, NRM mobilizers must now occupy the ground until polling day.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

22 October 2025

WEST NILE REGION: PRESIDENT MUSEVENI'S MESSAGE FOCUSED ON CONSOLIDATING PEACE, PROMOTING WEALTH CREATION AND DEVELOPMENT

The trail in West Nile led him to Koboko, Zombo, Madi Okollo, Arua City, Maracha, Pakwach, Adjumani, Nebbi, Moyo, Obongi, Yumbe and Terego. During his speeches, the president underscored his administration's deliberate effort to bring the right ideology that changed the country. He for example said he had been part of the past governments and realised there was sectarianism and this meant they couldn’t form a national army or national party. According to Museveni, with these mistakes by earlier government, he became part of the student movements and when NRM took power, they did away with sectarianism of tribe, religion and looking down upon women. He said this meant that a national army could be formed with recruits from all parts of the country without segregation, a factor he said ensured that the boundaries of Uganda are protected. To him, this created lasting peace that Uganda is enjoying for the first time in the last 500 years. He cited examples of majority of people of West Nile who had previously run into exile in neighbouring countries like Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan who are now back home . According to Museveni, peace didn’t come by mistake but rather by deliberate efforts by the NRM. He also noted that because of deliberate efforts, NRM can win an election in the first round without a re-run, noting that this is so because the party did away with sectarianism of tribes and religion to ensure it build massive support around the country. President Museveni gave examples of past political parties like Kabaka Yekka, UPC, DP and others which he said had either been build on tribal or religious lines which meant they couldn’t raise even 40% of the vote since no religion or tribe has that number of followers. To this, he said the NRM thought different and this has contributed to peace. Peace Leading to Development During his rallies, Museveni told thousands of supporters that peace ensured government can now focus on developing the country, citing major road works, electricity expansion, and improved telecommunication in the West Nile as catalysts for regional growth. He emphasized that the West Nile which was previously a volatile region is now stable and leading the country’s development and trade with neighbours like DRC and South Sudan where Ugandans previously ran into exile. He praised the region's progress, attributing it to the government's consistent stance against wrongdoing and commitment to doing what is right. With the West Nile now connected onto the national grid, the president said development in the area will be spurred and everyone will benefit. Promoting Wealth Creation Wealth creation was a central theme of Museveni's campaign, focusing on household income and economic empowerment. He promoted the Parish Development Model (PDM), designed to lift households into the money economy, and encouraged commercial agriculture, suggesting alternatives like fruit farming and fish farming to boost income. He said that with the shs1 million each households receives as part of PDM, they can use it to invest in agriculture in form of goat rearing, chicken rearing or any other venture and get profits. Museveni emphasised that while many talk about development, one can get out of poverty without having development infrastructure like tarmacked roads. He told the gatherings that tarmac roads don’t fight poverty but engaging in wealth creation does, giving examples of cattle keepers in Ankole who listened to this message and are now well-off. According to Museveni, many of these are over 90km away from tarmac and don’t have electricity at their farms but installed solar power and are making money. He said that wealth creation should be at the forefront and others can come later. While progress has been made, challenges persist. Museveni acknowledged internal conflicts and urged attention to these issues. The President also emphasized the importance of reconciliation and non-retaliation, especially in post-conflict regions like West Nile. President Museveni's message in West Nile Region reflects the NRM's commitment to consolidating peace, promoting wealth creation, and driving development. With a focus on economic infrastructure, social services, and addressing key issues, the President has resonated with many in the region. As Uganda moves forward, it remains to be seen whether the NRM's message will continue to inspire progress and prosperity The Writer Works with Uganda Media Centre

By Catherine Namuddu

19 October 2025

THANK YOU, BBC, FOR TELLING UGANDANS ABOUT UGANDA

Once again, we are indebted to our friends at the BBC this time from Nairobi for reminding Ugandans what is really happening in Uganda. Without their investigative binoculars peering across the border, how else would we have known that our soldiers wear uniforms, that our President leads, and that our country has enjoyed uninterrupted peace for nearly four decades? According to the latest revelation, Uganda is apparently ruled by a “shadow army.” A terrifying phrase, no doubt — except for the small inconvenience that this so-called “shadow army” also guards our borders, airports, oil fields, and the same journalists who write these alarming exposés. The BBC calls it “a private army.” We call it security. They call it “an iron grip.” We call it stability. But who are we to argue with foreign experts who know our country better than we do from 600 kilometers away? Let’s be fair. In a continent where power often changes hands through coups, conflicts, or hashtags, Uganda’s greatest crime is consistency. The same leadership that ended decades of chaos now stands accused of leading for too long as though peace had an expiry date. Perhaps next time we should schedule a civil war every fifteen years to please the analysts. And about the President’s family: yes, they serve in government. So do many families around the world the Kennedys, the Trudeaus, the Bushes. When it’s in America or Canada, it’s called “dynastic legacy.” When it’s in Uganda, it’s “family capture.” Maybe the only difference is the accent. Then comes the favourite Western chorus: “militarisation.” One wonders what they expect soldiers to do — open flower shops? The Special Forces Command, they say, is “too loyal.” Indeed. Uganda’s biggest problem, it seems, is that our soldiers love their country too much. Still, we must appreciate the commitment of these journalists who fly in to rescue us from our ignorance. They arrive with pens trembling with concern, explain our politics to us, and return to their safe hotel breakfasts to file their “urgent” stories about the apocalypse that never comes. Thank you, dear correspondents, for caring so deeply about our democracy that you forget to ask Ugandans what they actually think. So yes, our nation has its challenges. But it also has peace, order, and growth things that don’t make sensational headlines. While others chase clicks, Uganda continues to chase progress. And if that steady hand on the wheel is what the BBC calls an “iron grip,” then by all means, tighten it. Because if this is dictatorship, then we kindly request five more decades of it preferably with better roads.

ANKUNDA PEACE

18 October 2025

NUP'S APPETITE FOR IPOD CASH

Ideologically depraved Robert Kyagulanyi, sly Louis Rubongoya and the clutter of the National Unity Platform (NUP)party who apparently learnt nothing useful from the former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) on its way to eventual demise, partly over soft money. This week's U-turn by Bob, the political entrepreneur, and his accomplices in NUP, writing to join the Inter-party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD), mostly for money, is a classic lesson in political coup de theatre where stupidity gets a rendezvous with the National Resistance Movement (NRM) brinkmanship. It is necessary that Donald Trump back, and rolling down US international support, those who fund NUP, from outside Uganda, too have got squeezed and NUP did not see this coming. The back story, years back, FDC under Kizza Besigye, walked away from IPOD, an outfit to help political parties in parliament have structured and constructive engagement with one another away from the rough rumble and tumble of antagonistic politics. Besigye rejected any efforts to meet with President Yoweri Museveni for any engagement in their intractable disagreements that had nearly paralysed Uganda' politics, insisting that the only agenda should be Museveni's ouster from office. Doing Besigye and FDC's bid in belligerence, was Nathan Nandala Mafabi, who many may recall reported in the media driving to State House Entebbe only to switch off his phone midway, because he had been instructed not to meet Museveni and other IPOD members already at the venue. FDC maintained that stance until 2021, when the chips began to fall and there has been so little effort at recovery. Many are hearing nails being banged into the FDC coffin in their backyard, although its new leaders; Patrick Oboi Amuriat and Nandala say they are for constructive engagement with NRM or more appropriately, Museveni. FDC leaders were so wrong, on so many fronts, in false self-assumed importance, hoping they could take Ugandans for a ride endlessly in spite of being forewarned that the end of time was approaching. Enough became enough and Besigye got to the end of his hole. And surely, with the NRM, its abrasive opponents often get what they ask for. Now, NUP, indeed Bob is replaying the discredited old order politics, unable to read the audience. Apparently because he has been the first stage singer in Uganda to get up into mainstream and is there four years now, Bob is his own cloud. Bob is like the child laughing at their own silly jokes. He has been about many constituencies dictating who should or should not be elected in the next parliament more like Besigye tried to do with so dismal success even in his heydays. NUP like FDC has built its support base on a web of well-calculated and choreographed falsehoods, public sympathy from state arbitrary actions and high-handedness and as well as some genuine socio-economic grievances. Bob the far-less informed underdog falsely claims to be an authentic voice who should be trusted to deliver the so-called 'change' Ugandans desire, but he is wrong on many counts and will be ensnared in his own falsehoods. With a tirade of tribal-laden hate mongering, incitement, fascist outlook, and blanket branding whoever disagrees with him a traitor, each time he bleats at his campaign rallies, Bob does not seem to understand that he becomes unpleasant and unattractive to most Ugandans and voters. Looking at the NRM large wagon firmly on a new trajectory of Richard Todwong, Anita Among and Dennis Hamson Obua axis, leading presidential candidate Museveni's election campaign trail and vibe in northern Uganda that has come full-cirle, many do not see how and where Bob could hide this time round. It seems to me, that the energy of the youthful people is genuine countrywide, backed by the many solid, broad achievements of the NRM across Uganda.

BY OFWONO OPONDO

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