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Minister Evelyn Anite faces calls for resignation over termination of Kilembe mines agreement

By
Simon Kabayo
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State Minister for Finance-in-charge of Privatization and Investment Evelyn Anite.

A parliamentary committee has recommended that State Minister for Finance-in-charge of Privatization and Investment Evelyn Anite should resign for her alleged role in terminating a 25-year concession agreement with Tibet Hima Mining Company, a Chinese firm that had been tasked with reviving and operating Kilembe Mines.

The chairperson of Parliament’s Environment and Natural Resources Committee, Mr Herbert Ariko, while presenting their report findings in the House on Wednesday, said Ms Anite should be held liable for not following due processes such as consulting the Attorney General before what he described as unfair termination of Tibet’s concession agreement.

“The Committee recommends that the Minister for State Finance and Economic Development in charge of investment and privatisation is held liable and is cautioned for not following due process resulting in the untold loss to government and the petitioner,” he said.

“Two, government officials that cause similar losses to government should be held personally liable for their actions, inactions and omissions,” he added.

The dispute followed a petition filed by Tibet Hima in April 2024, calling for a parliamentary investigation into what they claimed were unjust circumstances surrounding the termination of their contract. The committee’s subsequent inquiry found the process surrounding the concession’s cancellation questionable, prompting calls for Minister Anite to step aside.

Minister Anite, however, defended her decision, asserting that the termination was in Uganda’s best interest.

“The contract was signed before I assumed office in 2016, and I have acted to protect the country’s resources,” she said.

“But I am not going to resign because I did the right thing for the justice of the country. I actually expected to be given a medal by the Committee for serving the government of Uganda and the citizens of this country from the robbery of 30, 000 minerals of the people of Uganda,” she added.

The minister added that President Yoweri Museveni, in his recent budget address, hinted at actions to combat corruption in public offices, which she believes aligns with her efforts.

Her statement that the termination resulted in the loss of 1 million potential jobs sparked skepticism among lawmakers.

Mr Ariko questioned the figure, asking for the basis of her calculation. “A claim of 1 million lost jobs is extraordinary. We need to see the evidence supporting this projection,” Ariko remarked.

Minister Anite, however, stood by her assertion, arguing that the mine’s rich mineral resources could create vast employment opportunities.

“In my own businesses, which include hospitality and manufacturing, I’ve seen how small investments can create hundreds of jobs. Kilembe Mines has the potential to generate far more,” she said.

Despite her defence, Parliament adopted the committee’s report, signaling growing frustration with the controversy surrounding the failed concession. The decision has sparked debate about the management of Uganda’s natural resources and the government’s role in fostering investment while ensuring accountability.

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Court grants singer Alien Skin bail

By
Our Reporter
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Singer Aien Skin and his bodyguard, Julius Mugabi in the dock.

Makindye Magistrates Court has released singer Patrick Mulwana, aka Alien Skin, after spending one week at Luzira prison.

Alien Skin and his bodyguard, Julius Mugabi, are accused of theft of an iPhone 15 Pro, Shs 480,000, and assault of three Nsambya hospital staff.

Appearing before Magistrate Esther Adikini, the fangon crew leader was granted cash bail of Shs1 million, with his sureties bonded at Shs5 million each (not cash) after he agreed to compensate the victims of the fracas that happened at Nsambya hospital.

Prosecution avers that alien Skin, his bodyguard, Julius Mugabi, and others still at large on November 19 at St. Francis Hospital Nsambya unlawfully caused grievous harm to Dr. Zaidi Matovu and two security guards, Alex Odongo and Anthony Munyanda.

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Gov’t advocates for regulation of DNA use in crime investigations

By
Simon Kabayo
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Government has introduced a proposed law that seeks to regulate and streamline the use of comprehensive forensic science service in the investigation and prosecution of crime.

The Government Chief Whip, Denis Hamson Obua, tabled the Forensic Evidence Bill, 2024, which aims to modernise forensic science services and ensure better regulation of analytical and forensic practices in the country.

The Bill establishes a comprehensive National DNA Database as part of reforms to enhance justice and public safety in Uganda. The National DNA Database, central to the proposed legislation, is described as “an electronic depository for human DNA profiles containing forensic DNA analysis results” and will be managed by the Directorate of Government Analytical Laboratory.

The Bill also deals with DNA profiling services; taking of bodily samples for investigation; laboratory analytical report and its effect; access to DNA profile and information; retention, storage and expunging of forensic DNA profiles; destruction and disposal of bodily samples and non-disclosure of information.

“The establishment of the DNA database will facilitate effective legal proceedings to dispense fair justice and safeguard the environmental health and safety of people,” reads the Bill in part.

Additionally, it outlines the roles of the Directorate in regulating forensic science and ensuring compliance with standards across forensic laboratories.

To ensure transparency and accountability, the Bill outlines strict protocols for the retention, storage, and expunging of DNA profiles. For instance, profiles of suspects in the arrestee index must be removed within three years if no charges are brought, or if the individual is acquitted or the case is dismissed. Volunteer DNA profiles will only be retained with explicit consent from the donor.

“A forensic DNA profile in the volunteer index shall be expunged within three months after a case is concluded, unless a volunteer gives consent for his or her forensic DNA profile to be retained on the database,” the Bill specifies.

The legislation also criminalizes unauthorised use of DNA data, with severe penalties, including fines of up to 1,500 currency points (Shs30 million) or imprisonment for up to 15 years.

The bill also emphasises privacy by restricting access to DNA profiles to authorized entities for specified purposes, such as criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

The Bill proposes the designation of the Government Analytical Laboratory as the regulatory body for forensic and scientific services. It also mandates the establishment of regional laboratories to decentralize services and ensure equitable access across the country.

Speaker, Anita Among, referred the Bill to the House Committees on Defence and Internal Affairs for consideration.

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The Intersection of Sports and Business in Uganda

By
Our Reporter
-

Uganda is finding itself at a pivotal moment where sports and business are merging into a powerful force for development. This blend is creating opportunities for athletes, local industries, and businesses to reach global platforms. For a country rich in talent and ambition, this intersection isn’t just about economics—it’s about building a bridge to the world.

Sponsorships Fueling Local Talent

Sponsorship deals have become the backbone of sports development in Uganda. Local businesses and international brands are investing in teams, athletes, and events, providing resources that go directly into building stronger and more competitive sports programs. This financial support often translates into improved training facilities, access to better equipment, and opportunities.

In countries like Nigeria, for instance, partnerships between the sports industry and platforms such as the top 10 betting sites in Nigeria demonstrate how businesses can simultaneously engage fans and contribute to the growth of sports by funding teams and grassroots initiatives.

Betting companies frequently sponsor local teams, using their resources to nurture emerging talents. A football team in a regional league, for example, might benefit from new jerseys, travel funding, or better coaching through such sponsorships.

Athletes as Uganda’s Global Ambassadors

Athletes in Uganda are taking on a dual role: excelling in their sports while representing the potential of their nation. Their international appearances provide more than just a moment of national pride. They are windows into Uganda’s untapped talent and an opportunity to attract global interest.

The Ripple Effect of Success

When an athlete performs well on the international stage, it sends a message. It’s a demonstration that with the right support, Uganda can produce world-class talent. This often prompts increased investments in sports programs at home. Corporations see the value of aligning their brands with such athletes, leading to endorsements and partnerships that benefit both parties.

Athletes as Brand Ambassadors

For businesses, partnering with athletes goes beyond sports. It becomes a chance to connect with diverse audiences. Athletes often represent qualities like resilience, hard work, and integrity—values that align well with corporate messaging. In turn, these collaborations expand athletes’ influence while bringing much-needed resources back to Uganda.

The Business Side of Sports

Sports in Uganda are no longer seen as a standalone activity. They are an industry. Local companies are producing sports gear, organizing tournaments, and even exploring digital avenues like streaming services to monetize the sector further.

 

Talent Development as a Core Strategy

Youth programs and academies are central to this development. They serve as pipelines, identifying and nurturing talent from an early age. This isn’t just about creating athletes—it’s about building a foundation for Uganda’s future in sports.

For example, a basketball academy might collaborate with corporate sponsors to provide scholarships or fund travel to international competitions. These programs foster skills that benefit not only sports but also personal development, creating well-rounded individuals who can thrive in any field.

Expanding Revenue Streams

Revenue in sports isn’t limited to ticket sales or sponsorships. Industries are branching into new areas. Merchandise sales, for example, are on the rise, with fans eager to support their teams by wearing jerseys or buying memorabilia. Additionally, digital platforms are creating opportunities for advertising and fan engagement, tapping into a tech-savvy generation.

Challenges Facing Growth

The intersection of sports and business in Uganda doesn’t come without hurdles. While there is momentum, gaps in funding, infrastructure, and policy still need addressing.

Limited Infrastructure

Many teams and athletes operate without access to modern facilities. This lack of infrastructure can limit growth, making it harder for Uganda to host international events or compete effectively. Upgrading stadiums, training grounds, and equipment requires coordinated efforts between the government and private investors.

Inconsistent Funding

Sponsorships and investments have made an impact, but funding remains inconsistent. A reliance on a narrow range of industries, such as betting and telecommunications, leaves sports programs vulnerable to market fluctuations. Diversifying the investment base is key to sustainability.

A Game-Changer for Uganda

Uganda stands at a crossroads where sports and business are no longer separate pursuits but interconnected forces driving growth. The key lies in sustaining this momentum. For businesses, this means seeing sports not just as a marketing avenue but as a long-term investment in community and talent. For athletes and sports organizations, it is all about leveraging these partnerships to expand their reach and impact.

https://unsplash.com/photos/person-playing-soccer-mY2ZHBU6GRk

https://unsplash.com/photos/football-stadium-under-cloudy-sky-tV3xTMx7DYE
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Housing Finance Bank Shines with two accolades at the Prestigious Global Brand Awards 2024 in the UK

By
Our Reporter
-

Behind every award lies a story of perseverance, passion, and triumph. Today, Housing Finance Bank celebrates winning two prestigious awards at the Global Brand Awards 2024: Most Sustainable Financial Service Provider 2024 and Best Banking CEO in Uganda 2024. 

The Global Brand Awards, now in their 12th edition, were established to honor excellence in performance and recognize outstanding companies across various sectors. The awards celebrate leaders in industries such as finance, education, hospitality, lifestyle, automobiles, and technology, highlighting those that provide exceptional service and make a significant impact in their fields.

Global Brands Magazine is one of the leading brand publications in the world. Each year, it organizes a series of awards to recognize companies that have distinguished themselves among industry leaders by demonstrating exceptional service and a unique vision. According to an email from Global Brands Magazine, a dedicated external research team evaluated all the nominees, and Housing Finance Bank was selected for these accolades due to its outstanding commitment to innovation, quality, customer experience, and overall performance in providing a robust financial services system in Uganda.

Commenting on the awards, Michael K. Mugabi, Managing Director of Housing Finance Bank, said, “We are honored to receive these two accolades. They reaffirm our commitment to providing efficient, innovative, and customer-centric financial services to maximize stakeholder value. Housing Finance Bank remains at the forefront of financial excellence and innovation, consistently setting the benchmark for best-in-class financial management and mortgage solutions. Through our resolute commitment to driving growth and sustainability, we continue to shape Uganda’s financial landscape and empower individuals and businesses to achieve their goals through innovative products and services, such as Zimba Mpola Mpola Incremental Loans, HFB Women Loans, Renewable Energy Loans, Recycler ATMs, to name a few.”

This recognition comes just days after Housing Finance Bank launched its new “Double the Joy this Christmas” promotion, aimed at rewarding customers who embrace the bank’s digital services during the festive season. The promotion underscores the bank’s ongoing commitment to fostering best banking practices through innovation, value for money, and customer convenience.

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MTN Uganda share price surge again

By
Francisco Adongo
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MTN-Uganda Chairman, Charles Mbire who owns 4% of the giant telecom shares.

As of yesterday November 26, 2024, the MTN Uganda share price has hit the value of Shs215.99 per share on the Uganda Securities Exchange.

 It had climbed from the price of Shs170 a few months ago to Shs215.99.

The biggest beneficiaries are mainly National Social Security Fund (NSSF) and Mr Charles Mbire who are the biggest local shareholders.

This means that the share price has gained Shs45.99 in the last few weeks hence NSSF gaining Shs120, 935,780,000 (One hundred and twenty billion, nine hundred and thirty-five million, six hundred and sixty-seven thousand, seven hundred and eighty or equivalent of $32, 562, 107 million while for Mr Mbire, a gain of Shs41,186,887,641 (forty-one billion, one hundred and eighty-six million, eight hundred and eighty-seven thousand, six hundred and forty-one or equivalent $11,089,630 million.

Patrick Ayota, NSSF Managing Director.

This has shown the new confidence that market has in the company since they published their latest results.

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Upholding human rights is vital for ending the AIDS pandemic- UNAIDS report

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Youths decry inadequate funding to AIDS activities

Ahead of World AIDS Day, a new report by UNAIDS shows that the world can meet the agreed goal of ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030 only if leaders protect the human rights of everyone living with and at risk of HIV.

Of the 39.9 million people living with HIV, 9.3 million people are still not accessing life-saving treatment. Last year, 630 000 people died of AIDS-related illnesses, and 1.3 million people around the world newly acquired HIV. In at least 28 countries, the number of new HIV infections is on the rise. To bring down the trajectory of the pandemic, it is imperative that lifesaving programmes can be reached without fear by all who need them.

Every day in 2023, 570 young women and girls aged between 15 and 24 acquired HIV. In at least 22 countries in eastern and southern Africa, women and girls of this age group are three times more likely to be living with HIV than their male peers

“Despite huge progress made in the HIV response, human rights violations are still preventing the world from ending AIDS,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “When girls are denied education; when there is impunity for gender-based violence; when people can be arrested for who they are, or who they love; when a visit to health services is dangerous for people because of the community they are from the result is that people are blocked from being able to access HIV services that are essential to save their lives and to end the AIDS pandemic. To protect everyone’s health, we need to protect everyone’s rights.” 

 “No girl should be denied the education and information she needs to help stay safe. Discrimination and violence against girls must be tackled as a human rights and health emergency,” said 21-year-old HIV activist Nomonde Ngema.

Criminalization and stigmatization of marginalised communities is obstructing access to life-saving HIV services. In the 2021 Political Declaration on Ending HIV/AIDS, countries committed to ensure that by 2025 less than 10% of countries have restrictive legal and policy frameworks that lead to the denial or limitation of access to HIV services. However, in 2023, 63 countries still criminalize same-sex relations.

Science continues to innovate against AIDS. Long-acting medicines that only need to be injected a few times a year could tip the scales but only if a human rights approach is taken to share the technology to bring down prices and enable production in every part of the world.

“Medical tools that save lives cannot be treated merely as commodities,” said Alexandra Calmy, HIV lead at the University Hospitals of Geneva. “The revolutionary therapeutic and preventive options currently being developed must be made accessible without delay to achieve universal reach.”

“We know the pathway to building a society in which we all thrive,” said Jeanne Gapiya-Niyonzima Founder of ANSS, and the first person in Burundi to public announce that they were living with HIV. “If the world wants to end AIDS as a public health threat, it needs to protect the rights of every person.”

Titled “Take the rights path to end AIDS”, the report includes ten guest essays from leaders in the global AIDS response including: Elton John; Archbishop of Cape Town, Thabo Makgoba; Irish President, Michael D. Higgins; United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk; and former President of the International AIDS Society, Adeeba Kamarulzaman.

Elton John, in his essay in the UNAIDS report, writes, “I know the feeling of shame and what it can do. As long as HIV is seen as a disease for the ‘others’, not so-called ‘decent people’, AIDS will not be beaten. Science, medicine and technology may be the ‘what’ in ending AIDS, but inclusion, empathy and compassion are the ‘how’.”

President Michael D. Higgins, in his essay, writes, “Ensuring that the fullness of human rights is achieved is a practical necessity crucial if we are to rid the world of the scourge of AIDS. Fulfilling the pledge to end AIDS as a public health threat is a political and financial choice. The time to choose the correct path is long overdue.”

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Minister Nankabirwa reaffirms gov’t dedication to harness oil resources for prosperity

By
Simon Kabayo
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Uganda Energy Minister, Ruth Nankabirwa.

Minister of Energy, Ruth Nankabirwa, has reaffirmed the government’s dedication to harnessing the country’s oil resources for prosperity.

Speaking at the 9th Uganda International Oil and Gas Summit (UIOGS), Nankabirwa underscored the transformative potential of the oil and gas sector.

“The oil and gas sector is a key driver of Uganda’s economy, emphasizing shared prosperity and sustainable development,” she said. To ensure responsible development, the government has established a robust regulatory framework, including the Petroleum Act and the Petroleum Revenue Management Act.

Nankabirwa also highlighted the importance of local content development, ensuring Ugandans benefit from employment, training, and business opportunities. The government has established a Petroleum Authority to regulate the sector and promote transparency and accountability.

Hu Weijie, Vice President of CNOOC Uganda Limited, discussed progress in the Kingfisher oilfield project, emphasizing significant investments in Uganda’s oil and gas sector. Weijie also highlighted CNOOC’s commitment to sustainability practices, including environmental stewardship and carbon neutrality.

The Kingfisher project has made significant progress in local content development, with 146 national staff accounting for 64% of the workforce. The summit also highlighted the training of 200 future Tilenga project operators and production technicians, a significant investment in Uganda’s human capital.

Philippe Groueix, General Manager of TotalEnergies EP Uganda, provided updates on the Tilenga project, emphasizing the importance of developing local talent. The training program is designed to equip Ugandans with the skills and expertise needed to participate in the sector.

The UIOGS summit provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss opportunities and challenges facing the oil and gas sector in Uganda, charting a course for the future.

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Standard Chartered set to exit from Ugandan market

By
Francisco Adongo
-

Standard Chartered has announced its plan to explore the sale of its wealth and retail banking businesses in Uganda, Botswana and Zambia.

In these countries, the bank still plans to service “the cross-border needs of global corporate and financial institution clients”.

The bank said the move comes as it is ‘refreshing strategic priorities’ as communicated previously in its third-quarter results, with the focus now on “accelerating income growth and returns.”

Standard Chartered said the exits would not be material to the group as a whole.

“We continually assess the efficacy of our global business model and regularly take action to concentrate resources where we have the most distinctive client proposition,” chief executive Bill Winters said in a statement.

“We have invested heavily in recent years in Africa, where we have operated for 170 years, and which remains core to our global network,” he added.

“We have more-than doubled Wealth assets under management in sub-Saharan Africa since 2021 – driven by our hubs in Kenya and Nigeria – and we are confident that the greater concentration resulting from the proposed sales will help us to continue to outperform the market.”

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Disaster as rivers Nile, Tangi burst banks, taxi with passengers swept away

By
Simon Kabayo
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A taxi stuck in the middle of River Tangi.

Rivers Nile and Tangi have busted their banks, causing flooding on the Pakwach-Karuma road. The rising waters have swept away a taxi, with two rescue boats.

The flooding has left thousands of residents stranded and supply chains to West Nile is disrupted.

In the incident a taxi carrying passengers, including young children, became trapped in the surging floodwaters. The vehicle teeters dangerously, with each passing moment increasing the risk of it being swept away by the powerful current.

Tangi river flooded at Pakwach due to heavy rain and as a taxi driver was attempting to cross, the vehicle got stuck and later swept away by the waters. Attempts to rescue the team only saw three people rescued as others were taken by water.

“Only two children and a woman survived plus a UPDF rescuer who had a life jack. Another boat that came to rescue was also swept away. we left people hanging on the car hoping for rescue” an eye witness told Eagle Online

Calls for immediate intervention have been made, with many urging authorities to deploy an army helicopter from Gulu to conduct a swift and life-saving evacuation. Experts estimate that the helicopter could reach the site within minutes, potentially averting a catastrophic tragedy.

“An army helicopter from Gulu could save them in minutes. Who can help pull the strings for this to happen?”

Eyewitnesses describe the scene as harrowing, with passengers clinging to the vehicle as the water level rises. “We can see them waving for help. The current is strong, and the vehicle could be swept away any time,” a resident of Pakwach.

Apparently, Karuma-Pakwach bridge is closed to all traffic and also, the West Nile region is now cut off from the rest of the country.

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