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Tayebwa decries harassment by Mangu cash online money lending App as he directs police to investigate the scam

By
Simon Kabayo
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Deputy Speaker, Thomas Tayebwa.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa has decried the harassment from agents of Mangu cash, an online money lending App.

Tayebwa revealed that a harassing call from Mangu Cash agent threatened action if he failed to produce an individual who had apparently listed him as a next of kin.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Tayebwa expressed alarm over the call, which allegedly included threats to deduct money from his account if he did not assist in locating the borrower.

“I have just received a call from some tough-speaking lady claiming to be from Mangu Cash, threatening to deduct their loan money if I don’t produce some random person who put my name as their next of kin when they were borrowing. I think a lot of criminality is going on,” Tayebwa revealed.

He added, “I think a lot of criminality is going on.”

Tayebwa appealed to the Uganda telecoms to avoid such fraud since it embarrasses the reputation of the companies.

 “I hope our telecoms do not allow their mobile money platforms to be used to carry out fraud orchestrated by such unscrupulous companies,” he appealed.

Tayebwa also appealed to the Director of Criminal Investigations, Tom Magambo to investigate the matter of the online money lending companies.

“Tom Magambo, you need to interest yourself in this sector. Many Ugandans might be dying quietly,” Tayebwa appealed.

Most of the online money lending Apps operate illegally and traumatize Ugandans with abnormal interest rates ranging from 28% to 37% and questionable practices of threats and blackmail.

Some of the apps include; iKash, Flypesa, banana app, Loango, Nile, gloan app, Boom loan, Mpacash, Cashpulse, Credit lab, Flowerloan, Wind-money, Lever credit, Cashmate, Ezee loan, Kasente, Sunlit, Wind money, Cashflow, Moji, Ozzy money, Mumu money, Kasquick, More Pesa, Muno, My loan, Real Cash, Star Loan, Get Cash.

One victim of iKash narrated that his photo and national ID were recorded in a tiktok video which circulated allover alleging that he is a serial thief of motorcycles and when found should be reported to the nearest police station.

The recording came out after him delaying to pay back a debt of Shs100, 000 having been given a loan of Shs50.000 and had to give them a profit of Shs50,000 within one week.

Like other Apps, iKash stretched to the next of kin/emergency contacts of the borrower without their knowledge and consent, harassed and tormented them using their unprofessional loan recovery agents and tagged them as the dealers in the theft of motorcycles in the suburbs of Kampala. 

Unlike banks and other financial institutions that ask for collateral to acquire a loan, the instant loan app requires the applicant to have a national identity card and two guarantors.

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Security forces rescue kidnapped Egyptian Diplomat in Uganda

By
Our Reporter
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Director of Crime Intelligence, Brig. Gen. Christopher Ddamulira. Photo by Eddie Ssejjoba

Joint security forces have rescued a diplomat at the Egyptian Embassy in Uganda who had been kidnapped by unknown individuals.

Muhammed Ali, 40, the commercial first secretary in the office of the deputy Ambassador of Egypt to Uganda unknowingly went missing on November 8.

Christopher Ddamulira, Director of Crime Intelligence has revealed that the diplomat was rescued today afternoon.

“Congratulations to the Joint Security Teams for a well-coordinated operation that has rescued a senior embassy diplomat this afternoon,” Ddamulira commended.

He added, “You have made us proud as a country.”

Ddamulira said that this is a reassurance to all Ugandans and all other people in the country that security forces will always do whatever possible to protect life and property.

He affirmed that the kidnappers should face the law.

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Former State Minister Phillip Byaruhanga granted official burial

By
Francisco Adongo
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RIP: Dr Phillip Byaruhanga.

President Yoweri Museveni has granted an official burial to the fallen former State Minister for Health, and for Local Government, Dr. Phillip Byaruhanga.

The revelation was made by Milly Babalanda, Minister in Charge of the Presidency via her X handle (formerly Twitter).

“I wish to inform you that H.E KagutaMuseveni has granted an official burial to the deceased former Minister of State for Health, and for Local Government, who was also MP Buruuli County, Dr. Phillip Byaruhanga,” Babalanda revealed.  

Babalanda added that accordingly, the National Organizing Committee will liaise with the family to finalize arrangements.

“Profound condolences to the family, friends, in-laws and the people of Masindi. May Dr. Byaruhanga’s soul rests in eternal peace!” Babalanda mourned.

However, Babalanda did not reveal the cause of Byaruhanga’s death.

He will be buried at Katasenywa in Nyangahya Division, Masindi Municipality, on a date to be announced.

Dr Byaruhanga was incorruptible.

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Tribute to the Late Hon. John Odit

By
Guest Writer
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RIP John Odit.


By Daniel Roy O’dur



The esteemed Hon. John Odit, a revered figure in the Ugandan Parliament, is fondly remembered for his steadfast commitment and remarkable contributions throughout his service in the 7th and 8th Parliaments, where he represented the Erute South Constituency in Lira District. His enduring legacy is defined by his dedication to public service, unwavering integrity, and an unyielding quest for accountability within governmental frameworks.



Political Career and Contributions


Hon. Odit emerged as a significant leader within the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), briefly holding the position of Secretary General before parting ways with Olara Otunnu’s administration. His political journey was marked by a vigorous advocacy for agricultural advancement, particularly during his tenure as chair of the Agriculture Committee. This influential role enabled him to shape policies aimed at uplifting the livelihoods of farmers and bolstering food security across Uganda.
One of the most distinguished accomplishments of Hon. Odit was his exemplary leadership of the Commissions Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises Committee. Under his guidance, this esteemed committee addressed several prominent issues, notably the Tamangalo land scandal and critical concerns surrounding the National Social Security Fund (NSSF). His relentless pursuit of truth was pivotal in exposing corruption within the NSSF, culminating in the significant resignation of then Managing Director David Chandia Jamwa. This decisive action not only underscored his unwavering commitment to transparency but also demonstrated his remarkable bravery in challenging influential forces within the government.



Legacy and Impact


Hon. Odit’s influence transcended mere legislative success; he was celebrated as one of the rare politicians capable of engaging in vigorous debates on pressing national matters. His eloquence in expressing concerns about governance and public accountability earned him the respect of both colleagues and constituents. 
His untimely passing on November 9, 2012, represented a profound loss for his family and the nation at large. He was interred at his ancestral home in Oriocudi village, Agali Subcounty, Lira District—a location imbued with deep significance for those who cherished him personally, his clan Oyima Ngila or admired his contributions from a distance.
In commemorating the esteemed Hon. John Odit, we pay tribute to a life devoted to the principles of service, integrity, and justice. His remarkable contributions resonate profoundly, inspiring both present and future leaders within Uganda’s political arena. As we contemplate his enduring legacy, let us commit to honoring his memory by embodying the values he championed.

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Archbishop Justin Welby failed to uphold historic and biblical teaching of the church on marriage and family-Kaziimba

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Most Rev Justin Welby as the Archbishop of Canterbury and Archbishop Church of Uganda Rev. Dr. Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu.

Archbishop Justin Welby failed to uphold historic and biblical teaching of the church on marriage and family-Kaziimba

The Archbishop of Church of Uganda, Rev Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu has said that the Archbishop Justin Welby of Church of England failed to uphold the historic and biblical teaching of the Church of England on marriage and family. 

Kazimba said while responding to the resignation of the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby.

“I have received news of the resignation of The Most Rev Justin Welby as the Archbishop of Canterbury following a report on his failure to address child abuse allegations in the Church of England,” he said. 

Along with other members of Gafcon and the Global South Fellowship of Anglicans, several years ago the Church of Uganda ceased recognizing the authority of Archbishop Justin Welby because of his inability to uphold the historic and biblical teaching of the Church of England on marriage and family. 

He said it grieves them deeply that so many people suffered from the continued abuse of John Smyth over many years simply because the church’s leadership covered up the abuse, did not uphold the moral teaching of the Bible and the church, failed to defend the vulnerable. This is the same compromised leadership that has led to the fabric of the Anglican Communion being torn at its deepest level.

He commended the Gafcon Movement and the covenanted relationships of the Global South Fellowship of Anglicans to others as the best way forward for Anglicans to re-unite under the authority of Scripture and in the cause of extending the Great Commission of our Lord Jesus Christ.

“We assure the Church of England of our prayers to lift high the cross of Christ, restore the authority of Scripture, and proclaim the unchanging Gospel in a changing world. We extend our prayers to Archbishop Welby and his family, and also pray for the continued healing for all those who have endured abuse,” he said. 

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UPDF senior commanders meet to strengthen Somalia Mission Strategy

By
Our Reporter
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Senior commanders and staff of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), involved in the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), have assembled at the International Peace Support Operations Training Centre (IPSO-TC) in Singo for a four-day ‘Lessons Learned’ workshop.

The workshop is aimed at sharing experiences, addressing challenges, and refine strategies for future mission success.

Opening the workshop, Deputy Commander Land Force, Maj Gen Francis Takirwa, underscored the importance of evaluating progress and improving methods to reinforce stability in Somalia and the wider region.

“It is a privilege to examine what we’ve done, where we have succeeded, and where we can improve,” Maj Gen Takirwa stated.

He further noted the UPDF’s transition in training leadership, describing it as a major milestone.

“While training was once fully conducted by external partners, the UPDF has now taken the lead,” he added.

Brig Gen John Patrick Otongo, Commandant of IPSO-TC, affirmed the centre’s dedication to promoting regional peace and security through robust capacity-building.

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Museveni urges people of Kisoro to avoid politics of tribes and religion

By
Simon Kabayo
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NRM supporters in Kisoro listening to President Yoweri Museveni.

President Yoweri Museveni has rallied the people of Kisoro to avoid politics of tribes and religion differences, citing that they can destabilize the community.

Museveni expressed concern over emerging reports that some candidates and their teams are advancing politics of religion and tribes as they seek people’s mandate to parliament during the campaign for the NRM flag bearer, Rose Kabagyeni for the Woman Member of Parliament by-election seat. 

“I was told that some aspirants and their agents are dividing the people during campaigns using religion and tribes.

“Those things of tribes and religion are very dangerous because they can destabilize the community. They destroyed the past governments for over 20 years after independence in the mid-80s. We had to go to the bush for 14 years to fight and correct that historical mistake, but it took us a long time. Whoever wants to take us back is an enemy of Uganda and will be crushed,” the President warned.

“You all know what happened in Rwanda. It was brought by ‘tribes’. For over 60 years, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been destabilised due to tribal conflicts and clashes. Do you want the same problems to return to Uganda? Or do you agree with me that we all fight that problem together?” Museveni asked the voters.

To those who support an independent candidate due to disagreements from the primary election, saying it was stolen, Museveni said “If the Kabagyeni team stole elections, its medicine should not be to leave NRM.”

“You can reveal to us the evidence, and we will investigate. Even if the elections are done. The perpetrators of the stolen votes will be apprehended and her win withdrawn. So, don’t divide yourselves due to the said issues. Don’t bring back that cancer,” He said.

He warned candidates against tribal or religious politicking, saying “They are potential criminals waiting to go to jail.”

“I have engaged with religious leaders in Kisoro and Kabale and we have agreed to eliminate the indiscipline of using region, tribes and use of abused language from our politics,” He said.

He later handed the NRM flag to Kabagyeni to represent the party in the election.

After endorsement by the president, Rose Kabagyeni committed to remain a loyal cadre of the NRM work to bring positive change among the people of Kisoro.

“I will not disappoint you the people of Kisoro if you vote for me as your leader in Parliament in the remaining time,” she said.

The people of Kisoro are set to cast their votes for their best candidates tomorrow (Thursday, 14th November, 2024).

Yesterday, Dan Nayebare, the Kisoro District Returning Officer received polling kits for the by-elections, with Kigezi Region Police Spokesperson Elly Matte present.

Candidate agents inspected each kit and checked seals to ensure all materials are secure and intact.

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Coffee Bill: Opposition caucus asks Speaker Among to reveal identities of security personnel who raided parliament

By
Geoffery Serugo
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MPs thrown into chaos after the tabling of the Coffee Bill.

The Leader of Opposition (LoP), Joel Ssenyonyi, has condemned the violence that marred the Coffee Bill in Parliament last week.

Last week, parliament descended into violence as legislators discussed rationalisation bills. The bills, which include the National Coffee Amendment Bill, were aimed at cutting government’s expenditure and minimising duplications in ministries.

As the debate intensified, Kilak North MP Anthony Akol pounced on Mityana County MP Francis Zaake after later trying to lift his legs for allegedly occupying his seat.

However, Ssenyonyi noted that although Parliament is a place for intellectual discourse, this wasn’t the case last week as it descended into something else, marred with violence and harassment of MPs and journalists.

He stated that upon resumption of Parliament from recess, they are going to demand answers from Speaker Anita Among on the identities of the goons that attacked MPs in the chambers, since she ordered to have the remarks made by Ssenyonyi last week expunged from the parliamentary record.

“The Speaker was saying that the remarks I made were defamatory, and so she ordered that my remarks be expunged from the Hansard. When we return to Parliament, I will ask her, now that you are saying I was wrong to claim it was security operatives, you tell us who raided parliament, now that you know. At the tail end, she was thanking the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Internal Affairs, so she has an idea, so she has to give us answers,” he said.

“We did see journalists being pushed out of the chambers of the House and detained. The time I have been here at parliament, the time I covered Parliament, I have never seen that. Problematic. Journalists were hounded out; lights were switched off, but this time because they had the criminal intent; that is why they sent journalists away, locked them somewhere, and then goons descended. And by the way, network connectivity was also jammed; one couldn’t make a call because the network was jammed. This is despicable; it is unacceptable,” he stated.

He encouraged people to keep growing coffee because it is possible that the government wants to demoblise them and discourage them from growing coffee.

“We want to encourage Ugandans in all regions across the country to please grow even more coffee because the fight for coffee hasn’t ended. Some think the fight was wrapped up, no. Please grow as much coffee as you can. General Museveni may think he has had his day. No. Coffee is going to be here much longer than him because, as we know, it remains for generations and generations,” he said.

Following the fracas Speaker Among suspended ten MPs who include: Francis Zaake, Anthony Akol, Shamim Malende, Wakayima Musoke, Aloysius Mukasa, and Charles Tebandeke. Others are Isiah Sassaga and Asinansi Nyakato, Frank Kabuye, Evans Kanyike, and Susan Mugabi.

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Filmmakers give parliament millions

By
Simon Kabayo
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Bugweri Woman MP Rachael Magoola, chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum for the Creative Economy receive a dummy cheque from Pearlwood.

The filmmakers’ industry through its body, Pearlwood has allocated Shs57.6 million to support the Uganda Parliamentary Forum for Creative Industries in reviewing and updating the National Culture Policy.

In the same event, supported by African Union (AU) and SELAM, the Connect for Culture Africa program in Uganda has secured more funding worth Shs181.999 million to implement several key initiatives.

These funds will be disbursed in phases to ensure that each project milestone reflects strong accountability, measurable impact and effective service delivery. The approach underscores a commitment to evidenced-based progress within Uganda’s cultural and creative industries aligning with CfCA’s principles of transparency and responsibility in resource utilization.

The reception of the cheques was witnessed today at the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Social Development by the stakeholders and partners.

Speaking at the event, Aisha Namatovu, Pearlwood appreciated the funding called upon the stakeholders to fully engage in Connect for Content Africa (CfCA) program and support its vision since it focuses on not only Uganda but also other African countries to develop the industry.

“The industry is advocating for 1% of public funding. Currently, it receives 0.0018%. We want this funding to help us open up employment opportunities to the youths in the culture and creative industries,” she said.

She added that although there has been mismanagement sometime, there is a need to re-arrange the industry and capture more youths from different regions of the country.

Bugweri Woman MP Rachael Magoola, chairperson of the Parliamentary Forum for the Creative Economy said that a lot has been done and there was much support in drafting the report through stakeholder meetings. The recommendations in the baseline report will be analysed to expound on the National Culture Policy.

“With more engagement with the Gender Ministry, we hope the gaps in the culture and creative industries will be closed by the review at the moment,” Magoola said.

Matsiko Mark, Education and Research officer revealed that there will be a CfCA Podcast to unify all artists through open dialogue and problem-solving.

“The podcast will be for dialogues with different artists. Many artists have not been identified but through this podcast, policy makers will be able to capture their ideas in order to foster development,” Matsiko said.

Matsiko clarified that this podcast is not only for Pearlwood but for all artists to have an opportunity to strengthen the sector’s cohesion and collectively advocate for a vibrant, well-funded creative industry.  

Juliana Numo, Commissioner of Culture Affairs at the Ministry of Gender said that there is need for capacity building in areas of marketing, producing better products to compete on the international market, noting that the creative industry is not only about entertainment but also producing goods for sale to create opportunities and generate revenue.

She also noted, “The recommendations provided will help us prioritize policy and investment in areas with the most growth potential. We shall take the right steps to finalize the proposal and present the 1% funding to the Finance Ministry for approval. Hopefully, by June next year the minister will have approved it.”

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Lawmakers criticize Ugandan banks for allegedly undermining women’s entrepreneurship program 

By
Simon Kabayo
-

Uganda’s banking sector is facing criticism from lawmakers for allegedly hindering the government’s flagship women’s entrepreneurship program, Generating Opportunities and Productivity for Women Entrepreneurs (GROW).

The initiative, aimed at supporting women-led businesses, has been plagued by banks’ prioritization of their own loan products over GROW funds, according to Sarah Opendi, Woman MP for Tororo District. Opendi shared her sister’s experience of being repeatedly denied access to the GROW fund by Post Bank and Centenary Bank.

Jane Avur of Pakwach District highlighted inconsistencies in Post Bank’s messaging between its headquarters and rural branches.

Santa Okot accused Centenary Bank of charging an unjustified Shs10,000 for account opening and colluding with surveyors to extort money for collateral assessments.

Aisha Kabanda from Butambala District advocated for a group loaning system, similar to existing bank practices, to aid women lacking traditional collateral.

Kabanda emphasized the importance of transparency about loan terms, particularly the effective interest rate of 20 percent over two years.

Moses Kabuusu from Kyamuswa constituency voiced concerns over Finance Trust Bank’s refusal to accept boats and engines as collateral, a significant barrier for women in fishing areas.

He also noted the limited presence of banks in rural areas, making fund access difficult.

Bank officials urged patience, citing the program’s early stages and audits by KPMG, dismissing accusations of favoring their products.

Minister Betty Amongi acknowledged the concerns, announcing plans to involve Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations alongside banks to extend reach.

A sub-regional sharing agenda will be implemented to ensure nationwide fund accessibility. Communication with banks is ongoing to streamline this process within two weeks.

Amongi also mentioned that beyond loans, the GROW project will introduce a skilling program. Women uninterested in loans can access training tailored to their fields of interest.

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