Last evening, police successfully foiled a bank robbery at Acacia Mall, apprehending four suspects involved in a heist targeting Stanbic Bank.

Kituuma Rusoke, the police spokesperson, confirmed that a fifth suspect is in critical condition. The individuals were already on the police watchlist and are believed to be connected to a series of previous robberies.
“The Uganda Police Force has successfully thwarted an attempted robbery involving Shs 500 million,” Rusoke stated.
In an intelligence-driven operation, police deployed officers to key locations, leading to the interception of suspects traveling on motorcycles. The suspects had been tracking their target from Acacia Mall, intending to steal a cash bag, but were intercepted at several points, including Total Acacia and Tagore Road.
Rusoke reported that six suspects were neutralized, and police recovered two motorcycles, two pangas, and pepper spray.
Developing story.

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Mubiru Enock Joel, a student from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), is set to be one of the thousands of graduates at Makerere University’s 75th graduation ceremony, which commenced today. He will graduate on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, as the top-performing student in the sciences.

A total of 13,658 students, including 143 PhD candidates, will graduate during the five-day ceremony held at the university's Freedom Square.

Born in 2001 to Nsubuga Francis and Ms. Nambejja Lydia of Luwafu, Makindye Division, Kampala, Mubiru began his educational journey at Canan Primary School in Makindye. He later attended Kabale Ssanje Secondary School in Kyotera District, where he completed his O' and A' Level education. At A' Level, Mubiru excelled in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, achieving an impressive 17 points. This outstanding performance earned him a government scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Physics at Makerere University.

Despite coming from a humble background, Mubiru’s determination to succeed remained steadfast. His academic excellence secured several bursaries, easing the financial burden on his parents. In fact, his parents stopped paying his school fees during his lower primary years, as his stellar performance ensured he received the necessary support.

Mubiru will graduate with a remarkable CGPA of 4.91 in his Bachelor of Science (Mathematics and Physics) degree, making him the top-performing student in the sciences at Makerere University this year. His hard work and dedication have propelled him to the forefront of his cohort.

He credits much of his success to the mentorship and guidance he received from his lecturers, particularly Dr. Saul Nsubuga, a lecturer in the Department of Mathematics at CoNAS. Dr. Nsubuga played a pivotal role in both Mubiru’s academic and personal development, offering valuable mentorship and treating him like a son.

Dr. Nsubuga also connected Mubiru with various opportunities, including his current role as an Operations Analyst at Xeno Investment, where he has worked since completing his studies in June 2024. In addition, Mubiru tutors mathematics students from countries such as Uganda, the USA, Italy, and Northern Cyprus.

Mubiru is deeply grateful for the unwavering support of his parents throughout his academic journey. He also appreciates the management of CoNAS and Makerere University for fostering an environment that enabled his academic success.

Looking ahead, Mubiru plans to pursue a Master’s degree and a PhD in Mathematics. In the long term, he aspires to teach mathematics at various educational levels and hopes to establish one of Uganda’s leading data analytics firms, given the evolving demand in the data science industry.

Mubiru believes that success in any field requires focus and commitment. Throughout his undergraduate studies, he strived to be the best, and his efforts have been recognized. His tips for success include actively engaging in academic discussions, consulting regularly with teachers, and dedicating sufficient time to revision. He encourages fellow students at Makerere University to stay focused from their first year and actively participate in academic discussions to excel.

Given the large number of students at the university, Mubiru calls on the University Management to invest in enhancing learning infrastructure to better support the academic success of all students.

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Ahead of the highly anticipated Ikon Awards 2025, Hollywood actor and producer Morocco Omari hosted an acting masterclass with over 200 attendees at UCC House in Bugolobi.

The masterclass was part of Ikonversations, a key activity of the 2025 Ikon Awards. Ikonversations is an initiative designed to offer a platform for renowned filmmakers from around the world to share their expertise, experiences, and insights. The program aims to inspire and empower emerging filmmakers, actors, and creatives, helping them elevate their craft and thrive in the industry.

Omari is a seasoned actor, screenwriter, and producer, celebrated for his roles in Empire, Chicago Fire, Homeland, and many other popular series.

During the masterclass, participants were paired for practical sessions, with each pair assigned a specific character to portray. Some participants acted as soldiers, while others took on the roles of politicians. Omari was impressed by the quality of the performances.

He also offered valuable advice on becoming an excellent actor. “You cannot lie to the camera. It’s important to remain confident, as this helps you fully embody any character you wish to portray,” he shared.

When discussing strategies to enhance Uganda’s film industry, Omari emphasized that the quality of content is key to attracting international recognition. He urged filmmakers to focus on producing high-quality work that could make a global impact.

One of the participants, Ms. Malaika, expressed her gratitude to the Ikon Awards for hosting the masterclass. “I’ve learned so much, especially the importance of staying professional,” she said.

Malaika made her acting debut in Nisha Kalema’s 2018 drama Veronica's Wish, where she played a supporting role as Bankia. More recently, she joined the main cast of The Honourables in 2019.

Ikonversations highlights the Ikon Awards’ commitment to promoting quality film production through capacity-building, mentorship, and inspiration. As the countdown to the Ikon Awards begins, Omari’s masterclass is just one of many events designed to bring together both emerging and established filmmakers, actors, and creatives. Participants will have the opportunity to learn from local and international industry professionals.

The 3rd edition of the Ikon Awards is scheduled for March 29, 2025, at Serena Hotel Kampala. These prestigious annual awards celebrate creativity, excellence, and innovation in Uganda’s film and creative sectors, aiming to honor exceptional talent, projects, and contributions that elevate the industry both locally and internationally.

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The Ugandan shilling started the week trading at levels of 3680/3690 amidst strong dollar demand, which later pushed the exchange rate to lows of 3707/3717. Demand was initially driven by the Energy sector and later by Manufacturing. Limited dollar supply from remittances and agricultural commodities was insufficient to offset the prevailing demand. With business activity resuming after the end-of-year holiday break, the shilling is expected to face continued pressure, with trading levels projected to range between 3675 and 3730 in the short term.

Rahmah Masagazi, Head of Sales – Global Markets at Absa Bank Uganda, highlighted that money markets remained tight throughout the week, with overnight rates averaging 11.70%. During the week, the Bank of Uganda conducted a Treasury Bond auction, which recorded higher yields for 2-year, 5-year, and 15-year bonds at 16.000%, 16.750%, and 17.500%, respectively, compared to previous rates of 15.750%, 16.000%, and 16.750%. A total of Shs 791.17 billion was accepted in the auction, representing 80% of the amount offered.

The December US jobs report, expected today, is anticipated to show an unemployment rate largely unchanged at 4.2%, with economists forecasting an addition of 165,000 jobs in December, down from 227,000 in November. Masagazi also noted that EUR/USD remained stable near $1.0300 on Friday, marking three consecutive days at this level. The euro has faced downward pressure for four months due to geopolitical risks, a favorable interest rate differential for the US dollar, and President-elect Donald Trump’s stance on new tariffs, which could fuel inflation and influence the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decisions. On Friday, EUR/USD traded at $1.0304 in the early afternoon.

The British pound emerged as the weakest performer among major currencies, losing 0.97% during the week leading to January 10. It reached approximately $1.2239, its lowest level since November 2023, as concerns grew over the UK government’s ability to manage its deficit and rising borrowing costs. GBP/USD was trading at $1.2296.

Gold extended its rally for a fourth consecutive day as traders awaited US payroll figures, which are expected to influence the Federal Reserve’s policy outlook. Spot gold traded at $2,680 an ounce, with investors seeking safe-haven assets amid expectations of moderating job growth and potential trade tensions under the new US administration.

Oil markets positioned themselves for a winter rally, driven by shifting supply flows and strong seasonal demand. Stricter sanctions on Russian and Iranian crude have led refiners in China and India to increase crude purchases from the Middle East and other regions amid concerns over restricted supply access. Brent crude traded around $78 a barrel, marking a 5% rise this month. Oil prices reached a three-month high, supported by a contraction in US crude oil stockpiles.

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At least 44 countries and one territory have been certified malaria-free, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), with many more steadily progressing toward this goal. Among the malaria-free nations is Cabo Verde, the third African country to eliminate malaria, marking a historic milestone. Other malaria-free countries include Egypt, Belize, Algeria, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Kyrgyzstan, Paraguay, Uzbekistan, Argentina, China, El Salvador, Azerbaijan, and Tajikistan.

WHO data indicates that since 2000, approximately 2.2 billion malaria cases and 12.7 million deaths have been averted globally. However, malaria remains a serious health threat, particularly in the WHO African Region. According to the latest World Malaria Report, there were an estimated 263 million malaria cases and 597,000 deaths worldwide in 2023. This represents an increase of about 11 million cases compared to 2022, with nearly the same number of deaths. Approximately 95% of malaria-related deaths occurred in the African Region, where many still lack access to services for prevention, detection, and treatment.

Out of the 83 malaria-endemic countries, 25 now report fewer than 10 malaria cases per year, up from just four countries in 2000. Since 2015, the WHO African Region has achieved a 16% reduction in malaria mortality rates. However, the estimated 2023 mortality rate of 52.4 deaths per 100,000 population remains far above the target level of 23 deaths per 100,000 set by the Global Technical Strategy for Malaria 2016-2030, signaling the need for accelerated progress.

In 2023, health ministers from 11 African countries—responsible for two-thirds of the global malaria burden—signed a declaration to reduce malaria sustainably and address its root causes. These countries include Burkina Faso, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Mali, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. Their commitments involve strengthening national health systems, enhancing coordination, and making strategic use of information.

Increased political commitment, along with wider deployment of WHO-recommended tools, is driving progress in malaria-endemic regions. By December 2024, 17 countries had introduced malaria vaccines through routine childhood immunization, with the continued scale-up of these vaccines in Africa expected to save tens of thousands of young lives annually. Additionally, new-generation insecticide-treated nets, which provide improved protection against malaria, accounted for 78% of the 195 million nets delivered to sub-Saharan Africa in 2023, up from 59% in 2022.

Despite advancements, funding for malaria control remains insufficient, especially in high-burden African countries. In 2023, global funding for malaria control was estimated at US$ 4 billion, far short of the US$ 8.3 billion target set by the Global Technical Strategy. This shortfall has led to significant gaps in the provision of insecticide-treated nets, medicines, and other life-saving tools for vulnerable populations.

Malaria-endemic countries also face challenges such as fragile health systems, weak disease surveillance, and rising threats like drug and insecticide resistance. These challenges are further compounded by factors such as conflict, violence, natural disasters, climate change, and population displacement, which exacerbate health inequities. Vulnerable groups, including pregnant women, young children, Indigenous peoples, migrants, and those in remote areas with limited healthcare access, are disproportionately affected.

The 2023 World Malaria Report underscores the need for a more inclusive and effective response to protect those most vulnerable to malaria. WHO urges countries to prioritize primary healthcare as the foundation for equitable and efficient health systems, while addressing the root causes of malaria, including gender inequities and other social determinants of health. Investments in robust data systems to monitor health inequalities—such as collecting disaggregated data by sex, age, and social factors—are also essential. Equity, gender equality, and human rights should guide anti-malaria innovations, with affected communities playing a key role in designing and evaluating new tools and strategies.

“No one should die of malaria; yet the disease continues to disproportionately affect people in the African region, especially young children and pregnant women,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “An expanded package of life-saving tools now offers better protection against the disease, but increased investments and action in high-burden African countries are needed to curb the threat.”

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Cabinet ministers were conspicuously absent from a parliamentary plenary session dedicated to paying tribute to the late Kawempe North legislator, Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away yesterday at Lubaga Hospital after receiving specialized medical care. The motion to honor the deceased MP was tabled by Bugweri County MP Abdu Katuntu and seconded by the Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi.

Speaker Anita Among, who chaired the plenary, stated that the Parliamentary Commission had fully funded Ssegirinya’s medical treatment in both Kampala and Nairobi. “We were hopeful that one day, we would be seated in this House with Ssegirinya, but God’s timing is never our timing. He is no more; he is going to be with Allah,” Among remarked. She acknowledged Ssegirinya’s short but impactful service in the 11th Parliament, highlighting his dedication to improving healthcare in Kawempe North and recalling his efforts to provide a CT scan machine and ambulances.

Unusually, the government chose not to attend the tribute session. Unlike previous special sittings where the Prime Minister or a representative led the government’s tribute, this time Speaker Among called on MP Katuntu to read the tribute. Katuntu commended Ssegirinya’s hard work and perseverance, noting his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a Member of Parliament. He emphasized Ssegirinya’s passion for community mobilization, journalism, and food security, as well as his advocacy for building the Kawempe North Hospital.

Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi criticized the government’s absence and expressed disappointment over its failure to lead the tribute. He lamented the loss of the young legislator, who passed away at just 37 years old, describing it as a tragic end to a life filled with aspirations.

Third Deputy Prime Minister Rukia Nakadama later apologized on behalf of the 80 Cabinet Ministers for their absence, citing miscommunication about the timing of the special sitting. She explained that she had been ill and was initially informed at 8:00 AM that she would lead the motion at 10:00 AM. However, she received a subsequent call indicating the sitting had been moved to 9:00 AM. Nakadama expressed regret, stating, “There was a miscommunication regarding the time, and I sincerely apologize that it wasn’t intentional.”

Speaker Among rejected Nakadama’s explanation, asserting that the Order Paper and the previous day’s adjournment made the timing clear. “I don’t want to believe this was a miscommunication. I take responsibility. The Order Paper is very clear, and when I adjourned Parliament yesterday, I stated that we would reconvene at 9:00 AM,” Among firmly stated.

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The Greater Masaka region will host the 44th Tarehe Sita Anniversary, Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth-Oboth, announced. The event, under the theme “Celebrating Pan-African Solidarity and the People’s Sacrifice in the Struggle for Freedom and Democracy for Socio-economic Transformation,” is scheduled to take place in Kyotera District on February 6, 2025.

In addition to Kyotera, celebrations will also be held across several districts in the Greater Masaka region, including Bukomansimbi, Kalangala, Kalungu, Lwengo, Lyantonde, Masaka, Masaka City, Rakai, and Sembabule.
During a consultative meeting with Members of Parliament from the region at the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs Headquarters in Mbuya, Oboth-Oboth expressed his gratitude to the people of Masaka for their longstanding partnership with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).

“I want to congratulate the people of Greater Masaka for being chosen to host this year’s celebration. You may not realize how many requests we receive every year for such an honor. It is through the collective efforts of the Ministry and the UPDF that we are able to give back to the community. And this year, Greater Masaka has been selected,”said Oboth-Oboth.

He emphasized that Tarehe Sita, which marks the launch of the National Resistance Army’s (NRA) liberation struggle on February 6, 1981, is a unique and special occasion. “It is the only government initiative that gives back to the community without formalities, through tangible projects that people can see and feel, no matter how small,” he noted.
Theodore Ssekikubo, the Member of Parliament for Lwemiyaga County, also expressed pride in the region hosting the celebrations.“We are fortunate that this year’s celebrations are taking place in the Masaka sub-region. We take pride in being part of the 6th of February, the day the liberation of Uganda began,”he said.

Ssekikubo commended the UPDF for their pre-celebration activities in the region, including the construction of school buildings and the provision of free medical services.“These initiatives make the celebration more meaningful as people directly benefit from the UPDF’s efforts and share in the achievements of our country’s liberation,”he added.

The Chief of Joint Staff, Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, underscored the historical significance of the Tarehe Sita celebrations. He noted that since 1981, the event has symbolized the strong partnership between the army and the people of Uganda.“Every February 6, starting from 1981, the army and the people of Uganda join hands during Defence Forces Week to engage in activities that strengthen the strategic relationship between the population and the defense forces,”Maj Gen Bakasumba said.
He also highlighted Masaka’s pivotal role in Uganda’s liberation history, stating,“In the final phase of the armed struggle (1985-1986), Masaka was the launch pad for the decisive battles that led to the fall of Kampala.”Maj Gen Bakasumba further emphasized the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by Ugandans and Tanzania’s contribution to the liberation struggle.

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