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Innovation and creativity to headline PRAU awards 2024

By
Simon Kabayo
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The Public Relations Association of Uganda (PRAU) has announced this year’s Award Ceremony to be held on 29th November 2024 under the theme Recognising Innovation.

This is the second year of the return of the awards after a 7-year hiatus and the PRAU is enthusiastic about ensuring the culture of progress and continuity in the PR profession in Uganda.

This was announced at the launch to kick start the organisation of the November event. The categories and how entries will be submitted as well as the authenticity of the judging criteria, and auditing firms are among the areas covered during the launch.

There are exciting and competitive categories to showcase and these include a critical new entrant – the Students Award which is celebrating young professionals to recognize their potential and groom them into seasoned PR professionals.

Some of the other categories in the Awards are the Media Relations & Media Management Campaign Celebrating successful media relations efforts and campaigns; Event or Experiential Campaign Recognizing outstanding event planning and execution; Internal Communication Campaign Focusing on effective communication within organizations; Crisis Communication Management Highlighting effective crisis communication strategies and responses; Online Publication Acknowledging innovative and impactful printed or online publications used in the field of communication; Overall PR Campaign Acknowledging the best and exceptional PR campaigns that impacted positively on an organization’s brand and its reputation and the Lifetime Achievement Award Honoring individuals with a long-standing impact on the field of PR, which will be specially selected by the Governing Council. The common thread for all the categories will be demonstrating innovation and creativity in the PR campaigns.

Speaking on the significance of the Excellence Awards, PRAU President Tina Wamala said, “Every year, PR practitioners design and implement amazing PR interventions for their respective clients or employers.”

She added, “When amazing work is developed, and executed exceptionally well, it is only right that it gets recognized.”

The need to create winning campaigns and services for companies continued to be the overriding factor that drives PR professionals to excellence. Participation in the PRAU Awards provides opportunities to attract new business as agencies and individual professionals are able to demonstrate outstanding design and execution competence.

“The PRAU Awards are a testament to the dedication and excellence displayed by individuals, organisations, and professionals in the field of Public Relations and Communication.” said Tina Wamala, President of PRAU.

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City Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia unveils visionary ‘Pearl Business Park’ project

By
Our Reporter
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The Ruparelia Group through its real estate arm, Meera Investments, has unveiled a groundbreaking project set to transform Kampala’s skyline and redefine urban living, the Pearl Business Park spearheaded by city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia. This ambitious development is the epitome of high-tech, sustainable, and luxurious mixed-use property development in Uganda.

Strategically located in one of Kampala’s most prime, secure, and sought-after areas, the Pearl Business Park will sprawl across an impressive 20 acres. This masterfully designed complex will integrate commercial, residential, leisure, and shopping facilities, making it a hub for modern living and business.

“We are committed to delivering a world-class development that balances luxury, technology, and sustainability,” Ruparelia said.

He added, “The Pearl Business Park will be a game-changer in Uganda’s real estate sector, setting new standards in design, comfort, and environmental responsibility.”

With over 124,560 square meters of lettable space, the Pearl Business Park offers unprecedented opportunities for businesses looking for prime real estate. The property will provide state-of-the-art office spaces, residential units, and retail outlets, all while upholding a commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable development practices.

“Our focus on sustainability is central to our vision. We are using cutting-edge technology and environmentally responsible design to ensure that this project leaves a positive footprint for future generations,” Ruparelia Group emphasized.

As the Pearl Business Park takes shape, the Ruparelia Group is also making significant strides in hospitality. Kabira Country Club, another flagship entity under the Ruparelia Group, is expanding its services to reach 5-star excellence.

“We are thrilled to elevate Kabira Country Club’s hospitality services to new heights. Our goal is to offer nothing short of perfection to every guest, providing luxury, comfort, and world-class service,” Ruparelia Group said.

This transformation underlines Dr. Ruparelia’s vision to turn Kabira Country Club into the premier destination for leisure and refinement in Kampala.

“Every detail of the club has been carefully curated to enhance our members’ experiences. Whether it’s our impeccable service or luxurious surroundings, we are committed to exceeding expectations,” the group added.

The Pearl Business Park and the expansion of Kabira Country Club stand as testaments to the Ruparelia Group’s relentless drive for innovation, luxury, and sustainability. As these projects take shape, they will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Uganda’s business and hospitality landscapes.

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Digitization paving the way for convenient banking solutions; evolution of recycler ATMs in Uganda

By
Francisco Adongo
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It’s a late Friday night, dark and lonely. You pace around, soliciting a cash bailout from your friends and anyone else, hoping to buy Yaka units, but all in vain. The thought of banking halls being closed makes you even sadder, and you panic, worrying about what to do next.

Suddenly, you remember the Housing Finance Bank ATM you saw in the corner of the mall. You rush out irrationally and head to the mall to withdraw some cash, thanks to the advanced technology of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)

ATMs have tremendously revolutionized banking in Uganda, making cash withdrawals, deposits, balance checks, and other banking services accessible 24/7 without the need for a teller.

Since the early 2000s, ATMs have steadily transformed the banking sector in Uganda. Initially, they served the simple yet critical purpose of dispensing cash at any time of day—24/7. However, over the years, digitization has driven thinkers and innovators to expand the functions that ATMs can offer to customers. This has led to the development of Recycler ATMs, which increase convenience, functionality, accessibility, and cost savings.

Recycler ATMs are making customers’ lives much better with new features such as instant cash withdrawals, account balance checks, cash deposits, funds transfers, and even bill payments for utilities like water, Yaka, and TV, to name a few

The term “Recycler ATM” might sound new to many, but these machines redefining the traditional ATM experience. While a typical ATM dispenses cash and may accept deposits, Recycler ATMs take things further by accepting cash deposits and reusing the same cash for withdrawals. In essence, they “recycle” the money deposited by one customer to another customer, reducing the need for frequent cash refills.

Traditional ATMs, on the other hand, generally have separate processes for dispensing and accepting cash. They don’t reuse deposited cash for withdrawals, meaning banks have to replenish these machines frequently. Recycler ATMs are a more efficient and sustainable solution.

With so many banking channels lately available such as agent banking, mobile money, digital banking, and banking halls. Recycler ATMs provide a more convenient banking solution.

Recycler ATMs have reduced dependency on bank staff, allowing you to handle your transactions quickly and efficiently, which can be a significant time-saver.

Due to the recycling feature, the recycler ATMs are less likely to run out of cash, especially in areas with high transaction volumes because customer deposits become available for other customers to withdraw.

The safety and privacy recycler machines offer are commendable unlike agent banking or a bank hall where others may oversee your transactions.

Speaking to Joan Nakirijja, a resident and businesswoman in Nakawa banking with Housing Finance Bank says she enjoys using the recycler ATMs because they are convenient since she does not have to queue up in the bank or travel far to withdraw or deposit her money. Thus, appreciates HFB for the amazing innovation however she requested the bank to set up more ATMs across the country.

“I don’t have to stand in long queues in the banking hall with my large sums of money in the envelope waiting to be attended to by the teller. This machine is time-saving and effective,” says Nakirijja.

Ms. Bridget Nambi, a long-time customer of Housing Finance Bank, says that the recycler ATMs have been a big-time saver for her. “I remember the days when I had to rush to the bank before closing time. Now, with the Recycler ATMs, I can deposit money into my account at any time, and it reflects immediately. It has made banking so much easier and more flexible for me, especially when I’m running my business late into the night.”

The evolution of ATMs in Uganda has been a game-changer for both customers and banks. Recycler ATMs, in particular, offer enhanced convenience, efficiency, and cost savings. As they become more widespread, they represent a crucial step in the modernization of Uganda’s banking sector, aligning with the growing demand for digital and real-time financial services.

In Uganda, banks like Housing Finance Bank, KCB Bank, Post Bank, and Stanbic Bank among others, have installed these recycler ATMs in strategic areas such as Kampala Road, Nakawa, Kireka, Entebbe, Mukono, Kololo, Arua, Lira, Tororo, and Fort Portal.

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Troops urged to maintain vigilance during disarmament operation in Karamoja Sub-region

By
Simon Kabayo
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Major General Don William Nabasa, Commander of the 3rd Infantry Division of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), has urged troops to maintain vigilance and avoid complacency in the consolidation phase of the disarmament operation in the Karamoja Sub-region.

During field barazas, Maj Gen Nabasa provided tactical guidance on assessing combat capabilities and troop welfare at forward operating units of the 403 and 405 Infantry Brigades.

He emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, combat-ready, and patriotic to consolidate the relative peace achieved through hard work.

 Maj Gen Nabasa noted that previous disarmament phases have provided valuable lessons for commanders to enhance ongoing operations and avoid setbacks. He commended troops and field commanders for maintaining a strategic relationship with the local population, who are the primary consumers of national security services.

The Division Commander encouraged troops to prioritize force protection, maintain healthy living habits, and avoid promiscuity. He also advised troops to cultivate a good savings culture, utilise loans wisely, and invest in viable projects to achieve financial liberation.

Brig Gen Wilberforce Sserunkuma, Deputy Division Commander, urged troops to continue following the revolutionary path and practice endurance, discipline, patience, and commitment. He advised young soldiers to remain focused and work hard as they prepare for future leadership tasks.

The five-day field baraza was attended by senior officers, including Col Richard Obura Kidega, the 403 Brigade commander; Col David Byaruhanga,the 405 Brigade Commander; Col Juddy Rukubya, the 1 Usalama Brigade Commander, and key staff officers of the Division and Brigade headquarters.

The UPDF’s focus on a comprehensive approach includes engaging local communities, promoting dialogue, and ensuring that development initiatives accompany the disarmament process to create long-term peace and economic opportunities for the region.

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Uganda Airlines makes inaugural flight to Abuja

By
Our Reporter
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Uganda Airlines has launched a new route to Abuja with an aim to boost tourism and trade with one of Africa’s biggest economies, Nigeria.

This new service operates every Thursday and Sunday, with flights departing Entebbe at 16:00 and arriving in Abuja at 18:15, using Airbus A330-800neo.

Ms Jenifer Bamuturaki, the CEO of Uganda Airlines, speaking at the launch, said Abuja is the national carrier’s 14th destination, and second in Nigeria.

“This new route addresses a key connectivity gap between West and East Africa, allowing travellers to seamlessly connect to other destinations like Nairobi, Dar es Salaam, Mombasa, and more,” she said.

Ms Bamuturaki said the new route unlocks more business potential for trade, investments, and more productivity at large.

“We are proud to be living up to our promise to take Nigeria to Uganda and bring Uganda to Nigeria, Abuja is now our 14th point as we embark on our expansion plan.”

State Minister for Transport Byamukama Fred congratulated Uganda Airlines on launching flights to Abuja, their 2nd destination in Nigeria.

“This milestone highlights the NRM government’s strategic vision in reconnecting Africa. This achievement underscores a forward-thinking vision for regional integration and cooperation,” he said.

“Abuja is crucial for Uganda Airlines as it boosts connectivity between Uganda and Nigeria. This route will reduce travel times, lower costs, and enhance trade, investment, and tourism between both nations,” he added.

Uganda Airlines is Uganda’s flagship national passenger and cargo carrier that started operations in 2019. It provides scheduled air transportation services in East Africa and near-international markets. Uganda Airlines was awarded the World’s Youngest Aircraft Fleet Award, given by Ch-Aviation in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

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Jaguar Bus company suspended for 10 days after fatal accident

By
Our Reporter
-

The government has suspended the services of Jaguar Bus Company for ten days following a fatal accident involving one of its buses that claimed ten lives. The company will be required to meet all conditions set by the government before it can resume operations.

The suspension was announced by Minister of State for Works and Transport, Fred Byamukama, who cited reckless driving as the primary cause of the fatal accident. Byamukama expressed concern over the safety standards maintained by the bus company.

“This decision is not taken lightly, but it is necessary to ensure the safety of all road users. The reckless driving exhibited by Jaguar buses has put many lives at risk, and we cannot allow this to continue,” he said.

Byamukama also issued a stern warning to Gateway Bus Services, indicating that they could face similar consequences if they do not improve their operational standards.

“We are closely monitoring other bus companies, including Gateway. If they do not revise their ways, they may face suspension as well,” he warned.

The government has assured passengers who rely on Jaguar buses that alternative transportation options are available, including taxis. Discussions are also underway with other bus companies to provide additional transportation services. The government is committed to reducing road accidents, many of which are caused by mechanical issues, and has urged all bus companies to prioritize safety.

The minister also revealed that the driver who disappeared at the time of the accident on September 1, finally appeared with a wounded arm at the transport ministry on Wednesday to plead on behalf of the company with routes connecting Kampala to Rwanda, Burundi and DR Congo.

“This shows that people, especially these big companies, are taking accidents in a normal way because I even didn’t see police coming to arrest him, yet they have been looking for him,” Byamukama added.

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Police issues safety guidelines ahead of schools’ re-opening

By
Our Reporter
-
Michael Kananura.

The Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety has issued safety guidelines to handle unprecedented issues in traffic as schools reopen for the third term.

In the press statement released on Thursday, September 12, 2024, Michael Kananura, the traffic police spokesperson, urged road users to exhibit extreme caution and adhere to the essential road safety tips as schools reopen for a third term.

“As schools reopen for the third term, we expect a surge in traffic volume and potential road safety hazards in order to ensure a safe commute for all,” Kananura said.

According to Kananura, motorists should observe traffic rules and exercise patience to allow students and pedestrians to cross safely. He highlighted that for the safety of pedestrians, children under 12 years must be accompanied by adults when crossing busy roads.

 Kananura also added that children going to school should use designated pedestrian crossings and follow traffic lights and signals.

He also discouraged Boda Boda riders from carrying more than two children on a motorcycle. Kanunura also said carrying children in the fuel tank is extremely dangerous and should be avoided.

He said in the case of schools near the highways, the caretakers should raise red flags for the children crossing the roads. Kananura also encouraged parents and children being transported by taxis, boda bodas, or any other type of transport to also master the registration number plates for proper tracking in case of an accident.

“Parents, guardians, and motorcycle operators are urged to prioritize child safety and adhere to the guidelines too. Police also urges the public to work together with police to prevent accidents and ensure a safe and smooth journey for everyone, especially children, as they return to school,” he said.

According to Kanaura, these measures are crucial to prevent accidents and ensure the safe passage of learners to and from school. He promised to arrest and penalize road users who violate these guidelines.

“Let’s work together to prevent accidents and ensure a safe and smooth journey for everyone, especially our children, as they return to school,” he said.

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EC declines Besigye, Lukwago and Ogutu’s request to reserve party symbols

By
Geoffery Serugo
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The Electoral Commission had declined to reserve the name, colours, symbol, and slogan proposed by the former Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) members based on Katonga Road ahead of registration of their political party.

Last month, the former FDC members petitioned the electoral commission, seeking the reservation of the name, colour, symbol, and slogan for their political party.

Led by Wafula Ogutu, the founding member of FDC, and 11 others, they revealed that the name of their political party is the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF).

According to Oduman Charles Okello, during their Delegates’ Conference last week, members of the faction resolved to form a new party after falling out with the leadership at the Najjanankumbi party headquarters.

“We have finished preserving the party’s name, which we believe will liberate this country.” I know the electoral commission has not yet done their part, but we have submitted the new political vehicles that can transform this nation, the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF),” he said.

“Our colour is red and royal blue, and our symbol will be a phone so that you can all say where you are.” Our slogan is freedom for all and all for freedom because we have been under captivity for a very long time. We have done our part, so we leave the electoral commission to do its part so that we embark on collecting signatures for registering this party. We have a counsellor that will help us apply so that we do the due diligence,” he said.

While responding to the former FDC Members, Mulekwah Russell Jacques Leonard, the secretary of the electoral commission, said the Political Parties and Organisations Act, 2005 (as amended), requires that the application for registration of a political party or organisation should be accompanied, among others, by a full description of the identifying symbols, slogans, and colours.

She said their submission merely stated the colours being white and royal blue and a symbol of a phone, without a full description of the said symbol and colours submitted for reservation.

“The submissions in respect of names of the proposed political party, People’s People Power Front (PPF), which is likely to confuse members of the public,” she said.

She stated that the choice of white and royal blue as colours closely resembles that of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and is likely to confuse the general public. Please refer to the symbol in use by the FDC party. The Political Parties and Organisations’ Act prohibits the usage of a colour, name, or initials of any registered political party or organisation.

“This is, therefore, to inform you that you comply with the relevant provisions under the Political Parties and Organisations ‘Act governing the registration of Political Parties and Organisations,” she said.

The FDC intraparty fights started on the eve of 2021 with two factions led by the former presidential candidate, Dr. Kiiza Besigye, and the party president Patrick Amuriat and Nandala. Besigye accused Nandala’s group of working for President Yoweri Museveni interests.

Besigye’s camp, which Kira Municipality MP Ssemujju Nganda subscribes to, accuses the Amuriat’s group of getting money from the president, Yoweri Museveni. Amuriat and the group have since refuted all claims. Amuriat’s group conversely accused Besigye and his faction of failure to disclose the source of money, which he availed of during the campaigns.

It is alleged that Besigye was trying to push Amuriat out of the race ahead of the coming party presidential elections for the Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.

Despite being a party member, Besigye didn’t support nor conversely support Amuriat in the concluded 2021 presidential elections.

Nandala has since said that Besigye has continued to disorganise the party, yet he is not a founding member. I want to challenge him to let us know where he signed when we founded FDC. He was in South Africa and returned when the party was in place,” he said last year.

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Rugiirwa’s diplomatic passport came from Nasser Road – Mundeyi

By
Simon Kabayo
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Rugiirwa katatumba fake passport

Simon Peter Mundeyi, the Spokesperson for Uganda’s Ministry of Internal Affairs has revealed that Katatumba Rugiirwa must have obtained a diplomatic passport from Nasser Road- a notorious area in Kampala known for producing counterfeit documents or it belongs to his late parent, Boney Katatumba, former Honorary Consul of Pakistan.

Rugiirwa who is battling with financial scandals was seen on social media chilling with a diplomatic passport which raised concerns and a section of Ugandans petitioned the Immigration office seeking clarity on how a common citizen could be in possession of such a high-level document.

 “The passport he is displaying may have come from Nasser Road or could belong to a parent. He did not open it for inspection. For someone to hold a diplomatic passport they must be of high standing in society or hold a significant office,” Mundeyi said.   

Mundeyi noted that after thorough investigations, it was revealed that no diplomatic passport was issued in the name of Rugiirwa Katatumba.

“People might want to show off on social media with a red passport but we will now ask the police to investigate and have this individual produce the passport he is displaying so we can verify its authenticity,” Mundeyi said.

After his death in 2018, Angella Katatumba illegally occupied his office and then helped her brother acquire the passport illegally.

However, the High Commission for Pakistan in Nairobi described the honorary Consulate of Pakistani currently operating in Uganda under Ugandan singer and songwriter Angella Katatumba as fake, fictitious and with no legal authority.

The investigations have been ongoing to determine the origins of the passport and whether it was produced through illicit means on Nasser Road, which has long been associated with document forgery. This case underscores broader concerns about the misuse of diplomatic privileges and the integrity of official documentation in Uganda.

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Col. Nakalema, youth leaders discuss tech innovations to address economic growth

By
Our Reporter
-

Colonel Edith Nakalema, Head of State House Investors Protection Unit (SHIPU), met with youth and student leaders in Kampala to explore how technology can address Uganda’s challenges and drive economic growth.

During the meeting, the student and youth leaders showcased their cutting-edge innovations, including a revolutionary career guidance application. Col. Nakalema was profoundly impressed by the youth’s technological prowess and encouraged them to leverage their expertise to tackle complex issues like unemployment and social inequality.

“So, you have developed a tool that enables individuals to discover their passions and competencies?” Col. Nakalema inquired.

“This is a remarkable achievement, and I commend you for your ingenuity. Your innovations have the potential to transform lives and empower communities.”

Col. Nakalema emphasized the importance of developing a balance between passion and competence to drive meaningful change.

“Each of you possesses unique strengths and talents,” she noted. “By harnessing these strengths and developing your competencies, you can address societal needs and create a brighter future.”

She also briefed the youth about SHIPU’s Electronic Investors Protection Portal, a cutting-edge digital platform designed to safeguard investment processes and prevent fraudulent activities. “Our goal is to create a secure and transparent investment environment,” Col. Nakalema explained.

“This platform will enable investors to make informed decisions and protect their interests.”

The youth leaders shared their innovative solutions, aligning with the new competence-based curriculum, which prioritizes skill development over academic grades. Col. Nakalema commended their efforts and urged them to continue creating value through innovation.

“Your innovations have the potential to drive economic growth and social progress,” she noted.

Col. Nakalema also reiterated her call to the youth to join the fight against corruption by promoting productivity and accountability.

“Corruption is a pervasive challenge that requires collective action,” she emphasized. “By working together, we can create a more just and equitable society.”

Mr. Joshua Asiimwe informed Col. Nakalema that their innovations align with the new competence-based curriculum, which focuses on developing skills rather than mere academic achievement. The leaders thanked Col. Nakalema for her engagement and willingness to listen to their ideas.

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