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African Development Bank commits $252m loan to improve rural transport and facilitate regional integration

The African Development Bank is committed to make a substantial contribution to the construction of the Laropi-Moyo-Afoji road in Uganda to improve rural transport and facilitate regional integration.

Meeting on December 1, in Abidjan, the Board of Directors of the African Development Bank Group approved a loan of $252.83 million to Uganda, to fund the construction of the Laropi-Moyo-Afoji and Katuna-Muko-Kamuganguzi road.

The financial support consists of two loans: $179.68 million from the African Development Bank and $73.15 million from the African Development Fund, the Bank Group’s concessional loan window.

“The Laropi-Moyo-Afoji/Katuna-Muko-Kamuganguzi road project is intended to improve rural transport connectivity and facilitate regional integration in the districts of Kabale, Rubanda, and Moyo, in Uganda. It will boost incomes, deepen regional integration, and facilitate trade while opening up an alternative transport corridor linking Uganda with South Sudan,”, said Augustine Ngafuan, the African Development Bank’s Country Manager in Uganda.

“Building this infrastructure will enable economic operators along this route to reduce costs and lead times while improving the efficiency of transport logistics,” added Mr. Ngafuan.

In addition to the two main roads, the project will also support the following social complementary initiative: 5 kilometres of roads in small towns and non-motorized traffic facilities (walkways and cycle tracks) within Moyo and Laropi in northwestern Uganda to improve mobility; street lighting to improve the business environment for traders, and regional bus terminus in Moyo. The project also provides for the construction of market stalls complete with cold storage facilities in Kashasha/Katuna, Moyo and Laropi to support women traders who currently operate on the roadsides, in order to improve earnings from perishable products such as fish and vegetables.

There will also be flood protection works in Laropi to strengthen resilience to the effects of climate change and reduce disruptions to commercial activities. Lastly, a one-stop border post will be constructed in Afoji/Jale on the Uganda-South Sudan border to boost trade and transport activities and facilitate the harmonization of customs and coordination of the border-crossing operations and supply chains.

The Laropi-Moyo-Afoji road is located in northwestern Uganda, in the district of Moyo, which has a population of about 140,000. Some 80% of the district’s land is arable and suitable for agriculture and horticulture. The Western Nile sub-region currently hosts more than 500,000 refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. The road will provide vital access to several refugee camps and support agricultural communities in Kabale and Rubanda districts, with a combined population of about 460,000 inhabitants.

As of November 2023, the African Development Bank Group’s active portfolio in Uganda comprised 23 projects with a total commitment of $1,957 million.

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Family Medical Point calls for more collaborations in the fight against HIV/Aids

Family Medical Point has called for more collaboration in the fight against HIV/aids among the fishing communities in Uganda. The clarion call was made during the World Aids Day celebrations at the Kasenyi landing site.

 Fisheries represent a rapidly growing sector contributing to national food security, employment, and export earnings. Fish and fish products are Uganda’s second largest export.

Currently, 1.5 million Ugandans are living with HIV. The Country has registered significant progress in the fight against HIV and Aids, bringing down HIV prevalence from 18% in the 80s to 5.2%. The new infections have reduced to 52,000 annually from 94,000 and consequently, Aids-related deaths have reduced to 17,000 annually.

Residents of fishing communities are one of the most at-risk groups for HIV. Frequent mobility, transactional and commercial sex, multiple sexual partners, high consumption of alcohol, poor health infrastructure, and limited access to health services are reported among the main factors shaping the HIV epidemic in finishing communities. HIV prevalence among the fishing communities in Uganda is estimated to be three times that of the general population

According to the Uganda Aids Commission, there is an increase in the number of people testing from 5,998,431 to 6,860,533 in 23.  Estimate 1,433,337 People Living with HIV (PLHIV) as of December 2022 were enrolled on anti-retroviral as of June 2023.

Poline Nabwire, the communication officer at Family Medical Point urged the government to seek more collaboration with Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) to fight stigma and create safe spaces for people to seek HIV and sexual reproductive services.

“We conduct outreaches to promote and provide rights-based comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services to young people, women, and marginalized hard-to-reach and forgotten communities. Today, we conducted HIV, Urinary tests, counseling, and sexual and reproductive services at the Kasenyi landing site,” she said.

She said there is a very high rate of HIV prevalence in fishing communities. In awake with the UNAIDS’ agenda of fighting HIV as a public health threat by 2030, people need to know their statuses and access Anti-retroviral (ARVs).

Harison Mbowa, head of the Village Health Team (VHT) of the Kasenyi landing site, there are over 880 people on ARVs however there are more people who are hesitant to test for and seek HIV services.  

“This is the center of the over 80 islands of Lake Victoria. Despite various outreaches at the various islands, this is where people seek HIV services. We need to intensify HIV/sensitization campaigns, encouraging people to test and start on medication,” he said.

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Stanbic, Century Cinemax to give 20% discounts on FlexiPay, Visa Card payments

Stanbic Bank Uganda and Century Cinemax will offer discounts of up to 20% on tickets purchased with FlexiPay or Visa prepaid cards every Friday for the next six months to movie goers.
Dubbed ‘FlexiPay Cinema Fridays’ customers can draw the promotion benefits every Friday whenever they pay using FlexiPay or Stanbic Visa cards at any of the Century Cinema locations around Kampala. FlexiPay can be accessed on *291# or through the App.
“For a period of 6 months, we are saying the cost of a ticket to the cinema should not be an excuse for lovers, families, friends, or individuals not to have fun! Every movie ticket bought on a Friday, using FlexiPay or Stanbic Visa will be cheaper by UGX 3000 shillings, for the next six months.
From Acacia, Arena Mall in Nsambya, to Metroplex in Naalya, our cinema loving customers will enjoy this fabulous discount to watch the latest movie releases, every Friday,” said Israel Arinaitwe, the Head of Personal Banking at Stanbic Bank Uganda.
Paul Osako, the Card Utilization Manager said the bank’s card holding customers can use their Visa debit, pre-paid and credit cards to draw benefits from the 190-day promotion.
“You simply come and swipe at the Point-of-Sale terminal and you can get the ticket at a discount, you will be able to enjoy your movie. So, come with our family and friends and enjoy the movies as we relax, and wind down during this festive season,” said Osako.
Satish Guna, the General Manager Century Cinemax Limited Uganda said the promotion is also aimed at thanking their respective customers for their support in 2023.
“After a long year of hard work, it is important that you rest and this promotion presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved rest with your families and friends—and we hope that this discount will enable you to have the most of your festive holidays,” he said.
Customers can enjoy the promo from all three Century Cinemax locations at Acacia Mall in Kololo, Arena Mall in Nsambya, and Metroplex in Naalya.

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Five killed as Good Luck Petrol station wall collapses

At least five people have died in Ndejje-Kanyanya off Entebbe Road in Wakiso District after a wall fence collapsed on the rental properties owned by Ms. Nalumansi Proscovia. The high-rising wall fence separates the rentals from the nearby Good Luck Oil Petrol Station.

Luke Owoyesigyire, Deputy Police Spokesperson, Kampala Metropolitan said, “Upon receiving the report, our dedicated Fire Prevention and Rescue services, supported by the local community, promptly initiated rescue efforts. Regrettably, five lives were lost in the tragic event. The victims have been identified as Phiona Nabulumba, Nabunywa Geofrey, Moja Fuuku, three-year-old Liana, and Doreen. Our deepest condolences go out to their families and loved ones.

He added, “Two individuals, Mukisa Gladys and Sadat, sustained severe injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at different hospitals. The rescue team, assisted by an excavator, is diligently working to confirm if there are additional individuals trapped under the rubble.”

While rescue operations continue, Katwe Police has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the root cause of this unfortunate incident.

Owoyegyire further noted that preliminary findings suggest that the perimeter wall belonging to the petrol station weakened due to heavy rainfall, ultimately leading to its collapse onto the rental properties.

The bodies of the deceased have been respectfully conveyed to City Mortuary Mulago for a thorough postmortem examination.

“We urge the public to cooperate with the authorities and provide any relevant information that may assist in the ongoing investigation,” he cautioned.

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We are hunting for rebels in Kibaale National Park, says Museveni

President Yoweri Museveni has revealed that Uganda security forces are currently hunting seven rebels who escaped and hid in the Kibaale National Park area.

The seven, he said, are members of Njovu that recently killed two couple tourists and one Uganda tour guide in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

He said that although Njovu was injured and arrested and three of his group killed, seven of them managed to escape and the security forces are hunting them.

“That group is led by Kamusu, a Congolese. Their other leader in Congo is Abu Waqas, an Arab from Tanzania. His camp is one of those that were attacked by our forces,” Museveni said in a statement.

“The other infiltrators, in collusion with some individuals within the country, tried to plant bombs in Kikuba-mutwe, Kabalagala area and Nabweru 2 cell. However, due to the vigilance of the Wanainchi and the security forces, the two bombs went off without harming anybody,” he added.

“They had planted one of the bombs near a Pork”joint “. Bazzukulu, what is a joint? I take it to mean a selling point or centre. In Runyankore, we would say: “akarabo k’empunu”. Ekirabo means an Eating House. Empunu are pigs. It could also mean a bar.”

He said that the six air attacks were at 64 km and 65 km from the border and the one of gun-ships was 3kms from the border. “Up-rooting the Lumbugu (couch grass) from Congo is progressing well.”

Mr. President noted that they are intensifying the hunt for “the pigs” [rebels] in Congo, noting that in the last week, seven attacks were carried out with different air platforms and one attack by medium-range artillery.

He commended his Congo counterpart H.E Felix Tshisekedi for allowing “us to deal with the Lumbugu (couch grass).”

Museveni asked people in gatherings like churches, markets, mosques, and bars, to be vigilant and look out for strangers.

I’m “The hotels and markets should have their own security as we had planned before. Maintain vigilance until we finish up-rooting the Lumbugu in Congo.”

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ATMIS ready to withdraw 3000 troops from Somalia in December

The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has announced that it will resume and conclude Phase 2 drawdown of 3000 troops by 31st December 2023 after an agreement was reached at Tripartite Committee Meeting.
Together with the Head of UN Security Council, Asio Kacyira, the National Security Advisor, Hussein Sheikh-Ali ATMIS Force Commander, Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, Police Commissioner, CP Hillary Kanu and the Deputy Chief of Defense Forces, Gen. Abas Amin, we have confirmed that ATMIS will hand over 8 military bases to Somalia Security Forces,” ATMIS stated on its website.
Added, “We extend our sincere gratitude to H.E. President Hassan Mohamud and the Federal Government of Somalia for their support and cooperation and reaffirm our deep commitment to Somalia’s security and stability.”
The first phase of 2000 troops was successfully withdrawn at the end of June and six Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) handed over to the Somali Security Forces (SSF).
Around 14,000 troops will remain in Somalia as mandated by the UN Security Council Resolutions 2628 and 2670, which require the ATMIS to gradually hand over security responsibilities to Somali security forces ahead of the exit from Somalia on Dec. 31, 2024.
The United Nations Support Office in Somalia will ensure the equipment and other facilities handed over to the Somali security forces by exiting ATMIS troops are in good condition and the Somali forces are capacitated on how to use them.

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Mulago Hospital renovated ahead of Commonwealth Speakers’ Conference

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among revealed that Parliament has carried out renovation works inside the Very Important Persons (VIP) rooms at Mulago National Hospital, so as to boost the hospital’s capacity to handle any emergencies that may befall any delegate attending the Commonwealth Speakers’ Conference slated for 3rd -6th January 2024 in Munyonyo.
The Speaker made the remarks today while addressing journalists at Parliament, where she was updating the public on Uganda’s preparedness to host the 27th Conference of Speakers and Presiding officers of Commonwealth, further revealing that 42 Speakers have confirmed attendance.
This conference will bring together Speakers and Presiding Officers of National Parliaments of all Independent Sovereign States of the Commonwealth, with current membership consisting of 74 Speakers and Presiding Officers from 52 Commonwealth Countries.
The official opening Ceremony is expected to take place on Thursday, 4th January 2024, and will be officiated by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Uganda, Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
“Parliament has been able to do some small renovations and equip some VIP rooms in Mulago hospital, waiting for their visitors. We have invested, we have put some money in Mulago Hospital and we will make sure that Mulago hospital is ready to receive our visitors in case one falls sick. It is also a collaboration between Parliament and the National referral hospital,” said Among.
Among also noted that unlike some sentiments in the public that such conferences are a waste of taxpayers’ money, this will not be the case because the Speakers’ conference will be an avenue to promote Uganda’s tourism and the Speakers are going to come with some delegations of business people with plans to invest in Uganda.
The Speaker also called on the media to offer positive coverage for Uganda going forward, because it is the only country they have, and she also urged KCCA to increase their efforts in beautifying the city ahead of the arrival of the visitors.
“Uganda is a very secure country, there will be Police surveillance, SFC, and other security organs will ensure that our people are secure enough and enjoy their stay in Uganda. We urge KCCA to do their work faster so that our visitors. Let us continue working for the good of our country. You and I make this country beautiful, love your home and your home is Uganda. Speak well about your home,” said Among.
She added that the conference is especially important in deepening parliamentary diplomacy and augmenting Uganda’s role in Commonwealth parliamentary collaborations, as well as presenting opportunities to share experiences, expertise and knowledge on best practices. Delegates, accompanying persons and other officials expected to grace the conference will present opportunities to create business and entrepreneurial linkages to cement trade relations with Uganda.
“CSPOC in general, enhances globalization which brings up opportunities for cooperation especially in areas of economics, public affairs, security and general parliamentary diplomacy. When the CSPOC is beamed around the world, especially in the Commonwealth countries, it will create a trickle down effect in terms of visitors coming to Uganda,” Among noted.
“I am delighted to reaffirm our strong commitment and readiness to host this conference, and I call upon you all, to embrace the opportunity, and also provide a conducive and welcoming environment for this esteemed gathering,” Among applauded.

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Minister Mao urges men to be health conscious

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Nobert Mao, has urged men to be health-conscious in order to live a wholesome life.

Mao made the call on Thursday, November 30, 2023, during the International Men’s Day celebrations at Kololo Airstrip.

He pointed out the day’s significance in raising global awareness about challenges faced by men, including parental alienation, abuse, homelessness, suicide, and violence that need attention for a better society.

Representing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the minister expressed the need for men to prioritize their health. He urged them to seek medical care for their well-being and productivity, benefitting not only themselves but also their families and Uganda at large.

Impressed by the recent pass out of Probation Police Constables at Kabalye Masindi, Minister Mao advocated for police officers to reside within communities, fostering a positive working environment to ensure peace and security in Uganda.

The Director Chief Political Commissar, Senior Commissioner of Police Hadijah Namutebi, who represented the Inspector General of Police, noted disturbing statistics from the recent Criminal Report: 14,698 cases of domestic violence, with 1,946 men as reported victims. Namutebi called for a united front against domestic violence, with the need for collaborative efforts.

The Uganda Police Force’s active participation as the primary partner in International Men’s Day celebrations showcased an opportunity for people of goodwill to appreciate and celebrate the contributions men make to society for the greater good of all.

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Mukono Deputy RDC tasks leaders to sensitize PDM beneficiaries on proper usage of funds

Mukono district deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Mike Ssegawa has called upon leaders to help beneficiaries utilize their Parish Development Model (PDM) funds in order to realize their objective of recovering from poverty.

Mr. Ssegawa revealed this in a meeting held in Mukono Central Division on Tuesday November 28 2023 focusing on Parish Development Model (PDM) monitoring exercise from NRM Mukono district leadership at the division Headquarters.

The meeting of all PDM beneficiaries, LCs, councillors, civil servants and the NRM structure leaders aimed at the progress of PDM in Mukono Central Division, as well as other government programs such as SAGE, Youth livelihood programs, Emyooga etc.

The NRM chairman Mukono district Hajj Twahir Sebaggala, Mukono Municipal council deputy Town Clerk, Division speaker Allan Mawanda were among the speakers in the meeting.

Members expressed concern for beneficiaries who did not get sh1, 000,000 as directed by President Yoweri Museveni and these were given assurance that they will receive their top-up in the financial year.

The Deputy Town Clerk Majerani Luboyera expressed that all members had received their money from the previous financial year and they are preparing new groups to benefit in the running financial year.

Hajj Sebaggala said he was preparing a report to the President about his discoveries on the performance of PDM in Mukono district.

Hajj Sebaggala and the NRM executive in Mukono are traversing different sub counties making up Mukono district sensitizing NRM leaders in the respective areas about the government programs in their localities.

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Gov’t approves Shs3 trillion to revamp Greater Kampala roads

The government has approved Shs 3 trillion to revamp roads in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development has revealed.

Ramathan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development said Kampala had been left for a long time without investment in revamping its old infrastructure.

“Kampala has indeed been left for a long time without investment in revamping its old infrastructure and we have paid a huge price but we have learnt our lessons,” Mr. Ggoobi said.

PS Ggoobi said that the government has invested heavily in revamping the old infrastructure and Kampala is going to turn into a construction site “[and] you are going to bear with this for some time because we have brought the money and we are putting a lot of pressure on KCCA and all others involved to ensure that these roads are revamped.”

He said that the government has resolved to revamp the entire road network as a long-term strategy that includes heavy investment in revamping its infrastructure, such as roads, drainage systems, and automated traffic controls, among other things, that will change the face of the city.

“We have two major projects which are funded by money we have gotten from the World Bank and the African Development Bank. We are talking about 3 trillion shillings which is going to be invested in this city in what we call the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area to revamp infrastructure,” he said.

Ggoobi pointed out that this year, the economy of Uganda has been affected by the changing weather conditions consisting of heavy rains which have swept away many road infrastructures.

He noted that most roads are currently impassable, and some people are requesting that the government repair them. He stated that it is impossible to work on roads during El Nino, but resources have been set aside to complete the work as soon as the rain stops. For example, each district has been allocated one billion shillings for road maintenance.

The secretary to the treasury also updated the country on the funding of Masaka-Mutukula road which he said is in a very bad state yet it is a strategic one to the economy of the country.

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