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UPDF mission in South Sudan legitimate and has saved lives, says Deputy Spokesperson

Col. Chris Magezi, Acting UPDF Spokesperson.

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has defended its ongoing military deployment in South Sudan, describing the mission as lawful and critical in preventing violence and protecting civilians.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, said the operation was carried out at the invitation of the South Sudan government and with approval from the Parliament of Uganda.

“The current UPDF operation in South Sudan is completely legitimate. UPDF was invited by the sovereign government of the country, and the deployment was approved by Parliament of Uganda,” Magezi said.

The statement was issued in response to a report by the United Nations Commission on Human Rights in South Sudan published on February 27, 2026, and subsequent media coverage regarding Uganda’s military presence in the country.

Magezi stressed that the UPDF has maintained a long-standing record of professionalism and respect for civilian populations in all its operations.

“UPDF has never targeted civilians in its forty five year cherished history. That is why it is extremely popular with the people wherever it operates,” he said.

According to the military, the deployment in South Sudan helped prevent escalating violence, particularly in the capital Juba, and protected communities from attacks by armed groups.

“The people of South Sudan are happy with UPDF operations in the country, which prevented internecine fighting in Juba and stopped the White Army’s atrocities against the population,” Magezi stated.

The UPDF also dismissed the UN report and related media coverage as incomplete and biased, arguing that Uganda’s position had not been adequately reflected.

“The report is not exhaustive, while the media reporting is biased and does not take into consideration Uganda’s positions, which have been communicated numerous times to the United Nations,” Magezi said.

Uganda maintains that its involvement in South Sudan is aimed at promoting stability in the region through dialogue and conflict prevention.

“Uganda’s position is premised on continued political dialogue between the parties, prevention of widespread violence, and securing regional stability,”Magezi added.

The UPDF has previously participated in several regional peace support operations, including missions in Somalia, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan, where the force’s presence has contributed to peacekeeping and civilian protection.

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Over 300 cataract surgeries to be conducted at Rajiv Ruparelia Eye Camp in Bukedea, as Speaker Among praises Sudhir for initiative

Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, Speaker Anita Among, and Jyotsna Ruparelia during the press conference today at Kabira Country Club.

More than 300 cataract surgeries will be conducted during the upcoming Rajiv Ruparelia Eye Camp in Bukedea District, an initiative aimed at restoring sight and expanding access to eye care services for communities in Eastern Uganda.

The outreach, organised by the Ruparelia Foundation, is expected to screen at least 2,000 community members and perform over 300 cataract surgeries, including operations for both adults and children. The medical camp will also distribute more than 800 corrective reading glasses to people in need while offering free eye check-ups to over 2,000 residents.

The initiative is part of efforts to honour the legacy of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, whose passion for community support and philanthropy inspired the programme.

Sudhir Ruparelia revealed that the eye camp will become a national initiative conducted across different regions of Uganda every two years.

According to tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia, the programme will rotate across the country to ensure more communities benefit from specialised eye care services after every two years. 

He announced that after the Bukedea outreach, the next Rajiv Ruparelia Eye Camp will be held in Kasese District.

Speaking during the launch, Jyotsna Ruparelia said the family chose to honour Rajiv by continuing the charitable values he believed in.

“This eye camp is very special to us because it is being carried out in the name of our son Rajiv. Rajiv believed deeply in giving back and had a natural instinct to help people and communities,”she said.

She added that restoring eyesight has life-changing effects on individuals and families.

“Sight is something many of us take for granted, but for thousands of people a simple surgery or a pair of glasses can completely transform their lives. It can allow a parent to work again, a child to return to school and an elderly person to regain independence,”she said.

The camp will take place from March 27 to March 29 at Bukedea Teaching Hospital, where doctors will conduct screenings and surgeries directly within the community to reduce barriers that often prevent rural residents from accessing specialised treatment.

Medical specialists involved in the programme explained that cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in Uganda, yet treatment remains expensive for many patients.

Grace Hope noted that a single cataract surgery in a private hospital can cost about five million shillings, making it inaccessible to many Ugandans.

“The commonest cause of blindness in Uganda is cataracts. Many patients cannot afford the surgery. This camp will help us reach people in the communities and operate on them free of charge,”she said.

She added that the medical team also plans to operate on at least 50 children, warning that delayed treatment among children can lead to permanent vision loss.

“When a child becomes blind and we delay treatment, the damage can become irreversible because their visual pathways are still developing. Early surgery changes the future of that child,”she explained.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Among welcomed the initiative and praised the Ruparelia family for supporting healthcare services closer to communities.

“I am sincerely grateful to the Ruparelia Foundation founded by my brother Dr Sudhir and his wife Jyotsna for this initiative. You chose the right place in Bukedea and we pledge our unwavering support to ensure the success of this camp,”she said.

Among said the programme complements government health efforts by bringing specialised services nearer to people in rural communities.

“As government it is our responsibility to offer health services everywhere, but initiatives like this help bring services closer to the people. We appreciate you for supporting humanity and for the immense contribution you have made to Uganda,” she added.

During the event, the Speaker also announced a Shs50 million contribution through the Bukedea Comprehensive Schools and Anita Foundation to support the medical outreach.

The initiative is also intended to keep alive the humanitarian legacy of Rajiv Ruparelia, whose vision of community support continues to inspire many activities under the Ruparelia Foundation.

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Tycoon Sudhir’s luxury One Ten Apartment Tower in Kololo gains shape

Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia’s ambitious luxury residential development, the One Ten Apartments, is steadily rising in Kololo as one of the most prominent high-end property projects currently reshaping the skyline of Kampala.

The 15-storey apartment tower, located along Prince Charles Drive, is designed to deliver a new standard of upscale urban living in one of the city’s most prestigious and secure neighbourhoods.

Once complete, the complex will feature 156 premium apartments ranging from one-bedroom to four-bedroom units. The residences are designed with generous space, with two-bedroom apartments measuring between 123 and 170 square metres, while three-bedroom units range from about 183 to 250 square metres. The development will also include expansive four-bedroom apartments measuring about 247 square metres.

The project is being developed under Meera Investments Limited, the property development arm of the Ruparelia Group, which has played a major role in transforming Kampala’s commercial and residential real estate landscape.

The apartments will feature high-end finishes, including imported Italian tiles, modern fittings, and stylish interior designs aimed at providing residents with a sophisticated living experience.

Among the standout features of the development is a rooftop swimming pool designed to provide a serene retreat with panoramic views of the city. The rooftop space will also host a poolside bar and a proposed café, creating a lifestyle concept that blends leisure with luxury living.

To ensure convenience and reliability, the building will also incorporate underground water storage systems, standby power generators and secure parking facilities across two basement levels.

The One Ten project forms part of Meera Investments’ build to sell residential strategy introduced in 2018 to respond to the growing demand for quality housing in Kampala. The company has previously delivered residential developments such as Tagore Living and Bukoto Living.

Potential buyers can secure units with a 20 percent deposit, while property investors are expected to benefit from strong rental demand in the city. Industry projections indicate that returns could range between 8 percent and 16 percent annually, driven by Kampala’s expanding population and increasing demand for modern housing.

Speaking during the unveiling of the development last year, Sudhir highlighted the importance of real estate in economic growth and wealth creation and noted that the project reflects a commitment to delivering world class property developments for both local buyers and international investors.

The Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, Sheena Ruparelia earlier said the development combines the prestige of Kololo with contemporary design and carefully planned community spaces.

Kololo remains one of Kampala’s most sought-after residential areas, known for its leafy surroundings, diplomatic missions, and proximity to the city’s social and commercial hubs.

The One Ten tower is also expected to further strengthen the Ruparelia Group’s property portfolio, which includes landmark developments such as Kingdom Kampala and Pearl Business Park.

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Kenya launches automated instant traffic fines system to improve road safety

Kenya through the National Transport and Safety Authority, has announced a new automated system that will instantly notify motorists of traffic violations through mobile phone messages.

The system marks a shift in how traffic laws are enforced in Kenya.

In a public notice issued by NTSA Director General Nashon Kondiwa, the authority said the Instant Fines Traffic Management System is now operational and will automatically issue traffic violation notifications via SMS where applicable.

“The Instant Fines Traffic Management System is now live. The system will automatically issue traffic violation notifications via SMS to motorists where applicable,”the authority said.

According to NTSA, the system is fully automated and operates without human intervention, a move officials say will enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability in traffic enforcement.

“This process is fully automated and operates without human intervention, ensuring greater transparency, efficiency and accountability in traffic enforcement,”the notice added.

Under the new system, motorists who commit traffic offences will be required to settle the fines within seven days through the branch network of KCB Group.

“All fines issued through the system can be paid through the branch network of KCB Group within seven days,”the authority stated.

NTSA further warned that motorists who fail to pay the penalties within the stipulated period will face additional charges.

“Failure to settle the fine within the seven days will result in the amount due earning interest. In addition, the vehicle or the driver with a pending fine will not be able to transact on NTSA service platforms until the fine is settled,” the notice explained.

The authority urged motorists to strictly observe traffic regulations and respond promptly to official notifications sent through the system.

“Motorists are advised to observe all traffic regulations and respond promptly to any official notifications received. Further details will be communicated through official government channels,”the Director General said.

The rollout of the digital enforcement platform follows a directive by President William Ruto to accelerate the implementation of instant traffic fines and expand the use of smart surveillance technology on major roads.

The automated system will rely on modern traffic cameras and digital monitoring tools capable of detecting offences such as speeding, failure to wear seatbelts, and the use of mobile phones while driving.

The initiative is aimed at improving road safety and eliminating corruption linked to manual traffic enforcement which has long been criticised for encouraging direct interaction between motorists and enforcement officers.

Kenya has recorded rising cases of road crashes in recent years, prompting the government to strengthen enforcement measures and introduce digital systems intended to promote responsible road use and save lives across the country’s transport network.

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Lotteries and Gaming Board confiscates 129 illegal machines in Kampala operation

Impounded illegal equipment.

The Lotteries and Gaming Regulatory Board (LGRB) has confiscated 129 unlawful gaming machines and shut down eight non-compliant premises during operations conducted across the Kampala Metropolitan Police Area (KMP) and the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA).

In a statement issued during the ongoing crackdown, the regulator said its enforcement teams are intensifying actions aimed at protecting the public from illegal gambling activities operating outside the law.

“Protecting the public remains our priority. Enforcement teams continue to take action against illegal gaming operations across KMP and the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area, resulting in the confiscation of 129 illegal gaming machines and the closure of eight non-compliant premises,” the board said.

The operations form part of the nationwide enforcement campaign dubbed Operation Mashine Haramu, which is targeting operators running gaming machines and betting outlets without proper approval from the regulator.

“As Operation ‘Mashine Haramu’ intensifies across the country, we urge the public to report suspicious gaming activities to the authorities,”the board added.

According to the regulator, illegal gaming machines are commonly placed in unlicensed locations such as bars, kiosks, and small shops, exposing members of the public, especially young people, to unregulated gambling. Officials say such activities also deprive the government of tax revenue and undermine licensed gaming operators who follow the established regulations.

In recent months, the board has expanded inspections and enforcement operations in several urban areas, working together with security agencies to identify and dismantle illegal gaming networks. During these operations, enforcement teams close premises operating outside the law and confiscate machines used in illegal gambling activities.

Authorities warned that operators found running illegal gaming facilities risk prosecution, closure of their premises and confiscation of their equipment, stressing that only licensed operators are permitted to run gaming activities in the country.

The board reaffirmed its commitment to cleaning up the gaming sector and ensuring that all gaming activities in Uganda are conducted responsibly and within the law.

“Our enforcement efforts will continue as we work to eliminate illegal gaming and safeguard the public from unregulated gambling operations,” the statement said.

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Uganda Prisons place Shs10m reward on warder Anguyo over deadly Kiboga Prison shooting

WANTED: Warder Moses Anguyo.

Uganda Prisons place Shs10m reward on warder Anguyo over deadly Kiboga Prison shooting

The Uganda Prisons Service has announced a cash reward of Shs10 million for information that will lead to the arrest of Warder Anguyo Moses, the main suspect in a fatal shooting at Kiboga Government Prison that left four people dead.

The reward was announced by the Commissioner General of the Uganda Prisons Service, Frank Baine Mayanja, as security agencies continue a nationwide search for the fugitive officer.

“The Commissioner General of the Uganda Prisons Service Frank Baine Mayanja has put a bounty of ten million Uganda shillings as a reward to anyone who provides reliable information leading to the arrest of murderer number 13544, Warder Anguyo Moses, the prime suspect in the recent fatal shooting incident at Uganda Government Prison, Kiboga, that left four people dead,”Baine said. 

Baine mphasized that anyone who provides information will be protected and their identity kept secret.

“All information provided will be treated with strict confidentiality,”he added.

Members of the public have been urged to share any information that could help security agencies track down the suspect by calling the Police toll free number 999 or the Uganda Prisons Service toll free line 0800144144. They can also report to the nearest police station.

The shooting incident, which occurred at Kiboga Government Prison earlier this year, shocked the country after the suspect allegedly turned his gun on his supervisors during a confrontation at the facility.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the warder allegedly shot dead Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Hope Catherine, who was serving as the Deputy Officer in Charge at the prison. Also killed was Principal Officer I Bright Akishuri, the third in command at the facility.

In the same incident, Sarah Ayebare, the wife of the Officer in Charge of Kiboga Prison, was also fatally shot during the chaos.

A toddler who had been critically injured during the attack was rushed to hospital but later died from the injuries, bringing the number of victims to four.

The incident reportedly began after the warder was cautioned by his supervisors during routine supervision at the prison. It is alleged that he had been found using a mobile phone while on duty, which is against prison regulations.

Moments later, the suspect reportedly opened fire before fleeing from the facility.

The firearm used in the shooting was later recovered by security personnel, but the suspect managed to escape, prompting an intensive manhunt involving both the Uganda Prisons Service and the Uganda Police Force.

The prison service has urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately report any sightings of the suspect, warning people not to attempt to confront him as investigations into the motive behind the shooting continue.

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Coach Mike Mutebi found in Kisubi receiving medical attention 

Football coach Mike Mutebi, who went missing, has been found in Kisubi and is currently receiving medical attention.

Veteran Ugandan football coach Mike Mutebi has been found in Kisubi and is currently receiving medical attention at a hospital as health workers assess his condition, according to police.

In a brief update issued this evening, police confirmed that the experienced tactician had been located following a period during which his whereabouts were unknown.

“Coach Mike Mutebi has been found in Kisubi and is currently receiving medical attention at a hospital, where health personnel are assessing his condition,” police said in a statement.

Police also expressed appreciation to members of the public who provided information that helped in tracing him.

“We thank all those who came forward with information regarding his whereabouts,” the statement added.

Earlier, police at Entebbe Police Station had issued an appeal to the public for assistance in locating Mutebi after he was reported missing on March 7, 2026.

According to the earlier police notice, Mutebi had disappeared from Kisubi Beach shortly after attending a Catholic seminar in the area. His sudden disappearance prompted concern among family members, colleagues, and the wider football community.

The police statement at the time called on anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward and assist investigators.

Mutebi is widely known for his contributions to Ugandan football, particularly during his tenure as head coach of Kampala Capital City Authority Football Club, where he guided the club to domestic success and became one of the most recognizable figures in the local game.

Police have not yet released further details about the circumstances surrounding his disappearance but said more information would be shared as investigations continue.

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Police launch search for veteran coach Mike Mutebi after disappearance at Kisubi Beach

Football coach Mike Hillary Mutebi, who reportedly went missing on Saturday evening from Kisubi Beach in Wakiso District.

Police in Entebbe have launched investigations into the disappearance of veteran Ugandan football coach Mike Hillary Mutebi who reportedly went missing on Saturday evening from Kisubi Beach in Wakiso District.

According to a police statement, Mutebi was last seen on March 7, 2026, at about 6:30 pm while attending a Catholic seminar at the beach.

“The Police at Entebbe Police Station are investigating the disappearance of Mike Mutebi, who went missing on 07th March 2026 from Kisubi Beach,” the statement reads.

Police said the veteran tactician had attended a religious gathering and was seen as participants prepared to travel back to Kampala.

“Mutebi had attended a Catholic seminar at the beach and was last seen at about 6:30 pm as participants prepared to travel back to Kampala. However, upon arrival in Kawempe, he could not be accounted for,” the statement added.

Police have since appealed to members of the public to provide any information that could help locate him.

“Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to report to the nearest police station or contact Entebbe Police Station on 0775318345 immediately. Police inquiries are ongoing,” police said.

Even before the police notice, messages about Mutebi’s disappearance had begun circulating on social media, with family members and football stakeholders calling on the public to help trace the respected coach.

Mutebi’s disappearance has sparked concern across the Ugandan football fraternity, where he is widely regarded as one of the most influential tacticians in the modern era of the game.

He is best remembered for his successful spell at Kampala Capital City Authority FC, where he served as head coach and later technical director, guiding the Lugogo-based side to several domestic trophies and notable performances in continental competitions.

During his tenure at the club, Mutebi helped Kampala Capital City Authority FC win multiple Uganda Premier League titles as well as the Uganda Cup and the CECAFA Club Championship in 2019, cementing the club’s status as one of the dominant teams in the region.

Over the years, Mutebi has also coached other clubs including SC Villa and Rwanda’s AS Kigali and briefly served as head coach of the Uganda national football team.

Known for his possession based style of play and emphasis on developing young players, Mutebi has played a significant role in shaping the careers of many footballers in Uganda.

As police continue with inquiries, family members, colleagues, and football fans remain hopeful that the veteran coach will be found safe.

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Police arrest five suspects over motorcycle robberies in Lubowa and Ndejje

Some of the suspects before police.

Police in Kampala Metropolitan South have arrested five suspects believed to be behind a string of motorcycle robberies in Lubowa and Ndejje areas following an intelligence led operation.

According to the police spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan, Rachael Kawala, the suspects were apprehended after months of investigations into a series of robberies reported between June 2025 and early March 2026.

“The Police at Lubowa have registered a significant breakthrough in the fight against motorcycle robberies following the arrest of five suspects believed to be behind a series of robberies reported in the Lubowa and Ndejje areas between June 2025 and 6th March 2026,” Kawala said.

The suspects have been identified as Kamoga Sharif, also known as Mugisha, 20; Byagaba Liberty, 20; Ssempungu Patrick, also known as Junior, 23; Ssegawa Stuart, 19; and Ssenyonga Denis, 25.

Kawala explained that the arrests followed an intelligence led operation carried out on February 5, 2026.

“An intelligence led operation was subsequently conducted, leading to the arrest of Kamoga Sharif alias Mugisha in Kyengera Town Council. Upon his arrest, he led investigators to the arrest of his accomplices,” she stated.

Police also recovered a motorcycle believed to have been stolen by the group.

“So far, five suspects have been arrested and one motorcycle, registration number UMA 663HM, has been recovered as an exhibit,” Kawala added.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects targeted motorcycles which they later dismantled and sold as spare parts.

“The suspects reportedly rob the motorcycles, dismantle them, and sell the parts,” she noted.

Police say at least 14 victims have already been identified in connection with the robberies, while efforts are underway to track down more suspects believed to be linked to the criminal ring.

“Efforts are ongoing to arrest additional suspects and other individuals believed to be facilitating or promoting these criminal activities. Investigations into the matter are still ongoing,” Kawala said.

In a separate operation, police in Kampala Metropolitan South have arrested four suspects in connection with cattle theft and aggravated robbery.

According to the Deputy Police Spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan, Luke Owoyesigyire, the arrests followed coordinated security operations involving police, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces and local community members.

“Police in KMP South have registered success in operations against cattle theft and aggravated robbery, leading to the arrest of four suspects in separate incidents,” Owoyesigyire said.

He explained that on March 7, 2026, a joint security operation was conducted in Kasanje Town Council following persistent complaints from residents about cattle theft.

“During patrols in crime prone areas including Bimbi Swamp, one white spotted heifer was recovered and police has since got in touch with the owner,” Owoyesigyire said.

Police arrested Zimbwe Ramathan, a resident of Kyengera, who is currently detained at Kasanje Police Station and has been charged with cattle theft.

In another incident, police foiled a robbery in Katabi Town Council in the early hours of March 9, 2026.

“Three suspects armed with pangas broke into a residence in Kabaale B Ward at about 3:30 AM and robbed Shs 570,000 as well as a Samsung Galaxy Note 10,”Owoyesigyire said.

He added that security personnel responded quickly and managed to arrest the suspects.

“Police responded swiftly, surrounded the house, and arrested the suspects who had hidden in the ceiling,”he said.

The suspects were identified as Sekitoleko Acram, Oluka Robert and Mbazira Bashir. Police recovered the Samsung Galaxy Note 10 and Shs 240,000, which was part of the stolen money.

Owoyesigyire commended members of the public for cooperating with security agencies during the operations.

“Investigations into both incidents are ongoing. Police commend the community for their cooperation, which greatly contributed to the arrests,” he added.

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Over ten strategic roads completed as Uganda prepares for first oil production

One of the newly constructed roads in Bunyoro, an oil-rich region.

Uganda has completed thirteen key road projects in the Albertine region as the country steps up preparations for its long anticipated first oil production. The new infrastructure is already transforming communities and stimulating economic activity.

Government, through the Uganda National Roads Authority, has been implementing a network of oil roads intended to support petroleum activities in the Albertine Graben while at the same time opening up previously hard to reach areas for trade, tourism and social services.

Among the major completed routes is the 159 kilometre Masindi Kisanja Park Junction Tangi Pakwach Paraa Buliisa Wanseko Bugungu road, alongside the 111 kilometre Hoima Butiaba Wanseko highway, the 54 kilometre Masindi Biiso road and the 80 kilometre Masindi Bugungu route that passes through Murchison Falls National Park.

Other strategic connections include the 25 kilometre Hohwa Nyairongo Kyarushesha road, the 23 kilometre Wanseko Bugungu road, the 93 kilometre Buhimba Nalweyo Kakindu Kakumiro Mubende road and the 97 kilometre Lusalira Nkonge Sembabule road.

Additional links such as the 29-kilometre Bugungu-Buliisa road, the 30-kilometre Kabale -Kiziramfumbi road, the 22-kilometre Tangi Junction Paraa road, the 43-kilometre Kabwoya Buhuka road, and the 55-kilometre Karugutu Ntoroko road through Semuliki National Park have also been completed to strengthen transport connections within the oil-rich region.

The road network is a crucial part of Uganda’s oil and gas infrastructure since it allows movement of heavy machinery, supports drilling operations and improves access to production zones across districts such as Hoima, Buliisa, Masindi and Ntoroko.

One of the notable projects is the Hoima Butiaba Wanseko road which connects Hoima City to the shores of Lake Albert through Buliisa District. The road has become an important corridor for petroleum related activities and for linking communities along the Albertine rift.

Residents and traders in the region say the improved roads are already making a difference in their daily lives. Transporters, fishermen and small scale traders report shorter travel times, lower transport costs and easier access to markets and services.

Previously, journeys between Buliisa and Hoima could take several hours due to poor road conditions, but the upgraded network now allows vehicles to reach landing sites and trading centres throughout the year, boosting fish trade and other local economic activities.

Oil roads are part of the infrastructure strategy designed to support Uganda’s emerging petroleum sector together with projects such as the planned refinery in Hoima and the East African Crude Oil Pipeline, which will transport Uganda’s crude oil to the Tanzanian port of Tanga.

The estimation is that hundreds of kilometres of roads in the Albertine region have been earmarked for construction or upgrading to support oil production, tourism and regional trade.

Uganda is steadily positioning itself to begin commercial oil production in the coming years with an aim to open new opportunities for economic development.

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