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Victoria University unveils 5-year strategic plan, tribunal and new Naguru campus vision

By
Simon Kabayo
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Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Dr Lawrence Muganga, and university proprietor Sudhir Ruparelia chat with another guest after the meeting.

Victoria University has unveiled an ambitious 5-Year Strategic Plan alongside the official launch of the Victoria University Tribunal, which marks one of the institution’s most transformative milestones. 

The announcement was made during a high-profile ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where the university leadership presented a bold roadmap for the future.

The university revealed that its new state-of-the-art home will rise in Naguru, overlooking Kampala’s iconic skyline. 

The planned campus will feature modern digital infrastructure, advanced laboratories, research facilities, and expanded learning spaces designed to position Victoria University as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

During the launch, the institution emphasized that the new vision is built on courage, reinvention, and a commitment to shaping the next generation. 

The leadership noted that the journey ahead is grounded in one powerful belief: the future is not handed down it is created by those bold enough to redesign it.

Victoria University’s 5-Year Strategic Plan sets out to enhance academic excellence, deepen research capacity, expand online and technology-driven learning, and invest heavily in entrepreneurship development. The university said these pillars will define its academic direction as it moves toward a more globally competitive model of education.

The event also witnessed the official inauguration of the Victoria University Tribunal, an independent governance body established to strengthen accountability, integrity, and fairness within the university. The tribunal will handle matters involving students, staff, and administration, ensuring that disciplinary and administrative issues are resolved transparently and professionally.

The newly constituted tribunal includes: Mr. Elisha Bafirawala – Chairperson of the Tribunal, a legal expert qualified to serve as a High Court Judge, Ms. Rebecca Irene Nassuuna – Secretary to the Tribunal and advocate, Gizamba Calvin – Student Guild Speaker, representing the student body, Dr. Bill Nkeeto – Representative of the academic staff, Mr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of the administrative staff, Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of the Senate, and Dr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of the University Council

University officials stated that the creation of the tribunal reflects a commitment to upholding high governance standards and building trust across the institution.

The launch of the strategic plan, the tribunal and the new Naguru campus vision signals a decisive new chapter for Victoria University — one built on innovation, strong values, and a clear determination to redefine the future of higher education in Uganda and the region.

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NRM leaders in Kawempe pledge peaceful, violence-free by-election campaigns

By
Francisco Adongo
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NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Faridah Nambi, the flag bearer for Kawempe North, Namayanja Nsereko, and State House Comptroller Jane Barekye

National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in Kawempe Division have committed to ensuring a peaceful and orderly environment throughout the ongoing by-election campaigns and assured both the public and party leadership that the area will remain free of violence.

The pledge was made during a high-level mobilisation meeting in Kampala, led by NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja Nsereko and State House Comptroller Jane Barekye. 

The engagement, part of President Yoweri Museveni’s intensified house-to-house mobilisation drive brought together more than 30,000 party leaders from the five divisions of Kampala.

Namayanja urged NRM leaders to put aside personal differences and prioritise the party’s broader mission.

“Let us not allow intrigue, jealousy, or resentment to divide us. Our focus should be on the common goal, victory for the NRM and continued development for our people,” she said.

She commended the strength of the party’s grassroots structures, noting that this mobilisation effort stands out because it is being driven by local members themselves.

Barekye, on her part, encouraged leaders to champion government poverty-alleviation initiatives, emphasising President Museveni’s call for increased household productivity.

“The President’s message is clear, every household should engage in productive work to eliminate poverty. As NRM leaders, we must take this message door-to-door and ensure that communities embrace government programs,” she said.

Namayanja further applauded Kawempe leaders for reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace during the by-election period. She warned that the party would not hesitate to take action against any form of indiscipline.

“The NRM does not tolerate any form of chaos or disorder. Anyone who attempts to destabilise peace in our communities will face serious consequences,” she cautioned.

The leaders’ commitment comes as political activities intensify across Kampala, with the party positioning itself to secure victory while preserving stability in Kawempe Division.

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Uganda to host Africa industrialization week 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo

By
Francisco Adongo
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Uganda will host the 2025 Africa Industrialization Week (AIW 2025) from November 17 to 21, 2025, with all major sessions scheduled to take place at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the African Union (AU) has confirmed.

This year’s edition will run under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Economy through Sustainable Industrialization, Regional Integration and Innovation.”

The announcement, made on Friday, reaffirms Africa’s push to shift from exporting raw materials to building strong value-addition industries capable of creating jobs, enhancing skills, and increasing economic prosperity across the continent.

Africa currently supplies more than 70 percent of the world’s mined cobalt, largely from Central African countries. The AU says this should be a springboard for developing homegrown processing, manufacturing, and technological value chains instead of exporting the mineral in its raw form.

A promotional AU message captures this vision vividly: “Africa must build the technology value chains that cobalt powers.” The visual depicts hands trading cobalt for smartphones, symbolizing the continent’s ambition to anchor industrial growth on its rich mineral base and advance the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

AIW 2025 is being organized by the Government of Uganda in collaboration with the AU Commission, UNIDO, UNECA, AUDA-NEPAD, and the Afro-Champions Initiative. 

The week-long gathering will focus on closing gaps between policy, financing, and innovation. It will also spotlight scalable industrialization models, harmonize efforts among AU Member States and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and introduce platforms for youth start-ups and women-led enterprises to connect with investors.

The program will include high-level discussions marking Africa Industrialization Day on November 20, expert panels on emerging industrial priorities, and exhibitions showcasing value-added products and new technologies.

Organizers expect the event to generate key outcomes such as stronger intra-African trade, actionable policy guidance for expanding industrial parks and production hubs, and renewed commitments under the Action Plan for Accelerated Industrial Development of Africa (AIDA) and IDDA III.

With Africa’s manufacturing output still contributing only about 10 percent to the continent’s GDP, significantly below global averages, the 2025 gathering at Speke Resort Munyonyo is being positioned as a pivotal moment to accelerate industrial diversification, especially as the global green transition unlocks greater demand for critical minerals.

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AU honours Ugandan peacekeepers in Somalia

By
Our Reporter
-

The African Union has honoured troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ Battle Group XLI under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. 

The troops were decorated with medals and awarded certificates in recognition of their distinguished service during their peacekeeping tour of duty in Somalia.

At the same function, the outgoing contingent handed over responsibilities to Battle Group XLV.

On behalf of the Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, the Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, praised Col Michael Hyeroba and his troops for their commitment throughout offensive and defensive operations that weakened Al-Shabaab activity in the Barawe and Baledamin sub-sectors.

Battle Group XLI ends its tour of duty with key achievements such as securing Barawe Airport, restricting Al-Shabaab’s freedom of movement, supporting and mentoring Somali National Army forces, and successful key leaders engagements that contribute to the wider relative calm in the sub-sectors.

He expressed confidence in the incoming commander, Col Justus Musenene of Battle Group XLV and encouraged him to rely on his team, maintain high morale and remain adaptable as he takes charge of operations.

Col Hyeroba thanked the UPDF leadership for trusting him with the command of Battle Group XLI. He appreciated Brig Gen Ssemwanga’s guidance, noting that it contributed to the successes registered during the mission.

Col Musenene affirmed his troops’ readiness to build on the achievements of their predecessors, saying the pre-mission training had prepared them to take on the new responsibilities.

The awarded soldiers represented the wider Battle Group, whose other troops had been decorated earlier in honour of their service and sacrifice in promoting stability in Somalia.

The event was attended by the incoming contingent commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, Sector One Deputy Commander Col Francis Aragamoi, Contingent Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, Battle Group XLII Commander Col Sam Kosia Kuteesa, asset commanders, heads of departments, senior officers, junior officers and militants under Sector One.

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UAE slaps ban on visas as Ugandan immigrants are stranded

By
Simon Kabayo
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Ugandans departing for the UAE.

Uganda has joined Bangladesh, Somalia, Cameroon, Afghanistan, Sudan and other countries in the United Arab Emirates’ 2025 visa ban. 

The UAE has temporarily suspended the issuance of visit and work visas for citizens of nine countries due to security, immigration, and diplomatic concerns. 

The decision has triggered uncertainty and frustration among job seekers, families, and travellers, particularly in Uganda, where thousands have long viewed the UAE as a gateway for employment and trade.

According to reports, the affected countries include Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, Cameroon, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Bangladesh. The suspension applies to new tourist and work visa applications, meaning no new submissions from citizens of these countries will be processed until further notice. However, those who already hold valid visas remain unaffected and can still travel to or reside in the UAE.

The suspension has had an immediate impact on Ugandans who had planned to travel to the UAE for work or leisure. Many had already completed documentation and medical checks or secured employment offers. 

Recruitment agencies in Kampala have had to halt processing for new applicants, while travellers are seeking refunds and clarifications from agents. The move has also stranded Ugandan job seekers in transit countries who were waiting for visa approvals.

The UAE has not officially explained the reasons behind the ban, but various reports point to a mix of security, immigration control and diplomatic considerations. Some of the affected countries, including Afghanistan, Libya and Yemen are dealing with internal instability, while others such as Uganda and Sudan have been among major sources of labour migration to the Gulf. The suspension appears to be a preventive step aimed at managing overstaying and irregular migration.

For Uganda, the ban comes at a time when labour export remains one of the country’s key employment avenues. Thousands of Ugandans work in the UAE’s hospitality, construction, cleaning and domestic service sectors. The restriction could disrupt remittance flows and stall employment opportunities for many youths who had paid recruitment fees or taken loans to process travel documents.

The visa suspension also affects families who had hoped to visit or reunite with relatives in the UAE. Under the current restrictions, Ugandan citizens cannot apply for family visit visas, further straining personal and social plans. Recruitment and travel agencies have reportedly received instructions to pause all new submissions for citizens of the affected nations until the directive is lifted.

This development has also raised concerns among employers in the UAE who depend on migrant labour from Africa and Asia. Many sectors, including construction and domestic work, rely heavily on workers from Uganda and other listed countries. With the suspension in place, employers may experience delays in staffing and may be forced to seek alternative labour sources.

While this suspension is significant, it is not the first of its kind. The UAE has previously imposed temporary visa restrictions on certain countries due to overstaying issues and irregular migration. Such suspensions are often reviewed periodically based on bilateral discussions and immigration assessments.

For now, Ugandans affected by the directive are being advised to remain patient and await official communication from the UAE authorities. They are also urged to be cautious of fraudsters who may claim to process visas illegally during the suspension period.

As one of the top destinations for Ugandan migrant workers, the UAE’s decision is being closely watched by the government in Kampala. Officials from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development are expected to engage with UAE authorities to seek clarification and determine how long the restrictions may last.

Until further notice, many hopeful travellers and workers remain stranded waiting for the suspension to be lifted and for the gates to the Gulf’s lucrative job market to reopen.

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Sudhir’s Paradise Island Resort opens up L. Victoria tourism

By
Our Reporter
-

A new jewel of luxury tourism is set to rise from the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria as Paradise Island Resort prepares for its grand opening in March 2026. 

The magnificent eco-luxury retreat, developed by the Ruparelia Group under city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia promises to redefine high-end hospitality in Uganda by blending natural beauty with world-class comfort.

Located about twenty minutes by speedboat from Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Paradise Island sprawls across nearly twenty acres of lush greenery, rocky shores, and serene waters. 

Guests will experience the true spirit of island living surrounded by breathtaking lake views, exotic birdlife and a peaceful environment that captures the essence of Uganda’s natural charm.

The resort is designed to cater to both relaxation and adventure seekers. It features an array of accommodations including standard cottages, cliff-hanger cottages perched on rock edges, deluxe two-bedroom cottages and a selection of executive villas. Each unit offers sweeping lake views and is crafted with modern elegance while maintaining harmony with the island’s natural landscape.

Construction of the resort began in 2021 and has since reached completion, paving the way an ambitious hospitality project. Although earlier reports suggested an opening in late 2025, the developers have now confirmed that the grand launch will take place in March 2026.

In preparation for operations, the Ruparelia Group has already unveiled a specially designed barge to transport supplies, materials and staff to and from the island, demonstrating the scale of investment and logistical planning behind the project.

Beyond its architectural splendor, the resort will boost the local economy by creating jobs in hospitality, transport and tourism services, while elevating Uganda’s international image as a destination for luxury and eco-friendly travel.

The island symbolizes more than luxury, it represents growing tourism potential and a renewed commitment to showcase the wonders of Lake Victoria to the world.

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Court denies NUP’s Waiswa Mufumbiro bail again as party launches his campaign in absentia

By
Emmanuel Okello
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Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro on handcuffs.

The Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court has once again denied bail to the National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro who is charged with incitement to commit an offence.

In its ruling on Thursday, the court held that Mufumbiro was likely to interfere with ongoing investigations and therefore could not be released at this stage. 

The court advised him to reapply for bail after the state finalizes investigations, but did not set any timelines for when that would happen.

When Mufumbiro’s legal team requested that the court specify a time frame for the investigation process, the presiding magistrate said the court would rely on the test of reasonableness. The case has since been adjourned to December 2, 2025.

Although the court acknowledged that all the sureties presented by Mufumbiro were substantial and met the legal requirements, it maintained that it was not convinced he would refrain from acts that could disrupt public order if released.

Mufumbiro is also facing a separate charge of unlawful drilling before the Kawempe Magistrate’s Court in Kanyanya, where proceedings are ongoing. The alleged incident reportedly involved unauthorized public mobilization activities, which authorities say violated public order laws.

Meanwhile, despite his continued detention, Mufumbiro remains determined to continue his political journey. 

Speaking shortly after the ruling, NUP spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi said the party would not be derailed by what he described as state persecution.

“Nakawa Magistrate’s Court has denied Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro bail regarding the case of incitement to commit an offence. This is in spite of the court saying that all his sureties were substantial,” Ssenyonyi said. 

He added,“He also faces another charge of unlawful drilling at the Kawempe Magistrate’s Court in Kanyanya. Waiswa has told us to keep pressing on regardless of this persecution.”

Ssenyonyi further revealed that the NUP was proceeding with Mufumbiro’s campaign launch for the Nakawa East parliamentary seat, even in his absence.

“We’re now off to Mbuya 1 for the official launch of his campaigns for MP–Nakawa East Constituency,” he said.

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Businessman Basajjabalaba’s mother to be buried on Saturday

By
Our Reporter
-
Late Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba.

The family of businessman Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba has announced the burial programme for their late mother, Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba who passed away in Cologne, Germany, on Monday, November 10, 2025.

According to the family, the body of the late Hajjat Azida will arrive at Entebbe International Airport on Friday morning, November 14, 2025. After arrival, Salatul Janazah prayers will be held at Kibuli Mosque immediately after the Friday Juma prayers.

The body will later be transported to Ishaka, Bushenyi where a vigil will be held at the family home starting at 6:00 pm. The final burial will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am.

“Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un! We surely belong to Allah and to Him we shall return,” the family stated in their announcement, inviting relatives, friends and well-wishers to join them in celebrating the life of their beloved mother.

Hajjat Azida, who died in her 80s had been receiving medical treatment in Germany before her passing. Family members described her as a humble, prayerful and generous matriarch who devoted her life to her children and community.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba, who went to be with Allah on Monday evening in Cologne, Germany,” read part of the family statement.

Her son, Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba is one of Uganda’s most prominent businessmen and serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Kampala International University (KIU).

Leaders from across the political and business circles, including the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among have sent their condolences to the family.

“This is a painful loss not only to the Basajjabalaba family but also to the wider NRM fraternity,” Speaker Among said in her message of condolence.

Hajjat Azida will be remembered as a devoted mother, a strong believer in Islam, and a respected figure whose compassion and wisdom influenced both her family and the community at large.

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Works Ministry orders senior communications officer to report to new duty at East African Community Affairs

By
Our Reporter
-
Ms Kataike Susan, Principal Communications Officer at the Works Ministry.

Fever has emerged between the Ministry of Works and Transport and the Ministry of East African Community Affairs after a senior communications officer allegedly refused to comply with deployment instructions issued nearly two months ago.

According to a letter dated November 4, 2025, seen by Eagle Online, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, has reprimanded Ms. Susan Kataike, a Principal Communications Officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport, for refusing to take up her new posting at the Ministry of East African Community Affairs. Kataike has been at the Ministry of Works for close to 20 years.

“Reference is made to my letter dated 11th September 2025, deploying you to the Ministry of East African Community Affairs,” Dr. Zawedde wrote. 

Dr. Zawedde added, “Further reference is made to the letter from the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of East African Community Affairs, dated October 15, 2025, regarding your non-reporting for duty.”

The letter indicates that Ms. Kataike’s continued absence has affected the ministry’s operations. 

“As a result of your failure to comply with the posting instructions, this has greatly affected service delivery at the Ministry of East African Community Affairs,” the letter adds.

Dr. Zawedde warned that the officer’s conduct could attract disciplinary measures under the Uganda Public Service Standing Orders, 2021. 

“You are reminded that refusal to comply with posting instructions is an act of misconduct which may result in disciplinary action according to Section F-c,” she stated.

The Permanent Secretary further directed Ms. Kataike to report to her new station with immediate effect, which shows the ministry’s intent to enforce compliance.

Efforts to get a comment from Ms. Kataike were unsuccessful by press time. Despite this reminder, Kataike has not yet reported for duty at the Ministry of East African Community Affairs.

Sources say her refusal to comply stems from her perceived view that the EAC Ministry is dry compared to the Works Ministry, which is termed the wet ministry.

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Botswana launches sale of citizenship at $75,000 

By
Our Reporter
-

Botswana has unveiled its first-ever Citizenship by Investment program, offering foreign investors the opportunity to acquire citizenship for $75,000 (approximately Shs288 million). 

The initiative, known as the Impact Investment Program is expected to officially begin in early 2026 as part of the country’s plan to diversify its economy beyond diamonds.

President Duma Boko announced the development after signing a Memorandum of Understanding during the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 26, 2025. The government says the program will attract high-net-worth investors whose contributions will boost key sectors such as renewable energy, housing, financial services, and luxury tourism.

Under the new framework, applicants can obtain Botswana citizenship by contributing between $75,000 (Shs288m) and $90,000 (Shs345m). This positions Botswana as the most affordable country in the world for open-access citizenship, surpassing São Tomé and Príncipe’s $90,000 (Shs345m) minimum by $15,000 (Shs57m).

Applications will be submitted through an official portal managed by Arton Capital, the program’s implementing agency. The initiative will operate under a limited quota system to ensure accountability and exclusivity.

Adding family members will attract extra costs $10,000 (about Shs38 million) for a spouse or child under 18, and $5,000 (about Shs19 million) for each adult dependent.

According to officials, funds raised through the program will be channeled into national development projects aimed at expanding employment opportunities and supporting Botswana’s transition into a diversified, innovation-driven economy.

Although the program has been praised for its affordability and potential to attract global investors, key details such as processing fees, due diligence costs, and application timelines remain undisclosed.

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