Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
21.3 C
Kampala
Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
Home Blog Page 42

Basajjabalaba’s son declares bid to unseat Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker

By
Simon Kabayo
-
Contenders for the slot of Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa and Iddi Basajja. Hajji Basajja has declared to unseat Tayebwa.

In a new twist in parliamentary politics, Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality Member of Parliament Hajji Iddi Bassajja has officially declared his intention to contest for the position of Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda for the 2026–2031 term, setting the stage for a potential contest with the incumbent, Thomas Tayebwa.

In an exclusive interview with Eagle Online, Hajji Iddi Bassajja confirmed that he is the official candidate for the position of deputy speaker.  “Please don’t quote anyone else. I am telling you verbatim, I am the official candidate for the position of deputy speaker. And should anyone else doubt, please confirm to them that I have said so and I am available and ready to confirm.”

Additionally, earlier on his X (formerly Twitter), Bassajja expressed gratitude to voters in Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality for entrusting him with a parliamentary mandate during the January 15, 2026, elections.

“Allow me to extend my sincere gratitude to the people of Bushenyi Ishaka Municipality for the trust and mandate you gave me on the 15th of January 2026, to elect me as your Member of Parliament,” he said.

The newly elected legislator said his decision to seek the powerful parliamentary position is driven by a desire to serve with humility, honesty, and national commitment.

“I hereby declare my candidature for the position of Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Uganda 2026–2031,” Bassajja announced.

Bassajja, who is the son of prominent businessman Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba, pledged a principled and inclusive leadership should he be entrusted with the office. He said his leadership would be firmly anchored in constitutionalism and the aspirations of Ugandans.

“I commit and pledge resolute, principled leadership anchored in inclusivity, constitutionalism, and the relentless pursuit of the aspirations of our people,” he said.

Stories Continues after ad

Rotary Club of Mapeera fellowship inspires vision, leadership and service in Rotary District 9213

By
Our Reporter
-
Rotary District 9213 DG, Geoffrey Kitakule, speaking at the fellowship.

The Rotary Club of Mapeera recently hosted a vibrant fellowship that brought together Rotarians and friends for an engaging fireside chat focused on leadership service and the future of Rotary District 9213.

The gathering featured Rotary District Governor Geoffrey Martin Kitakule of District 9213, Managing Director and District Governor Nominee Kasi Fabian and Past District Governor Stephen Mwanje whose reflections inspired members to think deeply about responsibility opportunity and impact.

Addressing the fellowship, District Governor Kitakule spoke on the themes of privilege, possibility, and promise, describing charter membership and especially serving as a charter president as a rare honour.

He praised the Rotary Club of Mapeera as a uniquely positioned and widely admired new club noting that it is among the few to be chartered with the direct attention of a Rotary International President.

He reminded members that the club’s growing popularity and likability had opened doors of opportunity urging them to protect and build on that trust through meaningful service.

“It is rare for a sitting president or an international president to directly charter clubs Kitakule noted underscoring the responsibility that comes with such recognition,” Kitakule said.

Past District Governor Stephen Mwanje added a deeply personal and forward-looking perspective reflecting on vision and accountability in service. He recalled meeting Kasi Fabian years ago when both were young and new in their Rotary journey, yet united by a belief that they could help change lives in Uganda. That shared dream, he said, has since evolved into concrete plans for a welfare centre with the potential to save countless lives.

Mwanje emphasized that true impact is not measured by financial capacity but by the willingness to act. Rotary he said offers limitless opportunities to serve for those guided by imagination and compassion.

“We are not here just to live comfortably we are here to serve to make a difference and to be accountable for the gifts we have been given he told members,” Mwanje noted.

In his remarks Managing Director and District Governor Nominee Kasi Fabian highlighted Rotary District 9213’s long standing commitment to cancer awareness testing and treatment pointing to sustained leadership and active clubs as key drivers of impact.

He noted that Rotary’s strong public goodwill is rooted not in money or profit but in consistent visible service to communities.

“People respect Rotary because it improves lives openly, generously and in partnership with others he said, adding that the organisation’s credibility is built through compassion, collaboration and results,” Kasi said.

He added that the rotary’s credibility is built through compassion, collaboration and results.

The fellowship concluded on a note of renewed purpose with members encouraged to draw inspiration from Rotary’s values as they work together to shape the next chapter of service and leadership in District 9213. 

Stories Continues after ad

Nobert Mao, man to watch as he redirects one lead car back to Northern Uganda

By
Our Reporter
-
MAN OF THE MOMENT: Justice Minister and Laroo Pece MP-elect, Nobert Mao.

The ‘president’ of the Democratic Party (DP) Nobert Mao, who recently won the Laroo Pece Member of Parliament seat, is the man of the moment as he is likely to be the political destabilizer in the distribution of top key government posts.

Mr Mao, who joined the government through political cooperation between the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) and Mao’s) DP faction is being viewed as a possible key replacement for the top slots as President Museveni realigns his cabinet. Uganda has four traditional regions: Eastern, Northern, Western, and Central (Buganda).

Traditionally, Western Uganda is well represented, with the head of the executive hailing from Ankole and the current Prime Minister hailing from Bunyoro.

In Eastern Uganda, two lead cars head in that direction, and all end up in Teso. Meanwhile, as per the 2026 voting pattern, Northern Uganda performed perfectly well, and with the exit of the Chief Justice as he retires, this leaves Northern Uganda without a lead car. Northern Uganda is also looking for a perfect replacement of late Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Oulanyah, and so will Nobert Mao be the man of the moment to redirect one of the lead cars from any of the three regions back to Gulu?

Will Mr. Mao take it from the Bunyoro woman or one of the two women from Teso? Sources say Mao has positioned himself well with Lubanga (God) in Gulu, that his role in the new government is smelt, and his role of unifying Acholi and the rest of Northern Uganda can’t be ignored.

Sources further say that, given his past legislation in the August House, Mao is vital in parliament as he is likely to oversee key constitutional amendments that require a sober mind.

Stories Continues after ad

Love by the Lake: Speke Resort Munyonyo unveils irresistible Valentine’s Day packages

By
Our Reporter
-
Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo-lakeside.

Speke Resort Munyonyo has set the mood for love with carefully curated room packages designed to turn romance into a lasting memory on Valentine’s Day.

Positioned along the shores of Lake Victoria, the luxury resort is inviting couples to escape the bustle of the city and celebrate love in an atmosphere defined by elegance, comfort and unforgettable experiences.

In a Valentine’s message shared by the resort, Speke Munyonyo promises more than just a stay. 

“Escape with your special someone and enjoy our thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Room Packages, designed to turn every moment into a lasting memory,” the resort notes.

The management adds that from cozy stays and welcome treats to candlelit dinners and indulgent experiences, everything has been carefully planned to deliver the perfect romantic getaway.

For couples seeking a simple yet intimate experience, the Classic Room Package offers a one-night stay in a deluxe room, complete with welcome drinks on arrival and a buffet breakfast the following morning.

Priced at $149 (about Shs540,000), the package blends comfort and affordability, making it ideal for lovers who want a quiet night away surrounded by luxury.

Those looking to elevate the romance can opt for the Romantic Escape Package, which goes for $235 (about Shs850,000).

In addition to deluxe accommodation and welcome drinks, couples are treated to a romantic candlelit dinner, a hearty breakfast and late checkout, allowing them to linger longer in each other’s company without rushing back to routine.

At the top end is the Luxury Valentine’s Escape, priced at $300 (about Shs1.08 million), offering an indulgent experience tailored for couples who want to be fully pampered.

The package includes a deluxe room stay, welcome amenities, a special romantic couple’s massage, breakfast in bed, a candlelit dinner, and late checkout, wrapping love, relaxation, and luxury into one seamless experience.

Beyond the rooms, Speke Resort Munyonyo offers an unmatched Valentine’s atmosphere that extends across its expansive lakeside property.

Couples can stroll through lush gardens, enjoy breathtaking sunsets over Lake Victoria, unwind by the pool, or indulge in spa treatments designed to deepen relaxation and connection.

As evening falls, the resort’s elegant dining spaces and soft lighting transform the lakeside into a romantic sanctuary, perfect for celebrating love.

With its blend of scenic beauty, world-class hospitality and thoughtfully designed Valentine’s packages, Speke Resort Munyonyo continues to position itself as the ultimate destination for lovers.

For couples hoping to celebrate Valentine’s Day in style, by the calm waters of Lake Victoria, the resort promises an experience where every detail speaks the language of romance.

Stories Continues after ad

Education pioneer Namirembe Bitamazire granted official burial

By
Francisco Adongo
-
RIP: Namirebe Bitamazire.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has granted an official burial to the late former Minister of Education and Sports and Woman Member of Parliament for Mpigi District, Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire in recognition of her exceptional service to Uganda.

The announcement was made by the Minister in Charge of the Presidency, Milly Babirye Babalanda, following Bitamazire’s death last week via X (formerly Twitter).

“I wish to inform you that His Excellency the President has granted an official burial to the fallen former Minister of Education and Sports and Woman MP Mpigi District, Hon. Geraldine Namirembe Bitamazire, who passed on last week,” Babalanda said in a statement.

She added that the National Organising Committee is working closely with the family to organize a befitting sendoff for the veteran leader, scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, in Butambala District.

According to the statement, the government’s decision reflects Bitamazire’s long and distinguished contribution to public service and national development.

“The National Organising Committee is liaising with the family of the deceased in organising a befitting sendoff for the former distinguished daughter of Uganda,” Babalanda said, extending condolences to the family, the people of Butambala, and the country at large.

Namirembe Bitamazire passed away at the age of 84. While her family confirmed her death, they did not publicly disclose the specific cause and noted only that she had been unwell.

Born on July 17, 1941, in Butambala, Central Uganda, Bitamazire built her career around transforming education in the country. She trained as a teacher and later rose through the ranks of the education sector, becoming the first African headteacher of Tororo Girls School. Her academic background included studies at Makerere University, where she earned qualifications that shaped her lifelong commitment to education policy and administration.

Her public service career spanned several decades and reflected a rare depth of experience across education and public administration. She served as Director at the East African Harbours Corporation between 1971 and 1973 before becoming a Senior Education Officer in the Ministry of Education from 1974 to 1979. She first served as Minister of Education from 1979 to 1980 and later returned to the same portfolio from 2005 to 2011. Between 1981 and 1996, she was Deputy Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission, a role in which she oversaw the professional development and management of teachers nationwide. She also served as State Minister for Education from 1999 to 2005 and represented Mpigi District as Woman Member of Parliament from 2001 to 2011. After leaving elective politics, she continued to serve the country as Chancellor of the Uganda Management Institute.

Bitamazire is especially remembered for her role in championing Universal Primary Education, a policy that transformed access to schooling across Uganda. Her dedication to expanding education opportunities for all children earned her the affectionate title “Mama UPE,” a name that became synonymous with education reform and social progress.

She also represented Uganda on international platforms and remained an influential voice in education and public policy long after leaving elective office. 

Stories Continues after ad

Owiny-Dollo bows out as Chief Justice, hands over to deputy Zeija

By
Simon Kabayo
-
Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo.

Chief Justice Alfonse Chigamoy Owiny-Dollo on Monday formally handed over office to the Deputy Chief Justice, Justice Dr. Flavian Zeija.

Owiny-Dollo retired after reaching the mandatory age of 70. Born on January 18, 1956, in the present Agago District (formerly part of the larger Kitgum), had committed over four decades to law and justice.

At a ceremony attended by judicial and non-judicial staff, Justice Owiny-Dollo handed over key instruments of office, including the Constitution, the Laws of Uganda, the Administration of the Judiciary Act and a comprehensive handover report to guide his successor.

In his farewell remarks, the outgoing Chief Justice struck an emotional tone, describing the Judiciary as a permanent part of his life.

“The Judiciary will always remain my second family. Even in retirement, I will forever consider myself a permanent member of this institution,” he said.

Justice Owiny-Dollo underscored the importance of accountability and continuity, noting that he was committed to concluding all matters pending before him as he exits active judicial service.

“I believe in finishing what I started. Every pending matter entrusted to me deserves closure,” he added.

Deputy Chief Justice Flavian Zeija paid tribute to his outgoing boss, praising his participatory and transformational leadership, especially at the start of his tenure when the Judiciary embarked on wide-ranging reforms.

“He led from the front and gave everyone space to perform. The transformation agenda he championed laid a strong foundation for the Judiciary we have today,” Justice Zeija said.

Justice Zeija credited Owiny-Dollo for successfully lobbying for increased funding for the Judiciary, strengthening Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, and promoting the Africanisation of justice through initiatives such as the African ADR Forum.

He also recalled the Chief Justice’s earlier national service beyond the Bench.

“His role in initiating peace talks between the Lord’s Resistance Army and the Government of Uganda speaks to a jurist deeply committed to justice, peace and reconciliation,” Zeija noted.

The Principal Judge, Lady Justice Jane Frances Abodo, described Justice Owiny-Dollo as a mentor and reformer whose leadership style was marked by patience, wisdom, and consultation.

“He re-engineered ADR and Alternative Justice Systems in ways that will outlive his tenure,” she said.

She highlighted Plea Bargaining as one of his most enduring legacies, noting that it transformed criminal justice by reducing delays and easing the burden on courts, prosecutors, witnesses, and victims.

“These reforms strengthened the mandate of the DPP and significantly accelerated case disposal across the justice sector,” Justice Abodo observed.

Permanent Secretary to the Judiciary, Dr. Pius Bigirimana, commended the outgoing Chief Justice for championing financial discipline and accountability under the institution’s 15-point programme.

“His unwavering support was instrumental in securing enhanced funding for the Judiciary,” Bigirimana said.

Acting Chief Registrar Pamella Lamunu Ocaya described the handover as a moment of reflection and gratitude, praising Justice Owiny-Dollo’s integrity and courage.

“He led with fidelity to justice and strengthened the Judiciary’s constitutional mandate to serve all Ugandans, especially the vulnerable,” she said.

A Journey Through the Law

After earning a Bachelor of Laws from Makerere University and a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre, he pursued advanced studies abroad, a Master of Arts in Conflict Resolution from the University of Bradford and a certificate in advanced conflict mediation from Cape Town. These equipped him for a career bridging divides.

In the late 1980s, Owiny-Dollo served as legal counsel during peace talks between the government and the rebel Uganda People’s Democratic Movement. He later contributed to drafting Uganda’s landmark 1995 Constitution as a Constituent Assembly delegate. Elected to Parliament representing Agago County (1996–2001), he also served as Minister of State for the Northern Uganda Reconstruction Programme. His mediation skills shone again in 2006–2008, advising South Sudanese Vice President Riek Machar during LRA-government negotiations, even meeting Joseph Kony face-to-face in the DRC.

Later he was appointed to the High Court in 2008, then to the Court of Appeal in 2015, and named Deputy Chief Justice in 2017, Owiny-Dollo became Acting Chief Justice in 2020 before President Museveni appointed him the 13th Chief Justice that August. His tenure focused on the Judiciary Transformation Agenda (2020–2025), tackling case backlogs, improving access to justice, digitizing operations, and upgrading infrastructure.

Stories Continues after ad

Col Besigye rushed from Luzira as health deteriorates

By
Simon Kabayo
-
UNWELL: Retired Col. Kizza Besigye.

The People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) has revealed that embattled Dr. Kizza Besigye’s health is deteriorating and in critical condition while in detention.

In a statement issued by the party, said it had received credible information indicating that Dr. Besigye was transferred under heavy security from Luzira Prison to a medical facility in Bugolobi.

“The health of our leader, Dr. Kizza Besigye, has reached a critical and deteriorating state,” the statement reads.

According to the party, the transfer happened at night, which raises further concern among supporters and rights activists about his well-being.

“We have received credible reports that Dr. Besigye was rushed in the night from Luzira Prison to a medical facility at Bugolobi Village Mall under heavy security,” PFF said.

The party has criticised the authorities and accused them of denying Dr. Besigye his right to proper medical care despite his long-standing contribution to public service and the struggle for democratic freedoms.

“It is a tragedy that a man who has dedicated his life to the health and freedom of others is being denied his own right to medical dignity,” the statement added.

PFF said it holds the government and prison authorities fully responsible for Dr. Besigye’s safety and health, and demanded immediate action to safeguard his life.

“We hold the regime and the prison authorities fully accountable for his well-being,” the party said.

The party also demanded that Dr. Besigye’s personal doctors and family be allowed immediate and unrestricted access to him, insisting that his continued detention violates the law.

“We demand that his personal doctors and family be granted immediate and unrestricted access to him. We reiterate that Dr. Besigye is being held in total disregard of the law. He must be freed to receive the care he deserves,” the statement noted.

PFF further called on supporters and the general public to remain alert and prayerful as they await more information.

“We ask all compatriots and lovers of freedom to keep Dr. Besigye in your prayers and to remain vigilant,” the party said, adding that it would continue to update the public as more details emerge.

By the time of filing this story, there was no official statement from the Uganda Prisons Service regarding Dr. Besigye’s reported transfer or his medical condition.

Stories Continues after ad

Launch of Fresh Online Casino Guide for South Africa

By
Our Reporter
-

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za, the leading gambling guide for South Africans that has been operating since 2003, has published its refreshed 2026 online casino guide—built to help players navigate gambling in South Africa with clearer bonus explanations, ZAR-friendly banking tips, and a curated shortlist of standout brands.

The update is designed around what players are searching for most as the year kicks off: south africa online casino options, free spins, and “free no deposit” style offers that let new players try a site before committing meaningful funds. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za says its new-year refresh brings those topics together in one place—alongside a stronger focus on practical “what to check first” guidance for anyone hunting for a casino in South Africa (or a ZAR-focused online casino experience).

What’s New in the 2026 Guide

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za’s 2026 update centres on three improvements aimed at making bonus-led casino browsing less confusing:

  • A clearer bonus hub that highlights popular promotion types—especially free spins and free no deposit bonus offers—while explaining how these bonuses typically work, which games they apply to, and why they’re so popular with South African-facing players.
  • More ZAR and banking context, with content that focuses on South African-facing play patterns and common payment expectations (especially around local, familiar deposit options).
  • A tightened “Star List” of brands the site is spotlighting in 2026—chosen for specific reasons (bonuses, mobile play, game libraries, or all-in-one betting + casino access).

2026 Star List: The Brands SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za is Spotlighting

SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za’s 2026 star list focuses on what players actually care about when choosing an online casino in South Africa: the strength of the welcome offer, the quality of the games, how easy it is to understand bonus terms, and whether the platform feels reliable once you move beyond the headline promo. It’s a curated shortlist for people comparing a casino in South Africa and looking for value in bonuses like free spins no deposit and free no deposit offers—without the fluff.

Hollywoodbets

Best for: A quick, low-commitment start. Hollywoodbets free R25 sign-up bet makes it easy to jump in, and the addition of Evolution live casino content gives it a premium, real-table feel. The refer-a-friend perk is a nice extra for players who like sharing a good find.

ZARbet

Best for: Free spins + variety. The guide highlights 50 free spins on Big Blue Fishing (with a coupon code) and a 125% match bonus up to R3,750 at ZARbet, plus a strong provider mix that includes NetEnt, Red Tiger, and Evolution.

Lucky Fish

Best for: A simple “test the waters” offer. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za highlights Lucky Fish Casino for its R50 free sign-up bonus and a studio mix including NetEnt, Red Tiger, and Evolution—ideal if you want something straightforward without wading through messy bonus terms.

Pantherbet

Best for: One-account convenience. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za frames Pantherbet as an all-in-one option for players who like switching between sports and casino without juggling multiple logins.

YesPlay

Best for: A broader entertainment platform. SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za positions YesPlay Casino as combining casino, lotteries, and sports betting, while still offering 200+ live-dealer and RNG casino games for players who want variety in one place.

How the 2026 Star List is Chosen

Rather than chasing hype, SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za’s 2026 refresh focuses on practical player priorities: how easy a site is to use on mobile, how clear the bonus terms are, whether payments and withdrawals feel straightforward, the quality of the game library (including live casino where available), and whether support is responsive when something goes wrong. The star list highlights brands that perform well across these day-to-day criteria, with each operator featured for a specific standout strength.

What SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za Says:

“Players are coming into 2026 looking for two things: a smoother online casino experience and clearer answers on bonuses,” a SouthAfricanCasinos.co.za spokesperson said. “This guide refresh is about cutting through the noise—highlighting our star list, explaining free spins and free no deposit casino bonus offers in plain language, and helping people understand what they’re actually signing up for.”

Website

southafricancasinos.co.za

18+ only. Gambling can be addictive. Please play responsibly.

Stories Continues after ad

Betting.za.com Publishes its 2026 Guide to Online Betting in South Africa

By
Our Reporter
-

Betting.za.com, South Africa’s leading source for legal online betting information, has released its 2026 update aimed at helping local punters find licensed online betting options, compare reputable bookmakers, and understand what South African gambling law does (and doesn’t) allow.

With South Africa’s betting market continuing to grow, players face more choice than ever — but also more noise. Betting.za.com’s 2026 hub is built around one simple idea: if you’re betting online, you should be doing it through bookmakers licensed by provincial gambling boards, supported by clear terms, secure payments, and responsible gambling tools.

Betting.za.com positions its core content around regulated betting, highlighting that online betting is legal in South Africa when the operator is licensed by a provincial board. The site’s updated guidance explains that online sports betting and horse racing betting are legal when done through licensed operators, with clearer safeguards and standards associated with regulated platforms.

The platform also publishes an “Online Gambling Law” guide intended to reduce confusion and misinformation, breaking down how regulation works and what players should check before placing a bet (including licence details and the role of provincial authorities).

What Betting.za.com is Bringing to the Table in 2026

The 2026 update centres on three practical things South African bettors tend to care about most:

1) Better comparisons of licensed bookmakers

As part of the 2026 update, Betting.za.com’s bookmaker comparison pages include dedicated coverage of well-known South African-facing brands. Below are examples of brands covered in the 2026 comparisons, each profiled using the same checklist:

  • Hollywoodbets is positioned as a trusted local name with especially strong horse racing coverage, alongside major sports markets and regular promotions for South African punters. Plus also free no deposit bonus offer on sign up with hollywoodbets.
  • ZARbet is presented as a proudly South African bookmaker built around a simple, low-friction betting experience, with support for popular local payment options like Ozow and SiD.
  • 10bet is highlighted for deep coverage across major sports — particularly football — plus a strong range of pre-match and in-play markets and a competitive welcome offer for new customers.
  • JabulaBets is covered as an all-in-one platform combining sportsbook, online casino and esports, with a heavy emphasis on promotions, tournaments and VIP-style perks for active players.
  • PantherBet is featured as a newer, SA-focused sportsbook-and-casino brand with in-play betting, regular promos and a structured VIP programme, plus a sign-up free spins offer.
  • Lucky Fish is profiled as a newer entrant with a “try it first” style welcome, combining sports and casino-style entertainment and a no-deposit sign-up incentive.

Each operator profile is structured around the same practical checkpoints — licensing and trust signals, key sports and markets, promotions (where relevant), local payment options, withdrawal expectations, and the terms players should read before placing a bet — so readers can compare like-for-like instead of relying on hype.

2) A clearer “how to bet” path for new players

The 2026 update strengthens Betting.za.com’s step-by-step walkthrough for new users: choose a licensed site, register (including potential ID/FICA steps), deposit, pick a sport and market, place a bet, and withdraw. To reduce confusion for first-time punters, the guide also unpacks the betting language that frequently trips people up — covering common bet types and market formats such as match results, totals, handicaps, and accumulators, along with how odds translate into potential returns.

In addition, Betting.za.com highlights practical “first-bet” considerations, including minimum odds requirements on certain promotions, how bet settlement works, and the difference between bonus bets and withdrawable cash. The result is a clearer, more structured starting point designed to help new players move from registration to placing their first wager with fewer surprises.

3) Local banking and payout expectations

Betting.za.com’s 2026 hub highlights South African-friendly deposit routes — including EFT, cards, and eWallet options such as Ozow and SiD — while setting expectations around withdrawals and encouraging players to use trusted, regulated payment methods. The update adds more context around what typically affects payout timelines in real-world use, including verification requirements, banking cut-off times, first-time withdrawal checks, and the policies that can vary between operators.

Betting.za.com also emphasises the importance of reviewing a bookmaker’s banking and payments information before depositing, with a focus on supported methods, typical processing windows, and any common limits or conditions that may apply. By setting out these practical checkpoints in plain language, the guide aims to help players choose deposit and withdrawal methods with greater confidence and fewer friction points.

How Betting.za.com Rates Betting Sites

Rather than simply listing operators, Betting.za.com describes a 10-step evaluation process designed to separate reputable, compliant brands from those that fall short. The checklist includes:

  • Licensing and regulation
  • Security (such as SSL encryption) and transparent terms
  • Ease of registration and FICA process
  • Support for local banking methods (including SiD, Ozow, and EFT)
  • Promotions and “no deposit” style offers (where applicable)
  • Betting markets and odds depth across popular sports
  • Site/app performance
  • Customer support responsiveness
  • Withdrawal speed (with reviewers claiming they confirm payout times)
  • Responsible gambling tools such as deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion

In its “Best Sports Betting Sites in 2026” section, the site presents a short list of featured operators and includes trust markers such as licensing authorities and headline promo information. Examples on the page include operators regulated by bodies such as the Mpumalanga Economic Regulator, the Gauteng Gambling Board, and the Western Cape Gambling and Racing Board, depending on the brand.

Helping Punters Avoid Illegal or Risky Options

A major theme of the platform’s legal content is helping players understand the line between regulated betting and activities that South African law does not license. For example, Betting.za.com’s law guide states that while licensed sports betting is legal, online casino-style “interactive gambling” products are not licensed in South Africa, and it warns against offshore casino sites due to risks such as frozen withdrawals and lack of consumer protection.

It also advises players to check for provincial licence details (often in a site footer or terms), verify secure payment methods, and look for responsible gambling measures as compliance signals.

Comment

“South Africans shouldn’t have to guess whether a betting site is legal, or learn the hard way which rules matter when it’s time to withdraw,” said Dennis Kumar, Chief Editor at Betting.za.com. “In 2026, we’re focused on clarity — reviewing licensed bookmakers, explaining how betting works in plain language, and pointing players to the information that helps them bet safely and responsibly.”

The updated 2026 guide, bookmaker reviews, betting how-tos, and legal explainers are available now on Betting.za.com.

18+ only. Please gamble responsibly. Terms and conditions apply.

About Betting.za.com
Betting.za.com is a South Africa-focused information platform that publishes bookmaker reviews, betting guides, promotions coverage, and educational content designed to help players choose licensed options, understand key terms, and bet responsibly.

Stories Continues after ad

Chapter Four Uganda closes offices after gov’t suspended its operating permit

By
Our Reporter
-

The human rights organisation, Chapter Four Uganda has suspended its operations and closed its offices following an indefinite suspension of its NGO permit by the National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO Bureau).

The organisation revealed that the suspension is based on vague allegations.

In a statement dated January 13, 2026, Chapter Four Uganda said it had received notice of the suspension alongside nine other civil society organisations, citing claims that the affected groups had engaged in activities deemed prejudicial to the security and laws of Uganda.

 The National Bureau for Non Governmental Organisations operating under the Ministry of Internal Affairs through a letter dated January 9, 2026 directed Chapter Four Uganda to halt all its activities as investigations into the alleged misconduct commence.

“Chapter Four Uganda notes with concern the indefinite suspension of our NGO Permit by the National Bureau for Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO Bureau),”Chapter Four Uganda said.

The organisation added that similar action had been taken against several other organisations in the civil society space.

The organisation questioned the basis of the decision and noted that the allegations against it lacked clarity. 

“The suspension is based on vague allegations that we engaged in activities that are prejudicial to the security and laws of Uganda,” the statement reads.

As a result of the directive, Chapter Four Uganda said it had taken steps to comply with the order while it seeks redress. 

“As a law-abiding organization, we have closed our offices and temporarily suspended our operations. We regret any inconvenience this causes to our partners and the community of beneficiaries,” the organisation said.

Despite complying with the suspension, Chapter Four Uganda maintains that the decision is unwarranted and has vowed to challenge it through lawful means. 

“We consider this suspension unjustified and are pursuing all available administrative and legal measures to restore our operational status as soon as possible,” the statement adds.

Chapter Four Uganda has, for more than a decade been involved in public interest litigation, legislative advocacy, and community engagement aimed at protecting and promoting human rights. 

“For over a decade, Chapter Four Uganda has worked transparently in courts of law, Parliament, and communities to protect and promote human rights, advance access to justice, and strengthen the rule of law—fostering fairer societies for all,” the organisation said.

The group also reiterated its willingness to work with state institutions, despite the setback. 

“We remain committed to collaborating with government authorities and the people of Uganda to advance the promise of Chapter Four in the 1995 Constitution,” it stated.

This is not the first time Chapter Four Uganda has faced regulatory action. In August 2021 the government suspended the permits of several civil society organisations including Chapter Four citing non compliance with the NGO Act failure to file annual returns and audited accounts and alleged irregularities in funding and reporting.

Chapter Four challenged that suspension in the High Court arguing that the decision was unlawful and that the organisation had not been granted a fair hearing as required by law.

In May 2022 the High Court ruled that the indefinite suspension was irregular and directed that the organisation be accorded a hearing a decision that paved the way for the renewal of its permit and the resumption of its operations after months of closure.

Stories Continues after ad
1...414243...2,404Page 42 of 2,404

© Eagle Online. All rights reserved.

About Us

Popular Category

Editor Picks