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Museveni to campaign for Philip Oucor ahead of Serere County by-election

President Museveni

President Yoweri Museveni is today expected to campaign for Philip Oucor, the National Resistance Movement- NRM flag bearer for the forthcoming Serere county by-election.

Museveni’s first campaign rally for Oucor will take place at Ocaapa town council. Oucor is competing against Omoding Emmanuel (Independent), Alaso Alice (ANT), Emmanuel Eratu of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and Mr Martin Onguruco.

The National Unity Platform – NUP is backing Alice Alaso, the flag bearer for the Alliance for National Transformation –ANT.

Serere County Parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of the former Member of Parliament, the Late Okabe Patrick, in a motor accident on 19th December 2022.

According to the electoral road map, the election exercises kicked off with the update of the National Voters’ Register from Friday 6th to Tuesday 10TH January 2023 in each of the 38 parishes and wards in Serere County.

The nomination of candidates will be conducted on Thursday 9th and Friday 10th February 2023 at the Office of the District Returning Officer, Serere.

Polling and tallying of results for the by-election of Member of Parliament will be conducted on Thursday 23rd February 2023.

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TotalEnergies EP Uganda passes key industry safety milestone on Tilenga Project

TotalEnergies EP Uganda has successfully achieved 10-million-man hours without Lost Time Injuries (LTI) on the Tilenga Project. This crucial health and safety industry milestone was achieved on January 13th, 2023.

Measurement of LTI is a lagging indicator which is aimed at measuring a company’s incidents in the form of past accident statistics. It measures all on-the-job injuries that require a person to stay away from work for more than 24 hours, or which result in death or permanent disability.

“Safety is a core value at TotalEnergies EP Uganda and our achievement of 10-million-man hours without injuries is testament to the fact that all our employees and contractors take this value seriously,” said Philippe Groueix, General Manager TotalEnergies EP Uganda.

“It is important to recognize the key role played by the dedicated Health, Safety and Environment teams as well as the site supervision teams who work in close collaboration with our contractors to ensure that safety remains a priority for all. Given the significant increase of our activities on site, it is critical to reinforce our collective commitment to safeguarding the lives of everybody working on the project”, he added.

Safety is of utmost importance in any oil and gas activity, and TotalEnergies EP Uganda is committed to ensuring that all safety measures are in place to protect its employees, facilities, the environment, and the communities in which it operates. Currently, the Tilenga project employs more than 5,000 people working with TotalEnergies EP Uganda and its contractors both on site and in Kampala.

The Company has invested heavily in state-of-the-art technology and equipment, local and international experts for the development of the projects and has put in place strict safety protocols to minimize risks on its sites.

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NSSF clamps down on suspense account fraud, wins Shs152m case

A former employee of the National Social Security Fund-NSSF, Joseph Sooka has been sentenced to five years in prison for withdrawing over Shs152 million from the suspense account.

This is after NSSF handed him over to the Uganda Police in October 2019 and the Director of Public Prosecutions following an internal investigation that established suspicious withdraws he had fraudulently processed over time.

The suspense account is where the Fund temporarily saves contributions with unclear details of the member accounts to which they should be deposited. The money is later allocated to the respective member accounts upon reconciliation with the contributing employers.

The Fund’s Internal Audit Department in October 2019 established that Sooka had presented fictitious claim documents that he used to access monies of the unsuspecting members between May 2017 and July 2019. “All the monies released on account of the false claims was credited to the (bank) accounts controlled by the accused…,” according to the judgment delivered by Lady Justice Margaret Tibulya.

At the time of his arrest, Sooka had fraudulently claimed monies for seven members.

The Fund’s internal audit team identified unusually withdraws on the suspense account following a tip-off by one of the victims. It was discovered that the genuine members hadn’t claimed their monies although claims had been processed in their favor.

Sooka was convicted on a total of ten counts that included embezzlement, money laundering, forgery and uttering of false documents.

Justice Margaret Tibulya convicted Sooka on each of the ten counts as charged. He was asked to refund the Shs152,720,670 he had stolen from the Fund and banned from assuming any positions in public offices for a period of ten years.

Barbra Arimi, the Fund’s Head of Marketing and Corporate Affairs said that the win demonstrated the Fund’s zero tolerance for fraud.  “We are committed to protecting our members’  savings at all costs and have put in place several security checks to prevent fraud, especially from the suspense account.”

The Fund has since put in place initiatives to mitigate the growth of balances on the suspense account. These initiatives include the e-collections portal which makes it impossible for employers to remit without complete employee information, publication of suspense in different media platforms as well as field engagements aimed at tracing members on the suspense account.

In addition, the Fund has fully integrated with NIRA to enable the registration of members, and this has significantly reduced the amount of incoming suspense. “The bulk of the suspense relates to historical periods. Once all efforts to clear suspense are exhausted, we will publish all pending suspense and have it moved to the reserve as per provisions of the NSSF Act (as amended),” Arimi concluded.

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Ssenabulya convicted for kidnap, murder of Nagirinya and Kitayimbwa

Late Maria Nagirinya

Isaac Ssenabulya has been convicted for the murder of Maria Nagirinya, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) staff at Community Integrated Development Initiatives (CIDI), and her driver Ronald Kitayimbwa.

Ssenabulya was convicted after he pleaded guilty to the kidnap and double murder of Nagirinya and Kitayimbwa in February 2019. He apologized to the families of the deceased and asked for a liniment sentence.  

The prosecution led by Jonathan Muwaganya and Timothy Emerit asked that Ssenabulya be given the maximum penalty of death, for killing two innocent Ugandans as a deterrent to others. Ssenabulya is waiting for the High Court judge Isaac Muwata to pass a sentence.

Ssenabulya is charged alongside six other people after the prosecution dropped murder charges against Raymond Okori Marckos.

Nagirinya was kidnapped on 27 August 2019 by two men who reportedly trailed her as she returned home. According to her family members, the assailants accessed her vehicle registration number UBA 570V, Spacio, moments after her young sister had just opened the gate.

The deceased is alleged to have been killed in the car before dumping their bodies at Nakitutulu village, Nama sub-county in Mukono district.

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Civil society welcomes government’s decision to stop borrowing

Mr Julius Mukunda, the executive director of CSBAG

The Civil Society Budget Advocacy Group (CSBAG) has welcomed new austerity measures by the Government of Uganda as it seeks to contend with significant budget cuts.

The Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development, in its Second Budget Call Circular for Financial Year 2023/2024, says there will be no new borrowing next financial year.

It has also suspended purchase of new cars, pay rise and foreign travel for its officials, among others.

According to Mr Julius Mukunda, the executive director of CSBAG, the budget circular is responding to their hitherto calls to the government to spend within its means.

“I think the budget call circular is one of the kinds we have not seen in quite some time. First of all, it’s really responding to the current crisis we are in and also it is drawing from the lessons of the past, but at the same time it’s addressing the cries of civil society,” Mr. Mukunda said.

 “We are in crisis because our debt is increasing while our revenues are not increasing at par. So, they came up and said ‘we need to stop borrowing new loans …. I think this is what any sane person should be doing because you are heading to a debt trap and you don’t want to arrive there quickly,” he added.

According to the budget call circular issued last Friday, overseas trips will only be allowed for heads and deputies of the Executive, Parliament and Judiciary – and other officials travelling for critical security, resource mobilization and case arbitration assignments.

“There will be no new borrowing next financial year and this shall continue over the short-to-medium term so as to minimize the share of Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) revenues being used to service debt in the medium term so as to make more resources available to finance critical development priorities of government,” Finance PS Ramathan Ggoobi wrote.

“Vehicle purchase is frozen in FY2023/2024 with the exception of the purchase of hospital ambulances, vehicles for medical supplies/distribution, agricultural extension services, security and revenue mobilization; spending on workshops and seminars shall be reduced by 50 percent …,” the circular reads in part.

The Budget Framework approved by parliament earlier this month provided for budget support of 2.4 trillion shillings and domestic borrowing of up to 1.6 trillion shillings while external project support would amount to 8 trillion shillings. The preliminary resource envelope for the year has since been adjusted upwards to 50.871 trillion Shillings.

However, it remains to be seen if URA collections can fund the budget.

According to the target set for Uganda Revenue Authority by the ministry of finance, the tax body is expected to raise 28.8 trillion shillings next financial year, with Shs2 trillion being from non-tax revenue. This means the government would have to look elsewhere to get the rest (about Shs22 trillion) needed to meet the spending requirements, and the natural option is always borrowing.

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Museveni advises Ugandans in diaspora to invest back home

President Museveni has advised Ugandans living in the United States of America (USA) and the United Kingdom (UK) to utilize the available opportunities to invest in Uganda.

Museveni said Uganda is a secure country whose economy is growing stronger day by day and its citizens in the Diaspora should use the chance to develop themselves economically.

“When you are explaining to your people there, tell them that they are losing out because Uganda will continue to progress. Yes, you are there working but we think our system will become much stronger than what you have there. So, what I would advise is that the movement you are starting to re-orient people is first and foremost for your own good,” he urged during a State House meeting with Ugandans living in the USA and UK.

“You are linked to a growing force, a new force; people who were looking after cows just for drinking milk, they now know how to make milk a cash product, they now know how to make beef a cash product, leather and a cash product. We now have the Acholis who were hunters, they now have big commercial farms. We have got people who are getting into the money economy from the non-monetary economy. You can use your presence there to tap, bring and grow yourself,” he added.

President Museveni further tipped his visitors that Uganda has more profit returns in businesses than the USA and UK.

 “It will be better if we all work together but most importantly you are missing an opportunity which really you can take advantage of. There are more returns here than where you are.”

Mr. Timothy Nyonjo, who led a team from the USA, informed the President that they are ready to add a brick to the economy of Uganda.

“We are working towards pacifying the Diaspora so that we bring the good things there to our country. We want to add value to agriculture, mining and other resources. Your Excellency we thank you for developing every sector of the economy,” he said.

In order to promote patriotism among Ugandans in the Diaspora, Mr. Nyonjo told President Museveni that they are in plans to set up Chapters in all states of USA to mobilize and sensitize people about the NRM ideology.

“We are here to fight for our government and the ruling party which we support. Now we are acting as the third force ready to build the country without dividing it. We are spreading the gospel of mindset change so that we begin to see things in the positive way.”

Mr. Allan Olara Otema, the Chairman UK & Ireland Chapter also assured Gen. Museveni that they have investors who are ready to inject millions of pounds in Uganda’s health, Education, tourism and agriculture sectors.

“We are the Ambassadors out there, we are the faces of government out there and therefore we have to be the ones that are lifting our flags high in terms of looking for investors and promoting our country,” Mr. Olara noted.

“We have investors with us who are 100 percent willing to invest in healthcare worth 500 million pounds to 1 billion pounds. Tourism, 8.5 million pounds, agribusiness and value addition packaging and food security- 25 million pounds and Education and health on top- 10 million pounds. We have these people,” he added.

Mr. Olara also disclosed to the President that as supporters of the ruling government, they are doing mobilization work to curtail the misinformation and defamation being spread against Uganda by bad political elements in the Diaspora.

“Your Excellency, we subscribe to NRM, we believe in the party ideology and by doing that we are mobilizing. As we are doing this, we are mobilizing not only for NRM, but we are preaching to all Ugandans, we are selling the idea of Uganda.”

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UPDF hands over recovered cattle to owners

Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has handed over recovered animals from raiders to owners in the districts of Abim, Agago, Kitgum and Kotido; among others.

The handover, which was witnessed by area local leaders, renews the army’s commitment to protecting people and their property.

About 2799 heads of cattle, 360 goats, and 27 donkeys were received by owners after an intense verification exercise.

According to the Deputy Commander of the UPDF 2 Division, Brig Gen William Beinomugisha, the prolonged dry season has increased animal thefts as wrong elements or raiders normally take advantage of the long trek in search of water and pasture to steal from unsuspecting pastoral communities.

He said: “The army is determined to deal with wrong elements that curtail development.”

He, however, promised never to give – up on the search for these raiders and further warned that culprits will be arrested and prosecuted.

Before the handover ceremony, area local leaders held a meeting and agreed that animals will only drink water from Longor dam during day time, and community sensitization programs that preach peaceful co-existence are to be heightened for development in the region.

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US investor responds to ABSA bank’s defence over $9,000 reported wire transfer

American Investor Alan Gator Chamberlain of Seattle, Washington has reacted to Absa Bank’s claims about the alleged $9000 wire transfer from USAA Bank in San Antonio Texas to ABSA Bank – Kasese branch.

According to Chamberlain, the Head of Communication and Citizenship at Absa Bank Uganda Robinah Mukasa, stated that he used the wrong Swift code which identifies each bank. She said the customer sent the money to Swift code number BARCUGKXXXX which is incorrect. ABSA Banks Swift code is BARCUGKX and does not have four X’s after the K.

In following up with Swift regulars the XXXX is not part of the Swift code but merely a placeholder.

Mr. Chamberlain provided evidence that on three other occasions, he wired money from the same bank in the US to the same Swift code and the money was successfully transferred to the recipient on all three occasions to the same Swift code ABSA now declares incorrect.

Chamberlain said ABSA is trying to deceive the public in its attempt to cover up suspicious and possibly illegal activity.  Swift officials stated that had the Swift code been incorrect the funds would have bounced back to the sending bank immediately.

“The fact that the funds simply disappeared from December 2, 2022, until January 10, 2023 shows the money was received and being held fraudulently in an attempt that I give up to find out where the money was. Another suspicious twist to the story is that the $9000 was returned by ABSA bank to USAA Bank just days after receiving a “letter of intent to sue” by my lawyer Chan Masereka of Kasese,” he said.

Certainly, the recipient Faisal Ibrahim had not received the money.

He said other suspicious contributing factors are that USAA attempted to have the funds returned three times but their communications went unanswered or acknowledged.

ABSA Banks’ website states, “we are committed to finding local solutions to uniquely local challenges”.

ABSA’s response to this contentious situation is obviously not congruent with its stated company policy.

Recently, Robinah said the alleged transaction was not received by Absa Bank Uganda and they had no trace of the alleged payment in the swift system.

She said “Mr. Gator and his lawyer were informed of the same in person, and by written communication. Gator was advised to pursue his complaint with his bankers whom he instructed to affect the transfer. Further still, we have not received a swift query from Mr. Gator’s bankers.”

“Despite our best efforts to support Gator get to the bottom of this issue, he visited our Head Office at Hannington Road on 11 January and reacted in an aggressive manner towards our staff, including the use of foul language and destruction of property at our premises. His behavior endangered the wellbeing of both our customers and staff, prompting the Bank to lodge a criminal complaint with police vide SD REF: 70/11/01/2023,” she said.

She added that Absa bank has been transparent, and ethical, and acted appropriately in all its dealings with the complainant. “The Bank is committed to safeguarding customer deposits and to continue being a reliable and trusted banking partner.”

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Brig. Ronnie Balya tipped to replace Gen. Muhwezi as Security Minister

Brig. Ronnie Balya

Uganda’s Ambassador to South Sudan and former Director General of Internal Security Organisation (ISO) Brig. Ronnie Balya is set to bounce back in security circles as Security Minister replacing Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi.

Sources within security revealed to Eagle Online that given his star performance at spy agency which he headed for close to ten years, Balya will be a resource to help the security docket given that there are pockets of internal issues that need young blood who is well versed with the latest technology.

Sources further revealed that Brig. Balya’s other factor that will see him return, is the issue of regional politics in the Rwenzori sub-region where it is claimed that the current leaders especially in Tooro are not on grand and hence making it hard for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party to mobilize.

Sources say that despite Tooro having three ministers and these are Victoria Rusoke, State Minister for Local Government, Margate Muhanga, State Minister for Health and Tourism Minister Tom Butime, the regional lacks a pillar as it used to be under Adolf Mwesige and Crispus Kiyonga.

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Easiest Way to Get from Entebbe International Airport, Uganda

Entebbe-International-Airport

Entebbe Airport is the gateway for travelers who come to and from Uganda by airplane. It departs and receives multiple flights to and from various parts of the World. It is also called EBB. The Airport is active 24 hours and operates daily scheduled flights.

The aviation facility was renovated and currently differentiates itself with new beautiful world-class architectural designs. If you left Uganda in 2020, you can’t believe the latest appearance of the Airport on your return. It is a differently decorated property.

Multiple travelers use EBB Airstrip daily. For incoming visitors, here is the easiest way to get from here to another location in Uganda. Don’t stress. Contact Entebbe Airport shuttle and confirm a taxicab booking in advance. It is cheap, safe and more convenient.

On arrival, you meet the driver ready to drive you safely to the next destination. The waiting area for arriving guests has too many people who wait for their visitors. Be sure to look around and see a poster that exhibits your name.

If possible, be in contact with the reservation agent via WhatsApp. In case you fail to locate the driver, it is easier to communicate with the agent such that he can notify the driver that you are around. The Airport has a free internet connection.

After the meeting, you will proceed with the journey to Kampala or any other place in the pearl of Africa. You make payment to the driver in cash. Moreover, Airport transfer in Entebbe includes both pick-up and drop-off.

On return for your departure flight, you can as well get in touch with the operator. The driver will fetch you from any location back to the Airstrip. Don’t forget to share the destination, date, and pick-up time.

Reserve enough time for the transfer, especially if you are coming from Kampala. This city experiences too much traffic in the morning and evening hours. The traveler must reach EBB two hours before the departure flight.

For those who aren’t sure of the pick-up time, please seek advice from the reservationist. He can choose the best period depending on your location.

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