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Bank of Uganda hails strong growth and stability amid global uncertainty

Uganda’s economy has continued to display strong resilience and stability despite a complex and evolving global environment marked by geopolitical tensions, commodity price swings, and tight financial conditions. The Bank of Uganda’s State of the Economy Report for September 2025 reveals that the country’s robust policy coordination and domestic demand have kept growth on track.

In its latest assessment, the central bank describes Uganda’s macroeconomic performance as remarkably stable, highlighting that the economy continues to demonstrate resilience and macroeconomic stability despite a complex and evolving global landscape.

While global growth has slowed, the report notes a moderate improvement in outlook with world output projected to grow by 3.0% in 2025 and 3.1% in 2026. The Bank attributes this to easing trade tensions and more stable financial markets. Still, it warns that persistent geopolitical tensions, trade policy uncertainty, and geo-economic fragmentation continue to pose a threat to the recovery.

The global economy, it adds, is shifting away from traditional globalization towards regionalization and protectionism, with increasing formation of trade blocs, rival technological systems, and fragmented financial networks.

Domestically, Uganda’s economy expanded by 6.3% in FY2024/25, up from 6.1% in the previous year, a performance driven largely by strong growth in agriculture (6.6%) and industry (7.0%). The Bank attributes this momentum to increased activity in livestock, fishing, construction, electricity generation, and manufacturing.

BoU noted that while the services sector moderated slightly to 5.4%, overall demand and investment remained strong, boosted by higher government spending and vibrant private sector activity. The report emphasizes that positive trends in the Purchasing Managers’ Index, Business Tendency Index, and consumer confidence indicators continue to signal economic resilience.

Looking ahead, growth is projected to remain firm between 6.0% and 6.5% in FY2025/26 supported by private sector investment, expansion in the extractive industries, and major infrastructure projects. Over the medium term, GDP growth is expected to average 8.0%, assuming continued macroeconomic stability and effective policy implementation.

On the inflation front, Uganda continues to enjoy stability. Inflation remained broadly stable over the twelve months to August 2025, with headline and core inflation averaging 3.5% and 4.0%, respectively.

The Bank attributes this to prudent monetary management, a steady exchange rate, and good food supply.

Inflation is expected to remain within the Bank’s target range, with core inflation projected between 4.5% and 4.8% during FY2025/26 before stabilizing at 5.0% in the medium term. The Bank, however, warns of potential risks from “exchange rate depreciation, commodity price volatility, and adverse weather patterns.”

To maintain this balance, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) held the Central Bank Rate (CBR) steady at 9.75% during its August 2025 meeting, a cautious stance aimed at anchoring inflation while supporting investment and growth. The rediscount and bank rates remain at 12.75% and 13.75%, respectively.

The report underscores that the current inflation trends, coupled with a steady policy rate, reflect a measured approach to balancing price stability and sustained economic growth. Over the past year, this strategy has helped protect the value of Ugandans’ incomes and savings while keeping exchange rate volatility in check.

BoU also reaffirmed its vigilance in the face of external risks including climate shocks, declining donor inflows, and unstable global financial conditions.

“To cushion Uganda against these shocks, the Bank will ensure that foreign exchange reserves remain adequate and liquidity in the financial system is sufficient to support macroeconomic stability,” the report notes.

The central bank adds that its monetary policy will remain moderately tight, flexible, and forward-looking to guard against inflation, maintain exchange rate stability, and respond swiftly to global shocks.

Looking to the future, the Bank says Uganda’s growth strategy rests on four priority sectors; Agro-industrialization, Tourism, Minerals (including oil and gas), and Science, Technology & Innovation (ATMS) which are expected to anchor industrialization, job creation and value addition.

By preserving price stability and investor confidence, the Bank believes it is laying the foundation for Uganda’s tenfold growth strategy, a long-term plan to transform the economy amid an uncertain global environment.

The report stresses that Uganda’s outlook remains favorable, but cautious.

“The economy is on a solid growth path, inflation is well-contained, and the monetary policy stance remains appropriate. However, both domestic and external risks continue to evolve, and the Bank remains ready to adjust policy as necessary to safeguard stability and support inclusive growth,” the Bank notes. 

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Rotary Foundation to host 5th Africa Peace Concert at Speke Resort Munyonyo featuring Jazz Star Isaiah Katumwa

The Rotary Foundation will host the 5th Edition of the Africa Peace Concert at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Friday, October 31, 2025, in a grand celebration of music, culture, and unity under the theme of peace.

The much-anticipated concert will feature Uganda’s legendary jazz maestro Isaiah Katumwa as the headline performer. The event aims to raise funds in support of the Rotary Peace Center at Makerere University, a hub for peacebuilding and conflict resolution across Africa.

“In the 5th edition, we unite under one purpose: peace. We are not just celebrating music and culture; we are supporting the Rotary Peace Center at Makerere University, a hub for peace building and conflict resolution in Africa,” the organizers said.

The concert, organized in support of the Africa Rotary Peace Fund, will bring together Rotarians, Rotaractors, and friends of Rotary from across the continent. Tickets go for $100, with part of the proceeds contributing directly to peace-building programs.

“Your presence helps raise funds for peace-building initiatives across the continent. Let’s unite in harmony, purpose, and music that heals,” the organizers added.

The evening will blend elegance and African heritage, with the dress code calling for white with a touch of vibrant African fabric. Organizers say the attire symbolizes purity, unity, and diversity values that define Rotary’s peace agenda.

“A perfect blend of peace and culture. Dress to impress, showcase your identity, and let’s make this celebration unforgettable,” noted the event committee.

Since its inception in 2020, the Africa Peace Concert has raised over Shs1.68 million, funding key initiatives such as education, refugee reintegration, women and youth empowerment, food security, and peace journalism.

Isaiah Katumwa, known for his soulful jazz compositions expressed his joy at headlining the concert.

“Let’s make peace the loudest melody in Africa. The rhythm of peace is calling let’s answer it together,” Katumwa said.

The event is organized by The Rotary Foundation in partnership with Fireworks Advertising, NBS Television and AfroMobile.

Tickets and registration are available at africapeaceconcert.org.

“A white dove represents peace,” the organizers reminded. 

The organizers added, “Let’s get our whites with an African touch, ready, the Africa Peace Concert is around the corner. Come celebrate, connect, and make a difference.”

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Gen Sejusa exposes Speaker Among, Tayebwa over claimed unopposed seats amid alleged opponent abductions

Speaker Anita Among and her deputy, Thomas Tayebwa.

Former intelligence chief General David Sejusa has accused the National Resistance Movement (NRM) of undermining democracy after opposition candidates challenging Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa were prevented from nominations.

Sejusa described the unfolding events as a shameful assault on democracy and warned that Uganda’s political system is sliding into a culture of fear, manipulation and intimidation.

Speaker Among and Tayebwa, two of Parliament’s most powerful figures, are now set to return unopposed, an outcome that, according to Sejusa, exposes the moral decay within the ruling establishment.

In Ruhinda North County, Mitooma District, NUP candidate Osbert Kato revealed that Electoral Commission (EC) officials deliberately obstructed his nomination.

“I arrived early with all my forms and supporters,” Kato said.

He added, “After submitting my documents, they told me to step outside. Later, they returned my papers, saying they needed NINs for everyone, and then they started checking each one until lunch. By the time they resumed, the nomination window had closed.”

Tayebwa, meanwhile was confirmed unopposed earlier that same morning; a timing that has sparked suspicions of political interference at the EC’s local office.,

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Gen. Sejusa expressed outrage and called the situation disgraceful and questioning the logic of unopposed victories.

“And my brother Richard finds this funny? These UPC games are stupid and a shame. Why would a politician want to pass unopposed in the first place? Absolute bonkers!” he wrote.

Sejusa argued that true leaders must earn their mandate through open competition and public scrutiny not through exclusion or manipulation.

“If President Museveni, at his age, still campaigns across the country to defend his mandate, why would younger politicians fear facing voters?” he asked.

He urged the NRM to clean its house and restore internal democratic discipline.

The controversy follows a similar incident in Bukedea, where Among’s main challenger, NUP’s Asio Florence reportedly disappeared on her way to nomination. Across several districts, opposition candidates were allegedly removed from voter registers or denied access to nomination centers.

EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi urged aggrieved aspirants to file formal complaints, maintaining the commission’s commitment to transparency.

But criticism continues to mount as top NRM figures repeatedly secure unopposed wins ahead of major elections. Both Among and Tayebwa, former FDC members who joined the ruling party, now symbolize the NRM’s tight control of parliamentary power.

Sejusa further said that a democracy that fears competition is already dying and Uganda deserves leaders brave enough to face their people but not hide behind manipulation and fear.

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EC sets dates for fresh nominations in areas where candidates have died

EC Chairman, Justice Simon Byabakama.

The Electoral Commission (EC) has set Monday, October 27, and Tuesday, October 28, 2025, as dates for conducting fresh nominations in electoral areas across the country where nominated candidates have died.

In a statement signed by EC Chairperson Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Commission said the exercise is being conducted in accordance with Section 26 of the Parliamentary Elections Act, Cap 177. The law mandates the EC to organize fresh nominations in the event of a candidate’s death before polling.

Justice Byabakama explained that candidates who were previously nominated for the same positions will not be required to undergo the process again, provided they are contesting in the same electoral area and position.

“Please note that the candidates who were previously duly nominated to contest in the affected elective positions at the respective Local Government Councils shall not be required to undergo nomination again,” the statement reads in part.

The Commission urged aspiring candidates to pick up nomination forms and guidelines for the respective positions from District Electoral Commission offices or download them from the EC website at www.ec.or.ug

Justice Byabakama reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to conducting free, fair and transparent elections, noting that the fresh nominations are aimed at ensuring that all elective positions are duly contested in accordance with the law.

The announcement follows the unfortunate passing of some nominated candidates in different parts of the country ahead of the 2026 general elections. 

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Speke Resort Munyonyo unveils 2025 festive season extravaganza by the lakeside

Speke Resort Munyonyo.

As the year draws to a close Speke Resort Munyonyo has unveiled its much-anticipated 2025 Festive Season Programme, a grand blend of indulgence, entertainment and family fun designed to help guests bid farewell to 2025 in spectacular style.

Running from December 19, 2025, to January 4, 2026, the “Ultimate Year-End Escape” promises a season of opulence and relaxation along the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria. Guests can expect a packed calendar of events from lavish buffets and live bands to kids’ carnivals, movie nights, and soothing spa experiences all tailored to create unforgettable holiday memories for families, couples, and friends.

Festive room rates start at USD 139 per night between December 19–23 and December 26–30, as well as January 1–4, 2026. Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Eve rates are USD 176 per night, offering guests a luxurious blend of accommodation, fine dining, and entertainment that make the resort one of East Africa’s most sought-after holiday destinations.

On Christmas Day, guests will enjoy a dazzling line-up that blends cultural charm with modern luxury. The day begins with Pamper the Pony sessions for children, followed by the resort’s signature Around the World Christmas Lunch Buffet, featuring global cuisines accompanied by a live band and DJ. Families can also enjoy kids’ movie nights, petting zoo visits, and a magical evening of Christmas cocktails and dinner under the stars; a celebration that perfectly captures the warmth and wonder of the season.

The celebrations continue on Boxing Day with a Bubbly Brunch, live music, and serene lakeside moments. Guests can stroll along the waterfront, unwind at the spa, or enjoy rhythmic performances by live bands. Meanwhile, the Kids’ Carnival and Petting Zoo promise laughter, learning, and plenty of festive fun making it a true family day by the water.

As New Year’s Eve approaches, Speke Resort Munyonyo pulls out all the stops. The resort transforms into a carnival of color and sound, featuring a Cirque Ballet Dinner, live DJ sessions, and thrilling fire-dance performances. At midnight, the skies above Lake Victoria erupt in a breathtaking fireworks display, marking the start of a joyful and hopeful 2026. Guests then welcome the dawn with a sumptuous New Year’s brunch and refreshing morning cocktails by the lakeside.

New Year’s Day brings a gentle beginning to the year, with guests invited to toast new beginnings at the Bloody Beach Brunch, enjoy live acoustic performances, or relax by the pool. A rich buffet at the Sea Breeze Restaurant stretches the day into a sunlit celebration, setting a refreshing tone for the year ahead.

Beyond its festive sparkle, Speke Resort Munyonyo continues to set the benchmark for luxury hospitality in Uganda. With lush gardens, an equestrian center, a world-class spa, and sweeping lake views, the resort offers an experience that harmoniously blends tranquility with sophistication. The 2025 Festive Programme reinforces that legacy, a season designed to be lived, loved, and remembered. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or a grand New Year countdown, Speke Resort Munyonyo ensures every guest finds their own reason to celebrate.

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Netherlands, Uganda reach agreement to host rejected migrants in transit

Dutch Migration and Foreign Affairs Minister David van Weel and his Ugandan counterpart, Jeje Odongo.

The Netherlands and Uganda have reached an agreement to cooperate on managing rejected asylum seekers through a new transit arrangement, the Dutch government announced on Thursday.

The pact was formalized through a Letter of Intent signed in New York by Dutch Minister for Migration and Foreign Affairs David van Weel and Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister Jeje Odongo on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to the Dutch government, the arrangement will apply to individuals from countries neighboring Uganda who have been denied asylum in the Netherlands but cannot be repatriated directly or voluntarily within a reasonable period. These individuals will be temporarily hosted in Uganda before being returned to their respective home countries.

“We are taking this step with Uganda to get migration under control,” Minister Van Weel said.

He added, “Obviously, the human rights of people who return to their country of origin via Uganda will be safeguarded.”

The two countries are now expected to refine the letter of intent into a pilot transit hub that will initially handle a small number of rejected asylum seekers. However, the statement did not specify when the pilot phase will begin.

Van Weel added that the Netherlands will consult closely with the European Union and international agencies such as the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) to ensure the program aligns with international standards.

Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has yet to issue an official comment on the development.

The initiative reflects European efforts to manage migration beyond EU borders. Earlier this year, the European Commission proposed allowing member states to establish migrant centers in non-EU countries for rejected asylum applicants.

Still, the legal and political implications remain uncertain. A similar arrangement between the United Kingdom and Rwanda was eventually scrapped after legal challenges and policy changes under the new Labour government.

Migration remains a heated topic in Dutch politics, with the issue contributing to the collapse of the caretaker government in June over disagreements on asylum policies.

According to official data, the Netherlands registered 32,175 asylum seekers in 2024, marking a 16% decline compared to 2023, a trend the Dutch government hopes to reinforce through new international cooperation agreements, such as the one with Uganda.

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State of the Economy Report: Gov’t fully repaid Shs1.8t debt to BoU in June 2025

The Government of Uganda has fully repaid Shs1.8 trillion in outstanding borrowing from the Bank of Uganda (BoU) as of the end of June 2025, the central bank revealed in its September 2025 State of the Economy report.

“This obligation arose from unreimbursed redemptions of matured government securities and was settled in accordance with the service level agreement, which mandates repayment within 60 days after the end of the fiscal year,” the report stated.

The timely repayment has helped absorb excess liquidity in the financial system, supporting the effective implementation of monetary policy.

“This demonstrates continued commitment to prudent fiscal management amid tightening financing conditions,” the BoU noted, emphasizing the role of strong coordination between fiscal and monetary policies in maintaining macroeconomic stability.

While public debt in Uganda remains sustainable, the central bank cautioned about emerging vulnerabilities. External debt growth rose moderately by 6.4% in July 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. The report also highlighted a gradual increase in domestic borrowing.

“The stock of public debt continued to expand moderately, driven largely by domestic borrowing,” the BoU said.

Nominal public debt as a share of GDP edged up to 51.3% in June 2025 from 46.9% a year earlier, while the present value of debt-to-GDP rose from 39.9% to 45.0%, remaining within sustainable thresholds.

The cost of debt has also increased modestly. Interest payments rose to 4.4% of GDP in FY2024/25 from 3.5% in FY 2023/24, reflecting the growing share of higher-cost domestic financing in the overall debt portfolio.

“This trend underscores the importance of continuously monitoring debt dynamics to safeguard fiscal sustainability while supporting economic growth,” the report showed.

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Health Ministry, WHO hand over diagnostic equipment to 40 health facilities to fight Hypertension and Diabetes

Officials at the Ministry of Health receiving the consignment.

The Ministry of Health, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda, has handed over diagnostic equipment to 40 health facilities in Sembabule, Kabale, Koboko, and Lira City.

The initiative aims to strengthen the country’s response to the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially hypertension and diabetes, which have doubled over the past five years. The equipment will enhance the capacity of local health centers to conduct timely screening, diagnosis, and management of NCDs.

The intervention also seeks to integrate NCD screening into existing healthcare services, including HIV, tuberculosis, and malnutrition programs, ensuring a holistic approach to community health.

“These districts were selected because of their high disease burden; however, that should not be the only criteria,” said Dr. Olaro Charles, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health.

He added, “We should not wait for a district to experience a high burden before providing such support. Access to these tools should be part of our standard health system operations to strengthen prevention and early detection across all areas.”

Dr. Olaro emphasized that the fight against NCDs goes beyond the provision of equipment.

“This equipment should also be accompanied by messaging that emphasizes prevention, as our goal is to make it part of primary prevention for early screening and ensure we have all that is needed to achieve this,” he added.

Speaking during the handover, Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Uganda Country Representative, reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s efforts in combating NCDs.

“We know that the handover of equipment is one thing, but equipment alone is not enough,” Dr. Mwinga said.

Mwinga added, “It must be supported by other elements, such as robust health systems and skilled personnel. The World Health Organization remains committed to working with the Government of Uganda to strengthen non-communicable disease surveillance.”

The Ministry of Health noted that integrating preventive care into Uganda’s health system remains a top priority, with the ultimate goal of reducing the long-term economic and social burden of non-communicable diseases.

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Over 400 Police officers complete counter-terrorism and combat riders course in Katakwi

Officers at the Basic Counter-Terrorism Induction and Combat Riders Course Intake 01/2025, after four months of intensive training at the Police Training School in Ollilim, Katakwi

A total of 459 police officers have successfully completed the Basic Counter-Terrorism Induction and Combat Riders Course Intake 01/2025 after four months of intensive training at the Police Training School in Ollilim, Katakwi District.

The pass-out ceremony, held today was presided over by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba. The specialized course was designed to enhance the officers’ operational readiness and equip them with the tactical and technical skills necessary to effectively combat terrorism and related security threats.

In his address, IGP Byakagaba commended the officers for their resilience and dedication throughout the training period, noting that counter-terrorism efforts demand continuous learning and collaboration.

“We must recognize that our roles are critical not only to the security of our country but also to the stability of the entire region,” said Byakagaba. 

“This is not a choice, but a responsibility we must all embrace,”he added. 

He further emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and professional integrity in maintaining national security, saying that the Uganda Police Force remains committed to building a competent and highly skilled force.

“National security requires ongoing training, unwavering commitment, and a deep passion for the work we do,” the IGP noted. 

He added,“Discipline and teamwork remain the foundation of effective policing.”

The event was graced by several senior officers, including AIGP Moses Kafeero, Director of Human Resource Development; AIGP Wasswa David Ssengendo, Director of Counter-Terrorism; and AIGP James Apora, Director of Logistics and Engineering, among others.

The newly trained officers are expected to be deployed in various specialized units to strengthen Uganda’s counter-terrorism operations and enhance rapid response capabilities across the country.

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Housing Finance Bank and C-care host health camp to improve wellness in Katanga area

As part of the ongoing Customer Service Month, Housing Finance Bank has held a community health camp in partnership with C-Care at St. Peter’s Church of Uganda, Katanga, in Wandegeya. The event aimed to bring essential health services closer to the community by providing convenient access to medical check-ups, preventive screenings, and wellness advice within a familiar and easily accessible location.

The health camp drew over 500 participants, providing a comprehensive suite of medical services designed to promote preventive healthcare and wellness. Attendees received free screening and testing for common illnesses, including STIs, hepatitis B screening and Vaccination, Malaria, HIV, polio, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

In alignment with the global observance of World Polio Day on October 24, the camp also provided Polio vaccinations to support ongoing eradication efforts. Beyond diagnostics, participants benefited from personalized consultations and counseling services, where qualified medical professionals offered expert guidance on nutrition, physical fitness, and healthy lifestyle practices, reinforcing the importance of proactive health management

The event underscored the importance of accessible healthcare and preventive services, especially in underserved communities like Katanga. Through one-on-one interactions, medical staff addressed individual health concerns and emphasized simple yet effective lifestyle changes that can significantly improve overall well-being. The camp served as a platform for education and awareness, reinforcing that health is a critical pillar of both personal and community development.

Peace Ayebazibwe, the Executive Director at Housing Finance Bank, highlighted the significance of the initiative: “At Housing Finance Bank, we see our role as extending beyond financial services. By holding this health camp, we are celebrating our customers while contributing to the well-being of the communities we serve. This initiative reflects our commitment to fostering sustainability for all and aligns with the Global Sustainable Development Goal 3, which emphasizes good health and well-being as a foundation for progress. Healthy communities are empowered communities, and we are proud to support our customers in living fuller, healthier lives.”

At C-Care Foundation, we emphasize the importance of health education and encourage community members to take charge of their health and participate in medical outreach programs. Together with partners like Housing Finance Bank, we are making vital healthcare accessible to those who need it most.” Said Prudence Asobola, the Manager at C-Care Uganda. The collaboration highlights Housing Finance Bank’s commitment to holistic customer care, recognizing that financial security and personal well-being are interconnected. By providing access to quality healthcare and wellness guidance, the Bank is celebrating its customers while promoting sustainable, long-term community development and contributing to national and global health priorities.

About Housing Finance Bank Ltd

Housing Finance Bank is one of the 10 largest banks in Uganda with a purpose to finance a sustainable future for all through offering convenient, affordable, and relevant solutions for 58 years.

First incorporated as a private limited company in 1967 as Housing Finance Company Uganda Limited, carrying out business as a non-banking credit institution providing mortgage finance and accepting savings deposits from the public, the bank became licensed and regulated by Bank of Uganda as a Commercial Bank in 2007, to carry on the business of banking under the Financial Institutions Act and changed into a public limited liability company known as Housing Finance Bank Limited. Housing Finance Bank’s vision is to be the preferred business and consumer bank with a focus on Housing finance.

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