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NUP’s Waiswa Mufumbiro nominated for Nakawa East MP seat despite being on remand

By
Our Reporter
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NUP Principal Robert Kyagulanyi with Waiswa Kyagulanyi.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro has been officially nominated to contest for the Nakawa East Parliamentary seat in the forthcoming 2026 General Election despite currently being held on remand at Luzira Prison.

Mufumbiro’s nomination papers were duly submitted to the Electoral Commission by his wife, acting on his behalf and Kampala Lord Mayor aspirant Ronald Balimwezo.

Mufumbiro has been in detention since early October after being charged with multiple offences, including incitement to commit an offence and conspiracy to commit a felony. According to the charge sheet issued by the Uganda Police and signed on October 21, 2025, Mufumbiro allegedly incited NUP supporters to commit an offence against security personnel.

“Waiswa Alex Mufumbiro on the 4th day of September, 2025, within Kampala City, incited National Unity Platform supporters to commit an offence against Uganda security personnel to wit murder,” reads part of the charge sheet signed by a magistrate and the officer preferring the charge.

The charge falls under Section 21(1) of the Penal Code Act, Cap 128, which addresses incitement to commit an offence.

Besides the incitement charge, Mufumbiro is also facing allegations of illegal drilling and conspiracy to commit a felony, charges he has since denied. His legal team has described the accusations as politically motivated, arguing that they are intended to frustrate his parliamentary bid.

NUP officials have praised his resilience, saying his nomination symbolizes “a fight for democracy under difficult circumstances.”

“Even from prison, Waiswa continues to inspire many who believe in freedom, justice, and accountability. His nomination is a victory for the people of Nakawa East,” one NUP member told reporters.

Mufumbiro, a lawyer by profession and a prominent voice within NUP, has been a key figure in mobilizing urban youth and defending party leaders in legal and political battles.

His supporters in Nakawa East have vowed to continue campaigning in his absence, insisting that his detention will not deter their movement.

“This is a clear message that no amount of intimidation will stop the will of the people,” said Balimwezo after submitting the nomination papers.

The Electoral Commission confirmed receiving and approving Mufumbiro’s nomination, paving the way for his inclusion on the 2026 ballot.

Mufumbiro remains on remand at Luzira Prison as his legal team prepares for the next court appearance scheduled later this month.

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Museveni mourns 46 victims of Kampala–Gulu Highway crash, gives shs5m to each bereaved family

By
Simon Kabayo
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President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic road accident along the Kampala–Gulu Highway that claimed 46 lives and has directed that Shs5 million be given to each bereaved family and Shs1 million to every injured survivor.

In a condolence message issued Wednesday afternoon, the President described the incident as a tragedy and extended sympathy to all affected families.

“I have learnt with sadness about the tragic accident that occurred this morning along the Kampala–Gulu highway, claiming many lives. I extend my condolences to the bereaved families and wish the injured a quick recovery,” President Museveni said.

He noted that the directive to support the victims will be implemented through the Office of the State House Comptroller.

“I have directed the State House Comptroller to give Shs5 million to each bereaved family and Shs1 million to the injured,” he added, urging all motorists and road users to take extra caution. “I urge all road users to exercise utmost caution to prevent such tragedies. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.”

Earlier in the day, police had initially reported 63 fatalities from the horrific crash at Kitaleeba Village along the Kampala–Gulu Highway, before revising the number downward after hospital verification.

In an official statement dated October 22, 2025, the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety confirmed that the total number of fatalities stands at 46.

“We confirm that the total number of fatalities resulting from the tragic fatal crash along the Kampala–Gulu Highway at Kitaleeba Village stands at 46, according to the latest update from the hospital,” said SP Michael Kanaunura, PRO Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety.

Police explained that some of the victims initially counted among the dead were later found alive but unconscious.

“At the time of the crash, several victims were found unconscious, and some may have been mistakenly included in the initial fatality count. We are working in close coordination with health and emergency services to ensure accurate and timely updates as the situation develops,” the statement added.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the accident which reportedly involved a passenger bus and a trailer. Rescue and medical teams have since evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals.

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63 people confirmed dead in Kampala–Gulu Highway accident at Kitaleeba

By
Our Reporter
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At least 63 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured in a grisly road accident that occurred early Wednesday morning along the Kampala–Gulu Highway.

According to a statement issued by the Uganda Police Force, the crash happened at about 12:15 am at Kitaleeba Village near Asili Farm in Kiryandongo District. The accident involved four vehicles: two Isuzu buses, a Tata lorry, and a Toyota Surf.

“The fatal crash involved four motor vehicles: UBF 614X Isuzu bus (Nile Star Coaches), CGO 5132AB Toyota Surf, UBK 647C Tata Lorry, and UAM 045V Isuzu bus (Planet Company),” police said in the statement signed by SP Kananura Michael, the Traffic Police spokesperson.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver of the Nile Star bus (UBF 614X), which was traveling from Kampala to Gulu, attempted to overtake a lorry at the same time another bus (UAM 045V) from the opposite direction was overtaking a Toyota Surf.

“Both buses met head-on during the overtaking manoeuvres. One of the drivers swerved in an attempt to avoid a collision, but this resulted in a head-on and side collision, causing a chain reaction that led to other vehicles losing control and overturning several times,” the police explained.

All occupants in the involved vehicles died on the spot, while several others sustained injuries and were rushed to Kiryandongo Hospital and nearby medical facilities. 

“The bodies of the deceased were conveyed to the same hospital mortuary for post-mortem and identification,” the statement added.

Police have attributed the accident to dangerous overtaking, which remains one of the leading causes of road crashes in Uganda.

“We strongly urge all motorists to exercise maximum caution on the roads, especially avoiding dangerous and careless overtaking,” SP Kananura advised.

The Police extended their condolences to the bereaved families and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. 

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wish a quick recovery to the injured,” the statement read.

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Mitchell Hall students summon Makerere University over silence on homosexuality activities

By
Simon Kabayo
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Mitchell Hall of Residence at Makerere University.

Students from Makerere University’s Mitchell Hall have petitioned the university administration, demanding a clear stand on homosexuality and accountability over an incident involving police conduct at the hall.

In a letter dated October 20, 2023, addressed to the Vice Chancellor and copied to the Minister of Education and Sports, the Inspector General of Police, and other relevant officials, the students stated that the university’s silence on the issue had created uncertainty among residents.

“We are concerned resident students of Mitchell Hall seeking urgent clarification on Makerere University’s official position regarding homosexuality,” the letter reads in part.

The letter adds, “It is evident that homosexuality is a sensitive matter that requires a clear and unambiguous stance to either allow or disallow its practice.”

The students said they highly condemn any attempts to allow homosexuality in any way, adding that they believe in God’s plan of man-to-woman only type of relationship.

They also expressed concern over what they described as “unprofessional conduct” by police officers during a recent incident at the hall, in which students allegedly identified and confronted a suspect who confessed to being gay.

“We have proof and bear witness to the uncalled-for behavior of the police where live bullets were fired at unarmed students,” the statement reads. “Such actions not only endanger lives but also undermine public trust in law enforcement and the university’s ability to provide a safe space for expression.”

The residents demanded accountability, calling for disciplinary action against the officers involved and investigations into the incident.

“How safe and secure can we be yet the suspects we’ve identified using our follow-up measures are being released by police even with no official statement back into the population?” the students asked.

They further urged the university to establish “immediate measures” to guarantee student safety in halls of residence and requested a written response within two working days.

“We as Mitchell Hall stand to champion against this vice. We request your immediate response within a maximum of two working days effective immediately,” students added.

By press time, Makerere University had not yet issued an official response to the concerns raised by the students.

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Speaker Among launches Digital Learning Centre in Bukedea, urges schools to embrace technology

By
Our Reporter
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Speaker Anitah Among.

Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among has commissioned a digital learning facility at Kachumbala Primary School in Bukedea District, urging communities and schools to embrace technology as a key driver of education in the digital era.

The facility was established by Nkumba University under the Digitally Community-Centred Early Childhood Development Approach (DECEDA) with support from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and the Ministries of Education and Sports, including the ICT Ministry.

According to Among, the initiative seeks to bridge the learning gap between rural and urban schools by promoting inclusive and technology-driven education.

“This digital classroom, established by Nkumba University as part of the Digitally Community-Centred Early Childhood Development Approach (DECEDA), was made possible with support from UCC and the Ministries of Education and Sports, as well as ICT. This transformative initiative aims to promote inclusive and technology-driven early childhood education in underserved communities,” she said.

The Speaker encouraged learners to make full use of the digital classroom for research and academic enrichment, noting that technology has become an indispensable tool in modern education.

“I encouraged learners to take full advantage of the digital classroom for research purposes, enhancing their access to quality education and bridging the learning gap with more privileged schools,” she stated.

She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting digital transformation across all sectors, saying Uganda’s learners must be prepared for the realities of a technology-driven future.

“As a government, we will continue to promote the digital era across all sectors, including education, health, and business,” she said.

She added, “Our learners are no longer in the analogue age we once experienced; they are now in a digital world and should fully utilise technology for quality learning.”

She further requested the Uganda Communications Commission to provide additional computers to Kachumbala Primary School to enhance the facility’s capacity and support the project’s long-term goals.

“I requested that UCC provide additional computers to the school to complement the digital classroom and help achieve the project’s objectives,” Among noted.

The Speaker also lauded UCC for its continued efforts to promote ICT in education and called for the expansion of similar projects across the country.

“I want to express my gratitude to UCC for implementing government programs aimed at promoting ICT. Please continue these efforts to digitise schools throughout Uganda, ensuring our learners have access to quality education,” she said.

Among also commended teachers for resuming work after a recent strike and assured them that the government remains committed to addressing their concerns.

“I applauded the teachers for responding positively to our plea to end their strike and assured them that the government is committed to addressing their grievances comprehensively and promptly,” she said.

The digital learning facility is expected to benefit hundreds of learners in Bukedea District and serve as a model for integrating ICT in early education across rural Uganda.

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URA shifted key offices to Pearl Tower One to enhance efficiency and offer free tax advisory services

By
Our Reporter
-

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has moved several key departments to the newly opened RR Pearl Tower on Yusuf Lule Road in Kampala, in a bid to improve efficiency, enhance taxpayer services, and bring operations closer to clients in the city center.

According to Robert Kalumba, the URA Assistant Commissioner of Public and Corporate Affairs, the relocation is part of the Authority’s strategy to expand its service delivery capacity and accommodate its growing workforce.

“URA has grown to serve you better and faster,” Kalumba said.

He added, “This expansion responds to the growth of companies in sectors like oil and petroleum, which need specialized attention.”

The new offices at Pearl Tower will house major departments, including the Large Taxpayers Office (LTO), the Public Sector and Medium Taxpayer Divisions and other specialized units such as Risk and Strategy and the Petroleum Division which will move in later phases.

Kalumba explained that the transition would be gradual to ensure uninterrupted services.

“First to move are the Large Taxpayer Offices, the Public Sector, and the Medium Taxpayer Division. Later, the Risk and Strategy Department and the Petroleum Division will follow,” he said.

He added that the new facility will host a Taxpayer Support Centre offering free advisory tax services, including guidance on filing tax returns and self-customs clearance.

“Our new offices at Pearl Tower will also house a Taxpayer Support Centre which will offer free advisory tax services such as filing tax returns and self-customs clearance. I urge taxpayers to take advantage of these services,” Kalumba said.

The expansion follows URA’s recent recruitment of over 1,000 new staff, mostly in the customs department, bringing its total workforce to more than 3,000 employees—up from about 2,000 five years ago. The URA Tower in Nakawa currently accommodates about 1,700 employees, leaving the rest to be housed at the new facility.

Kalumba dismissed social media reports claiming URA is paying Shs 18 billion annually in rent for the new offices, describing them as “false and misleading.”

“One of the biggest problems we face is fake news—and this is a prime example,” he said.

He further emphasized that the procurement of the new office space was transparent and followed the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets (PPDA) Act.

“The contract was awarded to the lowest bidder, following all PPDA rules and regulations,” he clarified.

Kalumba noted that by relocating some departments to the city center, URA aims to provide faster, more efficient, and client-centered services to taxpayers, in line with its ongoing digital transformation and modernization agenda.

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Uganda’s coffee prices hold steady despite global market surges

By
Francisco Adongo
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Uganda’s coffee sector has shown optimistic performance as global Arabica prices surged while the country’s premium Bugisu AA grade held steady. This is according to the latest Daily Coffee Market Analysis Report issued by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).

The report, released on Monday, October 20, showed that New York Arabica futures—a key global benchmark—registered significant gains due to tightening supplies and weather-related risks in major producing countries. However, local export and farm-gate prices for Uganda’s high-value Arabica remained largely stable, a sign of resilience and strong quality-based pricing structures within the domestic market.

The analysis attributed the international price rally to shrinking coffee inventories and unfavorable weather in Brazil, the world’s largest Arabica producer. The December 2025 Arabica futures contract closed at 397.45 US cents per pound, supported by certified coffee stocks on the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE) falling to a 19-month low. The decline signals sustained demand from global roasters and limited supply on hand. Continued dry conditions across Brazil’s coffee belt have heightened concerns about future yields, adding further upward pressure on prices.

Despite the volatility abroad, Uganda’s top-grade Bugisu AA Arabica—grown on the slopes of Mt. Elgon maintained a firm price. The report placed the indicative export price for Bugisu AA at 392.45 US cents per pound, equivalent to Shs30,152 per kilogram. This consistency reflects a resilient market driven by long-term contracts, traceable supply chains, and a stable premium based on quality rather than speculation.

According to the ministry’s analysis, certified Bugisu AA farmers continue to attract reliable demand from specialty coffee buyers who value Uganda’s traceable, high-altitude beans for their distinct flavor profile. “Uganda’s Arabica market is demonstrating structural stability,” the report noted. “Local prices are underpinned by quality consistency rather than short-term global fluctuations.”

While Arabica gained globally, Robusta coffee prices recorded declines, muting overall market enthusiasm. The London Robusta futures for November dropped by $62 to close at $4,552 per tonne, reflecting different supply dynamics in the lower-grade bean market and pressure from Southeast Asian exports.

Meanwhile, the Ugandan shilling’s exchange rate, reported at $1 = Shs3,835, provided some support for exporters. The stronger dollar earnings translated into higher returns in local currency, helping maintain profitable margins for farmers and exporters even as Robusta prices softened.

The ministry concluded that while global coffee markets remain vulnerable to weather shocks and speculative swings, Uganda’s focus on quality control, traceability, and farmer training continues to safeguard its position in the premium Arabica segment. By maintaining these standards, the country’s producers are able to command stable prices and weather international volatility.

“By maintaining strict quality standards, Uganda has secured a reliable premium for its high-value Arabica,” the report stated. “This strategy ensures profitability for farmers even when global markets fluctuate.”

Uganda’s coffee industry, anchored by the Bugisu AA brand, is proving that stability built on quality can be just as valuable as a price rally and far more sustainable in the long run.

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Gov’t to receive Shs6.948t World Bank funding, Ggoobi confirms

By
Simon Kabayo
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Mr Ramathan Ggoobi, the PSST, and Attorney General, Kiryowa Kiwanuka, addressing the media.

Uganda is set to receive over $2 billion (approximately Shs6.948 trillion) in concessional financing from the World Bank over the next three financial years to support the country’s development agenda, according to the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury, Ramathan Ggoobi.

Ggoobi made the announcement following the 2025 IMF–World Bank Annual Meetings held in Washington, D.C., where Uganda reaffirmed its partnership with international financial institutions in driving sustainable economic growth.

“For Uganda, I’m glad to announce that concessional financing is back. In the next three financial years, the World Bank will disburse over $2 billion to Uganda to finance our development. The current total investment is $4.9 billion,” Ggoobi said in his statement.

He revealed that the funds will be channeled into key priority sectors including roads and bridges, electricity transmission, last-mile connections, regional city infrastructure, IT roads, agriculture, tourism, trade export guarantee schemes, and skills development.

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private-sector arm of the World Bank Group, will also inject what Ggoobi termed as patient capital into Uganda’s private sector.

“The IFC will provide patient capital to private sector investors in minerals, renewable energy, and special industrial parks,” he noted, highlighting the growing focus on productive investments that generate jobs and industrial value.

Ggoobi further revealed that Uganda is in discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a new Extended Credit Facility (ECF) program that will commence after the 2026 elections. The program is expected to support fiscal and structural reforms aimed at strengthening the economy.

“Key reforms we are targeting include increasing domestic revenue and import substitution, reducing the budget deficit, and balancing payments,” he explained.

On a broader global note, Ggoobi praised the World Bank’s new leadership under Ajay Banga, saying it has made the Bank start appreciating that development is not just about doing projects but about unlocking the power of the private sector to create jobs.

He also commended the IMF’s recognition of the private sector’s role in global economic resilience, noting that AI-driven productivity and innovation in countries like the U.S., Singapore, and Denmark continue to set the pace for growth.

The Treasury boss reaffirmed that Uganda’s economy remains stable and resilient, a view shared by the Bretton Woods institutions.

“The Fund and the Bank are impressed with our reforms and the resilience of the economy in Africa and by extension, the world. Our macroeconomy is stable,” he said.

Ggoobi noted that both the IMF and World Bank had pledged to continue supporting Uganda’s oil and gas sector, especially in infrastructure and technology development, to ensure macroeconomic stability and prosperity.

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Rotary District 9213 Governor Kitakule launches nationwide financial literacy drive

By
Francisco Adongo
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Governor Kitakula at the Rotary Club of Bulindo.

The Rotary District Governor, Geoffrey Kitakule of District 9213, in partnership with the Rotary Club of Bulindo, President Paul Percy Lubega, has launched a nationwide financial literacy campaign aimed at empowering Ugandans with the knowledge and skills to make informed financial decisions and achieve long-term economic stability.

The campaign, rolled out in partnership with the Uganda Financial Literacy Association (UFLA), was officially launched on October 17, 2025, at an event that brought together Rotarians, financial sector stakeholders, and youth representatives from across the country. It forms part of Rotary’s Unite4Good9213 initiative, which seeks to advance community transformation through education, health, and economic empowerment.

According to organizers, the Financial Literacy (FINLIT) Program will reach individuals, households, schools and community groups across Uganda through a series of practical trainings, mentorship sessions, and community engagements. The campaign focuses on promoting a savings culture, responsible borrowing, investment awareness and proper money management practices that can help reduce financial vulnerability.

District Governor Geoffrey Kitakule underscored the broader vision of the program, noting that financial literacy is essential to personal freedom and national development.

“The FINLIT Program goes beyond just money. It focuses on empowerment, giving every Ugandan the tools to plan, save, invest, and build resilience. When people understand money, they gain freedom and responsibility,” Kitakule said.

He added that the program would work closely with Rotary Clubs across the country to ensure its message reaches rural and urban communities alike. “Our goal is to make financial literacy a household conversation. We want to see parents teaching children about saving, youth learning how to manage income, and small business owners understanding how to reinvest wisely,” he explained.

Rotary Club of Bulindo President Paul Percy Lubega hailed the collaboration with UFLA as a step toward building a more financially inclusive society. He noted that while Uganda has made progress in financial access, the gap in financial understanding remains a barrier to true economic empowerment.

“Many Ugandans now have access to bank accounts, SACCOs, and mobile money, but few have the financial discipline and knowledge to use these tools effectively. This campaign will help bridge that gap by providing practical education and mentorship that encourages saving, investing, and responsible spending,” Lubega said.

Representatives from the Uganda Financial Literacy Association welcomed the partnership, emphasizing that the initiative complements national efforts to improve financial capability and support Uganda’s Vision 2040 agenda. They noted that by collaborating with Rotary—a trusted grassroots network—the FINLIT Program will benefit from wider community outreach and sustainability.

The campaign will be implemented in phases, beginning with pilot sessions in central Uganda before expanding to other regions. Training materials will be tailored to different audiences, including youth, women, entrepreneurs, and rural households, ensuring that participants gain relevant and practical skills.

Rotary officials also revealed plans to integrate the financial literacy campaign into existing Rotary programs such as youth mentorship clubs, community service projects, and vocational training initiatives. Through this approach, Rotary hopes to instill lasting habits that promote financial independence and economic resilience.

District Governor Kitakule reaffirming Rotary’s commitment to service through action. “When we empower people with knowledge, we give them the power to change their lives and their communities. This is the spirit of Rotary to serve above self and create hope in the world,” he said.

The launch attracted representatives from Rotary International, financial institutions, civil society, and government agencies, all of whom pledged to support efforts that foster financial literacy and responsible economic participation across Uganda.

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Gov’t to borrow Shs8.28t for infrastructure and social development projects

By
Simon Kabayo
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Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija.

Uganda’s government is seeking parliamentary approval to borrow an additional Shs8.28 trillion (approximately $2.2 billion) from both domestic and international lenders, a move that could further inflate the country’s already growing public debt.

The proposed loans, set for consideration on Monday, come as fresh data from the Ministry of Finance indicates that Uganda’s total public debt had risen to Shs116.2 trillion ($32.3 billion) by June 2025, an increase of 26.2% over the previous year.

According to government documents, the new borrowing will finance key infrastructure and social development projects. The largest portion, about $1.34 billion in loans and $328.3 million in grants, is expected from the World Bank Group’s International Development Association (IDA). These funds will support the fourth phase of the Northern Uganda Social Action Fund (NUSAF IV), the second phase of the Development Response to Displacement Impacts Project (DRDIP II), and the Uganda Cities and Municipalities Infrastructure Development (UCMID) Program.

Citibank is also expected to extend two separate loans totaling $436.4 million to boost agricultural development and improve key road networks. Of this, $212 million (approximately Shs789.15 billion ) will go toward the first phase of a project to enhance agricultural production and quality, while $252.7 million (Shs941.46 billion ) will fund the design and construction of the Jinja–Mbulamuti–Kamuli–Bukungu Road, as well as roads within Jinja City.

Another $508.5 million is being sought from Standard Chartered Bank to support major infrastructure projects. This includes $376 million (Shs1.39 trillion ) for the construction of the 400kV Karuma–Tororo double circuit transmission line, and $125 million (Shs473.06 billion ) for the construction of roads in Ntoroko District, part of the national oil roads package.

The timing of these loan requests is significant, coming just days before parliamentary nominations scheduled for October 22–23. Parliament had earlier approved a Shs72.376 trillion national budget for the 2025–26 financial year, which included plans to borrow Shs32.075 trillion —equivalent to 44.3% of the total budget.

John Bosco Ikojo, chairperson of Parliament’s Committee on National Economy, confirmed that Speaker Anita Among had instructed his committee to urgently consider the requests even as the House remains in recess.

“I received administrative communication from the Speaker on October 14 to process the loan requests pending a full presentation to lawmakers upon resumption,” Ikojo said.

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