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Independence Day: Uganda to begin oil drilling next year –says Museveni

President Museveni delivering his Independence Day speech.

President Yoweri Museveni has announced that Uganda will begin drilling its own oil next year, marking a major milestone in the country’s long-awaited journey toward commercial oil production.

Museveni made the revelation during the 63rd Independence Day celebrations held at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds, noting that the oil sector will soon start generating tangible results after years of exploration and infrastructure development.

The celebrations were held under the theme: “63 Years of Independence: A Reason to Double Our Efforts in Sustaining a United and Progressive Nation”

“The oil will start flowing next year,” the President said.

He added, “Fortunately, Uganda is about to start flowing, and that will enable us to do more work at the same time. Even with the oil money, however, my strong proposal is that we concentrate on budgeting for roads, defence, education, electricity, health, water for drinking and irrigation, wealth creation, the Parish Development Model, science and innovation.”

Uganda’s oil production is expected to take place mainly in the Albertine Graben, where commercial oil reserves were discovered in 2006. The resource is estimated at 6.5 billion barrels of oil, of which about 1.4 billion barrels are recoverable.

The multi-billion-dollar project is being developed under the Tilenga Project operated by TotalEnergies EP Uganda, and the Kingfisher Project led by CNOOC Uganda Limited. The Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) represents the government’s interests, holding a 15% stake in each project.

The oil development is also being supported by major infrastructure projects such as the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP), a 1,443-kilometre pipeline jointly funded by Uganda, Tanzania, TotalEnergies, and CNOOC. The pipeline, once completed, will transport crude oil from Hoima in western Uganda to the Tanga Port in Tanzania for export.

Museveni, while reflecting on the country’s historical struggle to find petroleum, took a swipe at the colonial government’s failed exploration efforts.

“The British were in Uganda for 68 years, and between 1920 and 1956 they tried to find petroleum but failed,” he said.

He added, “They had noticed spills on the surface and assumed the oil had been there but evaporated. When the NRM came to power, we successfully discovered Uganda’s petroleum.”

Speaking about Uganda’s future economy, Museveni said that he is pleased to inform the nation that by June 2026, Uganda’s economy is projected to reach $66.9 billion in size, based on the foreign exchange method. Furthermore, the forecast for the following year anticipates a 7% economic growth. 

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Gaza peace plan moves forward; hostage release expected this weekend, says Trump

Washington, D.C. — In a surprise announcement, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a U.S.-backed peace plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. According to Trump, the deal includes a major breakthrough: the expected release of hostages held by Hamas as early as this weekend.

Taking to his platform Truth Social, Trump said both parties have signed off on the agreement, which he called “the first step toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace.” The plan reportedly involves Hamas releasing all remaining living hostages along with the remains of those who have died, in exchange for Israel releasing a number of Palestinian prisoners.

Trump added that the Israeli military would withdraw troops from parts of Gaza, retreating to a previously agreed-upon boundary as part of the deal’s implementation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has welcomed the development, revealing that a technical delegation has already been dispatched to Cairo to finalize the logistics and confirm next steps. Egypt, alongside Qatar and Turkey, played key roles as mediators in the months-long talks that led to this diplomatic progress.
While the plan marks only the first phase of a broader framework, it has sparked cautious optimism in international circles. U.S. officials have remained tight-lipped about the deal’s finer details, but insiders confirm that the Biden administration, despite being in the background, has quietly supported the effort.

If successful, the move could not only de-escalate the crisis in Gaza but also signal a rare moment of unity in a deeply polarized region.

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King Saha and Jose Chameleone reconcile, ending months of public feud

King Saha and Jose Chameleon.

Kampala, Uganda – In a move that has delighted fans and eased tensions in Uganda’s music industry, top musicians King Saha and Jose Chameleone have officially reconciled after months of public disagreement and personal attacks.

The reunion took place over the weekend at a popular night spot in Kampala, where the two artists reportedly held a private conversation before embracing warmly in front of witnesses. The gesture was widely interpreted as a sign of forgiveness and renewed friendship between the former allies.

The long-standing feud had seen King Saha accuse Chameleone of disrespect and selfishness, allegations that strained their relationship and drew attention across local media. The rift was especially significant given their shared history—Saha rose to prominence under Chameleone’s Leone Island Music Empire, where he was once considered one of the group’s brightest prospects.

Their reconciliation marks the end of what many saw as an unfortunate fallout between two of Uganda’s most influential music figures. Industry stakeholders and fans alike have welcomed the news, with hopes that the two stars may collaborate once again in the near future.
Neither artist has released an official statement, but their public show of unity has already sparked widespread support on social media, with fellow musicians and fans urging them to focus on uplifting the industry rather than internal rivalry.

The reconciliation also comes at a time when calls for unity among artists have grown louder, with many pointing to the power of collaboration in elevating Uganda’s presence on the continental music stage.

Whether this new chapter leads to joint projects or simply a peaceful coexistence, the mending of ties between King Saha and Jose Chameleone is seen as a step in the right direction for Uganda’s entertainment industry.

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Remanded again: Besigye demands treason case be moved to International Crimes Division

Dr Kizza Besigye, with co-accused Obed Lutale and Denis Oola in the dock.

Opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye and his co-accused Obeid Lutale have asked the High Court to transfer their treason case from the Criminal Division to the International Crimes Division, arguing that the latter is the proper court that received their indictment from the Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court.

The two requested Justice Emmanuel Baguma, who is currently presiding over their trial. Besigye, who was allowed to personally address the court, expressed deep frustration over what he termed as an “irregular handling” of their case.

“We are appearing before a wrong court,” Besigye said.

He added, “The Criminal Division never received our indictment, and it’s only the International Crimes Division that has jurisdiction over matters of this nature.”

Besigye, who recounted his abduction and subsequent rendition to Uganda, also questioned the competence and impartiality of Justice Baguma. He said the judge’s previous conclusions in their case had left them “disturbed and stunned.”

“All the documents from the General Court Martial have been filed with our applications, and the affidavits we swore had details from when we were arrested to when we were remanded, and were accepted as truth by the prosecution. Our lawyers also made extensive reference to the documents in open court,” Besigye stated.

He went on to make a direct and scathing remark to the judge, “My Lord, we considered that either you are grossly incompetent and unable to read documents filed before you or at least biased both of which we consider to be very serious matters that compelled us to file a complaint with the Judicial Service Commission against you.”

In their complaint to the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), Besigye and Lutale are seeking disciplinary action against Justice Baguma, including possible removal from the bench.

Besigye further told the court that they had lost faith in receiving fair treatment under Baguma’s oversight.

“We can no longer get justice from this court, and yet we run to court because it’s supposed to be a temple of justice,” he said.

Justice Baguma is expected to deliver his ruling on the duo’s application on October 15, 2025.

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Uganda to host NAM ministerial mid-term review conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo

Presidents and Prime Ministers of NAM countries at Munyonyo last year.

Uganda is set to host the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Ministerial Mid-Term Review Conference from October 13–16, 2025 at the Speke Resort Munyonyo.

The conference will run under the theme“Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence.”

The meeting follows Uganda’s successful hosting of the 19th NAM Summit of Heads of State and Government in January 2024, which positioned the country as a key voice for the Global South.

The revelation was made by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vincent Waiswa Bagiire who noted that the preparations are progressing smoothly.

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government is in the final stages of preparation to welcome delegations from NAM member states, observer countries and international organizations. The conference will deliberate on pressing global issues, including poverty eradication, the Gaza humanitarian crisis, global governance reforms, and Africa’s representation in the UN Security Council.

“The Government, through its various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, is in advanced stages of preparation to ensure a successful conference,” Bagiire said.

He added, “We shall host delegations from Member States, Observer Countries, and Observer Organizations of the Non-Aligned Movement.”

The agenda is expected to reaffirm NAM’s commitment to addressing global inequalities and promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development. The ministers will also assess progress made since the Kampala Summit and finalize key policy documents to guide the Movement toward the 20th NAM Summit in Uzbekistan.

Bagiire emphasized that the government will implement strict access and security measures around the conference venue to ensure a smooth event.

“Given the nature of the meeting, there will be controlled access in and around Munyonyo,” he said. 

He added,“The public is requested to support the Government in ensuring the success of the conference through complying with any traffic control measures that will be put in place.”

The upcoming Ministerial Mid-Term Review is expected to attract international attention and further consolidate Uganda’s role as a leading voice in championing the aspirations of the Global South within multilateral platforms.

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23 distinguished Ugandans to receive medals at Independence Day celebrations

Armed forces are ready for Independence Day celebrations tomorrow.

Uganda will tomorrow celebrate its 63rd Independence Day at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni presiding over the national event as Chief Guest.

The celebrations will see twenty-three distinguished Ugandans; fifteen men and eight women honored for their exceptional service and contribution to the nation.

Addressing journalists today at the Uganda Media Centre, the Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Milly Babalanda confirmed that all preparations for the national event have been completed.

“Twenty-three distinguished Ugandans, fifteen men and eight women, will be honored for their exceptional service and contribution to the nation,” Babalanda announced.

She added, “Government is ready to ensure a peaceful, secure and well-organized celebration as we mark 63 years of independence with pride.”

The Minister reaffirmed that all relevant agencies, including the Uganda Police Force, UPDF, and intelligence organs have coordinated efforts to guarantee the safety of all guests and citizens during the Independence Day celebrations.

Yesterday, during the final parade inspection at Kololo, the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, revealed that Uganda’s Independence Day celebrations will henceforth be permanently held at the Kololo Ceremonial Grounds in Kampala.

“The new parade drills we introduced last year have now been mastered through consistent training and teamwork,” Gen. Muhoozi said.

He added, “This reflects the discipline, coordination, and professionalism that define Uganda’s armed forces.”

He praised the joint security forces for their exceptional performance during parade rehearsals, noting that the new drills have added color and precision to the national event.

Gen. Muhoozi also clarified that while Kololo will now serve as the traditional home for Independence Day celebrations, other national events such as Liberation Day and Tarehe Sita will continue to rotate across the country to promote inclusivity, patriotism, and national unity.

This year’s celebration, which marks 63 years since Uganda attained independence from Britain in 1962, is expected to attract a large audience, including senior government officials, diplomats, cultural leaders and citizens from all walks of life. The event’s theme focuses on unity, resilience, and national development.

During the ceremony, President Museveni will present national medals in three key categories:

The Nalubaale Medal is awarded to individuals who have contributed significantly to political and civic leadership.

The Luwero Triangle Medal, recognizing distinguished service and sacrifice during the liberation struggle.

The Golden Jubilee Medal honors individuals for outstanding contributions to national development, public service, and patriotism.

The celebration will also feature colorful military parades, cultural performances, brass band displays and a fly-past by the Uganda People’s Defence Air Force.

As the country marks another milestone, Hon. Babalanda urged citizens to celebrate peacefully and reflect on Uganda’s journey of progress, unity, and resilience.

“Independence Day reminds us of where we have come from and where we are going as a nation. Let us celebrate our unity and work together for a prosperous Uganda,” she said.

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NUP rejoins IPOD, moves to sign MoU after years of boycott as they eye billions

NUP Principal Robert Kyagulanyi aka Bobi Wine and party Secretary General Louis Rubongoya.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has formally written to the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue (IPOD) expressing readiness to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and resume full participation in the dialogue platform.

In the latest correspondence seen by Eagle Online, dated October 7, 2025, addressed to the Secretary to the Council of IPOD, NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya reaffirmed that the party remains a lawful member of the National Consultative Forum despite its earlier withdrawal from IPOD in 2021.

“As you are aware, Parliament recently passed an amendment to the Political Parties and Organisations Act (2005), making it mandatory for all political parties under the National Consultative Forum to either be part of the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue or the Forum for Non-Represented Political Parties,” Rubongoya stated.

He added, “The National Unity Platform has been and remains an active member of the National Consultative Forum. Although we are challenging the amendment before the Constitutional Court, we are cognizant that it is the current and binding law.”

NUP’s fresh communication follows a series of letters it issued in September 2025, protesting its exclusion from IPOD and NCF engagements even after the amendment made membership compulsory. The party had earlier accused the organizers of sidelining it from key meetings, including one held on September 18, 2025, to discuss the implementation of the new law.

In one of the earlier protest letters, Rubongoya wrote, “We protested against the illegal exclusion of the National Unity Platform from discussions relating to the National Consultative Forum and its constitutive organs, including the Inter-Party Organisation for Dialogue.”

He further emphasized that such actions were not only “unlawful” but also undermined the principles of political inclusivity envisioned under the new legal framework. “Yet again, the National Unity Platform is being illegally excluded from these discussions,” the September 17 letter read in part.

NUP has since requested the Electoral Commission to ensure that discussions under IPOD and NCF comply with the amended law and that all political parties are fully represented. “We therefore request the Electoral Commission, being the custodian of political parties in Uganda, to ensure that all discussions related to the amended law are inclusive and conducted in accordance with the law,” Rubongoya stated.

The National Unity Platform previously withdrew from IPOD in 2021, citing alleged bias and state influence over the forum. The party’s exit meant it forfeited access to over Shs1 billion in annual facilitation funds shared among member parties under the IPOD arrangement, coordinated by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD).

However, following the 2025 amendment to the Political Parties and Organisations Act, participation in either IPOD or the Forum for Non-Represented Political Parties became a legal requirement for all registered political parties, prompting NUP to re-engage despite its pending court challenge.

NUP’s latest letter indicates willingness to sign the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IPOD “as required by law” while awaiting the Constitutional Court’s decision on its petition against the amendment.

The party says it remains committed to lawful political engagement.

“In light of this, the National Unity Platform would like to sign the MOU given that we are members of the applicable constitutive organ of the National Consultative Forum by law,” Rubongoya noted.

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UPDF education institutions advised to shape responsible citizens

The Joint Staff – Political Commissariat of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), Maj Gen Henry Matsiko, has called on administrators and teachers in UPDF education institutions to uphold patriotism and discipline while nurturing learners into responsible citizens committed to national development.

Maj Gen Matsiko made the remarks while addressing head teachers, head instructors, and principals from UPDF schools during a meeting at the Land Force Headquarters in Bombo.

“When formal education, culture, and sports function effectively, our troops and their families have high morale, and the nation benefits from responsible and value-driven citizens,” said Maj Gen Matsiko.

He said that UPDF schools are a key pillar of the Force’s welfare system, instilling discipline, patriotism, and moral integrity in learners. “If our students see care and dedication from their teachers, they will naturally grow into responsible and patriotic citizens.”

“Education within the UPDF should go beyond academics, it should reinforce national values and the ideals of service, loyalty, and sacrifice.”

Maj Gen Matsiko commended educators for maintaining their commitment even under challenging circumstances, noting that their service reflects the selfless spirit of the UPDF.

Brig Gen Richard Karemire, Joint Staff – Formal Education, Sports and Culture, praised teachers for their dedication, particularly during times when public sector educators were on strike. “We commend you for your patriotism because you continued teaching when others were on strike,” he said.

Brig Gen Karemire announced that funds to the tune of Shs500 million have been allocated for renovations at schools with deteriorating facilities and urged administrators to raise concerns through the proper channels and utilise UPDF engineering projects undertaken during Tarehe Sita celebrations.

UPDF currently manages 52 formal education institutions, including 37 primary schools, 11 secondary schools, four tertiary institutions, two polytechnic schools, one technical institute, and one Defence Forces Institute of Health Services.

These institutions serve both children of service members and civilians from surrounding communities, demonstrating UPDF’s broader contribution to national education and community welfare.

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Equity Bank launches 1,000-tree planting campaign at St. Julian Secondary School

Students of St. Julian Secondary School join Equity Bank staff in the tree planting campaign.

Equity Bank has launched a 1,000-tree planting campaign at St. Julian Secondary School as part of its commitment to promoting environmental conservation and sustainability.

The event, held on Monday, October 6, 2025, drew excitement from students and staff who have been preparing for weeks.

Equity Bank Managing Director, Gift Shoko, led the tree planting exercise, emphasising the importance of collective action in preserving nature. “We are doing this so that everyone, teachers, students, and the community, takes part in protecting the environment and securing our future. As a bank, we are providing the trees and technical support, while the school is offering the land,” he said.

The initiative aligns with Equity Bank’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, which integrates sustainability into its core operations.

To encourage ownership and responsibility among students, each student who plants a tree will name it and care for it until graduation, after which it will be handed over to another student. According to the school’s director, Jeff Serujongi, this approach ensures continuity and long-term care for the trees.

The project builds on the efforts of the school’s Environmental Club, formed five months ago to promote climate action and environmental education among its 7,000 students. The club already manages a designated piece of land where students learn about plant species and practical conservation.

Lule Adam Ronald, the club’s vice president, said, “As Senior Three students, we wanted to make agriculture more practical. These trees will help us understand better how to conserve the environment and protect natural resources.”

The exercise was carried out in partnership with Agriculture for Health and Wealth Company Limited, which supplied tree seedlings financed by Equity Bank. The company’s representative, Joseph Kafuuma, explained that the project began with planting fruit and shade trees to discourage cutting and will later expand to indigenous species that enhance soil stability.

The campaign is part of Equity Bank’s effort to promote environmental conservation and inspire young people to take active roles in safeguarding the planet.

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Museveni appoints ex-prosecutor Aisha Naluzze as new IGG, replacing Beti Kamya 

Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala as the new Inspector General of Government (IGG), replacing Beti Olive Namisango Kamya whose tenure ended in July 2025.

The revelation was made by Presidential Deputy Press Secretary, Faruk Kirunda,who said the appointment was made in accordance with the President’s constitutional mandate.

“The President, in exercise of his constitutional powers, has appointed Hon. Justice Aisha Naluzze Batala as the new Inspector General of Government (IGG), replacing Beti Olive Namisango Kamya,” Kirunda stated.

He added that the two Deputy IGGs, Dr. Patricia Achan Okiria and Mrs. Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe, will retain their positions.

“The names of the appointees have been forwarded to Parliament for vetting,” Kirunda confirmed.

The Inspectorate of Government (IG) is Uganda’s key anti-corruption agency, mandated to investigate cases of abuse of office, promote transparency in public institutions, and enforce the Leadership Code Act.

Beti Kamya, who previously served as Minister for Kampala and Member of Parliament for Rubaga North, as well as founder of the Uganda Federal Alliance political party, focused her tenure on strengthening asset declaration compliance and public awareness around corruption prevention.

However, the President’s decision not to renew her contract suggests she did not meet his expectations.

Justice Naluzze Batala, the incoming IGG, brings over 18 years of experience from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), where she rose through the ranks to become Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions.

She has handled cases across all court levels from the subordinate courts to the Supreme Court and is praised for her diligence and professional integrity.

Before joining the ODPP, she worked as a Legal Assistant at F. Mukasa & Co. Advocates between 2003 and 2005.

Naluzze holds a Master’s Degree in Management Studies from the Uganda Management Institute (UMI) and has undertaken specialized training in several areas, including the Prevention of Genocide and Mass Atrocities at the Auschwitz Institute, Trafficking in Persons Prosecution (TOT) in 2022, and Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice under the Korea International Cooperation Agency.

Her appointment takes effect upon parliamentary approval.

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