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True Group and ZTE sign 5G innovation cooperation agreement

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Our Reporter
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True Group and ZTE sign 5G innovation cooperation agreement

ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of information and communication technology solutions, has signed a 5G innovation cooperation agreement with True Group, a leading digital lifestyle enabler in Thailand.

Under the agreement, both parties will focus on the 5G joint innovation center to develop 5G networks, digital services, smart islands, intelligent manufacturing, research innovation, talent training and other fields, with great commitment to comprehensively carrying out 5G-oriented innovative technology and business cooperation.

According to the agreement, both parties will set up a joint innovation lab in Bangkok’s True Digital Park to test and verify 5G technologies and applications. Innovative products, solutions and applications by joint efforts will be directly deployed in the “Super South+” test field in Phuket, bringing the latest digital service experiences to local users.

“True is ready to support the sustainable intelligence development of Thailand. True Group, with the strong collaboration with leading domestic and world-class international partners, is the only operator that has the complete range and coverage of 7 frequency bands, as well as the smart 5G technology with extensive network coverage of 77 provinces in Thailand,” said Mr. Manat Manavutiveth, President (Co) of True Group. “Under such circumstances, we are delighted to form the cooperation with ZTE to jointly drive network and infrastructure development and bring changes to the telecommunication sector in various dimensions.”

“One of the highlights is the joint innovation lab at True Digital Park, reflecting True Group’s intention to focus on innovation development to create value for society and the country as well as our potentials and expertise in True Lab Innovation Centers located in the famous universities across the country. What’s more, the cooperation in the “Super South+” Project in Phuket will help improve mobile network to serve the tourism industry in the southern area, which is one of the major destinations for tourists in Thailand. We are confident that this cooperation will create a complete True5G eco-system, develop innovation technology for maximum benefits as well as strengthening True5G genius network in order to sustainably enhance the life quality and provide ultimate experiences for Thai people and forge Thailand ahead to digital transformation,” added Mr. Manat Manavutiveth.

“ZTE continues to practice its own positioning as a driver of digital economy, and insists on continuous technological innovation. Through joint innovation, ZTE will give full play to ZTE ‘s advantages in 5G technology, R&D innovation, and 5G industry application,” said Mr. Mei Zhonghua, Senior Vice President of ZTE Corporation. “We are deploying minimalist, green, low-carbon, and intelligent 5G networks for True in southern Thailand. To meet the needs of numerous islands and offshore operations in the south Thailand, we provide customized ultra-long-distance coverage products, which will enable 5G coverage to reach 100KM over the sea, and high-speed 5G digital services for tourists and marine operations.”

Moving forward, the joint innovation lab will also expand to local ecological partners to form end-to-end 5G innovative applications, further empowering industry verticals. From local pilot to mature promotion, the lab, by forming a 5G ecosystem with cross-industry integration, will further change the production method, create greater economic value for Thailand, and support Thailand digital transformation to achieve “Digital Thailand” vision.

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Kabale State Attorney arrested for soliciting Shs500,000 bribe

By
Our Reporter
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Handcuffs

The Inspectorate of Government (IGG) has arrested the State Attorney for Kabale District, Mr. Edwin Mbabazi for soliciting and receiving gratification of Shs125,000.

Edwin Mbabazi solicited for Shs 500,000 as an inducement to close a criminal case of trespass against a resident of Kyanamira town council, Kabale district.

He was however arrested while receiving part of payment of Shs125,000 on Thursday October 13th 2022. He has been transported to Kampala and will be charged for soliciting and receiving gratification.

An Inspectorate of Government statement shows that they received a complaint from a member of the public who alleged that a case of criminal trespass was reported against him at Kyanamira Police Station and later, the case was transferred to Kabale Central Police Station.

He had been arrested and released on bond by Kabale Police on 30th September 2022. When he reported back to Police, he was told that his case had been forwarded to the State Attorney Kabale.

He then went to the office of the State Attorney to inform him that there was another civil matter which was before the Chief Magistrates Court, Kabale concerning the same land he was accused of trespassing.

The State Attorney called Edwin Mbabazi promised to peruse through his file and get back to him through his phone number and asked him to offer a bribe worth Shs500,000 in order to close the criminal case against him.

This prompted him to report the matter to Kabale Regional Office for redress.

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East Africa Public Relations week to be held in Mombasa

By
Simon Kabayo
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East Africa Public Relations week to be held in Mombasa, Kenya

The first-ever East Africa Public Relations Week will be held in Mombasa, Kenya under the theme“Enhancing Sustainability Through Communication”. The five day event will commence on November 14th to 18th.

The event will bring together some of East Africa’s brilliant minds in the communications sector in order to reinforce lasting partnerships among the participating countries, building on the goal to foster sustainable practices in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

This event is an initiative of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK), and will be jointly hosted with other communications umbrella bodies in Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Rwanda, The Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi.

According to Mr. Arik Karani, President of PRSK, this will be the biggest conference ever held in the region.

“This year, we are taking the PRSK annual summit to a new level by hosting the first-ever East Africa Public Relations Week. One of the key strategies for the Public Relations Society of Kenya’s council is to unite East African countries through cohesive communication. With the PRSK turning 50, we thought of bringing the East African Public Relations Associations together under one roof.  Together with other Public Relations Societies in Uganda, Tanzania, The Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Burundi, and Rwanda, we assure participating organizations and individuals that this will be one of the most memorable events in the region. We have lined up some of the best speakers in the continent, and exciting networking activities to ensure that everybody gets maximum value and visibility during the 5-day event,” Mr. Arik Karani said.

“Our vision is to come together as public relations and communications colleagues to discuss how to advance excellence in our profession, countries, and region.” Mr. Arik Karani added. 

Stephen Mwanga, the Public Relations Association of Uganda- PRAU’s president expressed his excitement about attending the inaugural event.

“This will be an exciting and interactive conference, bringing together communicators across East Africa to discuss matters pertaining to the Public Relations Industry in the region,” said Mr. Stephen Mwanga.

Mr. Stephen Mwanga added that the conference will run for 5 days of exhilarating discussions and fun activities. During the first two days, members will be talking about sustainability and shared value- moving away from CSR. From Wednesday through Friday, delegates will be treated to a well-coordinated regional PR summit that will feature discussions on issues like trust and safety, the ongoing Ukraine war, navigating the politics of influence, and many other emerging issues in the field of communication.”

Speaking about the importance of having a formidable East African countries public relations strategy, Mr. Assah Mwambene, the President of the Public Relations Society of Tanzania- PRST, stressed the need for an integrated, unifying, and cohesive approach to communicating the needs of the East African region.

“I am looking forward to having a formidable Public Relations strategy in East Africa in terms of positioning the East Africa community to the next level.” Said Mr.  Assah Mwambene.

“This will be an all-rounded conference that will have three tracks- a forum on sustainability and shared value, a PR Summit, and an awards gala. The summit will also feature break-out sessions with top industry leaders and seasoned practitioners from across the continent and fun excursions at the coastal towns to ensure that delegates have the best experience from this conference,” Mr. Assah Mwambene added.

Mr. John Mading, South Sudan’s Public Relations Society President concluded the online discussion by affirming the role of Public Relations in East Africa’s regional integration agenda and its relevance to the conference.

“PR and communication are at the center of every major discussion and event. They bring clarity and common understanding on various issues. Since the inception of the EA Community, the involved countries have been keen on advancing the agenda of the 4 pillars of East Africa integration,” said Mr. Mading.

“Our role as communicators is to ensure we are well equipped to advise and craft strategies for successful implementation of these pillars,” added Mr. John Mading.

Some key topics will feature discussions on sustainability, climate change reporting, the blue economy, the post-pandemic workplace, and impactful partnerships.

Expected to grace the event are representatives from East Africa’s corporate giants; Safaricom, Amref-Africa, KEMRI, Haco Industries, META, Trade Mark East Africa, and Red Cross Society, among others.

The event will also commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Public Relations Society of Kenya- PRSK. Formed to guide and bring together PR practitioners in Kenya, the association will be celebrating different milestones achieved over the past 50 years, which include establishing a student-focused organization, establishing a Code of Ethics that guides the profession in the country, and creating the certification program which will be the most essential credential in the public relations world.

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UNAIDS warns that HIV, Covid and other health investments are in danger due to a looming debt crisis in Africa and developing world

By
Our Reporter
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UNAIDS

COVID-19 and the debt crisis, now aggravated by the consequences of the war in Ukraine, have created an unprecedented setback in global health, and put the global response to AIDS in jeopardy, risking 7.7 million deaths to AIDS-related causes by 2030, according to a new report by UNAIDS.

The report, A Pandemic Triad, shows that the debt crisis and the war in Ukraine have deepened the fiscal crisis of developing countries, severely undermining their capacity to invest in health. It also shows that the country’s most affected in economic terms by COVID-19 are the countries deepest in debt—they are also the country’s most affected by HIV. In 2020, for every US$ 10 available, US$ 4 was spent on debt servicing and only US$ 1 was invested in health.

“The multilateral system cannot fail again,” said Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director of UNAIDS. “The response to COVID was dramatically inadequate, from very limited vaccination in developing countries to no permanent debt relief, and scarce fresh resources to countries with severe health and social problems there can be no mistakes this time.”

The World Bank is forecasting that, without even including the latest numbers, 110 countries will have health spending in 2027 either under 2019 levels or slightly over, with only 67 countries. going above 2019 pre-COVID health investment levels.

The 2020 data show that there was a temporary increase in health spending, but it was focused predominately on the COVID emergency, leaving other health priorities behind. Latest forecasts from the IMF predict slower economic growth, higher inflation and worsening debt risks, leaving health and HIV investments under severe threat.

“We need a brave multilateral response to enable developing countries to respond to current pandemics and prevent future ones, while tackling the urgent food crises,” said Ms Byanyima. “Growing development cooperation, closing tax loopholes and promoting progressive taxation, providing fast and effective debt cancellation and relief, and avoiding the resource to austerity that would mean less doctors, nurses, midwives, is the way to go. New resources and resources freed from debt or tax dodging should be invested wisely to end AIDS by 2030 and respond effectively to future pandemics.”

A Pandemic Triad shows that of the 38 million people estimated to be living with HIV, 26 million are in developing countries and two-thirds are in countries that received absolutely no debt relief at all despite the deep health and economic crisis brought by COVID.

The HIV response in low- and middle-income countries is US$ 8 billion short of the amount needed by 2025. In 2021, international resources for HIV were 6% lower than in 2010. It is estimated that the reduced availability of resources to finance access to HIV services could cost 7.7 million lives over the next decade.

The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is seeking additional resources for countries´ investments in the fight against the three diseases.

Kalipso Chalkidou, Head of Health financing at the Global Fund said, “As the latest IMF World Economic Outlook figures illustrate, the outlook is dire for donor and recipient countries alike, with debt servicing severely constraining especially poorer nations’ ability to spend in health and social causes. In this environment, Global Fund views debt swaps for health as a promising tool for creating badly needed fiscal space to invest in health systems and the three diseases.”

On average, public debt levels in low- and middle-income countries rose from 55% to 63.8% of GDP between 2019 and 2020 equivalent to a staggering US$ 2.3 trillion and continue spiraling. Meanwhile, currency depreciation to the US dollar of over 10%, and escalating interest rate payments are creating a perfect debt storm. For low-income countries (LICs), total debt is estimated at 87% of GDP. As a consequence, the proportion of LICs in debt distress, or at high risk of debt distress, has doubled to 60% from 2015 levels.

OXFAM presented the update of the commitment to Reduce Inequality Index at the Annual meetings and presented the latest data around inequalities in access to health.

Max Lawson, Head of Inequality Policy and Advocacy at Oxfam International said, “Our analysis shows that half of the poorest countries cut health spending, despite the worst health crisis in a century. They are spending far more on repaying their huge debts to rich creditors in New York and London than they are able to spend on protecting their people from dying from diseases. This is an appalling situation, made more appalling because it does not have to be this way. Inequality is a policy choice, not an inevitability”.

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Museveni signs controversial Computer Misuse Bill into law

By
Geoffery Serugo
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President Yoweri Museveni

President Yoweri Museveni has assented to the controversial Computer Misuse (Amendment) Bill, 2022, into Law. Museveni’s signing was confirmed by Faruk Kirunda, the Deputy Press Secretary to President Museveni.

In September 2022, Kampala Central Member of Parliament, Muhammad Nsereko tabled the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Bill for the first reading.

Among others, the object of the Bill was to prohibit the sharing of any information relating to a child without authorization from a parent or guardian; to prohibit the sending or sharing of information that promotes hate speech; to provide for the prohibition of sending or sharing false, malicious and unsolicited information.

Clause 2 of the Bill sought to amend section 12 of the Computer Misuse Act to criminalize hacking of another person’s electronic device and publishing information obtained therefrom.

“A person who, without authorization, (a) accesses or intercepts any program or another person’s data or information; (b) voice or video records another person; or (c) shares any information about or that relates to another person, commits an offence,” reads Clause 2.

During the Plenary Ug sitting on September 8th, the House considered and passed the Computer Misuse (Amendment) Bill, 2022 with amendments.

Clause 7 on the Penalty was deleted. This is because additional penalty instituted on leaders and public officials on top of the criminal sanctions created under the Computer Misuse Act is excessive and discriminatory.

A new clause to regulate social media ‘Misuse of social media’ was inserted. “A person who uses social media to publish, distribute or share information, prohibited under the laws of Uganda or using a disguised or false identity, commits an offense.”

Where the information under subsection (1) is published, shared, or distributed on a social media account of an organization, the person who manages the social media account of the organization, shall be held personally liable for the commission of the offense.

The new law will among others enhance the protection of children and prohibit the sending or sharing of information that promotes hatred.

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Makerere University celebrates 100 years of Julius Nyerere leadership

By
Simon Kabayo
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Prof Barnabas Nawangwe- MUK Vice Chancellor

Makerere University has celebrated the 100 years of Julius Nyerere leadership one of the famous leadership centres in this institution that was initiated recognizing the pan Africanist legacy laid by the former president of Tanzania, the late Mwalimu Julius Nyerere.

The symposium is under the theme ‘Imagining together an African Future led by Africa’s Youth’. The activities involved in the symposium include intergenerational conversations on the practical leadership, exciting cultural activities and interactive dialogues.

Speaking at the event, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe Vice Chancellor said, “It is no wonder that H.E President KagutaMuseveni, a proud student and admirer of what Mwalimu Nyerere stood, for saw it fit to establish the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre at Makerere University to further advance his mentor’s causes.”

Prof. Nawangwe, “I pray that the communiqué that will be issued at the end of this symposium will offer appropriate guidance on how we ought to take the debate on Imagining together an African Future led by Africa’s Youth forward.”

H.E Aziz Mlima, High Commissioner of Tanzania, said, “The Youth today ought champion three narratives for Julius Nyerere’s independence; Liberate their minds and have mental independence, Research Innovation & innovation independence and Invest in Education for technology independence.

Dr. Eddy Maloka, Chief Executive Africa Peer Review Mechanism said that the History of Makerere mirrors the history of the struggle for independence for many African nations.

“The history of Makerere is the History of Africa. Makerere has opened its doors to become home to many Prominent writers like Ngugi Wa Thiongo , John Nagenda, Timothy Wangusa, Okot p’ Bitek among others,” Dr. Makola said.

Mzee Joseph Butiku, chairman of Board of Directors gave hope to the youths since the future and integration of Africa belongs to them. He however urged them to learn from the elders who have laid a strong foundation for pan Africanism.

“I urge the youths to read the history of the elders since it’s a basement for transforming Africa. History gives you opportunity to dialogue about the issues of Africa,” he urged.

The Julius Nyerere leadership Centre was established on the President initiative of Uganda, H. E Yoweri Museveni in 2018 to cater for intergenerational dialogue on African history, the study of Africa’s revolutionary movements and also be a center for knowledge and research.

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Manufacturers secure returns from the 28th Trade Fair

By
Ronard Shabomwe
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Manufacturers secure returns from the 28th Trade Fair

The 28th Uganda International Trade Fair ended on a high note, with the major activity being the quick sales of final touches.  Manufacturers in the multipurpose hall say they secured a lot of deals and reaped profits out of the trade fair, helping them recover from the effects of Covid-19.

Gerald Watongo, who works as a business developer for Bancassurance at Diamond Trust Bank, said the trade has enabled the business to move smoothly getting up to 50 customers a day.

“The turn-up has been massive. We have got several customers who have opened up accounts and now we are to do follow-ups as this is done. Many have been more interested in having financial literacy. It has been worth it,” said Rwatamo.

Like Wantongo, Jackeline Nasseje a beverage manufacturer said the business has earned her profits but asked management to take the trade fair on bigger open grounds next year to hinder the failures of numerous customers to reach the stalls.

The exhibition space sizes looked small from three feet spaces and small exhibitors shared exhibition tables. Others were in small cubicles, large rooms, and open spaces out of buildings, mainly for those that had automotive equipment.

Speaking at the closure of the Trade Fair, Deo Kayemba, and the UMA chair said this year’s trade fair has cast a spotlight on the creativity and innovations of the industrialists across different manufacturing sectors.

Kayemba called upon the government to embrace local sourcing on public procurement for government contracts to local suppliers.

 This fair kicked off on Monday 3rd, October 2022, and climaxed on 10th October. It was graced by the Prime Minister of Uganda Robinah Nabbanja who represented the President of Uganda by visiting several stalls.

Among the people who turned up for the fair were students from various schools who explored the latest innovations and products from various sectors like banks, beverages, art and crafts, science and technology, and many more.

Over a thousand local and international manufacturers, traders, and distributors from various sectors showcased their latest products and innovations to multiple consumers and passersby.

Ordinarily, the Uganda International Trade fair aims at facilitating business-to-business linkages by bringing foreign manufacturers and the local producers together.

This year’s trade fair resumed after a two-year halt due to covid19 lockdown. It ran under the theme: “Business recovery by harnessing local sourcing and deepening value chain integration.”

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Sudhir joins Kiwatule Rotary Club

By
Our Reporter
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Sudhir inducted into Rotary by Mike Sebalu

Ruparelia Group Chairman, Mr. Sudhir Ruparelia was introduced as a Full Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Kiwatule on Wednesday.

Sudhir was inducted as a Honorary Member of the Rotary Club by District Governor Mike Sebalu during the Clubs’ fellowship held at the Kabira Country Club.

“Welcome to the Great Mighty Club of Kiwatule! To the Family of Rotary and Friends of Rotary. We would like to Introduce to you Mr. Sudhir Ruparelia as a Full Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Kiwatule. Congratulations Mr. Sudhir,” he said.

In July this year, Sudhir donated Shs20 million and a new ambulance to two Rotary Clubs of Nsangi and Nsambya.

Nsangi received Shs10 million and a new ambulance while cancer ward at Nsambya Hospital also received Shs10 million through the rotary club of Nsambya.

The main goal of Rotary is to promote peace, fight diseases, and provide clean water, sanitation, and hygiene. They also save mothers and children, support education and grow local economies.

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Five Bunyangabu District officials arrested over loss of Shs140m

By
Our Reporter
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Bunyangabu District officials arrested for corruption

The State House Anti-Corruption Unit working together with the Police have arrested five Bunyangabu district officials over corruption and causing government a financial loss of over Shs140 million.

The Principal Human Resource Officer, Lucy Ikiriza was arrested for fraudulently enrolling three teachers on the district payroll without verifying their appointments with the Education Service Commission.

In addition, the Chief Finance Officer, Mr. Joseph Basaliza, District Production Officer Mr. Yusta Asiimwe and the Agricultural Officer, Gerald Tumwesigye were also arrested for the mismanagement of over Shs90 million meant for the Agricultural Cluster Development Project to improve the coffee and maize value chain.

The former Kabonero Sub county Chief, Elon Rugumba was also arrested for the shoddy construction of the Kabonero police offices/cells.

The right procurement procedure was not followed hence causing government a financial loss of over Shs5.8 million.

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UCE exams kick off next week

By
Our Reporter
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Candidates during a UNEB exam

A total of 349,445 candidates are scheduled to sit Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) Examinations from 3,703 Examination Centres, Eagle Online has learnt.

According to Daniel Odongo, the Executive Secretary of Uganda Examinations Board (UNEB), UCE Examinations for the 2022 candidates will officially start on Friday, October 14, 2022, with the briefing of candidates and the candidates will, thereafter, start writing their examination on Monday, October 17, 2022, starting with Mathematics one in the morning and Mathematics two in the afternoon.

Of the 349,445 candidates sitting exams this year, 175,923 (50.3%) of the candidates are males, while 173,522 (49.7%) are females.

“A total of 114,200 (32.7%) of the candidates are funded under the Universal Secondary Education (USE) Programme, while 235,245 (77.3%) candidates are Non-USE. 51 candidates who are inmates in Luzira Upper Prison will also write their examination from the Prison,” he said.

He said 519 of the candidates are Special Needs Education (SNE) candidates. Access arrangements have been made for these SNE learners to receive the necessary support in accordance with their needs.

The Board has introduced a toll-free line 0800-211-077 which members of the public can use to report any suspected case of examination malpractice.  The Board also has now in place a whistle Blower’s policy to protect those reporting from victimization.

“We appeal to Heads of Centres to ensure that the SOPs provided by the Ministry of health for the control of COVID-19 and Ebola are adhered to. While the incidence of COVID-19 appears to have declined, and we must thank God for that, care must still be taken,” he said.

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