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KIU wins prestigious ESQR quality achievement award in Dubai

By
Francisco Adongo
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KIU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Muhammed Ngoma (middle) receive prestigious Quality Achievement Award from the European Society for Quality Research in Dubai.

Kampala International University (KIU) has reinforced its status as one of Africa’s fastest progressing and most visionary universities after receiving the prestigious Quality Achievement Award from the European Society for Quality Research. 

The award was presented during a vibrant ceremony at the famous Dusit Thani Hotel in Dubai, where more than fifty leaders in academia, business, health, construction, government, diplomacy and other sectors gathered from forty nine countries.

Representing KIU, Professor Muhammed Ngoma, the Vice Chancellor, delivered remarks filled with pride and purpose, highlighting the university’s remarkable transformation and future ambitions.

“Distinguished guests, fellow award recipients, ESQR members, ladies and gentlemen, on behalf of Kampala International University, together with my Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Abanis Turyahebwa, it gives us great honor to receive this award today,” he said.

He extended appreciation to ESQR for offering KIU another opportunity to attend the event in person after missing an earlier ceremony in Stockholm. 

“We missed the function in Stockholm, but we are grateful that ESQR invited us to attend and receive the award here in Dubai,” he remarked.

Professor Ngoma emphasized,“Kampala International University continues to set the pace in educational excellence across East Africa. This award reflects our firm commitment to quality, innovation and academic distinction.”

Founded in 2001, KIU has grown into the largest private university in East Africa. Its multicultural community includes students from more than forty countries and staff from over thirty nationalities. 

“This diversity defines our identity and clearly demonstrates that we are an international university,” he stressed.

Today, KIU stands as a major center for higher learning, offering a wide range of programs in Medicine, Health Sciences, Pharmacy, Nursing, Engineering, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Law, Education, Business, Information and Communication Technology, Artificial Intelligence, the humanities, social sciences and several other fields.

“We ensure that our students are prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing world. We aim to nurture graduates who are competent, confident, ethically grounded and responsive to the needs of society,” he said.

KIU has earned recognition as the top private university in East Africa, supported by investments in modern infrastructure, advanced research and strong global partnerships.

 “These achievements have gained us both regional and international acknowledgment,” he added.

Reflecting on the significance of the award, Professor Ngoma noted,“This Quality Achievement Award is a symbol of our commitment to excellence. It recognizes the dedication, effort and resilience we have invested in improving education in the region.”

He reaffirmed KIU’s priorities, including enhancing academic quality, expanding global research collaborations and sustaining institutional growth.

In an emotional dedication, he honored the Founder and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Al Hajji Dr Hassan Basajjabalaba, who was recently named the African Educationist of the Year 2025. 

“We dedicate this award to our Chairman for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to quality education across the continent,” he said.

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Gov’t rejects 1,881 student loan appeals over low budget funding

By
Simon Kabayo
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Dr Kedrace R. Turyagyenda, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education and Sports.

The Ministry of Education and Sports has announced that none of the 1,881 student loan appeals submitted for the 2025–2026 academic year will be considered, citing severe budget limitations.

In al statement, Permanent Secretary Dr Kedrace R. Turyagyenda confirmed that the appeals were lodged by applicants who failed to secure support during the first round of selections under the Higher Education Students Financing Scheme.

Dr Turyagyenda explained that although the law allows unsuccessful applicants to appeal, the ministry simply does not have the funds to support the overwhelming number of requests received.

“This year, we received a total of 1,881 appeals, and supporting them requires additional funding. While we fully recognize the importance of higher education financing in promoting equitable access, the available budget for the current financial year is insufficient to accommodate these additional requests,” she stated. 

She emphasized that the decision was driven purely by financial constraints and not the academic merit of the applicants.

“The Ministry wishes to inform all appellants that the appeals could not be considered due to budget constraints. This decision is purely financial and does not in any way undermine the merit or urgency of the appeals submitted,” Dr Turyagyenda said. 

Despite the setback, she reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to lobbying for more resources so that more eligible learners can be supported in the coming years.

“We remain committed to advocating for more funding to ensure that additional eligible learners can benefit from the Scheme in the future,” she noted.

Dr Turyagyenda concluded by acknowledging the frustration the decision may cause.

“We regret any inconvenience or disappointment this decision may have caused,” she said.

Speaking to Parliament on Wednesday, 29, Dr. John C. Muyingo, State Minister for Higher Education said that this year, out of 7,125 applicants, only 2,047 (28%) were successful. The demand for student loans has exponentially increased, outpacing the available resources.

The Ministry received 5,920 applications for undergraduate degree courses and 1,205 for diploma programs. Of the successful applicants, 1,186 (58%) are male and 861 (42%) are female, reflecting the positive impact of affirmative action for female students, which awards extra points to female applicants.

“The total number of female successful applicants this year was 861, up from 517 supported last academic year,” Dr. Muyingo added.

Education and engineering were the most popular fields among beneficiaries, with 513 students taking education courses and 440 in engineering programs. The loans also supported 45 students with disabilities, up from 29 last year.

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UWA investigates death of three lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park

By
Our Reporter
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Climbing lions of Ishaha, Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has launched investigation into the deaths of three sub adult lions inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, officials confirmed on Thursday.

The incident was first detected early Thursday morning through UWA’s EarthRanger Technology. According to the authority, abnormal movement patterns from a collared lion led rangers to the Akabale area in Nyamugasani, where they discovered the lions’ bodies.

“Our team, guided by satellite signals, moved into the area and found three sub adult lions, two males and one female, dead,” said Bashir Hangi, Assistant Commissioner for Communication at UWA.

Follow up investigations at the scene revealed a cow carcass partially placed in a bag containing unknown substances, with some of the remains left exposed. A panga and slippers were also recovered nearby.

“These findings are central to our ongoing investigation into the cause of death and the identification of those responsible. We are committed to prosecuting anyone found violating wildlife laws to the fullest extent,,” Hangi added. 

The UWA has notified Kasese Police, and both agencies are working jointly to examine the evidence collected and pursue all leads.

Hangi called on the public to support conservation efforts. 

“We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may endanger wildlife or undermine protection initiatives,” he said.

The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have promised regular updates as new information emerges.

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NUP’s Mulyanyama on spot over name changing and academic documents

By
Our Reporter
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NUP flag bearer and Makindye Division politician Ali Nganda Kasirye Mulyanyama.

The National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer and Makindye Division politician, Ali Nganda Kasirye Mulyanyama, is under scrutiny over his academic credentials and official name records as he campaigns for a parliamentary seat in the 2026 elections.

The controversy arises from claims that Mulyanyama studied abroad in the United Kingdom and the United States while submitting only an Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education results slip to the Electoral Commission. This raises questions about the authenticity of his academic documentation, while Mulyanyama maintains that his educational background is valid.

The issue of his name change also adds complexity to the debate. A Gazette and Deed Poll notice registered in Kampala in March 2016 shows that Mulyanyama formally changed his name from Nganda Alan to Kasirye Nganda Ali. 

“By this deed, which is to be registered with the registrar of documents at Kampala, I, the undersigned KASIRYE NGANDA ALI, of C/o. P.O. Box 23528, Kampala, lately called NGANDA ALAN, a citizen of Uganda by birth, do hereby for and on behalf of myself wholly renounce, relinquish and abandon the use of former names of NGANDA ALAN, and in place thereof do assume from the date hereof the names of KASIRYE NGANDA ALI, and so that I may hereafter be called, known and distinguished not by former names of NGANDA ALAN but by my assumed names of KASIRYE NGANDA ALI,” he noted in the document. 

The document further declares, “And for the purpose of evidencing such my determination, I declare that I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds and writings, and in all proceedings, dealings and transactions as well as private and public, use and sign the name of KASIRYE NGANDA ALI as my name in place of and in substitution for my former name of NGANDA ALAN. I expressly authorize and request all persons at all times hereafter to designate and address me by such assumed names of KASIRYE NGANDA ALI, accordingly.”

The deed concludes with Mulyanyama formally signing the document, “Signed and delivered by the above named KASIRYE NGANDA ALI formally NGANDA ALAN. KASIRYE NGANDA ALI, Renouncer. This 17th day of March, 2016.”

While the name change has been legally recognized, doubts about his academic claims persist. Observers note that Mulyanyama submitted only a results slip instead of a verified A Level certificate, fueling criticism from opponents and raising concerns about compliance with Electoral Commission requirements.

Mulyanyama has rejected the allegations, insisting that his academic background is legitimate and challenging anyone with doubts to pursue legal verification. Analysts say his case underscores the importance of transparency and documentation verification for political candidates, particularly in high-stakes elections like Uganda’s 2026 general polls.

Ali Nganda Kasirye Mulyanyama, born on August 31, 1980, is a long-serving Makindye Division politician who has held leadership positions in local government and joined the NUP after previous affiliations with other political parties. 

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Parliament SACCO struggles to release savings of 34 deceased MPs over widow wrangles

By
Simon Kabayo
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The late Kawempe South MP Muhammad Ssegirinya’s case is the most complicated.

The Uganda Parliamentary Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisation (SACCO) is withholding savings belonging to at least 34 deceased legislators due to bitter disputes among individuals claiming to be their rightful spouses.

The revelation was made by Buvuma County MP Robert Migadde, who chairs the Parliamentary SACCO, during its Annual General Meeting held on November 28, 2025. 

Migadde said the cooperative is stuck with the funds because of incomplete member records and unresolved family battles.

“Some members never filled in their bio-data forms and did not name their next of kin. Then you have a situation where a husband passes on and suddenly four, five, or even six spouses show up, each demanding access to the money. It becomes extremely difficult to determine the legitimate claimant,” he said.

He pointed to the late Kawempe South MP Muhammad Ssegirinya’s case as the most complicated, noting that even condolence contributions from MPs—each contributing Shs300,000, have not been disbursed.

“We continue advising our members to update their bio-data and clearly state their next of kin so that benefits can be processed smoothly,” Migadde added.

Despite these challenges, the SACCO reported impressive financial growth over five years. Loans and advances rose from Shs7.96 billion in the 2020/21 financial year to Shs25 billion by June 2025. 

Member savings also grew significantly, jumping from Shs17.1 billion to Shs58 billion in the same period, while share capital expanded from Shs3.3 billion in 2021 to Shs5.7 billion by mid-2025.

Migadde said the institution has fixed delays in loan processing by bringing more staff on board.

Methods Mureebe, the SACCO’s Chief Executive Officer, told the AGM that although members approved an investment in government bonds during the 2024 annual meeting, the plan has not taken off.

“Once you put money in bonds, it stays there for a long time. The Board is very careful not to lock away funds at a time when members, especially during election seasons, require high liquidity,” Mureebe said, noting that demand for loans is expected to surge after the next Parliament is sworn in May 2026.

Migadde also disclosed that the SACCO is lobbying for an extension of the tax waiver on SACCO income, which is due to expire in 2027. 

“Many SACCOS rely on the Parliamentary SACCO when it comes to advocacy. We are already engaging to ensure the waiver is renewed because the cooperative movement is stronger when united,” he said.

He further informed members that government plans to have all SACCOS registered under the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB), adding that Parliament will seek broad consultations before adopting a position.

The meeting also heard that the SACCO earned Shs2 billion in profit from compensation paid by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in Mityana.

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BakigaNation set to stage Kampala’s biggest Kikiga Xmas festival this Sunday

By
Our Reporter
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Previous BakigaNation celebrations.

Bakiga culture is set to take centre stage in Kampala as BakigaNation unveils the 2025 edition of its signature Christmas festival, Rukundo Egumeho – Nohiri Yeitu slated for Sunday, December 14 at Millennium Park, Lugogo.

The organisation says this year’s celebration will revive the true spirit of a traditional Kikiga Christmas, bringing together music, dance, food, stories, and community warmth.

“This is the Christmas of our childhood, the drums, the carols, the stories, the community. We’re bringing it home to Kampala. This is Nohiri Yeitu… our Christmas, celebrated our way,” said Owen Katwesigye Bigombe, the Team Leader of BakigaNation.

The festival promises an immersive cultural experience, recreating memories of Christmas in Kigezi for families in the city. Visitors will enjoy a vibrant lineup led by the BakigaNation Mass Choir, which will perform Christmas carols in a distinctly Kikiga style.

Bigombe noted that the choir will be one of the most emotional moments of the festival, describing it as a grand musical experience designed to warm hearts and unite communities.

A strong artistic lineup is expected to grace the stage, including Florence Musimenta, Lillian Nabaasa, Norman Shaaka, Lady Sarah, TPaul, and the BakigaNation Cultural Troupe. Ugandan star Sheebah Karungi will join as special guest artist in a cultural-meets-contemporary performance.

“This edition is not just an event, it is a return to roots, a celebration of identity, and a moment for families, friends, and communities to reconnect,” Bigombe emphasised.

Beyond music and dance, festivalgoers will enjoy a wide array of activities, among them a cultural village, traditional storytelling sessions, Father Christmas appearances, craft and food exhibitions, family games, and special Christmas giveaways because it’s the season of giving.

The festival is supported by major partners including Pilsner Lager, Roke Telkom, Sanyuka TV, AfroMobile, Capital Radio, Next Music, and several events and production companies.

Organisers describe it as Kampala’s biggest Kikiga Christmas cultural celebration, with a full Christmas cultural village being introduced for the first time.

The event is open to families, youth and cultural enthusiasts and expected to be the largest cultural outing of the festive season.

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Uganda’s coffee earnings rise to Shs730b as October exports hit record high

By
Francisco Adongo
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Coffee is Uganda's leading export.

Uganda’s coffee industry posted one of its strongest months in recent years after export revenues for October climbed sharply to $185.56 million (about Shs730 billion), reflecting a 33 percent rise compared to the same month last year.

The country shipped out 685,720 60kg bags of coffee, representing a 38 percent jump in export volumes from October 2024. Officials attribute the surge to a bumper harvest in the Central and Eastern regions, where the picking season intensified, alongside favourable international prices driven by weather-related supply disruptions in major coffee-producing countries such as Brazil, Vietnam and several Central American nations.

The average export price stood at $4.51 per kilogram, slightly higher than September’s $4.31 but still below the $4.67 registered a year earlier.

Robusta coffee continued to dominate the trade, accounting for 87 percent of all shipments. Uganda exported 597,925 bags of Robusta worth $151.51 million. This represented a 31 percent increase in volume and a 19 percent jump in value compared to last year. The average price for Robusta was $4.22 per kilogram.

Arabica coffee recorded the most dramatic growth, with export volumes soaring by 117 percent and earnings rising by 182 percent year-on-year. Total Arabica exports reached 87,795 bags valued at $34.04 million, fetching an average price of $6.46 per kilogram.

In the broader picture, Uganda exported 8.4 million bags of coffee in the 12 months to October 2025, earning $2.4 billion—an impressive 77 percent increase in value from the previous year.

Europe remained the dominant market, taking in 63 percent of Uganda’s coffee. Italy led with 26.22 percent, followed by Germany at 10.67 percent and Algeria with 7.49 percent. African countries collectively absorbed 16 percent of the exports, amounting to 108,540 bags.

Ugacof (U) Ltd. emerged as the top exporter for October with a 12.44 percent market share, while Sucafina SA was the leading foreign buyer, holding 14.22 percent of the market.

Looking ahead, Uganda’s coffee shipments for November 2025 are projected to reach approximately 550,000 60kg bags.

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Uganda, United States sign Shs7.8t health cooperation deal

By
Simon Kabayo
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U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William W. Popp, and Uganda Ministers of Finance Matia Kasaija and Health, Dr. Ruth Acen, after signing the MoU.

Uganda and the United States have entered a Shs7.8 trillion ($2.2 billion) bilateral health cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening the country’s health system and improving the delivery of essential healthcare services over the next five years.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed today at the Ministry of Finance, outlines a comprehensive framework designed to save lives, curb the spread of infectious diseases, and bolster Uganda’s ability to respond to public health emergencies.

Finance Minister Matia Kasaija signed on behalf of the Government of Uganda, while the U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William W. Popp, signed on behalf of the United States.

The agreement is expected to advance the longstanding U.S.–Uganda partnership by expanding support to key priority areas, including HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, maternal and child health, polio eradication, global health security, human resources for health, disease surveillance, and emergency preparedness. It also includes direct support to faith-based healthcare providers across the country.

Over the five years, the United States has committed $1.7 billion, while the Government of Uganda will increase domestic health spending by $500 million, a move intended to gradually strengthen national ownership and financial responsibility for the health sector.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Finance Minister Matia Kasaija said the partnership will significantly enhance Uganda’s health infrastructure and workforce.

“This collaboration will yield not only disease-specific outcomes but also significant improvements in national systems, institutions, and workforce capacity. This is highly commendable, ”Kasaija stated.

Ambassador Popp described the MOU as a major long-term investment in shared global health priorities.

“We are building on prior successes and making a significant shift towards promoting self-reliance in the health sector through strong community health systems, clear performance metrics, and a foundational commitment to data systems and global health security that will prevent and stop outbreaks from threatening Uganda, the United States, and the world,” the Ambassador said.

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Speke Resort Munyonyo unveils Xmas Eve dinner with festive entertainment

By
Our Reporter
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The pool pavilion at Speke Resort Munyonyo is ready to welcome you for Christmas.

Speke Resort Munyonyo has announced an enchanting Christmas Eve Dinner set to take place on December 24, with an unforgettable night of food, music, and family-friendly festivities by the lakeside.

The celebration, scheduled to begin at 6 pm at the Nyanja/Lake Terrace, is designed to bring families together in the true spirit of the season, according to the resort’s announcement. 

Guests will be welcomed to a lavishly curated buffet featuring a wide selection of Christmas delicacies prepared by top chefs.

Organisers say the evening will offer far more than a gourmet feast.

There will be heart-warming choir carols, breathtaking fire dance showcases and exhilarating acrobat performances.

Children will also enjoy a dedicated programme tailored just for them.

The resort planned exciting activities including a kids’ movie night and a visit to the petting zoo to ensure the little ones have just as much fun.

The resort has set the price at Shs200,000 for adults and Shs90,000 for children below 12 years. Management encourages early reservations through the contacts provided to ensure a seamless festive experience.

With its serene lakeside atmosphere, captivating performances, and family-centered activities, the 2025 Christmas Eve Dinner at Speke Resort promises to be one of the most vibrant and memorable holiday events.

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10 dead, three injured in road crash on Busia Highway

By
Our Reporter
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The wreckage of the taxi after the accident.

At least ten people have been confirmed dead and three others injured after a fatal road crash at Busowa Town Council along the Busia Highway in Bugiri District on Wednesday morning.

The 7:00 am collision involved a Toyota Hiace, registration UBN 817H, and a stationary trailer, UA 647BA/UA 430AA.

According to the spokesperson for the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, Michael Kananura, preliminary investigations indicate that reckless overtaking triggered the deadly crash.

“The driver of the Toyota Hiace attempted to overtake an unidentified vehicle but another vehicle was approaching from the opposite direction,” Kananura said.

He added, “In an effort to avoid a head-on collision, the driver swerved to the left, lost control, and rammed into a stationary trailer. The impact killed ten people on the spot, including the driver, and left three others injured.”

All the victims were occupants of the Toyota Hiace.

Kananura confirmed that police responded swiftly to the scene.

“Our team rushed the survivors to the hospital and conveyed the bodies of the deceased to the mortuary. Investigations into the crash have commenced,” he noted.

He urged motorists to adopt safer road practices, warning that reckless behaviour continues to claim innocent lives.

“We urge all motorists to desist from speeding and unsafe overtaking. Drivers must exercise maximum caution and prioritise safety at all times,” Kananura emphasized.

Police say a full investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

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