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Rajiv Ruparelia memorial eye camp in Bukedea set for this weekend

By
Our Reporter
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Ruparelia Foundation chairman, Sudhir Ruparelia, together with his wife, Jyotsna Ruparelia, hosted the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among, during the launch of Rajiv Ruparelia Eye Camp on March 10, at Kabira Country Club.

Bukedea District is set to host a major medical outreach this weekend with more than 300 free cataract surgeries scheduled during the Rajiv Ruparelia Eye Camp from March 27 to 29 at Bukedea Teaching Hospital.

The outreach, organised by the Ruparelia Foundation, is expected to screen over 2,000 residents, provide more than 800 reading glasses, and offer free specialised eye care services to communities that often struggle to access treatment.

The camp follows its official launch held on March 10 at Kabira Country Club, where members of the Ruparelia family and government leaders outlined the vision and impact of the initiative.

The programme is being conducted in memory of the late Rajiv Ruparelia, whose passion for philanthropy continues to inspire efforts aimed at improving lives across Uganda.

Speaking during the launch on March 10, Sudhir Ruparelia said the eye camp will grow into a nationwide initiative conducted every two years, rotating across different regions to ensure wider access to specialised eye care services.

“We want this to become a national programme that reaches different parts of the country so that more Ugandans can benefit from specialised eye care,” he said.

He revealed that after Bukedea, the next edition of the camp will be held in Kasese District.

At the same event, Jyotsna Ruparelia said the family chose to honour Rajiv by continuing the values he believed in.

“This eye camp is very special to us because it is being carried out in the name of our son Rajiv. He believed deeply in giving back and had an instinct to help people and communities,” she said.

She noted that restoring sight can have a profound impact on individuals and families, enabling people to return to work, education, and independent living.

Medical specialists involved in the outreach say cataracts remain the leading cause of blindness in Uganda, yet many patients fail to access treatment due to high costs.

“Many patients cannot afford surgery, which can cost millions of shillings in private facilities. This camp allows us to bring services directly to the people and operate on them free of charge,” one of the specialists explained.

The team also plans to operate on at least 50 children, warning that delayed treatment in young patients can lead to permanent vision loss.

The initiative has been welcomed by Anita Among, who commended the Ruparelia family for supporting healthcare delivery closer to communities.

“As government it is our responsibility to offer health services everywhere, but initiatives like this help bring services closer to the people. We appreciate you for supporting humanity and for the immense contribution you have made to Uganda,” she said during the launch.

She also pledged a Shs50 million contribution to support the outreach.

The Bukedea camp is among the series of planned nationwide outreaches aimed at tackling preventable blindness while sustaining Rajiv Ruparelia’s humanitarian legacy.

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Uganda to earn over Shs2.2t from first oil exploration in 2026/27

By
Simon Kabayo
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State Minister for Finance in charge of General Duties, Henry Musasizi, during the presentation for the 2026/27 Ministerial Policy Statement before Parliament’s Committee on Finance.

Uganda is set to make history in the 2026/27 financial year with expected oil revenues surpassing Shs2.2 trillion from its first oil exploration activities. Of this, Shs4 trillion is earmarked to support the national budget, thus a huge milestone for the East African nation’s economy.

The announcement was made by Henry Musasizi, Minister of State for Finance during his presentation of the 2026/27 Ministerial Policy Statement before Parliament’s Committee on Finance.

“In preparation for the first oil, overall progress on the East African Crude Oil Pipeline is at 80 percent. Five engineering studies are underway for the oil refinery project. The Government expects about Shs2.2 trillion from oil revenues next financial year, of which Shs1.4 trillion is programmed to finance the budget,” Minister Musasizi said.

The Minister highlighted that these funds will help advance key national priorities while sustaining macroeconomic stability. The revenue injection from first oil is a historic step for Uganda, positioning the country as a rising player in the region’s energy sector.

Beyond oil, Minister Musasizi detailed achievements under the Parish Development Model and wealth creation funds. As of December 2025, all PDM SACCOs were capitalized with an additional Shs529 billion, with each of the 10,589 verified SACCOs receiving Shs50 million as the first tranche.

“Cumulatively, Shs3.63 trillion has been disbursed as parish revolving funds to last-mile beneficiaries, achieving financial inclusion for more than 3.6 million previously unbanked individuals,” he noted.

The Emyooga Programme has also made a significant impact, with over Shs100 billion disbursed in affordable credit benefiting more than 350,000 individuals. Additionally, Shs76.32 billion in seed capital supported 3,816 circles, assisting over 1 million beneficiaries and contributing to the creation and maintenance of more than 1.1 million jobs across the country.

Agricultural initiatives are also gaining traction. By December 2025, the government had provided Shs40.7 billion to the Agricultural Credit Facility and Shs7.5 billion to the Uganda Agricultural Insurance Scheme, benefiting nearly 960,000 farmers.

“These interventions are not only driving economic growth but also strengthening food security and rural livelihoods,” Musasizi said.

Looking ahead to the 2026/27 national budget, the Ministry of Finance is set to receive Shs2.78 trillion. Key subventions include Shs7.728 billion for the Tax Appeals Tribunal, Shs4.2 billion for the Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Appeals Tribunal, Shs10.425 billion for the Economic Policy Research Centre, and Shs9.354 billion for the Capital Markets Authority. Enterprise Uganda will receive Shs26 billion, the Microfinance Support Centre Shs176.670 billion, the Uganda Development Bank Shs415.190 billion, and Pearl Bank (formerly Post Bank) Shs4.086 billion.

Minister Musasizi reassured Parliament that Uganda’s economic outlook remains positive.

“The economy is characterized by strong growth momentum, low inflation, stable financial markets, and improving external performance. Going forward, the Ministry remains focused on addressing emerging risks while sustaining the gains achieved under its core mandate of sound economic management,” he said.

Experts note that the anticipated oil revenues, combined with ongoing development programs, will strengthen Uganda’s fiscal position and provide opportunities for further investment in infrastructure, agriculture, and social programs. With these strategic interventions, the Government aims to ensure that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for ordinary Ugandans, particularly in previously underserved rural areas.

The 2026/27 budget framework shows Uganda’s potential as an oil-producing nation while highlighting the Government’s commitment to inclusive economic development, fiscal discipline and long-term prosperity for all citizens.

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Makerere University to strengthen regional journalism training on peace and conflict

By
Simon Kabayo
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Participants at the awarding ceremony, from right to left, Dr. Gilbert Gomushabe, senior lecturer, School of Languages, Dr. Mutiba Luwabelwa, Executive Secretary of ICGLR, Amb. Robert Masolo, National Coordinator of ICGLR, journalists awardees, and Dr. Sarah Namusoga from the School of Languages at Makerere University.

Makerere University has strengthened its commitment to promoting peace and conflict-sensitive journalism in East and Central Africa through a strategic partnership with the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region and Ultimate Media Consult.

This collaboration was formalized with a memorandum of understanding signed on March 11, 2026, establishing a three-year program designed to provide intensive training for journalists from conflict-affected countries in the region. The first training program, already underway, is a two-week intensive course aimed at equipping media professionals with the skills to report on peace and conflict responsibly and effectively.

Dr. Ivan Lukanda, a senior lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at Makerere University, emphasized the importance of the program. 

“We live in a region that is often volatile. Journalists play a vital role in shaping public understanding, and having professionals who understand the nuances of peace and conflict is critical for mitigating tensions and preventing the escalation of disputes into larger crises,” he said.

The MoU outlines three main pillars: joint training, research, and network-building. The two-week training covers multiple aspects of journalism, including investigative reporting, multimedia storytelling, ethical reporting practices, and immersive techniques such as video, audio, photography, and animation. 

“By integrating these methods, the program ensures that journalists can communicate complex conflict issues in ways that are accessible and impactful,” Dr. Lukanda explained.

He added, “Journalists are often the first line of information in communities facing tension and unrest. Providing them with the right tools ensures that stories on peace and conflict are reported accurately, responsibly, and in ways that foster understanding and reconciliation.”

Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communication, established in 1988 and independent since 1998, has a long history of media education and capacity building in the region. The department offers a range of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees. Beyond formal education, the department runs short courses in collaboration with Ultimate Media Consult, which have been instrumental in extending training opportunities to professionals across the region.

The initiative also aims to support the development of regional networks of journalists and researchers who can monitor conflict trends, produce high-quality reporting, and contribute to research on peace and security. This network approach enables continuous learning and fosters a culture of responsible journalism throughout the Great Lakes region.

Dr. Gilbert Gomushabe, Head of African Languages at Makerere University, highlighted the significance of ethical reporting. “Good journalism involves reporting the truth, but responsible journalism goes further, ensuring that the way information is presented does not exacerbate conflict and instead encourages understanding and reconciliation,” he said. “The department takes pride in training journalists who can navigate sensitive issues while upholding professional integrity.”

During the inaugural ICGLR Awards 2025 ceremony held at Makerere University, journalists from Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo were recognized for reporting that challenges narratives of perpetual conflict in the Great Lakes region. Ambassador Robert Masolo, the national coordinator for ICGLR, stressed that the media must offer balanced coverage that promotes unity and hope. 

“To the outside world, the Great Lakes region is often portrayed through the lens of conflict. We must empower journalists to tell stories that reflect resilience and community strength,” he said. 

The winners of the awards were celebrated for their exceptional reporting in radio and television, highlighting issues such as the impact of border closures on youth entrepreneurship and intercultural relations in the region. The ceremony emphasized that awards are merit-based and must be earned, reinforcing the need for high standards in journalism.

Dr. Mubita Luwabelwa, executive secretary of ICGLR, addressed the laureates during the event, stating, “Journalists are not bystanders. They are active participants in shaping society. Your work holds leaders accountable and gives a voice to the marginalized. This recognition validates the risks you take to report from some of the most challenging environments in Africa.”

The program is funded by the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region, with support from the German cooperation agency GIZ and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. 

The funding allows for sustainable delivery of the training and enables expansion to reach journalists across twelve countries in the region. The department also plans to continuously adapt the curriculum to reflect emerging trends and challenges in regional security, migration, and refugee issues.

Dr. Lukanda stressed the long-term impact of the initiative, “This is not just a one-off training program. It is part of our ongoing commitment to building a cadre of journalists capable of informing the public accurately, holding leaders accountable, and contributing to peacebuilding in East Africa. By focusing on professional development and regional collaboration, we aim to create a lasting impact on media practice and public discourse.”

Makerere University, in partnership with ICGLR and Ultimate Media Consult, aims to expand future sessions to include larger groups of journalists from all member countries. 

The vision is to ensure that the media in the Great Lakes region not only reports conflicts accurately but also provides stories of resilience, reconciliation, and hope. This collaboration represents a significant milestone for the university and a step forward in promoting responsible journalism as a tool for peace and stability in Africa.

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Uganda’s exports hit $1.45b in January on strong gold and coffee sales

By
Simon Kabayo
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Gold is among the items that have brought in export earnings to Uganda.

Uganda’s export sector recorded a robust performance in January, with total earnings reaching $1.45 billion, up 72.1 percent from $844.60 million in the same month last year, according to the Finance Ministry’s February 2026 Performance of the Economy Monthly Report.

The growth was largely fueled by soaring gold and coffee exports, alongside contributions from industrial products, oil re-exports, beans, and electricity.

Export earnings from gold led the surge, rising 182.2 percent to $913.95 million in January 2026, compared to $323.84 million in January 2025. The increase was driven by both higher volumes and rising international prices.

“The quantity of gold exported increased from 3,873 kilograms to 6,254 kilograms, while the average price climbed from roughly $80,000 per kilogram to more than $140,000 per kilogram over the year,” the report notes.

Analysts attribute the rising gold prices to a weakening US dollar and geopolitical uncertainties, which have prompted investors to seek safe-haven assets. Central banks have also increased gold reserves as part of efforts to diversify away from traditional reserve currencies.

Coffee exports also posted gains, rising to $161 million from $156.5 million in January 2025, mainly due to higher export volumes. Uganda shipped 569,454 sixty-kilogramme bags in January, up from 558,382 bags the previous year. This growth offset a decline in global coffee prices, linked to improved supply conditions in key coffee-producing countries like Brazil. Italy, Germany, and Sudan were among the top destinations for Ugandan coffee.

The Middle East remained the largest regional destination for Uganda’s exports, accounting for nearly 49 percent, with the United Arab Emirates alone receiving 99 percent of goods shipped to the region. Asia followed with 18.4 percent, the East African Community with 17.9 percent, and the European Union with 10.5 percent. Major Asian importers included Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, India, and South Korea, primarily for mineral products, coffee, and spices.

Uganda’s imports rose 23.2 percent year-on-year to $1.31 billion, largely driven by private sector demand for machinery, vehicles, base metals, mineral products, petroleum, and animal products. However, imports fell 18.5 percent compared to December 2025 due to reduced non-oil private sector purchases and lower government spending. Asia continued to dominate as the main source of imports, contributing 33.9 percent, with China, India, and Japan supplying the bulk of goods.

The improved export performance contributed to a stronger merchandise trade balance, particularly due to gold and coffee, which accounted for more than 74 percent of total earnings. The report emphasizes the importance of diversifying Uganda’s export base to higher-value commodities to reduce vulnerability to global price fluctuations and ensure the sustainability of trade surpluses.

In January 2026, Uganda posted trade surpluses with the Middle East, the European Union, and the East African Community, valued at $559.9 million, $77.23 million, and $41.52 million, respectively. Trade deficits were recorded with the Rest of Africa ($341.15 million), Asia ($174.88 million), and the Rest of Europe ($5.23 million).

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Uganda’s economy grows to 8.5% as inflation drops and exports rise strongly

By
Francisco Adongo
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Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

Uganda’s economy registered strong growth in the second quarter of the 2025/26 financial year, supported by rising demand, increased investment and improved business activity, according to the latest performance report.

Preliminary estimates from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics show that the economy expanded by 8.5 percent, up from 5.4 percent recorded in the same period last financial year.

“This strong performance was largely driven by increased aggregate demand and investments in ICT equipment, buildings, other structures, machinery, and equipment,” the report states.

The growth reflects real improvements across key sectors of the economy, with agriculture, industry and services all posting stronger output, supported by increased production, exports and private sector activity.

Economic conditions continued to improve in February, with businesses reporting higher output, increased orders and rising employment levels. Key indicators remained firmly in expansion territory, signaling sustained growth in private sector activity.

“The improvement in business conditions was driven by increased consumer demand, which led to higher output and employment levels,” the report notes.

The Purchasing Managers’ Index rose to 54.2 in February, while the Business Tendency Index climbed to 58.7, indicating growing confidence in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, financial services, and trade.

“Firms continued to hire both temporary and full time staff in response to increased workloads across the majority of sectors,” the report adds.

Inflation eased further during the month, with annual headline inflation declining to 2.9 percent in February from 3.2 percent in January, marking the lowest level recorded in the current financial year.

“The decline in inflation was partly attributed to a slowdown in the rate at which prices of services increased, particularly air transport and health services,” the report states.

It adds that improved food supply during the harvest season also contributed to lower prices.

“The fall in inflation was supported by reduced prices of food items such as fresh vegetables, beans, pumpkins and cowpeas, largely reflecting increased supply.”

However, energy-related costs edged up, with fuel and charcoal prices rising due to supply disruptions and enforcement measures, highlighting pockets of inflationary pressure within the economy.

Monetary policy remained unchanged, with the Central Bank Rate held at 9.75 percent for the seventeenth consecutive month to support growth while maintaining price stability.

In the external sector, Uganda recorded a major turnaround in trade performance, posting a merchandise trade surplus of $147.26 million in January 2026, reversing previous deficits.

“Uganda’s merchandise trade balance improved from a deficit of $206.43 million to a surplus of $147.26 million,” the report states.

Export earnings rose sharply by 72.1 percent to $1.45 billion, driven by strong performance in gold, coffee, industrial products, oil re-exports, and electricity.

“Higher export earnings from gold, coffee and other products significantly boosted the country’s external position,” the report notes.

Gold exports recorded the most significant growth due to rising global prices and increased volumes, while coffee earnings also improved on account of higher export volumes.

Despite the strong export performance, imports grew by 23.2 percent on a year-on-year basis, largely driven by increased demand for machinery, vehicles and industrial inputs by the private sector.

The report highlights that gold and coffee accounted for more than 74 percent of export earnings, underscoring the need for diversification to sustain the gains and reduce exposure to global price shocks.

On the fiscal side, government operations recorded a deficit of Shs1.22 trillion in February, exceeding the planned target due to higher spending on infrastructure and payments related to aircraft acquisition for Uganda Airlines.

“Government operations during February resulted in a fiscal deficit of Shs1.22 trillion, mainly driven by expenditure that exceeded projections,” the report states.

Revenue collections also fell short of expectations, with total revenue amounting to Shs2.61 trillion against a target of Shs2.88 trillion.

“The underperformance was mainly driven by shortfalls in non tax revenue and delayed disbursement of grants,” the report notes.

Regionally, Uganda maintained a trade surplus with the East African Community, supported by increased exports and reduced imports, while inflation trends across partner states remained mixed.

Overall, the report indicates that Uganda’s economic growth is being supported by stronger domestic demand, improving business conditions, and a rebound in exports, even as fiscal pressures and global uncertainties remain key risks.

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Rotary, UBL and NFA to launch 80,000 tree restoration project in Namananga Forest

By
Emmanuel Okello
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The launch of the campaign for the restoration of 80,000 indigenous trees in the Namananga Central Forest Reserve.

Rotary International has joined hands with Uganda Breweries Limited and the National Forest Authority to launch a major forest restoration initiative targeting 80,000 indigenous trees in the Namananga Central Forest Reserve.

The three year project, valued at Shs 372 million, was unveiled this week as part of Uganda Breweries Limited’s 80th anniversary celebrations, with partners committing to restore degraded sections of the 459 hectare reserve.

Namananga Central Forest Reserve plays a critical ecological role as a corridor linking Mabira Forest to the Musamya Swamp, while also protecting vital water catchments such as the Nalwe and Wugula streams that support surrounding communities, agriculture and wildlife.

Speaking at the launch, Rotary representatives underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing environmental challenges and ensuring long term impact.

“The restoration of Namananga Forest is a significant undertaking that requires collective effort. We are proud to support UBL as they mark 80 years by giving back to the environment,” said Geoffrey Martin Kitakule.

He added that sustained collaboration among stakeholders will be key to advancing environmental, social and governance initiatives and delivering meaningful results for communities.

Uganda Breweries Limited said the project reflects its broader commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices.

“As we mark 80 years of brewing in Uganda, we know our business depends on a healthy environment,” said Felicite Nson.

“Today’s activities added 2,000 indigenous seedlings to the 26,000 already planted under this restoration effort. Restoring Namananga Forest supports the natural systems that sustain our value chain, from water sources to the crops grown by farmers across the country.”

The initiative comes at a time when Uganda is working to rebuild its forest cover, currently estimated at about 13.3 percent, with efforts underway to restore degraded ecosystems and strengthen climate resilience.

Officials from the National Forest Authority emphasized that the project goes beyond tree planting, focusing on long term protection and sustainability of the restored forest.

“Restoring Namananga provides an opportunity to expand Collaborative Forest Management and ensure that what we plant is protected,” said Martin Mwodi Kegere.

“Today’s event is more than a ceremonial planting of trees. It is a declaration of our shared responsibility to restore Uganda’s natural heritage and secure its ecological future.”

The partners said the project will prioritize indigenous tree species to rebuild a resilient ecosystem capable of supporting biodiversity, regulating local temperatures and safeguarding water resources.

Beyond planting, all stakeholders have committed to ensuring the survival and maturity of the trees over the three year period, with success to be measured through increased forest cover, improved water systems and tangible benefits to surrounding communities.

The Namananga restoration effort is expected to contribute to national environmental goals while reinforcing the role of public, private and civil society partnerships in protecting Uganda’s natural resources.

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Uganda coffee players form national body to boost global competitiveness

By
Francisco Adongo
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Members of the Commercial Coffee Producers Association. of Uganda

Stakeholders across Uganda’s coffee value chain have launched a new umbrella body aimed at strengthening the country’s position in the lucrative global market.

The newly formed Commercial Coffee Producers Association of Uganda (CCPAU) was unveiled at its inaugural General Assembly in Kampala on Thursday, bringing together commercially oriented farmers, exporters, processors and cooperatives under a unified platform focused on quality, branding and export growth.

At the meeting, founding members adopted the association’s operational framework and elected its first Board of Directors, marking a significant milestone in efforts to better coordinate Uganda’s coffee industry.

CCPAU is expected to serve as a central force in aligning private sector players around shared goals, with a strategy anchored on improving productivity and standards, enhancing knowledge-sharing, expanding export market access, improving financing opportunities, strengthening logistics systems and promoting Ugandan coffee globally.

By fostering collaboration and focusing on quality, the association aims to boost Uganda’s reputation on the international stage, improve returns for producers and increase collective bargaining power across the value chain.

The initiative builds on years of collaboration among private sector actors under the UK Trade Partnerships Programme, implemented by the International Trade Centre with support from the British High Commission in Kampala.

Through the programme, Ugandan producers have participated in major international trade fairs such as the London Coffee Festival, Manchester Coffee Festival and CoffeeFest Madrid, helping to showcase the country’s coffee and establish new business links.

“These engagements have laid the foundation for a formal, private sector-led platform to represent the interests of Uganda’s coffee producers and exporters,” officials said.

Speaking at the launch, Lisa Chesney said the United Kingdom remains committed to supporting Uganda’s ambition to move up the coffee value chain.

“Coffee is one of Uganda’s most important exports, and the UK is proud to support efforts to increase exports of high-quality, high-value products, while building sustainable commercial links with international markets,” she said.

Membership to CCPAU is open to registered businesses across the coffee value chain, including commercial farms, nurseries, aggregators, cooperatives, processors and exporters, provided they meet set quality and market development standards.

The association plans to provide members with market intelligence, export readiness support, buyer linkages and joint promotion initiatives, while also representing Uganda at international coffee events and facilitating entry into specialty markets.

Industry players say the formation of CCPAU marks a critical step towards positioning Ugandan coffee as a recognised global brand and a reliable source of high-quality beans, with the country continuing to produce both Arabica and Robusta varieties.

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Judiciary backs Magistrates’ Courts amendment bill to ease high court backlog

By
Simon Kabayo
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Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister, Nobert Mao.

The Judiciary has backed the proposed amendments to the Magistrates Courts Amendment Bill, 2026, saying the reforms will ease the growing case backlog at the High Court by allowing more cases to be handled by magistrates’ courts.

In a written submission to the Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Committee, Acting Chief Registrar Lamunu Pamella Ocaya said expanding the civil jurisdiction of magistrates’ courts would allow for the transfer of tens of thousands of cases from the High Court.

“The High Court (both Divisions and Circuits) recorded a total of 70,186 pending cases, with a backlog of 21,317 cases (30.37%). Of these cases, 34,481 cases (49.13%) are eligible for transfer to Magistrates’ Courts, including 11,040 backlog cases (51.79%), which would reduce the overall caseload to 35,705 pending cases and 10,277 backlog cases,” Ocaya stated.

She noted that High Court Circuits carry the largest share of transferable cases, underscoring the potential impact of the proposed reforms if implemented.

“High Court Circuits account for 29,769 cases (71.22%) that can be transferred, including 9,578 backlog cases (73.22%), indicating a substantial reduction in both pending and backlog cases,” she said.

Ocaya added that while High Court Divisions would also benefit, their share of transferable cases remains comparatively lower.

“In contrast, High Court Divisions have 4,712 cases (16.60%) eligible for transfer, including 1,462 backlog cases (17.75%),” she explained.

The proposed law was tabled before Parliament by Norbert Mao on February 27, 2026, seeking to reform the structure and powers of magistrates’ courts in line with current economic realities.

Key proposals in the Bill include increasing the pecuniary jurisdiction of Chief Magistrates and Grade I Magistrates, enhancing their powers to impose higher fines, abolishing the position of Magistrate Grade II, and providing for the designation of magisterial areas.

According to the Ministry of Justice, the current monetary limits for magistrates’ courts were last revised in 2007, setting jurisdiction at Shs50 million for Chief Magistrates and Shs20 million for Grade I Magistrates.

“Due to inflation and changes in value of money, the capping of the value of the subject matter is very low for the Magistrates Courts and as a result, cases that should be handled at the magisterial level end up in the High Court thereby causing backlog,” Mao noted in the Bill.

The reforms are meant to improve efficiency in the justice system by reducing delays and bringing services closer to the public if passed into law.

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UCC orders end to duplication of utility poles in telecom sector

By
Our Reporter
-

The Uganda Communications Commission has announced new measures aimed at eliminating the duplication of utility poles and streamlining the rollout of telecommunications infrastructure across the country.

In a public notice dated January 23, 2026, the Commission acknowledged widespread concerns from both government and the public over the “uncoordinated and untidy installation of fibre cable infrastructure, particularly poles,” in several parts of Uganda, including the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.

“In response, the Commission has directed all relevant stakeholders to streamline the installation and deployment of telecommunications infrastructure across service providers and sectors, thereby reducing clutter and improving the overall aesthetics of urban areas,” the notice states.

The regulator revealed that a new framework governing optical fibre infrastructure is already in force, having taken effect on January 1, 2026. The framework covers installation, maintenance, protection and disposal of fibre infrastructure, and introduces stricter approval requirements for operators.

“Under this framework, operators are now required to obtain approval for their Optical Fibre Cable deployment plans prior to installation, to ensure the safe, coordinated, and efficient rollout of communications infrastructure,” the Commission said.

The move is expected to bring order to the fast-growing sector, where multiple service providers have often erected parallel infrastructure, leading to congestion, safety concerns and visual pollution in urban centres.

The Commission also emphasized the role of local governments in ensuring proper planning and integration of telecom infrastructure within broader urban development projects.

“Telecommunications infrastructure must be appropriately integrated into road construction and other civil works,” the notice adds. “While operators are encouraged to deploy infrastructure underground to enhance safety and preserve the urban landscape, it is equally important that civil works are undertaken with due care to protect existing fibre networks.”

Damage to fibre installations, the Commission warned, can significantly disrupt service availability and quality, affecting businesses and consumers alike.

The regulator reaffirmed its commitment to working with government agencies, local authorities and industry players to ensure a more coordinated and future-ready telecommunications network.

“The Commission remains committed to working closely with Government, local authorities, operators, and other stakeholders to ensure orderly and future-ready telecommunications infrastructure across Uganda,” it said.

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Equity bank calls for skills and discipline to empower women entrepreneurs

By
Our Reporter
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Olivia Mugaba, the Head of SMEs at Equity Bank Uganda.

Olivia Mugaba, the Head of SMEs at Equity Bank Uganda has urged women entrepreneurs to look beyond access to loans and instead focus on building strong, sustainable foundations for their businesses.

In a message released during Women’s Month, Mugaba said while capital remains important, it is often misunderstood as the primary solution to business challenges.

“Many people assume that access to loans is the main challenge women face in business. While capital is crucial, it is not enough on its own. Money without a solid foundation often disappears quickly, leaving the business struggling,” she said.

She emphasized that clarity of purpose and preparation are critical before seeking financing, noting that many aspiring entrepreneurs rush into ventures without understanding the demands involved.

“Before seeking capital, women need clarity on what they want to achieve. It is common to see someone else’s business and feel inspired to replicate it without understanding the skills and risks involved,” Mugaba explained. “Jumping in without preparation often leads to failure, no matter how much money is available.”

Mugaba highlighted the importance of acquiring the right skills through training, mentorship and practical exposure, saying these equip women with the ability to navigate real business challenges.

She also pointed to financial discipline as a key pillar of sustainability, warning against mixing personal and business finances.

“Using business capital for personal needs; paying for school fees or household expenses can quickly drain resources,” she said. “Separating personal finances from business funds, keeping proper records, and maintaining books is vital for longevity.”

The Equity Bank executive further underscored the role of technology in modern entrepreneurship, noting that digital tools can help improve efficiency and expand market access.

“Adopting digital platforms helps women track financials, manage expenses and even access broader markets online. Technology not only improves efficiency but also opens doors to new customers,” she noted.

She added that collaboration through networks and peer groups strengthens resilience among women in business.

“Women entrepreneurs thrive when they collaborate with like-minded peers. Joining a network or group creates opportunities for learning, mentorship, and shared problem-solving,” Mugaba said.

On financing, she cautioned against quick, high-interest loans, urging women to work with institutions that offer sustainable and supportive financial solutions.

“Partnering with institutions that provide fair, long-term financial solutions, training, and market access ensures that capital is used effectively,” she advised.

Mugaba called on women to embrace knowledge, discipline and strategic partnerships as they start or expand businesses, stressing that empowerment goes beyond individual success.

“When women are empowered to build sustainable businesses, they contribute not only to their families but also to the growth of communities and the nation,” she said.

She concluded with a reminder that long-term success depends on preparation and support systems rather than funding alone.

She noted,“Capital is important, but preparation, skills and support are what transform resources into lasting success.”

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