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Top athletes line-up for Tororo National Cross Country Championship

By
Our Reporter
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Peruth Chemutai

The National Cross Country Championships is scheduled for this weekend Saturday, February 12, 2022 in Tororo, with races that are expected to electrify the Eastern town.

World beaters who have previously tested their athletics strength at the Cross Country races that takes place at the Tororo Golf Club, will be facing off in what is likely to be a sparkling show that has also attracted Djibouti, Tanzania, South Sudan runners, giving the Championships an international status.

Tokyo 3000m steeplechase Olympic Champion Peruth Chemutai (Police), Uganda Wild Authority pair in 5,000m National Record holder Sarah Chelangat and U-20 5000m bronze medalist Chesang Prisca will be among the stars battling for national honours in the senior Women 10km race and places for the Africa Cross Country Championships due March this year in Mozambique.

Other contenders include 2019 World Cross Country 4th finisher Chebet Racheal Zena (Prisons), Olympian Mercyline Chelangat, Chebet Scarlet, and Chemusto Janat (Police) to mention a few.

A gigantic clash is also expected in the senior men’s category, with a strong field comprising 10km  senior men defending champion Hosea Kiplangat (Prisons) teammates, Marathon Record holder Chemonges Filex, Olympian Kissa Stephen and 2019 Standard Chartered Nairobi Half Marathon Champion, Andrew Kwemoi (Arua) lining up among many other contenders.

The U20 (8km) event especially the men category is bound to electrify because of the usual unpredictability of top performances at the annual national cross country that has become the sauce span where Ugandan  talents are cooked before being served to the rest of the world.

The championships has so far attracted over 500 runners registered online who will be battling for team (club), individual and National honors, inclusive of prize money.

The Men’s senior race (10km) has registered the biggest number of 183 entries followed by U20 men (8km) 135, U20 women (6km) 84 and senior women (10km) 47 competitors respectively.

The National Cross Country championships has also attracted new comers which include Namayingo District, Bugweri District, Lyantonde District, Busia District and clubs, Hared Petroleum, UCU, Gulu University, JOCDE and Coach to Coach.

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IGP welcomes Gen. Kandiho’s appointment, says he is ready to work with him

By
Geoffery Serugo
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IGP Okoth Ochola

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Martins Okoth Ochola has welcomed the newly appointed Chief of Joint Staff, Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho.

“I would like to thank the President for the appointment of Major General Abel Kandiho as the Chief of Joint Staff. I look forward to working with Major General Kandiho, in overseeing, guiding and delivering strong leadership that supports the vision, mission and values of the force,” Ochola said.

The IGP congratulated Maj. Gen. Jack Bakasumba on his new appointment as the Ugandan Delegate to the South Sudan Peace Monitoring Mechanism. And further thanked him for the good leadership and delivery of policing services while in the police.

Yesterday, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and commander of armed Forces appointed Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho as Chief of Joint Staff of Uganda Police Force. His appointment was confirmed by Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) deputy spokesperson, Lt. Col. Ronald Kakurungu.

“H.E the President and Commander in Chief of the UPDF has appointed Maj Gen Abel Kandiho as Chief of Joint Staff of Uganda Police Force replacing Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba who has been appointed the Ugandan Delegate to the South Sudan Peace Monitoring Mechanism,” Kakurungu said on Twitter.

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KAKWENZA: Stop interfering in our internal affairs – Uganda warns Germany Ambassador

By
Our Reporter
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Kakwenza Rukirabashaija

Uganda has warned the Germany Ambassador Matthias Schauer, to keep off issues regarding Novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija.

In January, Kakwenza was appointed an honorary member of PEN Germany in January. PEN International is a worldwide and renowned association of writers and its German chapter recently decided to accept Mr. Rukirabashaija as honorary member.

“The German Embassy has received an invitation from the PEN Centre Germany for Mr. Kakwenza Rukirabashaija to attend an event at which he will be officially admitted to this organization,” Matthias Schauer said in a letter dated Janaury 28 addressed to the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates’ Court, also copied to the Chief Justice Alfonse Owiny-Dollo.

Kakwenza is currently out of prison on bail battling charges of offensive communication, contrary to Section 25 of the computer misuse act 2011. He was arrested from his Kisaasi home after a three days twitter feud with supporters of UPDF Land forces commander Muhoozi Kainerugaba. He was detained at unknown military facility where he was subjected to all forms of torture.

During his bail application, his passport was retained by the court as a condition for bail so that he could not travel abroad. However, the writer wants to travel to Germany to pick up the writing award and receive specialized treatment for torture he allegedly received in jail.

“I would like to inform you that this embassy would receive and support Mr. Rukirabashaija’s visa application at any given time, provided that he meets all legal and personal preconditions. This refers also to being in possession of a valid passport, which – as I understand – is currently deposited at court as a condition of bail,” Matthias Schauer added.

Kiryowa Kiwanuka, the Attorney General wrote to the Foreign Affairs ministry seeking whether the ambassador first sought concurrence from them before reaching to the Magistrates’ office, because all official business from the sending state to receiving state are conducted with or through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The letter from the AG read, “We are in receipt of a letter from the office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution in respect of an intervention by His Excellency the Ambassador of the Republic of Germany seeking to influence a variation of bail terms by the court in the above matter.”

“I am of considered opinion that this action by the head of a foreign mission, writing directly to the judicial officer in respect to the conduct of his judicial functions in an ongoing court case, or at all, is an egregious affront to the independence of the judiciary and a breach of the laws and conventions governing the conduct of diplomatic missions.”

“Therefore, while I may hold the view that the interference is a breach of the law, kindly advise us whether he ambassadors sought your concurrence and if so, whether the same was granted.”

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs replied that the German ambassador’s communication directly to the Buganda Road Chief Magistrates’ Court of Kampala, was in breach of article 41.1 and 41.2 of the Vienna Convection on Diplomatic relations.

“The communication was not conducted through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and its content in respect to the conduct of an ongoing case is a clear interference in the internal affairs of Uganda and an affront to the independence of the judiciary,” the ministry responded.

It added, “The ministry reiterates that the Government of Uganda values its relations with the federal Republic of Germany and remains desirous and committed to strengthen them deeper; however, our partnership must adhere to time-honored principles of mutual respect, non-interference and sovereignty.”

The Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court dismissed Kakwenza’s request to have his passport back so he could travel abroad and ordered for the trial to start on March 23, 2022.

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EU lifts financial restrictions against Burundi

By
Geoffery Serugo
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EU flag

The European Union (EU) has lifted financial restrictions which were imposed against Burundi in 2016. The decision to lift restrictions resulted from the peaceful political process that started with the general elections in May 2020, opening a new window of hope for the population of Burundi.

“The Council decided today to repeal its decision taken in 2016, which imposed the suspension of direct financial assistance to the Burundian administration or institutions. With the repeal, the EU will therefore be able to resume this kind of cooperation with the Burundian administration,” EU said.

Since the 2020 elections, the EU has acknowledged the progress made by the Burundian government with respect to human rights, good governance and the rule of law, as well as commitments taken in its roadmap towards further improvements in those areas. Additionally, large numbers of refugees have voluntarily returned to Burundi, and cooperation with the international community and with neighbouring countries has been revitalised.

According to EU, Persisting challenges remain in the areas of human rights, good governance, reconciliation and the rule of law. Further progress would be beneficial for all Burundians, including through the implementation of the roadmap, in the framework of the ongoing EU-Burundi political dialogue.

The EU, together with other international partners, said they are ready to support the ongoing efforts of the Burundian authorities to stabilise and consolidate democratic institutions, promote human rights, good governance and the rule of law, and to implement commitments taken in the roadmap towards further improvements in those areas.

Following the deterioration of the situation in Burundi in the run-up to the legislative and presidential elections in June and July 2015, the EU considered that the Republic of Burundi was not in compliance with essential elements set out in Article 9 of the ACP-EU Partnership Agreement in relation to human rights, democracy and the rule of law.

Therefore on 13 November 2015, the Council initiated the procedure that led to the adoption in 2016 of Decision 2016/394 and appropriate measures under Article 96(2) (c) of the ACP-EU Partnership Agreement.

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Opposition want Jim Muhwezi censured over continuous torture and abduction of Ugandans

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Jim Muhwezi

Opposition MPs are set to move a motion to censure the Minister of Security Maj. Gen. (Rtd ) Jim Muhwezi over continuous torture and abduction of people in the country. The MPs’ bid to censure the Security Minister was revealed by the Leader of Opposition in Parliament Mathias Mpuuga.

The MPs’ decisions come amidst reports of torture of Ugandan Novelist Kakwenza Rukirabasaijja and Mr. Samuel Masereka, the Kasese District National Unity Platform (NUP) Registrar.

The two were allegedly tortured by security agencies upon arrest. Narrating his ordeal, Masereka said he was arrested by Police and later handed to Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI). He accused CMI of detaining him for three weeks, beating and punching him on a daily basis.

Kakwenza was nabbed from his Kisaasi home after a three days twitter feud with supporters of UPDF Land forces commander Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Kakwenza averred that Muhoozi’s supporters were allegedly bullying him for criticizing President Yoweri Museveni. He was detained at unknown military facility where he was subjected to all forms of torture. After two weeks, the Author was paraded before Buganda road and leveled with charges of offensive communication, contrary to Section 25 of the computer misuse act 2011.

Various organisations have since condemned the inhuman acts noting that arbitrary arrest of people by security services, holding them in ungazetted places of detention for prolonged periods of time, torturing them, not bringing them before a court within the mandatory time limits, are violations of Uganda’s national legislation, regional and international commitments as well as specific Presidential guidelines.

Speaking at parliament, Mpuuga said they have lodged an official notice to the clerk to Parliament and the Office of the Deputy Speaker received it.

“We believe the minister of security has abdicated his responsibility and that has resulted into forced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and detentions, continued torture. We find him unfit to continue occupying that sensitive office. By the end of tomorrow, we will have the documents for the censure moving for members too append their signatures,” Mpuuga said.

The LoP said they resolved that at every constituency, a register will be available, citizens will register their complaints; a disappearance, detained without being produced in court.

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Jumia introduces free delivery to consumers in Kampala and Entebbe

By
Our Reporter
-
JUMIA

Uganda’s leading e-commerce platform, Jumia has announced consumers in Kampala and Entebbe will enjoy free next day delivery on the Jumia express orders effective immediately.

The free delivery offer is aimed at incentivising more consumers to shop online daily and is in line with the company’s vision to make e-commerce accessible to all.

“We want Ugandans to shop online conveniently without having to worry about delivery fees. That is why we have made it possible for customers to get free unlimited delivery in Kampala and Entebbe and we are looking to add more cities soon,” Ron Kawamara, the CEO Jumia Uganda said.

The free delivery offer is valid in Kampala and Entebbe on Jumia Express orders over Shs25,000 and the orders will be delivered within 24 hours.

“This is a great opportunity for our consumers to enjoy the same brand, product and quality experience from our official partners like Coca-Cola, Kakira, Jameson, Movit, Samsung, Tecno among others and also access over 10,000 products sourced locally from sellers across the country like NUMA Foods, Fabiola Beauty, MK Books and more. It also presents an avenue for us to give back to our consumers by offering them this free delivery option in addition to cost saving deals while supporting the Government’s Buy Uganda, Build Uganda campaign initiatives,” said Kawamara.

Jumia in partnership with thousands of sellers and brands on its platform offers consumers a wide assortment of products ranging from groceries, phones, TVs, appliances, fashion, home items, accessories, all electronics; and special deals such as flash sales and treasure hunts through its mobile app and official website with various payment options; cash on delivery, visa payments and mobile money.

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Gen. Kandiho appointed police Joint Chief of Staff

By
Our Reporter
-
Maj Gen Abel Kandiho

President Yoweri Museveni has recalled former Chief of Military Intelligence Maj. Gen. Abel Kandiho from South Sudan and appointed him police Joint Chief of Staff.

Kandiho who hadn’t reported for duty has switched roles with Maj. Gen. Jack Bakasumba. Gen. Bakasumba will now head to South Sudan as a Military Attaché.

Kandiho has been placed under economic sanctions by the United States for allegedly violating human rights. However, Gen. Kandiho denies the allegations.

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Housing Finance Bank, Airtel Uganda partner to launch ‘Quick Loan’

By
Our Reporter
-

Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited (AMCUL), the provider of affordable and secure Airtel money platform, has partnered with Housing Finance Bank Uganda and digital lending platform provider YABX to enable Airtel Money customers, to access quick loans when they do not have sufficient funds in their wallet. This is the latest service offered by Airtel Money to give financial access to support customers’ needs.

AMCUL customers with low balances will be able to complete transactions that include sending money to loved ones, purchasing airtime and bundles, paying for goods and services at Airtel money pay merchants, buying utilities like yaka, and many more.
To access the Quick loans service, Airtel money customers can dial 1857*10# to opt In and check their eligibility.

This partnership is aligned with both Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited & Housing Finance Banks strategy of enhancing financial and digital inclusion through the provision of simple secure and easy-to-use financial services products that give the best value to customers. Quick Loan joins a list of affordable products offered by Airtel Money in the financial inclusion and transformation agenda of Airtel Africa.

Airtel Mobile Commerce Uganda Limited Director, Mr. Manoj Murali commented, We are excited to partner with the Housing Finance Bank and YABX to create a product that breaks barriers to access affordable credit for our customers. A quick loan can be the difference between a farmer buying drugs to save his cow, a mother lighting up her home for the children to do homework, or buying the insulin needed to save someones life. We are committed to closing such intervening gaps for our customers.

The Head Group Operations Airtel Money, Mr. Japhet Aritho commented, “Making Airtel Money a one-stop-shop for financial solutions is our goal for our customers. By supporting their day-to-day needs, we count it as a milestone in empowering and financially transforming our customers’ lives. We look forward to building on our partnership with Housing Finance Bank Uganda and YABX to include as many people into the financial ecosystem and transform their lives.”

Housing Finance Bank Managing Director, Michael K. Mugabi remarked, We are excited about the value-added services we are bringing on board in partnership with Airtel & YABX. This is a demonstration of our commitment to continuously innovate not only for our account holders but also customers of our customers (in this case, Airtel Uganda). It is important for us to remain proactive while coming up with solutions that relate to the needs of customers in our Ecosystems.”

“Our purpose as a bank is to enable homeownership and provide financial independence to Ugandans, we are extremely excited that this product will move us forward in this quest. We thank you Airtel Uganda and Yabx for the cordial working relationship weve enjoyed in developing this product. May this be part of a long and successful mutually beneficial relationship for our companies.”

YABXs Director Africa Business Eunice Ruguru Gatama says, “We at YABX are excited to be working with Airtel Uganda and Housing Finance Bank to deliver QuickLoan. Using YABX, a fintech venture in digital lending technology, the partnership seeks to enhance the digital credit profiling of customers to allow the unbanked population access credit. One-fourth of the world today is still unable to access financial products like loans, savings & insurance due to limited or non-existent financial footprints. This partnership will change this.”

HOW CUSTOMERS ACCESS THE LOAN: Airtel money customers can dial 1857*10# to register for the service. To take a loan, a customer will transact normally on Airtel money and get a prompt to take a loan if they have insufficient funds to complete that transaction. Customers can take loans multiple times until they exhaust their limit and have 15 days to repay.

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Speaker Oulanyah has been sick for the last two weeks – Anita Among

By
Geoffery Serugo
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Speaker Oulanyah

The Deputy Speaker of Parliament of Uganda Anita Among has revealed that Speaker Jacob Oulanyah was flown of the country over unrevealed health complications.

“I wish to inform the country that the Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Oulanyah has been unwell for the last two weeks. During that period he was receiving medical attention from Mulago National Referral Hospital,” Anita told parliament.

She said the Medical Experts at Mulago in consultation with his personal doctors, decided to refer him for further specialized medical attention out of the country.

Oulanyah was last week flown out of the country to an unrevealed health facility in the United States (U.S).

The speaker went aboard a chartered Uganda Airlines plane which took off on Wednesday to Iceland and later landed at its final destination in the USA.

Eagle Online has also learnt that the August House paid Shs 1.7bn for Oulanyah’s chartered flight to the USA. The Observer reported that Parliament allegedly paid $500,000 to Uganda Airlines on Wednesday, a slight discount off the $563,000 market price to fly the speaker and about 10 others on the 252-seater plane.

According to sources the speaker is suffering from abdominal related complications which started last year.

“The speaker has been on and off duty and this is not the first time that he is receiving medical attention from a US based health facility. He was last year admitted to Mulago hospital before going for further medical management,” the source said.

Oulanyah serves as the Speaker of the 11th Parliament of Uganda. He was elected to that position on 24 May 2021, after defeating the former Speaker Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga.

He served as Deputy Speaker of the Ugandan parliament, from May 2011 until May 2021. He is also the member of parliament representing the Omoro County constituency, Omoro District, Acholi sub-region, in Uganda’s Northern Region.

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Makerere University suspends 12 students over strike

By
Our Reporter
-
Prof Nawangwe

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe has suspended twelve students for taking part in a strike over online lectures.

Several students on Monday went on strike to oppose the university’s decision regarding the decision to proceed with the blended mode of teaching and learning, despite the full reopening of the economy.

The University Management received reports of bullying of freshers by some continuing students. This bullying was in the form of forced jogging, physical assault and use of offensive or profane language. The same individuals also destroyed university property in an attempt to get the freshers out of their rooms.

“This morning, a group of around 20 students disrupted classes and engaged in other acts of hooliganism. I have suspended twelve (12) of those students who were identified and I will suspend all the others once they are identified,” Professor Barnabas Nawangwe noted.

“Six (6) students were involved in bullying freshers, physical assault and destruction of University property. In this regard, three (3) students have been suspended, while three (3) students have received warning letters.”

Nawangwe re-affirmed that Makerere University observes a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and any other form of assault, as well as destruction of University property. The unruly behavior is a contravention of the Makerere University Students Regulations 2015, 8 (9) (b) (III) and (iv) as well as 9 (a) and (b).

The Vice Chancellor stated in his press release that the decision to continue with the blended mode of teaching and learning was taken before the full reopening of the economy. Therefore, all arrangements for the first semester and subsequent approvals by Senate and Council were made against this background.

Nawangwe added that the University considers the health and safety of students and staff as priority number one. “There is nothing more valuable than life. After losing four senior members of staff to COVID-19 we must be very cautious,” he said.

“I wish to once again re-assure all our stakeholders that the University Management will continue to enforce disciplinary measures against some students who engage in this unacceptable behavior,” he said.

Nawangwe encouraged all students to strongly desist all attempts to disrupt University activities, under the pretext of demanding full reopening of the University.

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