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HIV/AIDS ALERT: Bugisu Sub-Region facing critical situation

By
Guest Writer
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Mr Wamutu James and another panelist at a health facilitation event.

By Mr. Wamutu James,

Public Health Specialist and Executive Director, Uganda Health Developers (UHD)

MBALE, UGANDA – The Bugisu sub-region is grappling with a rising tide of HIV/AIDS cases, particularly among adolescents, young people, and youth, with females disproportionately affected. According to recent statistics, Uganda recorded 38,000 new HIV infections in 2023, with the majority being youths aged 15-24.

Of these new infections, females account for 22,000, highlighting the urgent need for targeted interventions. The national HIV prevalence stands at 5.1%, with 1.5 million people living with HIV in Uganda. While 92% of those living with HIV are aware of their status, and over 90% are receiving ARV therapy, more needs to be done to curb the spread of the disease.

Key drivers of the epidemic in the Bugisu sub-region include early marriage, polygamy, gender inequality, poverty, and cultural silence and stigma. To address these challenges, cultural and faith-based leaders are being urged to take immediate action.

“Our analysis reveals that cultural and faith-based institutions have a pivotal role to play in addressing this issue,” said Mr. Wamutu James, Executive Director, Uganda Health Developers (UHD). “We must work together to promote cultural values that protect women, girls, and young people, advocate for girls’ education and economic empowerment, and integrate comprehensive HIV education into programs.”

Other recommended actions include supporting community-based initiatives, engaging men and boys in HIV prevention and support, and addressing stigma and discrimination.

To achieve these goals, UHD is calling for the establishment of a cultural institution-led HIV/AIDS task force, development of culturally sensitive HIV education materials, engagement of local leaders in advocacy and awareness campaigns, and support for community-based initiatives addressing HIV/AIDS.

“We must unite to address the social and economic drivers of HIV/AIDS, protecting our young people and promoting a culture of life, love, and support,” Mr. Wamutu James emphasized. “Together, we can create a healthier Bugisu sub-region and stem the tide of this epidemic.”

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From Shs40,000 to a thriving multi-branch business: The journey of Abel Byamukama

By
Our Reporter
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Abel Byamukama at his shop.

My name is Abel Byamukama, a 29-year-old entrepreneur from Maguru Village, Kyabukonkoni Division, Fort Portal City. I am the founder of “Klean Star Products”, a growing enterprise that manufactures liquid soap and a range of home-care products.

My entrepreneurial journey began eight years ago, shortly after completing Senior Six. I moved from Ntungamo to Fort Portal with hopes of helping my uncle start a business. Unfortunately, the venture didn’t materialize, and I was left with just Shs40,000 and nowhere to go. A friend offered me shelter in an abandoned house. He was making liquid soap and encouraged me to learn the skill as a means of survival.

With the little money I had, I bought ingredients and started to learn how to make liquid soap. After a few months, I  began producing liquid soap, packaging it in reused mineral water bottles. I hawked my products around Fort Portal City, determined to make ends meet. I tried to access financing from a bank, but the requirements were overwhelming. Eventually, I secured a small loan of Shs480,000 from a microfinance institution, which was far less than I needed. Despite the frustration, I worked hard to repay it.

A turning point came when a friend introduced me to Equity Bank’s Youth Loan. The process was more accessible, and the Relationship Officer guided me through every step. I mobilized a group of friends, and we received Financial Literacy training from the bank. With group guarantors, I successfully applied for my first youth loan of Shs2,500,000.

This loan was transformative. It allowed me to increase production, expand my market, improve product branding, and meet client requirements. At this point, I was invited by the Tooro Women’s Group to train them in liquid soap making, which boosted my visibility and client base. I began supplying hotels, supermarkets, and other businesses across Fort Portal and neighbouring districts. As demand grew, I hired my first employee—initially temporarily, then permanently.

After repaying the first loan, I applied for a second loan of Shs4,500,000 to scale production. Over time, I have accessed six youth loans ranging from Shs2.5 million to Shs5 million, and six digital loans between Shs1 million and Shs3 million. My capital grew from Shs1.5 million to Shs40 million currently.

Today, Klean Star Products operates three branches in Fort Portal (head office), Kyenjojo, and Mbarara. Our product line has expanded to include Jik, body lotions, jellies, candles, shampoo, and bar soap, many made on pre-order. We also supply raw materials to other soap makers.

We now serve 11 districts including Mbarara, Kabarole, Kagadi, Kalizi, Bunyangabo, Bushenyi, Kamwenge, Ibanda, Kasese, Kyenjojo, and Kyegegwa. Our clientele includes hotels, supermarkets, bakeries, factories, and the general market. The business employs eight full-time staff.

Beyond business, I’ve invested in 10 cows back in Ntungamo, managed by a full-time herdsman. I’ve acquired land near the highway, a car, and a motorbike for distribution. From living in an abandoned building, I now reside in a decent home and can afford a comfortable life.

I am proud to be a role model in my village and among my peers. Equity Bank believed in me when others didn’t. Their Youth Loan program addressed my biggest challenge—limited capital—and turned my dreams into reality.

My vision is to grow Klean Star Products into a fully-fledged factory that creates more jobs and supplies products across Uganda and beyond.

I am forever grateful to Equity Bank’s youth loan product for empowering young entrepreneurs like me.

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Victoria University unveils 5-year strategic plan, tribunal and new Naguru campus vision

By
Simon Kabayo
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Victoria University Vice Chancellor, Dr Lawrence Muganga, and university proprietor Sudhir Ruparelia chat with another guest after the meeting.

Victoria University has unveiled an ambitious 5-Year Strategic Plan alongside the official launch of the Victoria University Tribunal, which marks one of the institution’s most transformative milestones. 

The announcement was made during a high-profile ceremony held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, where the university leadership presented a bold roadmap for the future.

The university revealed that its new state-of-the-art home will rise in Naguru, overlooking Kampala’s iconic skyline. 

The planned campus will feature modern digital infrastructure, advanced laboratories, research facilities, and expanded learning spaces designed to position Victoria University as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

During the launch, the institution emphasized that the new vision is built on courage, reinvention, and a commitment to shaping the next generation. 

The leadership noted that the journey ahead is grounded in one powerful belief: the future is not handed down it is created by those bold enough to redesign it.

Victoria University’s 5-Year Strategic Plan sets out to enhance academic excellence, deepen research capacity, expand online and technology-driven learning, and invest heavily in entrepreneurship development. The university said these pillars will define its academic direction as it moves toward a more globally competitive model of education.

The event also witnessed the official inauguration of the Victoria University Tribunal, an independent governance body established to strengthen accountability, integrity, and fairness within the university. The tribunal will handle matters involving students, staff, and administration, ensuring that disciplinary and administrative issues are resolved transparently and professionally.

The newly constituted tribunal includes: Mr. Elisha Bafirawala – Chairperson of the Tribunal, a legal expert qualified to serve as a High Court Judge, Ms. Rebecca Irene Nassuuna – Secretary to the Tribunal and advocate, Gizamba Calvin – Student Guild Speaker, representing the student body, Dr. Bill Nkeeto – Representative of the academic staff, Mr. Vikrant Jha – Representative of the administrative staff, Dr. Harriet Mimi Uwineza – Representative of the Senate, and Dr. Mary Kanyiginya Tizikara – Representative of the University Council

University officials stated that the creation of the tribunal reflects a commitment to upholding high governance standards and building trust across the institution.

The launch of the strategic plan, the tribunal and the new Naguru campus vision signals a decisive new chapter for Victoria University — one built on innovation, strong values, and a clear determination to redefine the future of higher education in Uganda and the region.

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NRM leaders in Kawempe pledge peaceful, violence-free by-election campaigns

By
Francisco Adongo
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NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Faridah Nambi, the flag bearer for Kawempe North, Namayanja Nsereko, and State House Comptroller Jane Barekye

National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders in Kawempe Division have committed to ensuring a peaceful and orderly environment throughout the ongoing by-election campaigns and assured both the public and party leadership that the area will remain free of violence.

The pledge was made during a high-level mobilisation meeting in Kampala, led by NRM Deputy Secretary General Rose Namayanja Nsereko and State House Comptroller Jane Barekye. 

The engagement, part of President Yoweri Museveni’s intensified house-to-house mobilisation drive brought together more than 30,000 party leaders from the five divisions of Kampala.

Namayanja urged NRM leaders to put aside personal differences and prioritise the party’s broader mission.

“Let us not allow intrigue, jealousy, or resentment to divide us. Our focus should be on the common goal, victory for the NRM and continued development for our people,” she said.

She commended the strength of the party’s grassroots structures, noting that this mobilisation effort stands out because it is being driven by local members themselves.

Barekye, on her part, encouraged leaders to champion government poverty-alleviation initiatives, emphasising President Museveni’s call for increased household productivity.

“The President’s message is clear, every household should engage in productive work to eliminate poverty. As NRM leaders, we must take this message door-to-door and ensure that communities embrace government programs,” she said.

Namayanja further applauded Kawempe leaders for reaffirming their commitment to maintaining peace during the by-election period. She warned that the party would not hesitate to take action against any form of indiscipline.

“The NRM does not tolerate any form of chaos or disorder. Anyone who attempts to destabilise peace in our communities will face serious consequences,” she cautioned.

The leaders’ commitment comes as political activities intensify across Kampala, with the party positioning itself to secure victory while preserving stability in Kawempe Division.

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Uganda to host Africa industrialization week 2025 at Speke Resort Munyonyo

By
Francisco Adongo
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Uganda will host the 2025 Africa Industrialization Week (AIW 2025) from November 17 to 21, 2025, with all major sessions scheduled to take place at Speke Resort Munyonyo, the African Union (AU) has confirmed.

This year’s edition will run under the theme “Transforming Africa’s Economy through Sustainable Industrialization, Regional Integration and Innovation.”

The announcement, made on Friday, reaffirms Africa’s push to shift from exporting raw materials to building strong value-addition industries capable of creating jobs, enhancing skills, and increasing economic prosperity across the continent.

Africa currently supplies more than 70 percent of the world’s mined cobalt, largely from Central African countries. The AU says this should be a springboard for developing homegrown processing, manufacturing, and technological value chains instead of exporting the mineral in its raw form.

A promotional AU message captures this vision vividly: “Africa must build the technology value chains that cobalt powers.” The visual depicts hands trading cobalt for smartphones, symbolizing the continent’s ambition to anchor industrial growth on its rich mineral base and advance the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

AIW 2025 is being organized by the Government of Uganda in collaboration with the AU Commission, UNIDO, UNECA, AUDA-NEPAD, and the Afro-Champions Initiative. 

The week-long gathering will focus on closing gaps between policy, financing, and innovation. It will also spotlight scalable industrialization models, harmonize efforts among AU Member States and Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and introduce platforms for youth start-ups and women-led enterprises to connect with investors.

The program will include high-level discussions marking Africa Industrialization Day on November 20, expert panels on emerging industrial priorities, and exhibitions showcasing value-added products and new technologies.

Organizers expect the event to generate key outcomes such as stronger intra-African trade, actionable policy guidance for expanding industrial parks and production hubs, and renewed commitments under the Action Plan for Accelerated Industrial Development of Africa (AIDA) and IDDA III.

With Africa’s manufacturing output still contributing only about 10 percent to the continent’s GDP, significantly below global averages, the 2025 gathering at Speke Resort Munyonyo is being positioned as a pivotal moment to accelerate industrial diversification, especially as the global green transition unlocks greater demand for critical minerals.

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AU honours Ugandan peacekeepers in Somalia

By
Our Reporter
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The African Union has honoured troops of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces’ Battle Group XLI under the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia. 

The troops were decorated with medals and awarded certificates in recognition of their distinguished service during their peacekeeping tour of duty in Somalia.

At the same function, the outgoing contingent handed over responsibilities to Battle Group XLV.

On behalf of the Force Commander, Lt Gen Sam Kavuma, the Sector One Commander, Brig Gen Joseph Musoke Ssemwanga, praised Col Michael Hyeroba and his troops for their commitment throughout offensive and defensive operations that weakened Al-Shabaab activity in the Barawe and Baledamin sub-sectors.

Battle Group XLI ends its tour of duty with key achievements such as securing Barawe Airport, restricting Al-Shabaab’s freedom of movement, supporting and mentoring Somali National Army forces, and successful key leaders engagements that contribute to the wider relative calm in the sub-sectors.

He expressed confidence in the incoming commander, Col Justus Musenene of Battle Group XLV and encouraged him to rely on his team, maintain high morale and remain adaptable as he takes charge of operations.

Col Hyeroba thanked the UPDF leadership for trusting him with the command of Battle Group XLI. He appreciated Brig Gen Ssemwanga’s guidance, noting that it contributed to the successes registered during the mission.

Col Musenene affirmed his troops’ readiness to build on the achievements of their predecessors, saying the pre-mission training had prepared them to take on the new responsibilities.

The awarded soldiers represented the wider Battle Group, whose other troops had been decorated earlier in honour of their service and sacrifice in promoting stability in Somalia.

The event was attended by the incoming contingent commander Brig Gen Jackson Kayanja, Sector One Deputy Commander Col Francis Aragamoi, Contingent Administration Officer Col John Mark Ssemanda, Battle Group XLII Commander Col Sam Kosia Kuteesa, asset commanders, heads of departments, senior officers, junior officers and militants under Sector One.

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UAE slaps ban on visas as Ugandan immigrants are stranded

By
Simon Kabayo
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Ugandans departing for the UAE.

Uganda has joined Bangladesh, Somalia, Cameroon, Afghanistan, Sudan and other countries in the United Arab Emirates’ 2025 visa ban. 

The UAE has temporarily suspended the issuance of visit and work visas for citizens of nine countries due to security, immigration, and diplomatic concerns. 

The decision has triggered uncertainty and frustration among job seekers, families, and travellers, particularly in Uganda, where thousands have long viewed the UAE as a gateway for employment and trade.

According to reports, the affected countries include Uganda, Sudan, Somalia, Cameroon, Libya, Afghanistan, Yemen, Lebanon, and Bangladesh. The suspension applies to new tourist and work visa applications, meaning no new submissions from citizens of these countries will be processed until further notice. However, those who already hold valid visas remain unaffected and can still travel to or reside in the UAE.

The suspension has had an immediate impact on Ugandans who had planned to travel to the UAE for work or leisure. Many had already completed documentation and medical checks or secured employment offers. 

Recruitment agencies in Kampala have had to halt processing for new applicants, while travellers are seeking refunds and clarifications from agents. The move has also stranded Ugandan job seekers in transit countries who were waiting for visa approvals.

The UAE has not officially explained the reasons behind the ban, but various reports point to a mix of security, immigration control and diplomatic considerations. Some of the affected countries, including Afghanistan, Libya and Yemen are dealing with internal instability, while others such as Uganda and Sudan have been among major sources of labour migration to the Gulf. The suspension appears to be a preventive step aimed at managing overstaying and irregular migration.

For Uganda, the ban comes at a time when labour export remains one of the country’s key employment avenues. Thousands of Ugandans work in the UAE’s hospitality, construction, cleaning and domestic service sectors. The restriction could disrupt remittance flows and stall employment opportunities for many youths who had paid recruitment fees or taken loans to process travel documents.

The visa suspension also affects families who had hoped to visit or reunite with relatives in the UAE. Under the current restrictions, Ugandan citizens cannot apply for family visit visas, further straining personal and social plans. Recruitment and travel agencies have reportedly received instructions to pause all new submissions for citizens of the affected nations until the directive is lifted.

This development has also raised concerns among employers in the UAE who depend on migrant labour from Africa and Asia. Many sectors, including construction and domestic work, rely heavily on workers from Uganda and other listed countries. With the suspension in place, employers may experience delays in staffing and may be forced to seek alternative labour sources.

While this suspension is significant, it is not the first of its kind. The UAE has previously imposed temporary visa restrictions on certain countries due to overstaying issues and irregular migration. Such suspensions are often reviewed periodically based on bilateral discussions and immigration assessments.

For now, Ugandans affected by the directive are being advised to remain patient and await official communication from the UAE authorities. They are also urged to be cautious of fraudsters who may claim to process visas illegally during the suspension period.

As one of the top destinations for Ugandan migrant workers, the UAE’s decision is being closely watched by the government in Kampala. Officials from the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development are expected to engage with UAE authorities to seek clarification and determine how long the restrictions may last.

Until further notice, many hopeful travellers and workers remain stranded waiting for the suspension to be lifted and for the gates to the Gulf’s lucrative job market to reopen.

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Sudhir’s Paradise Island Resort opens up L. Victoria tourism

By
Our Reporter
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A new jewel of luxury tourism is set to rise from the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria as Paradise Island Resort prepares for its grand opening in March 2026. 

The magnificent eco-luxury retreat, developed by the Ruparelia Group under city tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia promises to redefine high-end hospitality in Uganda by blending natural beauty with world-class comfort.

Located about twenty minutes by speedboat from Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Paradise Island sprawls across nearly twenty acres of lush greenery, rocky shores, and serene waters. 

Guests will experience the true spirit of island living surrounded by breathtaking lake views, exotic birdlife and a peaceful environment that captures the essence of Uganda’s natural charm.

The resort is designed to cater to both relaxation and adventure seekers. It features an array of accommodations including standard cottages, cliff-hanger cottages perched on rock edges, deluxe two-bedroom cottages and a selection of executive villas. Each unit offers sweeping lake views and is crafted with modern elegance while maintaining harmony with the island’s natural landscape.

Construction of the resort began in 2021 and has since reached completion, paving the way an ambitious hospitality project. Although earlier reports suggested an opening in late 2025, the developers have now confirmed that the grand launch will take place in March 2026.

In preparation for operations, the Ruparelia Group has already unveiled a specially designed barge to transport supplies, materials and staff to and from the island, demonstrating the scale of investment and logistical planning behind the project.

Beyond its architectural splendor, the resort will boost the local economy by creating jobs in hospitality, transport and tourism services, while elevating Uganda’s international image as a destination for luxury and eco-friendly travel.

The island symbolizes more than luxury, it represents growing tourism potential and a renewed commitment to showcase the wonders of Lake Victoria to the world.

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Court denies NUP’s Waiswa Mufumbiro bail again as party launches his campaign in absentia

By
Emmanuel Okello
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Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro on handcuffs.

The Nakawa Chief Magistrate’s Court has once again denied bail to the National Unity Platform (NUP) Deputy Spokesperson, Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro who is charged with incitement to commit an offence.

In its ruling on Thursday, the court held that Mufumbiro was likely to interfere with ongoing investigations and therefore could not be released at this stage. 

The court advised him to reapply for bail after the state finalizes investigations, but did not set any timelines for when that would happen.

When Mufumbiro’s legal team requested that the court specify a time frame for the investigation process, the presiding magistrate said the court would rely on the test of reasonableness. The case has since been adjourned to December 2, 2025.

Although the court acknowledged that all the sureties presented by Mufumbiro were substantial and met the legal requirements, it maintained that it was not convinced he would refrain from acts that could disrupt public order if released.

Mufumbiro is also facing a separate charge of unlawful drilling before the Kawempe Magistrate’s Court in Kanyanya, where proceedings are ongoing. The alleged incident reportedly involved unauthorized public mobilization activities, which authorities say violated public order laws.

Meanwhile, despite his continued detention, Mufumbiro remains determined to continue his political journey. 

Speaking shortly after the ruling, NUP spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi said the party would not be derailed by what he described as state persecution.

“Nakawa Magistrate’s Court has denied Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro bail regarding the case of incitement to commit an offence. This is in spite of the court saying that all his sureties were substantial,” Ssenyonyi said. 

He added,“He also faces another charge of unlawful drilling at the Kawempe Magistrate’s Court in Kanyanya. Waiswa has told us to keep pressing on regardless of this persecution.”

Ssenyonyi further revealed that the NUP was proceeding with Mufumbiro’s campaign launch for the Nakawa East parliamentary seat, even in his absence.

“We’re now off to Mbuya 1 for the official launch of his campaigns for MP–Nakawa East Constituency,” he said.

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Businessman Basajjabalaba’s mother to be buried on Saturday

By
Our Reporter
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Late Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba.

The family of businessman Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba has announced the burial programme for their late mother, Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba who passed away in Cologne, Germany, on Monday, November 10, 2025.

According to the family, the body of the late Hajjat Azida will arrive at Entebbe International Airport on Friday morning, November 14, 2025. After arrival, Salatul Janazah prayers will be held at Kibuli Mosque immediately after the Friday Juma prayers.

The body will later be transported to Ishaka, Bushenyi where a vigil will be held at the family home starting at 6:00 pm. The final burial will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, beginning at 11:00 am.

“Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihi Raji’un! We surely belong to Allah and to Him we shall return,” the family stated in their announcement, inviting relatives, friends and well-wishers to join them in celebrating the life of their beloved mother.

Hajjat Azida, who died in her 80s had been receiving medical treatment in Germany before her passing. Family members described her as a humble, prayerful and generous matriarch who devoted her life to her children and community.

“It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our dear mother, Hajjat Azida Basajjabalaba, who went to be with Allah on Monday evening in Cologne, Germany,” read part of the family statement.

Her son, Hajji Hassan Basajjabalaba is one of Uganda’s most prominent businessmen and serves as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Kampala International University (KIU).

Leaders from across the political and business circles, including the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among have sent their condolences to the family.

“This is a painful loss not only to the Basajjabalaba family but also to the wider NRM fraternity,” Speaker Among said in her message of condolence.

Hajjat Azida will be remembered as a devoted mother, a strong believer in Islam, and a respected figure whose compassion and wisdom influenced both her family and the community at large.

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