Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
19.6 C
Kampala
Stanbic Bank
Stanbic Bank
Home Blog Page 92

From Despair to Hope: How a Lira Woman Rebuilt Her Life with Masunga Doctors

For years, Lilian Akello, a 35-year-old tailor in Lira City, lived a life that felt like an endless cycle of pain, loss, and hopelessness. Her story reflects the struggles of many hardworking Ugandans living from paycheck to paycheck, battling health issues, strained marriages, and businesses on the verge of collapse.

The Struggles Begin

Lilian’s problems started slowly. At first, it was her health.

“I used to suffer from constant headaches that made it impossible to sleep. I tried medication from different clinics and even bought herbs from roadside vendors, but nothing worked,” she recalls.

Then came problems at home. Her husband, once her biggest supporter, became distant. Arguments over school fees, food, and money became routine.

As if that wasn’t enough, her tailoring shop in Lira Main Market where she stitched school uniforms and dresses for weddings began to sink. Loyal customers drifted away, orders reduced, and cloth suppliers demanded upfront payment she couldn’t afford. Rent for her small kiosk, UGX 150,000 per month, piled up unpaid.

“I felt cursed,” Lilian admits. “Everything I touched seemed to collapse. My health, my home, and my shop it was like life had turned against me.”

A Ray of Hope

In August last year, while visiting her cousin in Gulu, Lilian overheard women sharing testimonies about Masunga Doctors, a traditional and spiritual healing center that many across Uganda say has changed their lives.

At first, she dismissed it as rumor. But when she returned to Lira and found her shop padlocked for rent arrears and her children sent home for unpaid fees, desperation forced her to act.

The Turning Point

Lilian contacted Masunga Doctors in Lira. She was welcomed with empathy and guided through a consultation. Unlike at hospitals where she only received prescriptions, here she was asked about every part of her life—her health, her relationships, her business, and even her dreams.

The healers explained that her struggles were not just physical but also spiritual. They recommended:

  1. Cleansing rituals with herbal baths at dawn to wash away negativity.
  2. Blessed protective charms to shield her from envy and bad luck.
  3. Restoration prayers for harmony in her marriage.
  4. Business rituals to attract loyal customers and open new financial doors.

The Transformation

Within weeks, Lilian noticed improvements:

  • The crippling headaches vanished.
  • Her husband grew kinder and even helped reopen her shop.
  • Old customers returned, and she landed a big order from Amach Primary School to sew 60 uniforms.
  • Slowly, debts were cleared, and she began saving a little every week.

Her husband, George Odongo, admits he almost lost hope in their marriage.

“I thought my wife was just being lazy and moody. I didn’t realize she was carrying such heavy burdens. After she went to Masunga Doctors, I saw the change with my own eyes. Peace returned to our home, and our children are happy again,” he says.

At the market, her neighbor, Margaret Akullo, a fellow tailor, noticed the difference too.

“For many months, Lilian’s stall was always closed. When it was open, she looked weak and tired. These days, she opens early, works late, and even attracts more customers. I asked her what happened, and she confidently told me it was Masunga Doctors,” Akullo says with a smile.

A Lesson for Others

Lilian’s story is one of many testimonies from people across Uganda who claim they found help at Masunga Doctors. While some remain skeptical, for those like Lilian, the results speak for themselves.

“I used to believe nothing could change. But now I know that healing is possible. Sometimes, you need both medical help and spiritual help. I am proof that life can be rebuilt,” she emphasizes.

Masunga Doctors – Contact Information

For those seeking guidance, Masunga Doctors can be reached at:

AFRICA OFFICES

Stories Continues after ad

EC confirms political party symbols and independent candidate options for 2026 elections

Symbols for political parties and independent candidates ahead of Uganda’s 2026 General Elections.

The Electoral Commission (EC) has officially confirmed the symbols for political parties and independent candidates ahead of Uganda’s 2026 General Elections.

The revelation was made by Julius Mucunguzi, Electoral Commission spokesperson via his X (formerly Twitter) handle.

He revealed, “Know the Political Parties on the Uganda Electoral Commission register and their symbols. Political Parties in Uganda are established by the Political Parties and Organizations Act of 2005, which came in after the country returned to the multiparty system following the referendum of 2005.”

He added, “Candidates running as Independents during the 2026 General Elections will choose from the following the Uganda Electoral Commission approved symbols. These will be picked by the aspirants on a first come, first served basis during nominations.”

Among the major parties, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) retains its iconic yellow bus, while the National Unity Platform (NUP) continues under the umbrella symbol. The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) sticks with the key, and the Democratic Party (DP) holds on to the hoe. Other notable symbols include a light bulb for the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT), a peace sign for the Conservative Party (CP) and a tree representing the Democratic Front (DF).

The Ecological Party of Uganda (EPU) is represented by a microphone, the National Peasants’ Party (NPP) by a pen and the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) by a lantern. The Uganda Federal Alliance (UFA) will campaign under a giraffe, while the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP) is symbolized by two hands holding the map of Uganda.

For independent candidates, the EC has curated a list of 20 everyday items as symbols designed to be easily recognizable and resonate with grassroots voters. These include a ball, banana, boat, book, borehole, candle, car, chair, clock, coffee, cup, house, jerrycan, kettle, megaphone, pot, radio, saucepan, table, and television.

The EC’s announcement is aimed at ensuring transparency and providing voters with clear visual cues on the ballot and helping citizens make informed choices in next year’s elections.

Stories Continues after ad

Former Minister Maria Kiwanuka’s son Kyam Nsereko, to be buried on Wednesday, 17

RIP Kyam Nsereko Kiwanuka.

The family of city businessman Mohan Kiwanuka and his wife, former Finance Minister and current Presidential Advisor Maria Kiwanuka, is set to bury their son Kyamukunguya Nsereko Kiwanuka on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at their burial grounds in Kiwatule, Kampala.

Late Nsereko’s remains arrived in the country yesterday evening from Washington D.C., United States, where he collapsed and died of a heart attack.

He died on September 2, 2025. Nsereko had just completed his Master’s Degree (Real Estate) from the University of Denver, USA. He also held a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Connecticut, USA. He was aged 34.

According to family sources, a post-mortem confirmed that Kyam died of a heart attack. He was discovered in his apartment after friends raised concern when he failed to report to work, something unusual for him.

“The TV was still on in the background, tuned to his favorite sports channel,” a source close to the family revealed. Kyam had recently completed his Master’s degree in Real Estate from the University of Denver after earlier obtaining a Bachelor’s in Economics from the University of Connecticut. He had just passed probation at his new job in Finance, a milestone that greatly excited him”. A family source who preferred anonymity told Eagle Online

He added “He was ambitious and full of life. We know our Kyam is okay and that his Jaaja Kiwanu is looking after him,” a family member said in tribute.

“A vigil will be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the family home in Kololo, starting at 6:00 p.m. Burial will follow the next day, Wednesday, September 17, at 2:00 p.m. at the family burial grounds in Kiwatule, Kampala”.

Leveling of grounds for the car parking lot at Kiwatule burial grounds.

His passing comes barely a month after the family laid to rest his grandmother, Ms. Rhoda Kalema, a trailblazing Ugandan politician, adding to the family’s sorrow.

Kyam is remembered for his academic brilliance, humility and love for family and friends.

May his soul rest in peace.

Stories Continues after ad

Kabira Country Club installs new gym equipment as facility gears up for 5-star status

Kabira Country Club has boosted its status as one of Uganda’s leading hospitality destinations by installing brand-new, state-of-the-art TechnoGym equipment at its fitness center, a key step in its journey toward five-star hotel classification.

The development is part of the facility’s brigger preparations to attain a five-star hotel rating, a milestone that will position Kabira as one of the country’s top luxury hospitality brands.

“We are excited to unveil the new TechnoGym machines, which will give our guests a dynamic and engaging fitness experience,” management announced.

The management added, “Your wellness journey starts here, and we welcome both members and visitors to enjoy a modern, health-focused workout environment.”

The new machines, sourced from the globally renowned Italian fitness brand TechnoGym, are designed to provide a wide range of workouts, from cardio to strength training, catering to both casual exercisers and professional athletes.

Kabira Country Club, already known for its lush gardens, serene environment and extensive leisure amenities, has steadily been upgrading its facilities. The addition of the new gym equipment underscores the hotel’s commitment to offering guests world-class services that match international standards.

Industry experts note that Uganda’s hospitality sector is becoming increasingly competitive, with hotels investing heavily in wellness, conference and leisure facilities to attract both domestic and international clients. Kabira’s latest move reflects this trend while reinforcing its reputation as a lifestyle hub.

The club has also called on fitness enthusiasts to join and take advantage of the enhanced gym experience.

For inquiries and membership, Kabira can be reached at +256 702 711 175.

Stories Continues after ad

Entebbe Airport sets record with 243,000 passengers in August

The passenger exit terminal at Entebbe International Airport.

Entebbe International Airport registered its highest monthly international passenger traffic in history this August, cementing its position as a growing regional aviation hub.

According to Mr. Vianney Luggya, spokesperson of the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA), the airport handled 116,507 arrivals and 126,582 departures in August 2025 — a combined total of 243,089 international passengers. This translates to an average of 7,841 travellers per day, surpassing the previous record set just a month earlier in July 2025.

“The growth is significant and encouraging. Sports tourism and international conferences were among the major contributors to the higher figures,” Mr. Luggya said.

The new record highlights the sustained recovery of Uganda’s aviation sector, which has steadily rebounded since the COVID-19 downturn, supported by an increase in international events and rising demand for travel.

On the cargo side, Entebbe handled a total of 5,257 metric tonnes in August — including 2,010 tonnes of imports and 3,247 tonnes of exports. Fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers continued to dominate outbound cargo, reflecting Uganda’s competitive edge in agricultural exports.

“Fresh produce remains one of the leading exports through Entebbe, underscoring the airport’s role in facilitating trade and connecting Ugandan farmers to global markets,” Mr. Luggya noted.

With steady growth in both passenger and cargo traffic, Entebbe International Airport is expected to remain central to Uganda’s tourism, trade, and investment sectors heading into the peak travel season later this year.

Stories Continues after ad

Tycoon Sudhir urges investors to tap Uganda’s booming sectors at London Summit

Tycoon Sudhir Ruparelia seated next to Energy and Mineral Development Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, and other officials at the UK-Africa Business Summit 2025.

Sudhir Ruparelia, Ugandan billionaire and real estate mogul, has urged investors to explore Uganda’s thriving real estate, agriculture, hospitality, and tourism sectors, describing them as key drivers of economic growth and job creation.

Speaking at the 15th UK-Africa Business, Trade & Investment Summit in London he highlighted the country’s untapped potential and opportunities for both local and international investors.

At the sidelines of the summit, Sudhir, Chairman of the Ruparelia Group underscored his family’s extensive investments in Uganda which have created thousands of jobs and positively impacted millions of citizens.

“Together with my family, we have invested wholeheartedly in Uganda, our beloved home,” he said.

He added, “The real estate sector is vibrant, agriculture is full of opportunities, and our hospitality and tourism industries are thriving. Let’s continue to harness these sectors to uplift our economy.”

The summit, held on September 12 at The Royal Horseguards Hotel, brought together over 300 leaders including government ministers, CEOs and representatives from the World Bank, to explore ways to strengthen UK-Africa trade ties post-Brexit and leverage the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).

Uganda’s delegation, featuring First Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Kadaga and Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, showcased the nation’s investment potential across energy, technology, and agriculture sectors.

Sudhir, whose net worth is estimated between $1.2 and $1.6 billion, shared his inspiring journey: from working as a taxi driver in the UK during exile under Idi Amin’s regime to returning to Uganda in the 1980s to establish the Ruparelia Group.

What began as a small forex bureau has grown into a diversified conglomerate spanning real estate, hospitality, education, floriculture, and insurance. The Group owns over 300 properties, including the newly launched RR Pearl Business Park, and operates high-profile hospitality establishments like Speke Resort Munyonyo and Kabira Country Club.

“Uganda offers immense potential for growth,” Sudhir said. “Investors should seize the opportunities in real estate, agriculture, hospitality, and tourism to build a stronger economy for all.”

His remarks resonated with Uganda’s recent economic indicators, including a 6.3% GDP growth rate, 3.8% inflation, and $3.7 billion in foreign direct investment, signaling attractive prospects for UK and global investors in oil, agritech, and tourism.

The summit also featured discussions on digital trade and infrastructure, with potential UK-Uganda collaborations highlighted. Through his vision and philanthropy via the Ruparelia Foundation, Sudhir continues to position Uganda as a gateway to Africa’s 1.4 billion consumers, inspiring optimism for sustainable and inclusive growth under AfCFTA.

Stories Continues after ad

Gen. Salim Saleh commends OWC officers for advancing Uganda’s economic growth as he relocates back to Kapeeka after 4 years

Gen. Salim Saleh speaking to OWC officers.

General (Retired) Caleb Akandwanaho, popularly known as Salim Saleh, has lauded Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) officers for their steadfast work in helping Ugandan communities transition from subsistence farming to sustainable economic activities.

Speaking during a meeting at Kapeeka Industrial Park in Nakaseke District, the OWC Chief Coordinator expressed gratitude for their dedication. “I want to take this moment to extend my heartfelt thanks to each one of you for the exceptional work you’ve done as agents of Operation Wealth Creation,” Gen Saleh said.

According to sources, Gen. Saleh has relocated back to Kapeeka from his base in Gulu, after a four-and-a-half-year absence.

“Your contributions have ignited a vital international conversation on the issue of ‘wealth creation,’ becoming a central theme of discussion over the past 12 years. I commend all who embarked on this journey with us and those who have joined us along the way.”

He highlighted that every officer’s input, even if not always visible, is vital in changing lives. “Even though the results of your dedicated work may not always be immediately apparent, I assure you that they profoundly influence countless lives,” he emphasised.

The Kapeeka meeting also served as a platform for exchanging best practices on aligning OWC programmes with Uganda’s wider socio-economic goals. Gen Saleh received an update on the recent retreat at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi, which reaffirmed the shared commitment to continuous improvement.

Operation Wealth Creation, a flagship government initiative, continues to champion economic growth and better livelihoods across Uganda, underscoring its role in driving sustainable national development.

Stories Continues after ad

Equity Bank relocates Bugolobi supreme branch to Modern Hensley Business Park for enhanced customer experience

Modern Hensley Business Park.

Equity Bank has announced the relocation of its supreme branch in Bugolobi to a more accessible and modern location as part of its commitment to improving service delivery for customers.

The branch has moved from Luthuli Avenue to Hensley Business Park, Plot 3–5 Mpanga Close, Mulwana Road, Bugolobi, strategically located in the heart of one of Kampala’s vibrant suburbs.

The relocation is designed to place the bank at the center of Bugolobi’s growing economic activity, improving accessibility and convenience for both retail and business customers. This move affirms Equity’s philosophy of being present where its customers live, work, and do business, ensuring financial services are seamlessly integrated into their daily lives.

Customers visiting the branch will be welcomed into a more spacious and modern banking hall designed for a superior customer experience. The enhanced facilities include ample space for private banking and consultations, making it ideal for personal and business banking needs.

Customers will have access to dedicated meeting room services, offering a professional environment to engage in financial advisory sessions and comprehensive money management discussions.

Additionally, the branch provides expert financial advice and a variety of tailored financial solutions to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses.

The new location also offers improved parking availability and is conveniently situated near key landmarks, further enhancing accessibility for customers.

Stories Continues after ad

How I Discovered the Truth Behind My Stolen Car in Mbale

My name is Sarah Nambozo, a resident of Mbale Town in Eastern Uganda. For many years, I dreamed of owning my own car. I am a hardworking woman who runs a small retail shop in Mbale Central Market. Every day, I would wake up at 5 a.m., prepare my children for school, then head to the shop. I saved every coin I could, even when times were tough.

Finally, after years of sacrifice, I managed to buy a small Toyota Fielder on hire purchase. That car was my pride. It made my movements easier, helped me transport stock for my shop, and gave me a sense of dignity. I felt like all my struggles were finally paying off. I had just two installments left before it became fully mine.

But one fateful evening, everything changed.

I had parked the car outside Mbale Post Office while running a few errands. When I returned, the spot was empty. At first, I thought maybe I had parked at a different side, but after checking three times, the reality hit me my car was gone.

My heart raced. I felt dizzy. Neighbors gathered as I screamed in disbelief. Someone advised me to go straight to Mbale Central Police Station, which I did. I filed a case, but the officers just took notes and told me, “We shall investigate.”

Days turned into weeks. Each time I went back, I was met with the same answer: “We are still following up.” But deep inside, I could see they had lost interest. I cried myself to sleep most nights. My shop suffered because I had no energy to run it. Worse still, I kept suspecting everyone around me my relatives, friends, even my neighbors. I wondered if one of them had betrayed me.

One afternoon, while seated in my shop with tears in my eyes, a close friend whispered to me:

“Sarah, have you heard of Masunga Doctors? They help people in situations where normal means fail. People say they can reveal the truth hidden in darkness.”

At first, I laughed bitterly. “Do you think a herbalist can find a stolen car when the police themselves have failed?” I asked.

But that night, as I lay awake, tossing and turning, I remembered her words. Something told me I had nothing to lose. The following day, I reached out to Masunga Doctors through their phone number. I explained my story, half expecting them to dismiss me. But instead, they listened calmly and assured me:

“Sarah, what belongs to you cannot be hidden forever. We shall help you uncover the truth, not for revenge, but for peace and restoration.”

I agreed to go through their spiritual process. It involved cleansing rituals, special prayers, and guidance that was both comforting and powerful. They told me to remain patient and watch what would unfold.

Three days later, something unbelievable happened.

In the middle of the night, I heard loud knocks at my gate in Namakwekwe Estate. When I opened, three young men stood there, trembling. One of them broke down and cried, saying, “Auntie, forgive us. We are the ones who took your car. We cannot sleep. Every night, something torments us. We feel we must confess.”

I was shocked. My knees grew weak. They narrated everything, including where they had hidden the car. At dawn, I called the police and gave them the details. True to the confession, the car was recovered in Tororo Road, dusty but still in good condition.

When I stood beside my car again, tears rolled down my cheeks. I felt like a heavy mountain had been lifted from my shoulders. My children hugged me tightly, and my neighbors marveled at how the truth had been revealed so quickly after months of police silence.

Community Reactions

Word spread like wildfire across Mbale.

At Namakwekwe Market, women I didn’t even know came to congratulate me. Some whispered, “Eh, this one must have gone to very powerful people. How else can thieves return a stolen car willingly?”

Others were curious and kept asking me, “Sarah, tell us the truth how did you manage? Did you use police connections or witchcraft?”

Even my customers at the shop began telling each other my story. Some came just to buy a small item and get a chance to ask me questions. I could see the amazement in their eyes when I told them, “It was through Masunga Doctors. They helped me recover what I thought I had lost forever.”

One of my neighbors, who had laughed at me earlier, admitted, “Sarah, I thought you were wasting your time. But now I believe there are things beyond human understanding.”

Of course, there were also skeptics. A few people muttered, “Ah, maybe the thieves just feared being caught by police and decided to return the car.” But deep down, even they couldn’t explain why the culprits came crying to confess at my doorstep.

For me, the truth is simple: I had reached the end of my road, and Masunga Doctors gave me a way forward. They gave me back my car, my dignity, and my peace of mind.

Today, as I drive through Mbale Town streets past Clock Tower, past Senior Quarters, up to Maluku I feel stronger than ever. I know what it means to be hopeless, to feel betrayed, to watch your dreams crumble before your eyes. But I also know that Masunga Doctors are real. They restore hope where there seems to be none.

If you are reading this and going through a similar struggle whether it is theft, betrayal, or anything that keeps you awake at night do not suffer in silence. There is a way to find the truth and reclaim your peace.

AFRICA OFFICES

Stories Continues after ad

Katikkiro Mayiga shines in lighter moments: A dance, a dedication, and defining achievements

Katikiro Peter Mayiga pulling his dancing strokes.

In a recently circulating video, Buganda’s Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, is captured in a rare, light-hearted moment—cutting loose on the dance floor amid the pomp and ceremony. The image of the often solemn and dignified premier dancing brings out a side of leadership many do not always see: joyous, human, connected.

Such moments are more than just entertainment. They are reminders of a leader who, despite many trials, continues to stay close to his people—sharing laughter, culture, and hope.

Moments Like This Aren’t Totally New
While we may not have dozens of published instances of Katikkiro Mayiga dancing for pure joy, there have been similar cultural and social moments where his warmth and humour came through. One such moment was during a Kabaka’s dinner, when an upbeat song (“Down Low” by Sheebah) got the guests—including Katikkiro Mayiga—out of their chairs and into the dance. YouTube

These moments, while not always front-page, matter because they show the human dimension of leadership: a man who can be formal, but not aloof; who carries the weight of cultural expectation, history, and duty—and still, occasionally, lets the beat move him.

Achievements & Challenges: The Mixed Terrain
To understand the full picture, it’s useful to look at what Katikkiro Mayiga has done in his time in office, and what he’s had to navigate.

Major Achievements
Over a decade of service: He has been Katikkiro since 12 May 2013. bugandauk.com

The Five Key Pillars: Under his leadership, the Buganda Lukiiko adopted five core priorities: preserving and strengthening the Throne; advocating for federal governance; protecting Buganda’s land and boundaries; promoting economic self-reliance; and fostering unity. bugandauk.com

Restoration of heritage and royal sites: Under Mayiga’s watch, royal sites like Bamunanika, Kireka, and the royal drum site have been restored; the rebuilding of the Kasubi Royal Tombs has also been championed. bugandauk.com

Health initiatives: The Katikkiro inaugurated a new health board in August 2025 aimed at strengthening healthcare in Buganda, including maternal and child health, vaccination programs, prevention of Hepatitis B, and facilities in Mukungwe Buddu, Busimbi, Nsangi and Bukalasa. bugandauk.com

Mobilisation and unity: For example, ahead of the 32nd coronation anniversary of Kabaka Mutebi II, Mayiga rallied the people of Buganda to participate massively under a theme emphasizing public health and the protection of the girl child.

Challenges Faced
The health of His Majesty the Kabaka: Since 2020 the Kabaka has had to seek medical reviews and treatment abroad. The Katikkiro’s role has involved not only administrative oversight of the kingdom in the Kabaka’s partial absence but also managing public concern and maintaining unity among the people. For example, in 2025 the Katikkiro announced the Kabaka’s medical review in Germany and confirmed his return in good health. Explorer Uganda

Preserving tradition in changing times: As Buganda works to restore cultural sites, maintain traditions, and promote unity, there is always tension with modernization, political dynamics, land pressures, and questions about how to align ancient institutions with contemporary governance.

Financial and logistical constraints: Restoring sites, building health infrastructure, and maintaining cultural programs are expensive and often rely on fundraising (e.g., “Ettoffaali”), donor goodwill, and institutional capacity. Walking that balancing act is never easy.

Why the Dance Matters
The video of Katikkiro Mayiga dancing is more than just amusing. It is symbolic.

It shows connection: to culture, to people, to joy.

It humanises leadership: reminding us that leaders are not always formal; they have personalities and vulnerabilities, and they share in the festive pulse of their people.

It builds loyalty: seeing a leader in joyful mood can increase affection, trust, and solidarity among citizens.

It underscores resilience: even when serious responsibilities weigh heavily (health of the Kabaka, land disputes, boundary and identity issues), there is space for celebration and renewal.

Conclusion
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga may have many titles, but his leadership isn’t built only on formalities. It is carved out in dances, in health boards, in restored tombs, in loud carnivals, in quiet moments with constituents, and in the steady work of preserving Buganda’s culture and unity under pressure.

The newly surfaced dance video simply reminds us that amongst the responsibilities and challenges, there remains a man who can smile, who can move, and who can lead with both strength and warmth.

Stories Continues after ad