By Alibawa saire.

Tomorrow marks an important event in the fight against malaria in Uganda, as communities gear up for a walk against this deadly disease. The walk, organized under the theme “Zero Malaria starts with you,” carries a profound message emphasizing individual and collective responsibility in eradicating malaria.

Malaria remains a significant contributor to mortality rates in Uganda, especially in areas where its prevalence is high. Recognizing the urgency of addressing this issue, Speaker @AnitahAmong has called upon the Ministry of Health to expand the scope of these annual walks beyond Kampala. She highlighted the necessity of conducting such awareness campaigns in regions like West Nile, Lango, and Busoga, where malaria poses a severe threat to communities.

AnitahAmong also raised concerns about the decline in malaria awareness campaigns in media. She reminisced about the impactful adverts that used to educate Ugandans about the dangers of malaria and the importance of preventive measures like clearing mosquito-breeding sites. She emphasized the need to reignite these efforts, stressing that the fight against malaria requires continuous vigilance and public education.

“We need to get people to know that malaria is a killer disease,” remarked AnitahAmong. “As legislators and leaders of the people, let us not wait for the Ministry. Let us tell people that malaria is a killer disease; they should be careful and be able to protect themselves against malaria and other diseases.”

Her plea to the Ministry of Health to organize nationwide malaria walks echoes the sentiment that proactive measures, including sustained awareness campaigns and community engagement, are crucial in combating malaria effectively. By reaching out to areas most affected by malaria and ensuring that preventive resources like mosquito nets are used appropriately, Uganda can make significant strides towards a malaria-free future.

The call to action is clear: it’s time to prioritize nationwide initiatives against malaria, starting with annual walks that not only raise awareness but also empower communities to take charge of their health and well-being.

By Alibawa saire

Namutumba Seed Secondary School, nestled in Namutumba District, Uganda, finds itself in the throes of a concerning red eye disease outbreak. The school’s administration, in a bid to contain the spread, has made the tough decision to send students back home.

Dr. James Kirya, the Namutumba District Health Officer, confirmed the gravity of the situation, highlighting the widespread nature of red eye cases across schools and communities, notably in Magada sub-county. This has prompted urgent directives to school leaders to mobilize resources for providing essential first aid to affected learners.

The impact of the outbreak is felt deeply within Namutumba Seed Secondary and Namutumba Modern School, situated in Namutumba Town Council. Mr. Sidi Kiirya, the director of students, emphasized the lack of capacity within the school to manage the growing number of infected students, necessitating their removal from the premises.

As the battle against red eye disease rages on for nearly a week with no signs of abatement, local authorities, represented by Magada LC 3’s Mr. Jafaari Kasalawo, are advocating preventive measures like frequent handwashing. However, challenges persist as some individuals turn to traditional healers instead of seeking medical assistance.


According to the Ministry of Health in Uganda, a staggering 7,596 cases of red eye disease have been registered, with a significant portion documented within prison facilities. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of addressing the outbreak on a national scale.

Government Intervention and Measures

The Ugandan government has responded swiftly to combat the red eye disease epidemic, implementing crucial measures such as:
Public Awareness Campaigns. Launching extensive public health campaigns to educate communities about the symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures against red eye disease.

Collaborative Efforts. Partnering with local authorities, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to coordinate a cohesive response strategy, including surveillance and rapid response teams.

Access to Medical Care.  Ensuring accessibility to medical care and discouraging reliance on unproven traditional remedies through targeted outreach programs.

The government’s proactive stance and collaborative approach are crucial in mitigating the impact of the red eye disease outbreak, safeguarding public health, and fostering a culture of health awareness and responsiveness in communities across Uganda.

By Alibawa saire

In a significant step towards ensuring the success and inclusivity of Uganda’s National Population and Housing Census 2024, Archbishop Steven Kazimba Mugalu, head of the Church of Uganda, expressed gratitude to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) for inviting religious leaders to the National Census Prayer Breakfast.  The event is  planned for May 10-19, 2024 with May 9 the census night.

At least 114,460 enumerators and 18,483 supervisors are expected to participate in Uganda’s 2024 national census. The Archbishop noted that the event underscored the government’s acknowledgement of the vital role played by religious leaders in societal development and governance.

Archbishop Kazimba Mugalu emphasized the importance of continuous engagement between UBOS and religious leaders, referring to them as “FAT” people – Faithful, Available, and Teachable. This recognition highlights the valuable contributions that religious institutions and leaders can make towards ensuring accurate census data and widespread participation, said His Grace.

On the organizational front, Chris N. Mukiza (PhD), the Executive Director (ED) of UBOS and Census Commissioner (CC) for NPHC 2024, outlined the meticulous planning and implementation process of the census. He stressed that the NPHC 2024 is a crucial component of Uganda’s National Statistical Development Plan (PNSD), with UBOS taking the lead role in coordination with various governmental bodies, the National Census Council, development partners, and external stakeholders.

Dr. Mukiza shared the overarching objective of the census, which is to provide comprehensive and benchmark data on population distribution, age, sex structure, and key socio-economic and demographic characteristics.

He also highlighted the technological advancements in data collection, moving from printed questionnaires to the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) system. This shift allows for more accurate and efficient data collection, including GPS coordinates for precise geographical referencing.

Acknowledging the significance of partnerships, Dr. Mukiza identified religious leaders as critical partners in the census process. Their responsibilities include publicizing the census during congregations and media appearances, as well as providing ongoing qualitative evaluation of the census implementation.

This collaborative effort between UBOS and religious leaders reflects a proactive approach towards ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive census that accurately represents Uganda’s diverse population. It underscores the importance of stakeholder engagement and the utilization of modern technologies to achieve the objectives of the National Population and Housing Census 2024.

By Alibawa Saire.

Mubende Ug, In collaboration with @PoliceUg, three officials from Mubende District Local Government have been apprehended on allegations of Abuse of Office and Neglect of Duty. The individuals in question are John Baptist Muzibira, District Engineer; Kamya John Birungi, Civil Engineer; and Ssendikadiwa Vito Bosco, Acting District Health Officer.

These arrests follow the mishandling of UGX 33 million designated for expanding a maternity ward at Kibalinga HCIII, raising serious concerns about the state of healthcare infrastructure in the district.

The accusations point towards Ssendikadiwa Bosco, the contract manager, and the two engineers as project supervisors, for their failure to oversee the project effectively. This failure resulted in incomplete construction and subpar work on the maternity ward extension and waiting shed at Kibalinga Health III, leaving patients dissatisfied and compromising healthcare delivery.

Community reacts,
Joelia Nakiyovu, a patient, expressed her discomfort with the ward’s condition, highlighting issues like poor construction quality, excessive coldness at night, and mosquito infestation.

Dr. George Ndagijimaana, in-charge of Kibalinga Health Centre III, acknowledged that the unsatisfactory state of the maternity ward has led to a significant decline in women seeking services at the facility.

Mr. Richard Nsenga, a councillor for Kibalinga Sub-county, welcomed the arrest of the officials, reflecting community discontent over the mismanagement of public funds and the resulting healthcare challenges faced by residents. Other women in the area shared their struggles of having to travel long distances in search of adequate medical care due to the inadequacies at Kibalinga Health III.

As investigations progress, Mr. Emmanuel Bunya, SHACU media coordinator, confirmed that the officials would be charged with neglect of duty. Bunya emphasized that Ssendikadiwa, designated as the project manager, failed to supervise the work adequately, leading to the current situation at the healthcare facility.

The trio remains detained at Mubende Central Police Station, awaiting the completion of investigations before facing legal proceedings. This development underscores the critical need for accountability and transparency in managing public resources, particularly in vital sectors like healthcare, to ensure quality services for all citizens says Mr. Emmanuel Bunya.

By Alibawa saire.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa recently shed light on a poignant encounter with a distressed lady who resorted to social media in desperation after encountering challenges in seeking help through conventional channels. The lady’s grievances stemmed from a situation where her husband, confirmed by the Deputy Speaker, is serving a six-month prison term for failing to pay a legal fine amounting to Shs40M following a court ruling.

In a candid revelation, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa shared his compassionate response to the aggrieved lady’s plight. He disclosed that despite her initial approach through social media—a platform she turned to after unsuccessful attempts elsewhere—he forgave her wholeheartedly upon meeting her in person. He emphasized her frail health and deep desperation, acknowledging the pain caused by the misuse of social media to tarnish reputations and spread falsehoods.

Reflecting on the gravity of the situation, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa expressed concern about the damaging impact of viral videos and misinformation, highlighting the challenges of restoring one’s reputation amidst such circumstances.

Moreover, he extended a heartfelt plea for assistance in identifying and establishing contact with the lady in question, emphasizing that the accusations against him regarding her land and the alleged arrest of her husband are baseless, as he has no land in Abaita and has never encountered her before.

The Deputy Speaker’s willingness to extend forgiveness and his call for understanding and rectification in the face of misinformation serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities and challenges posed by social media dynamics and the imperative need for responsible communication and fact-checking.

As this narrative unfolds, it underscores the importance of empathy, dialogue, and seeking factual clarity in resolving misunderstandings and addressing grievances within our communities.

By Alibawa saire

The news of Mr. Okiot Raphael’s tragic passing in a fatal car accident at Nkumba has sent shockwaves through our community. Bobi Wine, along with countless others, joins in extending deepest condolences to Mr. Okiot’s family, friends, and loved ones during this time of immense grief. Our prayers are with them as they navigate through this painful loss, seeking solace and strength.

The circumstances surrounding Mr. Okiot’s demise are heart-wrenching. It is distressing to learn that he remained trapped under the wreckage for over five hours before rescue efforts began. This unfortunate delay highlights a pressing concern about the accessibility and efficiency of public services, especially during emergencies of such magnitude.

Mr. Okiot Raphael, a respected lawyer by profession and a lecturer at Uganda Christian University (UCU), had just purchased his new car four days prior to the accident on Saturday, 13th April. His untimely departure leaves a void not only in the legal and academic communities but also in the lives of those who knew him personally.

In a poignant statement, HW Kwagala Faith Irene, Magistrate Grade I Kyenjojo, mourns the loss of her husband, Okiot Raphael, emphasizing the profound sorrow that his passing has brought upon his family and friends.

This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in our emergency response systems. Every citizen deserves prompt and effective assistance during crises, and it is imperative that we collectively strive for a Uganda where swift and efficient public services are a reality.

As we remember and honor the life of Mr. Okiot Raphael, let us channel our grief into advocacy for positive change. Together, we can work towards building a nation where tragedies like this serve as catalysts for improving the safety and well-being of all citizens.

May the soul of Mr. Okiot Raphael rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy inspire us to pursue a better future for Uganda.

Vice President Jessica Alupo recently commended President Museveni for spearheading the industrial hub initiative, which aims to combat unemployment by providing training opportunities for young people. Her remarks came during the graduation ceremony of the Teso sub-region Industrial Zonal Hub in Soroti City, where she highlighted the positive impact of this initiative on youth empowerment and economic development.

The industrial hubs initiative, initiated in 2021, has seen the establishment of 19 presidential industrial hubs across Uganda. These hubs serve as centers for imparting hands-on skills and practical training to the youth, equipping them with the necessary tools to succeed in various industries.

In her speech, Vice President Alupo emphasized the importance of such initiatives in addressing the unemployment challenge faced by many young Ugandans. She lauded President Museveni’s vision and leadership in prioritizing the development of industrial hubs as a strategic solution to youth unemployment.

The graduation ceremony at the Teso sub-region Industrial Zonal Hub showcased the achievements of young individuals who have successfully completed training programs in areas such as manufacturing, agriculture, technology, and entrepreneurship. These graduates represent a new wave of skilled workforce ready to contribute to Uganda’s economic growth and prosperity.

The industrial hubs not only provide training but also create opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship within local communities. By focusing on practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, the hubs bridge the gap between education and the job market, ensuring that young people are equipped with relevant competencies to thrive in their chosen fields.

Furthermore, the industrial hubs initiative aligns with Uganda’s broader economic development goals, including the promotion of industrialization, innovation, and youth empowerment. It reflects a strategic approach to harnessing the potential of Uganda’s youth population as a driving force for sustainable development.

As Vice President Alupo concluded her speech, she called for continued support and investment in the industrial hubs initiative, highlighting its role in shaping the future of Uganda’s workforce and economy. The success stories emerging from these hubs serve as testimonials to the transformative impact of skills development and vocational training on individual lives and national progress.

In essence, Vice President Alupo’s praise for President Museveni’s industrial hubs initiative underscores the government’s commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and economic transformation through strategic investments in skills development and industrialization.

By Alibawa saire.

During a recent parliamentary session, Speaker Hon. Annet Anita Among took a firm stance on the discussion of reports regarding assassination attempts against the Leader of the Opposition, @JoelSsenyonyi. She intervened when Peter Mugema, the Iganga Municipality MP, attempted to raise this concern, describing such talks as attempts to “play to the gallery.”

Speaker Among emphasized that individuals who feel their lives are in danger should report such threats to the Police rather than bringing these discussions to the floor of Parliament. She expressed her disapproval of sensationalizing sensitive security matters in a public forum, stating, “Let us not play to the gallery. I am seeing a lot of things, if there is any assassination attempt, you go and report to Police. Who can assassinate a person? For what? Of what value are you?”

Her remarks highlighted the need for responsible handling of security issues and urged parliamentarians to prioritize appropriate channels for addressing such concerns. She further cautioned against the speculative nature of certain discussions, suggesting that discussions about assassination attempts might be influenced by extraneous factors, such as alcohol consumption in social settings like bars.

“For me, those are the things that shouldn’t even come here because we don’t assassinate people. Nobody is of value that we want to assassinate people and stop playing to the gallery,” Speaker Among concluded, reaffirming the importance of maintaining decorum and focusing on substantive legislative matters within the parliamentary setting.

The Speaker’s intervention underscores the broader challenge of balancing transparency with responsible discourse, especially concerning sensitive topics like security threats, within the framework of parliamentary proceedings.

By Alibawa Saire.

The recent five-day sit-down strike initiated by traders in Uganda has brought to light significant concerns regarding the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing Solution (EFRIS) system implemented by @URAuganda. Traders in various regions, including the City Center, Iganga, Jinja, Mbarara, Luwero, and Mityana, have closed shops in protest against what they perceive as challenges posed by the tax assessment tool.

The strike has garnered a mixed reaction outside Kampala, with some areas like Mityana and Luweero witnessing widespread participation and business closures, while Mbarara saw businesses remaining operational to a large extent. Despite these varied reactions, there is a unanimous call for revising the EFRIS system among all members of the business community.

Godfrey Katongole, Chairman of the Kampala Arcades Association-KATA, expressed frustration over unsuccessful attempts to engage with the government on the matter, leading to the closure of businesses. This sentiment is echoed by many traders who feel that their concerns have not been adequately addressed.

In response to the escalating protests, John Musinguzi, the URA Commissioner General, stated that EFRIS would not be removed but emphasized ongoing efforts to engage with the business community and understand the implications of the new policy.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni is expected to meet with leaders of the striking traders this week to explore ways of resolving their objections as the strike continues to spread across the county. This meeting signifies a proactive approach to address the concerns raised by the business community and find mutually acceptable solutions.

Support for the traders’ protest has also come from unexpected quarters. Kampala Central Mayor, Salim Uhuru, despite his affiliation with the ruling party, voiced support for the traders protesting the EFRIS system, acknowledging its negative impact on businesses.

Furthermore, the state minister of Trade, David Bahati, informed parliament about ongoing engagements between ministers from the Ministry of Trade and Ministry of Finance with leaders of traders to find ways to resolve the impasse between traders and URA.

The ongoing sit-down strike highlights broader issues with tax regimes, the new tax collection system EFRIS, and other challenges faced by traders in Uganda. It underscores the importance of dialogue, understanding, and finding solutions that balance tax compliance objectives with the needs and concerns of the business community.

By Alibawa Saire.

Entebbe UG, a tragic accident unfolded at the Nkumba University traffic lights along the bustling Entebbe – Kampala expressway. The incident involved a cement mixer truck (UAN 836D) that lost control, leading to a collision with barriers in the middle of the road. Subsequently, the cement truck fell onto a Mitsubishi RVR (UBQ 371P), resulting in a devastating outcome.

Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that there was one occupant inside the Mitsubishi, tragically presumed to have lost their life in the accident. The body remains trapped amidst the wreckage, highlighting the severity of the collision.

Following the incident, the driver of the cement mixer truck exited the vehicle and sought medical attention at a nearby facility. This immediate response underscores the importance of prompt medical care in such critical situations.

The response to this tragic event has been swift and coordinated. Traffic officers, alongside the Entebbe Traffic Police and SFC, are actively engaged in clearing the wreckage near the Nkumba traffic lights. Their concerted efforts aim to restore normalcy to the affected area and ensure the safety of motorists navigating this key roadway.

This accident serves as a stark reminder of the risks inherent in our daily commute and the critical role of road safety measures. It underscores the need for continuous vigilance, adherence to traffic regulations, and the importance of timely emergency response protocols.

As the authorities work tirelessly to address the aftermath of this accident, our thoughts are with the families and loved ones impacted by this tragic event. May swift recovery efforts and ongoing safety initiatives contribute to preventing such incidents in the future, fostering a safer environment for all road users.