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NRM scores average on health promises, recycles old pledges

The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, in their 2021-2026 manifesto, promised to transform the country’s healthcare system, an essential area for the population.

With the national resources at their disposal to execute the plans, our assessment of their performance discovered a mixed bag of remarkable achievements and glaring shortfalls.

While notable progress was made in expanding primary healthcare and increasing funding for medical supplies, significant gaps remain, with unfulfilled commitments, such as the completion of Lubowa International Specialised Hospital, reappearing in the 2026-2031 manifesto.

Overall, of 17 promises assessed and rated, only around 18 percent (3/17) of health promises were fully achieved, while the majority were either partially fulfilled (11/17) or showed no implementation (3/17).

When each of the items is weighted, the overall achievement is around 50 percent. Our analysis shows there were significant strides made in increasing access to care in communities, with the party reporting the construction of 454 Health Centre IIIs, surpassing the initial target of 331.

Some of these were upgraded from Health Centre IIs (HCIIs), to enhance access in underserved areas, according to the Ministry of Health.

By April this year, the Health Minister Dr Jane Ruth Aceng, had confirmed that 398 were completed, with funding from the World Bank’s Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers Programme (UgIFT) and Uganda Maternal and Child Health Improvement Project (UMCHIP) of around Shs720 billion.

Some HCIIs were upgraded to HCIIIs to improve access in underserved areas.

Achievements

Kayunga and Yumbe general hospitals were upgraded to regional referral status, and blood banks were established in Hoima, Arua, and Soroti.

This further improved access to care for complicated cases and addressed death related to the shortage of blood. We also found that advanced equipment, including CT scans and oxygen plants, was installed in major referral hospitals. However, during an April visit to Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, the equipment was found non-operational due to insufficient electricity.

The budget for essential medicines and supplies through National Medical Stores (NMS) rose from Shs258 billion in 2017/18 to Shs537 billion in 2023/24, reducing stock-outs.

The government did this amid the enhancement of salaries for medical workers. However, absenteeism persisted or worsened, according to Ministry of Health reports.

The manifesto pledged completion of Lubowa International Specialised Hospital (ISHU) by June 2021 to curb medical tourism (Ugandans spent $186 million abroad in 2017) and promote regional medical exports. However, construction remains incomplete.

Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka, in an April letter, set a new completion date of June 2026.

‘The anticipated completion date for the hospital is June 2026. While the project experienced delays due to a considerable number of unforeseen force majeure events, including the global Covid-19 pandemic, the government and the developer have, as a cure, agreed to an accelerated works programme to ensure timely completion,’ he said in an April 17 letter to the Monitor.

The promise has been recycled in the 2026-2031 manifesto, amid prevailing concerns by Opposition politicians regarding the transparency in this multi-billion-shilling project.

The NRM, in their previous manifesto, also promised new general hospitals in Wakiso and Kampala to ease overcrowding in KCCA facilities. These were not delivered, despite Kampala’s institutional maternal mortality rate of 213 deaths per 100,000 deliveries-far above the national average of 83.

The manifesto committed to upgrading Kisenyi, Kotido, and Kyegegwa HCIVs to general hospitals. While Kotido and Kyegegwa were upgraded, Kisenyi was not, exacerbating Kampala’s healthcare challenges.

The new manifesto is also silent about the national health insurance scheme which could be essential in bridging gaps in access to health care by reducing heavy out-of-pocket expenditure on health.

In the new manifesto for 2026-2031, NRM said they would construct HCIIIs in sub-counties without them; rehabilitate 40 HC IVs and provide them with theatres, 16 general hospitals, and eight regional referral hospitals.

This was also promised in the previous manifesto, but it was not fully implemented. Apart from this, the party has also promised to renovate old and dilapidated staff houses and construct new ones for health workers.

New promises in 2026-2031

They have also promised to construct, equip and functionalise regional blood banks in regions without them (Masaka, Busoga, Lango, Karamoja and Kigezi) and construct and equip new hospitals.

Masaka and Karamoja were mentioned in the previous manifesto, but were not implemented.

‘NRM will construct the orthopaedic and traumatology centre of excellence at Naguru National Referral Hospital [and] complete construction of Lubowa International Specialised Hospital,’ the manifesto reads.

This is largely recycled from the previous manifesto. There is also an expanded plan for the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area (GKMA) where the party plans to upgrade and equip health facilities to general hospital status. But this particular promise was made in the previous manifesto and not implemented.

The targeted facilities include Kampala (Kisenyi, Kawaala, Kiswa, Kisugu and Komamboga), Wakiso (Nansana, Kira, Wakiso HCIV, Ndejje HCIV in Makindye-Ssabagabo), Mukono (Goma) renovate and expand Soroti Regional Referral Hospital, and equip Bugiri General Hospital.

How we arrived at 50% assessment

There were 25 promises assessed (see table below). We had most of the information about 17 promises and so these qualified for our rating. Eight promises could not be rated because of insufficient information.

Achieved (A): 3/17 promises = 18%

Partially Achieved (PA): 11/17 promises = 62%

Not Achieved (NA): 3/17 promises = 18%

To calculate the NRM’s overall percentage performance, we evaluated the 17 rated promises out of the 25 assessed. The ratings were broken down as follows:

3 Achieved (100 percent performance each),

11 Partially Achieved (50 percent performance each), and

3 Not Achieved (0 percent performance each).

We then calculated the total performance score by multiplying the number of promises in each category by their respective weights ((3 × 1) + (11 × 0.5) + (3 × 0) = 8.5).

Dividing this score of 8.5 by the total number of rated promises (17) and multiplying by 100, gave an overall performance of 50%.

Mahaba wants Jubilee Race in Kampala

Uganda Cycling Association president Sam ‘Mahaba’ Muwonge spent the last week of September watching the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali and could not stop imagining such a marvel happening in Kampala.

‘What’s happening in Ugandan cycling is encouraging. Being in the World Championship when we didn’t qualify is special,’ said an excited Muwonge as 100 Ugandan cyclists were flagged off for the Jubilee Live Free Race in Nairobi last weekend.

‘Mrs Byaruhanga said this is the third time Jubilee Insurance is sponsoring a Ugandan team for the Nairobi race. It’s a great job they are doing. But I request that instead of Nairobi, let’s have this race in Kampala. Like Kigali gazetted all the roads for the world event, we can have it in Kampala as well,’ Muwonge said.

Of course this is a multi-sectoral, multi-departmental decision to make if such an important event is to happen here.

Feasibility

But how feasible is it? Are the sponsors willing?

‘We are in talks with Jubilee, our main sponsors, to have particular events here in Uganda. And very soon we shall come out with the plans. Hopefully, very soon we shall announce the event to be organised here,’ said Lance Ismael Ssebayiga, director Moonlight Events, who are the Ugandan coordinators of the race.

But the sponsor thinks the journey is still long.

‘This is the second year in a row we are hearing this suggestion and we’re in talks with Moonlight and the cycling association,’ Jubilee marketing and communications manager Camilla Mindru told Daily Monitor.

‘But we needed to build capacity and have a solid ground to start this conversation. We need more organised clubs like Masaka Cycling Club, which has strong structures: a president, a funding source, a medical team and a technical team, etc.’

She said that would give Uganda more chances to win the race once it’s hosted here.

Meanwhile, Mindru added that even as more people enter the Nairobi race every year, the event happens successfully.

‘That means there’s a certain standard they have set and a skillset we need to tap into if we are to organise an equally successful race here,’ Mindru said.

Nairobi conquest

The 2025 Jubilee Nairobi Race last Sunday attracted thousands of cyclists from 20 nationalities. Uganda’s Jordan ‘Schleck’ Ssekanwagi raced to gold in the 75km main race in 1 hour, 30 minutes and 39 seconds, while 2024 Olympian Charles Kagimu came second, just a second later to take silver. Kenya’s John Muchiri came third in 1:33:50.

The duo are slowly writing a story of Uganda’s growing dominance of the race. Ssekanwagi won the inaugural edition in 2019, while Kagimu was the champion last year.

Ethiopia’s Merhamit Hadush won the women’s 75km race in 1:38:25, Uganda’s Maria Aleper took silver in 1:48:55 as Kenya’s Jamila Abdula got bronze in 1:47:28.

Willy Kato and Dominik Mugonda got gold and silver respectively in the Black Mamba category, while defending champion Aziz Ssempijja settled for bronze.

Muwonge wonders how much Ugandans can achieve if they are the hosts.

How to unlock Nigeria’s vast agricultural economy, by UI Don

Nigeria needs to energise its agricultural development by implementing sustainable reforms that enhance the efficiency of agricultural development programmes, availability of adequate infrastructure and the depth and reach of agricultural extension delivery system.

Professor of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, University of Ibadan, Professor Lukman Akinbile outlined eight-point agenda to unlock the vast potential of Nigeria’s agricultural endowments to ensure food security and deepen economic development.

Akinbile, a former National President of the Agricultural Extension Society of Nigeria, who presented the 594th inaugural lecture of the University of Ibadan, said agricultural endowments of Nigeria and its human capital represent untapped goldmine that could help in resolving myriad of challenges facing the country. The inaugural lecture, which was delivered at the famous Trenchard Hall of the premier university, was titled: Nigerian Agriculture: Untapped Goldmine in Need of the Imminent Impetus.

He decried the current state of the Nigerian agricultural system, noting that a nation that used to be a net exporter of agricultural produce and products has now become a net importer, which keeps draining the nation’s foreign exchange to the extent that the nation now has to rely on foreign debts and investment to fund developmental activities.

‘Issues that led to the low performance have to do with the administration of agricultural development programmes, the provision of required infrastructure and fortifying the extension delivery system. The extension delivery system has the potential of increasing farmers’ production and help achieve food security. The need to energise the impetus to agricultural development in Nigeria in form of a virile, efficient and effective agricultural extension service delivery is therefore imminent,’ Akinbile said.

He called for the establishment of Agricultural Development Fund by the federal government, which should allocate funds for the agricultural extension service in the country.

He explained that agriculture being on the concurrent list, Agricultural Development Programmes (ADPs) in states should write proposals on their extension targets for a year for which funds will be made available while the target for the year must be achieved before such state can benefit from the fund for the succeeding year.

He said that such a system, which is currently being used by government programmes like UBEC and TETFUND, would ensure that the agricultural funds are used for the purpose they are meant for.

He also pointed out the need to regularize extension activities through the use of long-term planning that ensures that all extension activities delivered in the country, both internally or externally funded, fit into the overall plan, thus preventing duplication and avoid aberrations.

‘Activities of quacks in extension practice need to be curbed. A situation where everyone is involved in extension practice must be eliminated. This will guarantee that farm produce from Nigeria satisfy world standards and prevent rejection by off-takers from within the country and the international community.’

There will be certification by a regulatory body, and there must be standards below which no practitioner must fall to avoid the withdrawal of the certificate,’ Akinbile said.

He stressed the need to ensure effective research-extension-farmer-input-market linkage system.

According to him, the planning mode of extension practitioners must be activated to ensure efficient linkage, such that ensure that agricultural produce is prepared for the market, being demand-driven..

He pointed out the need to strengthen delivery system through adequate infrastructure noting functional efforts must be made to ensure that the infrastructure required for efficiency is all in place.

‘There is also need to build capacity in value addition. Efforts must be made to achieve value addition of farm produce so that the nation becomes an exporter of products and not produce. This increases the value of agricultural activities. It should involve building capacity and the provision of infrastructure.

‘Motivation of extension personnel is another key factor. Incentives must be provided for extension officers to discharge their responsibilities. Activities that involve going out of the station must be funded and remunerated. Allowances that are associated with such activities must be provided and career progression must be clearly specified.

‘Legislation of the agricultural extension policy is important: The extension policy that is before the National Assembly should be taken to its logical conclusion until it receives the approval of the President. This will ensure that the practice of agricultural extension unlocks the goldmine that agriculture is by fulfilling the role of the imminent impetus for agricultural development and food security,’ Akinbile said.

He underlined that as population of Nigeria keeps increasing, estimated to reach 400 million by 2050, enhanced agricultural productivity through the adaptation of new technologies and innovations is necessary to ensure food security and nutrition.

‘The missing link involves addressing the problems with the technical needs of farmers. In order to improve yield, the nation’s extension delivery system will need to be addressed if Nigeria’s farmers’ yields will compete with what obtains in agriculturally developed nations of the world. There is thus the need for a virile extension service delivery system if Nigeria is to attain food self-sufficiency. The extension component needs to be strengthened to help improve the yield of farmers and ensure value addition,’ Akinbile said.

He described agricultural extension as a necessary impetus to explore the Nigerian agricultural goldmine citing the examples of countries that had leveraged efficient extension services to grow their economy.

He said: ‘Agricultural extension has been used as an impetus to drive agricultural development in several countries that have attained food self-sufficiency in the world. This has been the case in countries where legislation has been used to entrench agricultural extension as the impetus. As an example, the 1914 Smith-Lever Act of the United States of America led to the institutionalisation of Land Grant Universities and Colleges from where extension services were delivered. The County Extension Officers are the field staff who interact directly with farmers and ensure that farmers are able to boost their productivity and income. The county extension officers are highly valued and they are considered among the high-impact workers. They are highly motivated because their performance index is very high. They are therefore the imminent impetus that drives agriculture to the level that the nation has attained food self-sufficiency and farmers’ enhanced productivity. This explains why American farmers are a vocal voice in national development’.

He underscored the immense opportunity in agricultural development noting that with a population exceeding 200 million, Nigeria’s internal market for food and agricultural products is huge, spanning staples like cassava, maize, yams, and rice.

According to him, this burgeoning population also provides a large, affordable labour force that can drive mass production of cash crops such as cocoa, oil palm, and cashew in high demand globally.

He added that Nigeria’s youthful demographic and expansive arable land lay the groundwork for innovative agricultural practices and agribusiness entrepreneurship.

He said: ‘The country’s vast arable land means there are opportunities to create jobs through smallholder farming, commercial agriculture, processing, and storage facility management.

‘Therefore, to realise these potentials fully, the country must overcome the challenges related to mechanisation, infrastructure, financing, market access, climate resilience, and security. These require the deployment of a virile extension service. With strategic investments and reforms, agriculture can drive sustainable economic growth, food security, and employment in Nigeria’.

Could Sharma, Cricket Cranes have done more?

HARARE. The Cricket Cranes ended their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Africa Qualifier campaign on a high note, thumping Nigeria by 66 runs in the fifth-place playoff final last Saturday.

Yet, the victory was little more than consolation after early stumbles against Zimbabwe and Tanzania denied Uganda a semi-final berth – and a shot at a coveted World Cup ticket.

Captain Riazat Ali Shah, who led the charge with a dazzling 66 off 30 balls against Nigeria, admitted, ‘This tournament is a wake-up call. We have the talent to beat anyone, but we must learn to execute our roles properly and finish the big moments.’

For a team that fielded seven new faces from the previous qualifier, the tournament highlighted both promise and inexperience.

Set up and missed chances

Uganda’s campaign began with high expectations. Facing Zimbabwe in the opener, the Cranes set a modest 152 runs in 20 overs despite having 91 runs on the board early on in the match after 9 overs, a platform that could have been stretched to 180-200 to trouble the hosts.

The failure to capitalize mirrored the heartbreak against Tanzania, where lack of awareness ignited a shocking collapse with seven wickets falling for 15 runs – a painful reminder that egos must be left behind and team strategy prioritised.

Coach Abhay Sharma reflected on these setbacks, saying; ‘If we had managed to post 180-plus against Zimbabwe, the game’s outcome would have been very different. These moments are lessons – and painful ones at that.’

Sharma, who leaves Uganda after 18 months – he signed a three-year contract – at the helm, pointed to his limited availability as a primary factor in his decision to step down.

‘Coaching is not just about match days. It’s about working with young players daily, building structures, and sharpening skills. This team needs someone who can dedicate more time on the ground,’ he explained.

Highs amid challenges

Despite the disappointments, Uganda finished strongly. Back-to-back wins against Botswana, Malawi, and Nigeria displayed their firepower, while captain Shah and new player Sumeet Verma proved that the infusion of fresh talent has potential.

Verma was a standout in the tournament, finishing second among the highest run-scorers with 206 runs in five matches at an average of 51.50 and an impressive strike rate of 153.73, just behind Zimbabwe’s Brian Bennett (314).

His consistency and ability to anchor the innings while accelerating when needed highlighted his value to the team and hinted at a promising future for Uganda cricket.

The left-arm spinners; Henry Ssenyondo and Alpesh Ramjani were lethal in the three wins once they found their groove. ‘It was really nice to see that the boys were picking up at the end. We played some quality cricket and executed key plans. But it was a little too late,’ Sharma noted.

Team Manager Charles Waiswa praised Sharma’s mentorship, saying, ‘He has impacted everyone’s career. The lessons, discipline, and belief he instilled will stay with this team long after his departure.’ Analyst Alvin Bagaya added that Sharma’s gesture of giving each player a framed photo of their family underscored the humanity behind his coaching – a reminder that cricket is played for more than just statistics.

Structural reflections

The campaign also laid bare systemic challenges. Several promising Ugandan-born players struggled with pressure, while naturalised players -known as ‘bachuba’ – in local dialect – sometimes created gaps in cohesion. The fans bore their fangs baying for their blood saying many a time that their performances were mediocre. But the ugly and undeniable truth was that in the midst of the ‘bachuba’ mediocrity the players of Ugandan descent did little to justify their continued inclusion as their tally of runs hardly accounted for 30 per cent of the team’s match-by-match aggregates.

Many fans were insistent in their arguments with analysis that Sharma’s tenure had highlighted the need to balance that ‘foreign’ experience with homegrown talent and to build deeper local pathways.

Reflecting on team selection, Sharma explained, ‘We couldn’t field all the young players at one go. But you will notice from my time that I tried to give exposure, and that’s part of developing a sustainable structure.’

Sharma’s approach was arguably similar to previous regimes, emphasizing a blend of discipline, skill-building, and tactical awareness. Under his leadership, Uganda achieved a remarkable 17-match unbeaten T20 run – a global feat of sorts, swept tours in South Africa, IL T20 in Kigali and the Pearl of Africa T20 Series in Entebbe, and maintained a 70.37% win rate across 57 matches – milestones that laid strong foundations for the team’s future.

Coach’s farewell and legacy

At a heartfelt Cresta Lodge poolside farewell meeting after the Nigeria victory in Harare, Sharma addressed the Cranes: ‘I’ve been hard on you, but it was never personal. It was always to push you higher.’ Handing framed photos to each player, he added, ‘These are the people who care about you most. Play for them.’

Shah, visibly emotional, reflected, ‘The way you treated us like your own kids has been amazing. We’ve learned, grown, and we’ll carry these lessons forward. Wherever you are, we’ll call you when we need guidance.’

Sharma leaves Uganda with both professional pride and personal attachment. ‘Uganda is my second home. The boys, the people, the fans – it’s been a family. My decision to step down was to ensure someone with greater availability can fully guide the Cricket Cranes,’ he explained.

Looking ahead

For Uganda, the qualifier exposed not only weaknesses. It brought to light admirable strengths to build on and areas for growth: the talent is evident, but game management, temperament under pressure, and nurturing local talent remain priorities.

As Team Analyst Bagaya noted; ‘This campaign reminds us that while individual brilliance shines, team cohesion and preparation are what win tournaments.’

The Cricket Cranes now face a decision point: continue blending homegrown players with overseas talent, invest in infrastructure and pathways, and learn from missed opportunities, or risk repeating similar heartbreaks in future qualifiers.

ICC T20 WORLD CUP AFRICA QUALIFIER

Uganda Results – Group B

Uganda 152/9 | Zimbabwe 157/5

Zimbabwe won by 5 wickets (with 15 balls remaining)

Tanzania 128/6 | Uganda 119/9

Tanzania won by 9 runs

Botswana 81/6 | Uganda 85/2

Uganda won by 8 wickets (with 44 balls remaining)

5th Place Playoff Semifinal 2

Uganda 192/3 | Malawi 75/6

Uganda won by 117 runs

Fifth Place Playoff Final

Uganda 196/7 | Nigeria 130/7

Uganda won by 66 runs

Sharma’s Memorable 18 Months

Historic Runs: 17-match unbeaten T20 streak

International Tours: South Africa sweep 6-0, POA T20I Series 6-0, ILT20 9-0 and flawless Challenge League B campaigns.

Player Highlights: Henry Ssenyondo’s spell vs Italy, Dinesh Nakrani six-for vs Singapore, Juma Miyaji six-wicket haul vs Tanzania, Shrideep Mangela’s century vs. Bahrain, Captain Riazat Ali Shah’s match winning performances, veteran Frank Nsubuga’s magical spell vs PNG at the World Cup and Cosmas Kyewuta’s gun-fielding among others.

Coaching Philosophy: Discipline, personal mentorship, and tactical awareness.

Quotable Quote: I never take pressure as a coach and team, I give pressure to the opposition, instead.

Legacy Gesture: Framed family photos to remind players of their support systems and why they play.

Reason for Exit: Limited availability for hands-on coaching due to personal reasons.

WRITER’S OPINION

Next Time Better. Could Uganda have done better? Absolutely. Some new faces were not fully tested, key phases of matches were squandered, and the team faltered in pressure moments. Yet, Sharma’s measured exit, his honesty, and his commitment to the players demonstrate a coach of true class. Mother cricket humbled Uganda especially against Tanzania, but the lessons – from the comical collapse to the tactical missteps – will shape a new generation. The Cricket Cranes remain a team of potential, awaiting structure, cohesion, and leadership to seize the World Cup stage next time.

Rising cyber threats see users retreat from internet banking

About 10 years ago, banks raced to invest in internet banking. Billions of shillings were sunk in a new digital banking innovation that promised to recoup the shine that had been taken away from the banking sector by mobile money.

It was a race of two faces: catch up in a race that the sector had seemingly lost to mobile money, and set up the future of banking.

However, years later, cybercriminals have turned an otherwise good innovation into their turf, where they occasionally turn up – clean people’s accounts, shop expensively, with owners of such accounts only getting notifications of transactions whose only excuse is a vague explanation from their bankers of ‘you shared your PIN with strangers’.

And now banks are staring at billions of invested capital in platforms, where the numbers are tanking, and targets are failing to spur further investment.

Uganda’s financial sector is rapidly digitising, but the surge in cyber threats is casting a shadow over the promise of seamless online banking.

The Bank of Uganda Integrated Annual Report 2024/25 reveals that while digital transactions continue to grow, internet banking usage has declined, signaling growing public concern about cybersecurity vulnerabilities.

‘This reduction reflected potential user concerns about the cyber threat landscape,’ Bank of Uganda said.

The report notes that in the 12 months to June, active internet banking users dropped by 6.6 percent, from 0.96 million in June 2024 to 0.9 million in June 2025.

Transaction volumes also dropped sharply by 19.5 percent, from 9.7 million to 7.84 million, while total transaction value fell to Shs113.9 trillion.

Apart from the decline in existing users, the uptake remains very low when compared to the more than 20 million accounts in the banking sector.

The contrast

In contrast, mobile banking, which benefits from stronger public trust and simplified authentication, rose by 6.5 percent in the same period, with transaction values soaring by nearly 40 percent.

This divergence paints a clear picture that while Ugandans are increasingly embracing mobile wallets, they are retreating from internet banking, amid fears of hacking, phishing, and data breaches.

But in its report, Bank of Uganda noted that it had made cybersecurity a cornerstone of its digital transformation agenda by enhancing its cybersecurity framework to align with international standards and expanding the capacity of its Security Operations Centre for real-time threat monitoring.point protection, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems, the central bank noted, have been upgraded, supported by regular cyber drills and business continuity simulations.

Bank of Uganda governor Michael Atingi-Ego said in the report that these measures are essential to maintaining ‘an efficient, stable and resilient financial system,’ noting that cyber and technology risks now sit alongside traditional economic risks in the central bank’s supervisory framework.

Bank of Uganda is also reinforcing resilience by operationalizing an AI-enabled Payments Control System through its Anti-Fraud Consortium, designed to detect and neutralise fraudulent activities across payment networks.

Ugandan’s concerns mirror a broader continental trend. During the 2024 Comesa Symposium for Central Bank Governors, cybersecurity and digital banking emerged as top discussion points, with central banks across Africa acknowledging that rapid digitalization, while transformative, had expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals.

To bolster monitoring, the central bank plans to roll out SUPTECH, a supervisory technology system enabling real-time data collection from financial institutions, which will help in detecting irregularities early and enforce compliance across banks and fintechs.

However, the challenge now lies in balancing innovation with security.

As digital finance deepens, Uganda must safeguard both financial stability and consumer trust.

The central bank’s efforts to modernize payment systems through the National Payment Switch integration promise faster and more secure transactions, but these upgrades also demand stronger cyber defense mechanisms.

For Uganda’s digital economy to thrive, the future of internet banking will depend not just on technology, but on trust. For now, as the numbers suggest, users have lost that trust, and they are retreating.

NPFL: Kun Khalifat stop Enyimba’s unbeaten run as Nasarawa United Stretch Lead

Matchday 8 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) served up drama and surprises, headlined by Kun Khalifat FC’s stunning 1-0 victory over Enyimba in Owerri – a result that ended the People’s Elephant’s unbeaten start to the season.

Debutants Kun Khalifat, who have struggled to find consistency by virtue of playing their home games in Aba, produced a disciplined performance against the former champions in their first game in Owerri this season. Ebuka Nwokorie’s perfectly executed 69th-minute free kick – his fifth goal of the campaign – sealed the famous win and handed the Pride of Imo their second victory of the season. The three points lifted them to 18th position with eight points, while Enyimba slipped to third on 13 points, losing ground in their chase for the league summit.

At the top, Nasarawa United continued their impressive run with a hard-fought 2-1 win over Rangers International in Lafia. The visitors drew first blood through Wisdom Ebirim in the 19th minute, but Anas Yusuf levelled from the spot in the 32nd before John Joshua netted the decisive strike in the 62nd minute. The Solid Miners’ victory moved them to 19 points – four clear of second-placed Abia Warriors.

Abia Warriors themselves consolidated their fine form with a comfortable 2-0 triumph over El-Kanemi Warriors, thanks to a first-half brace from Casmir Azubuike in the 24th and 28th minute.

Elsewhere, Katsina United stunned visiting Remo Stars 3-1 with goals from Elijah Akanni, Uche Collins (penalty), and Abdulrahman Garba, while Adams Mustapha’s stoppage-time strike earned Shooting Stars a draw in Kano against Kano Pillars.

In other matches, Plateau United dispatched Barau FC 2-0 in Jos courtesy of goals from Amietimi Enewarikpemi and Vincent Temitope, Wikki Tourists shared the spoils with Kwara United in a 1-1 draw, Ikorodu City edged Bendel Insurance 1-0 through Folarin Temitope’s early goal, and Bayelsa United were held 1-1 by Niger Tornadoes.

With Nasarawa United pulling clear at the summit, Abia Warriors, Enyimba, and Rivers United that will host Bayelsa United this morning following the downpour that rendered the pitch unplayable. They recent remain within striking distance – but Matchday 8 once again proved that in the NPFL, no team is too small to deliver a big upset.

NPFL RESULTS

Kun Khalifat 1-0 Enyimba

Plateau United 2-0 Barau

Abia Warriors 2-0 El-Kanemi

Nasarawa United 2-1 Rangers

Warri Wolves 1-1 Tornadoes

Wikki Tourists 1-1 Kwara United

Katsina United 3-1Remo Stars

Ikorodu City 1-0 Insurance

Kano Pillars 1-1Shooting Stars

Surviving breast cancer: Everson Bwengye’s story

In April 2022, while driving home one evening, 42-year-old Everson Bwengye felt a sharp pain in her chest. At the time, she was working as a brand manager with a local beverage company. The pain was accompanied by fatigue.

Later, when she examined her chest, she discovered a lump in her left breast. The next day was packed with work commitments, so she postponed her visit to the hospital. On Tuesday, she visited International Hospital Kampala (IHK) for a comprehensive physical examination.

To her surprise, the results appeared normal. However, the doctor noted her white blood cell count was alarmingly high. When she mentioned the lump, the doctor immediately recommended a CT scan. The scan showed that the lump had spread to her lymph nodes under the armpit.

The doctor’s question, ‘Do you have a family history of cancer?’ left her shaken. She was advised to do a mammogram, but she postponed it, unable to face the possibility of what lay ahead.

Living in denial

When she eventually did the mammogram at Norvik Hospital in Kampala, the results confirmed the doctor’s fears. Still, she sought a second opinion at Kampala Hospital, this time with her sister by her side. A biopsy was performed, and the 10-day wait for results felt like an eternity. During this period, Bwengye’s relatives offered herbal remedies. She began fasting, avoided sugar, meat, and cooking oil, and relied heavily on herbs.

‘I had a very aggressive type of cancer, but I was in denial,’ she recalls.

‘For three months, I refused medical treatment and hoped herbs would heal me.’ The fear of death consumed her thoughts. She pictured her funeral and worried about her three children. ‘I became hard on them. I taught them things they had not yet learnt and told them to prepare for the worst,’ she says. Her relationship with her husband also grew distant, as she braced herself for the inevitable.

A turning point

One herbalist encouraged her to run further tests before continuing treatment. The results revealed that her organs were still intact, but the herbalist admitted the herbs would not cure her cancer. He advised her to seek treatment at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI). By then, the lump had nearly doubled in size.

Alarmed, she rushed back to the hospital, where the doctor advised immediate surgery to remove her breast. It was a painful decision she had to make with her husband.

After seeking another opinion, she went to the UCI, where a treatment plan was drawn up. She received six cycles of chemotherapy, three weeks apart. However, even after completing them, the lump seemed larger.

Seeking treatment abroad

Determined to find answers, Bwengye travelled to Turkey. There, she underwent four additional cycles of chemotherapy, surgery, and 35 radiotherapy sessions. She was then placed on hormone therapy, which she continues to this day. Despite the painful side effects, Bwengye worked throughout her treatment.

‘Even after chemotherapy in Uganda, I would go back to work. After coming back from Turkey, I resumed immediately,’ she says.

Her resilience, however, was met with unexpected rejection at her workplace. Her responsibilities were gradually reduced, her benefits withdrawn, and she was eventually suspended before her contract quietly expired.

‘This was an indirect way of firing me,’ she says bitterly.

The silent struggles of survivors

For many cancer survivors, workplace rejection is a silent battle.

‘After treatment, you cannot be as productive as before. Many organisations indirectly push us away, yet they boast of supporting cancer through Corporate Social Responsibility,’ she notes.

Surviving cancer does not end with treatment. For breast cancer survivors such as Bwengye, hormonal therapy is essential. She now takes a daily hormone tablet, calcium supplements, allergy medication, and receives quarterly reviews and injections.

‘Not every cancer patient dies of the disease. Many die from depression and lack of support,’ she explains. Survivors often face rejection from relatives, spouses, and workplaces. Meanwhile, the costs of post-treatment medication remain high.

Did you know

According to the Uganda Cancer Institute, about 34,000 new cancer cases are recorded every year, and breast cancer accounts for roughly 2,000 of them. Early detection and consistent follow-up treatment are key to survival, but stigma and financial hardship remain major obstacles for many patients.

Dr Edward Muwonge, an oncologist at UCI, notes that the stigma around cancer still costs lives.

‘Employers need to understand that recovery takes time. Compassion and workplace flexibility go a long way in helping survivors regain confidence,’ he says.

The irony, Bwengye adds, is that while some companies donate generously to cancer campaigns, they fail to support employees battling the disease.

‘It is painful when organisations contribute to cancer awareness but abandon their own staff fighting cancer,’ she says.

Finding strength in vulnerability

Bwengye’s story is one of courage in the face of fear, hope in the midst of despair, and resilience despite rejection. From denial and reliance on herbs to finally accepting medical treatment, her journey underscores the importance of timely medical intervention and emotional support for cancer patients.

She acknowledges that life after cancer is a daily struggle.

‘We live with the reality that we must take medicines for the rest of our lives,’ she reflects.

Yet she continues to fight for her health, for her children, and for the dignity of cancer survivors in Uganda.

Call for compassion

For Ugandans battling cancer, Bwengye’s journey is both a warning and an inspiration. It highlights the dangers of denial and delays in treatment, the limitations of herbal remedies, and the emotional toll of rejection from workplaces and families. But it also demonstrates the strength of the human spirit.

Bwengye continues to share her story so that others may find courage, seek timely medical care, and demand greater support for survivors. Her message is clear: ‘We do not only need medicine to survive cancer. We need love, support, and acceptance.’

Protecting the gains vs a new Uganda now: A critique of party manifestos

As the 2026 presidential campaigns gain momentum, political parties have begun unveiling their manifestos, setting the stage for what is shaping up to be a defining election. The ideological fault lines between the ruling party, National Resistance Movement (NRM) and main opposition party, National Unity Party (NUP) are clear. One vision is calling for the protection and consolidation of past achievements, while the other is demanding a radical transformation of the Ugandan system.

As an economist and analyst of the interplay between politics, society, and development, I am compelled to ask: how will these manifestos tangibly affect the lives of Ugandans between 2026 and 2031? Beyond the politics, citizens demand for leadership that improves their daily life with more money in pockets, better living standards, and reliable healthcare.

A party manifesto is more than a list of promises, it is a strategic document that reveals a leader’s direction, priorities, and character. We cannot expect a leader to deliver beyond what they have committed to on paper. Before we vote based on emotion or loyalty, we must therefore interrogate these promises and ask what exactly are we being offered? NRM’s manifesto argues for “protecting the gains” made since 1986. But for many Ugandans, the question is: what gains are we protecting? From where most people stand, poverty, youth unemployment, and corruption still loom large. Is there really something to defend, or is it time to disrupt the status quo? The opposing camp’s message is bold calling for a “New Uganda Now.” But boldness is not enough. Can this new vision translate into tangible improvements in livelihoods? Or will it deliver only the noise of political freedom without the substance of economic progress?

To fairly assess the manifestos, we need to ask: Where were we? Where are we now? And where do we want to go? Our development trajectory, while positive, has been slower than our potential. In the early 1970s, Uganda’s economy was on par with or ahead of countries like Malaysia and South Korea. In fact, Uganda once extended financial aid to South Korea in 1969. Today, these countries are industrial powerhouses, while Uganda still struggles with basic service delivery.

On the other hand, Uganda has witnessed periods of economic stability and infrastructure development. According to the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), GDP grew at an average annual rate of 5.1 pecent over the last five years. Political stability has mostly held, and major infrastructure projects like the oil pipeline and road expansions are underway.

Health indicators, such as maternal mortality rates, have improved, and the literacy rate among Ugandans is at 74 percent for the population aged 18 and above (World Bank, 2024). However, we cannot ignore the stark realities that temper this progress. Despite this growth, unemployment remains a pressing issue, with youth unemployment estimated at 64 percent, and Uganda’s public debt-to-GDP ratio has risen sharply, hitting 52 percent in 2025.

Corruption and inefficiencies continue to erode public trust as many Ugandans still live hand-to-mouth. This juxtaposition reveals a nuanced truth that while development has occurred, its pace and distribution have not met the expectations warranted by our vast resources and potential. Comparing the two manifestos, the NRM’s document outlines a structured development strategy, identifying key sectors such as agro-industrialization, Information and Communication Technology, energy, and tourism.

The manifesto’s strength lies in its roadmap and policy depth, though it falls short in acknowledging the failures of previous terms. In contrast, the NUP manifesto champions political reform and systemic overhaul, focusing on issues like rule of law, human rights, and anti-corruption. These are vital pillars, but the document lacks a detailed socio-economic blueprint.

Beyond liberation rhetoric, it leaves open questions about how it will deliver services, grow the economy, and manage Uganda’s complex bureaucracy. While the call for change is highly plausible, given acknowledged challenges like corruption and governance issues, the solution may lie not in a new system, but in a new kind of leadership within the existing framework. We often dismiss the intelligence of our civil service and the robustness of programs already in place.

A leader with the ingenuity to harness these, to ensure strict implementation and accountability, could achieve significant development without necessitating a radical and disruptive overhaul. What Uganda needs, perhaps, is not a revolution but a leader committed to protecting the genuine gains we have made, but who possesses the vision and integrity to use our available resources optimally.

JUST IN: CONUA rejects planned strike action, reaffirms commitment to academic stability

The leadership of the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) has declared that it is not part of any ongoing strike in Nigerian universities.

In a statement signed by its National President, Dr. Niyi Sunmonu, the union dismissed reports circulating on social media suggesting its involvement in the industrial action.

‘CONUA wishes to categorically clarify that it has not declared any strike action and is not part of any ongoing strike,’ Sunmonu stated.

He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to maintaining academic stability, promoting excellence, and ensuring the smooth running of the university system through constructive dialogue and peaceful engagement with the government and other stakeholders.

Sunmonu also urged members of the Congress to continue performing their academic and administrative duties diligently, report to work, engage with students, and discharge their professional responsibilities as expected.

‘It is important to emphasize that CONUA has no basis at this time to declare a dispute or embark on any strike action. When the renegotiation committee of the 2009 Agreement was inaugurated in October 2024, CONUA was conspicuously and deliberately omitted. The Union formally protested this exclusion, which

eventually culminated in a meeting with the Honourable Minister of Education on 11 September 2025.

‘At that meeting, the Honourable Minister acknowledged CONUA’s concerns and assured that the Yayale Ahmed Renegotiation Committee would be expanded to include all the academic unions in Nigeria’s federal tertiary institutions.

‘We are pleased to note that the Ministry of Education has recently expanded the committee, fulfilling that promise. Until CONUA is formally brought to the table and any of the issues it has presented to

the Federal Government becomes subjects of dispute, there is no foundation whatsoever for any strike action by CONUA.

‘Resolutions from Nationwide Congresses following the 11 September meeting, the national leadership reported the outcome to members across universities, after which congresses were held between 18 and 24 September 2025. At these congresses, members unanimously reaffirmed CONUA’s principled stance that no strike action should be taken and that engagement, not disruption, remains the best path forward for the Nigerian university system,’ it read.

CONUA boss, however, appealed to Vice Chancellors to ensure the safety and protection of CONUA members in continuing their legitimate duties within their respective institutions.

He equally encouraged students to remain focused on their academic pursuits without fear of interruption, adding that the Union stands by its commitment to quality education, national development, and

peaceful industrial relations in the university system.

‘CONUA’s unwavering focus is on building a sustainable, innovative, and productive academic environment that serves the interests of students, scholars and the nation.

‘We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of all stakeholders in supporting this constructive orting this constructive approach to advancing higher education in Nigeria,’ he added.

Prisons’ dominance ends at Kisubi Independence Open

For the first time in three years, Prisons’ stranglehold on Uganda’s woodball scene was broken. Kyambogo Stroke dethroned the long-dominant team at the University of Kisubi (UNIK) Independence Open, staged on Independence Day, in a thrilling contest that ended Prisons’ streak of sweeping major championships.

Kyambogo finished on 398 strokes, edging Prisons, who managed 416, while Kampala University took third with 417. Darry Giles Amanyire led Kyambogo’s charge, and together with Trevor Oming and Thomas Kedi, helped secure the gold medal.

Isaac Ariho, captain of Prisons, acknowledged the defeat but promised a strong comeback.

‘We have dominated for years, but this is a minor setback. Prisons will be back stronger and ready to reclaim our crown next season,’ he said.

In the women’s senior category, Ministry of Public Service (MoPS) narrowly outperformed Ndejje University, finishing with 476 strokes, just three ahead of Ndejje, while Kampala International University (KIU) claimed third.

Hosts UNIK dominated the women corporates category, winning with 415 strokes, led by Nalwoga Babirye who also took individual gold with 105 strokes. UNEB finished second on 512 strokes, and MoPS third with 545.

In the men’s corporate event, Kisubi Corporates emerged victorious with 467 strokes, followed by Bank of Uganda (490) and UNIK (503).

The juniors’ competition highlighted emerging talent, with Calton Aleko, Dan Ssendege and Rahim Keba taking top honors. Special awards were presented to five-year-old Rodgers Talka, the youngest participant, and Prosper Asiimwe of Kisubi, who competed despite being handicapped.

The tournament drew eight senior university teams-including Kampala University, Makerere University Business School, KIU, UNIK, MoPS, Prisons, Ndejje University, and Kyambogo Stroke-and a strong corporate contingent, alongside junior teams from Entebbe Education Centre and Mustard Seed Foundation.

Organizers hailed the Independence Open as a major success, marking a triumphant return for woodball in Uganda and setting the stage for fierce rivalries in the coming season.

UNIK Independence Open

Selected results

Seniors – men

Darry Giles – (Kyambogo) – 88

Trevor Oming (Kyambogo) – 95

Matthias Wahala (KU) – 98

Seniors – women

Denise Nanjeru (Prisons) – 100

Joyce Nalubega (MoPS) 106

Eunice Atim (KIU) – 113

Corporates – men

Jackson Masiga (Kisubi) 107

Erick Enabu (UNEB) – 110

Sharif Kalema (Kisubi) – 114

Corporates – women

Nalwoga Babirye (UNIK) – 105

Musa Kifaya (Zoe) 117

Justine Balemesa (UNEB) – 120

Juniors

Calton Aleko – 23

Dan Ssendege – 26

Rahim Keba – 31