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Uganda’s World Cup dream has reached its final, most improbable chapter – a high-stakes visit to Boukhalfa’s Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium, where group leaders Algeria await.

The North Africans, already qualified with a game to spare, have been imperious for much of the campaign, with the 2-1 defeat to Guinea in June last year their only blemish.

Stacked against the odds

The Cranes, who arrived in Algeria on Saturday, know the odds are stacked against them: only a convincing win on Tuesday can keep their faint mathematical hope of sneaking into the playoffs alive.

That glimmer of hope was lit in Francistown on Independence Day, when Jude Ssemugabi’s 54th-minute header from an Allan Okello corner earned Uganda a 1-0 victory over Botswana.

The win came on the back of victories over Guinea in March and Mozambique and Somalia in September, underlining the quiet progress Paul Put’s side have made through the campaign.

‘We knew it would be a tough game,’ said Cranes coach Put after the match in Francistown.

‘Botswana were dangerous with long balls, so we had to stay organised. We had chances to score earlier, and I think the victory was deserved.

Botswana gave one hundred percent and were very aggressive, but I am proud of how my players fought. Now, we prepare for Algeria. It will be a long journey and a difficult game, but in football, you never know.’

Caf rule spanner in the works

In truth, Uganda’s challenge goes far beyond the pitch. Caf’s decision to discount matches against bottom-placed teams – following Eritrea’s withdrawal in November 2023 – changed the complexion of the race for the four best runners-up spots.

The new regulation, quietly communicated to member associations in March 2025, means Uganda’s two wins over Somalia no longer count.

In one stroke, six points and three goals vanished from their tally, dropping the Cranes to 12 adjusted points and sixth in the revised ranking – behind Gabon, Cameroon, DR Congo, Madagascar, and Burkina Faso.

Onyango’s first start

That context makes Tuesday’s mission in Boukhalfa as much about pride as possibility.

The Cranes have never beaten Algeria away, and few visiting sides leave the North African giants’ home soil with anything more than hard lessons.

Yet for Put’s group, this fixture represents both a test of growth and a statement of intent – a chance to measure themselves against Africa’s elite and to carry belief into the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco later this year.

The return of legendary goalkeeper Denis Onyango has added emotional resonance to that mission.

Making his first appearance since his 2021 retirement, the Mamelodi Sundowns stalwart – despite not being truly tested – provided both experience and calm in Francistown, marshalling a back line of Toby Sibbick, Elio Capradossi, Jordan Obita and Aziz Kayondo.

‘First of all, I have to thank the team for allowing me back,’ Onyango reflected. ‘After four years of retirement, I was allowed to come back and help where I can.

‘Regardless of whether I play or not, I remain a key member of the team. The coaches have shown trust in me, and I am happy to still play active football with Sundowns.’

Regarding the mission in Algeria, Onyango opined: ‘In football, anything can happen. We do not know what the results in Algeria will be, but we have given ourselves a chance.’

His words mirror the sentiment within the camp – a balance of humility and quiet optimism.

Uganda’s blend of youth and experience has begun to find its rhythm, with players like Ssemugabi, Okello, and Rogers Mato offering attacking spark, while Onyango and the lieutenants in front of him, including captain Khalid Aucho, anchor the team’s leadership spine.

Afcon is the ultimate

While the 2026 World Cup dream may hang by the thinnest of threads, the Cranes’ mission in Algeria is as much about belief and statement-making as it is about arithmetic.

A spirited performance in Boukhalfa could underline the team’s growth and continental ambition, even if qualification ultimately slips away.

‘Now we have 18 points (12 in best four runners-up race) with one game to go,’ Onyango added, reflecting on Uganda’s broader campaign.

‘If we can make the playoffs, it will be great for the team and the country. It is important that we keep winning and stay positive going into the Africa Cup of Nations in two months.’

Uganda will need that same blend of positivity and realism come Tuesday. Against a Riyad Mahrez-inspired Algeria that has already sealed qualification, the Cranes are playing for more than just points – they are playing for progress, pride, and belief.

Fifa 2026 World Cup Qualifiers (Caf)

Final Group G fixtures

October 14

Algeria vs Uganda, Stade Hocine-Aït-Ahmed, Boukhalfa, 7pm

Guinea vs Botswana, Stade Mohamed V, Casablanca, 7pm

Somalia vs Mozambique, Miloud Hadefi Olympic Complex, Bir El Djir, 7pm

Table for best four second-placed teams after Caf rule is applied

Team Pts GD Final opponents

Gabon 16 +4 vs Burundi (H)

Cameroon 14 +9 vs Angola (H)

DR Congo 13 +4 vs Sudan (H)

Madagascar 13 +3 vs Mali (A)

Burkina Faso 12 +4 vs Ethiopia (H)

Uganda 12 +3 vs Algeria (A)

Niger 12 0 vs Zambia (A)

South Africa 11 +1 vs Rwanda (H)

Namibia 9 +1 vs Tusia (A)

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.

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%.

With four swimmers topping their age categories, School of Tomorrow Uganda (Sotu) defended their Uganda Aquatics National Independence Championships title at Greenhill Academy Kibuli on Saturday.

Sotu, which is mostly a collection of swimmers that study at home and could otherwise swim as individuals scored 1,494 points while Aga Khan Academy finished second on 1,255 points, and the The North Green School (TNGS) got their first podium finish with 1,145 points just ahead of the hosts (1,135).

Sotu’s Jonathan Kaweesa was the biggest points collector with 80 points from topping all of his four individual races in the 13-14 years age group. The swimmers took part in the 50m backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, and 25m freestyle events.

Kaweesa was so ahead of his age group’s grid that Hill Preparatory School’s Arthur Nsubuga followed with 61 points while the host’s Paulsen Kilara was third with 50 points.

In the 13-14 girls’ category, Sotu’s Zara Mbanga came top with 70 points after topping the 50m breaststroke, coming second in both the 50m backstroke and butterfly, and third in 25m freestyle.

Aga Khan’s Tyrah Muganzi topped the 50m backstroke and butterfly – the only events she did – but finished 6th just ahead of Aga Khan’s Crystal Ssemanda (36 points), who topped the 25m freestyle and came third in her other only event (50m back). The two finished behind Sotu’s Mackayla Ssali (63 points), Hillside Primary School’s Chloe Nazziwa (51), British School of Kampala (BSK) Rafters’ Paula Nabukeera (48), and TNGS’ Angella Businge (47).

15 and Over

Sotu also had Pendo Kaumi (60) and Peyton Suubi (76) top the 15 and Over boys’ and girls’ age groups respectively.

Kaumi topped the senior boys in 50m fly and back, plus 25m free to earn his points while Suubi took charge of the 50m events and came third in 25m free behind Vienna College Namugongo’s Karimah Katemba and Aga Khan’s Paloma Kirabo.

Katemba and Kirabo finished second (68 points) and third (66) in the senior girl’s category respectively. For the senior boys, TNGS’s Nathan Nsereko (53) and Sotu’s Ian Aziku (51) were second and third respectively.

11-12 Years

Mushirah Nabatanzi topped the 11-12 year old girls with 76 points after topping the 50m breaststroke and fly events, plus 25m freestyle. Liorah Lumu, who topped the 50m backstroke, finished second overall with 67 points while Hill Preparatory’s Alba Ihunde (61) was 3rd.

For the boys, Kristian Bwisho of Shree Sahajanand scored 73 points after topping 50m breaststroke and 25m free. Elisha Kato, who represented Hill Preparatory, topped the 50m backstroke while Elijah Ayesiga of Sotu topped the 50m fly as both 12 year old boys finished joint second with 68 points.

10 and Under

Hill Preparatory’s Raan Batuk topped the 10 and Under boys with 72 points after topping the 50m breaststroke and 25m free events.

Hillside’s Ashley Kimuli topped the 50m fly and 50m back events but finished third on 61 points – four behind Greenhill’s Austin Wanyama.

For the junior girls, Aga Khan’s Denorah Natabi scored 71 points after topping 50m breaststroke and 50m backstroke.

Light Academy’s Paulette Wakabi was second overall (65 points) and topped the 25m freestyle while Greenhill’s Paula Aryemo topped the 50m fly. Aryemo, however, finished 5th overall a point behind Shree’s Nyla Musoke (45 points) in 4th while The Olive School’s Talitha Siima was 3rd with 60 points.

Relays

In the mixed 4x50m medley relays, Greenhill topped the 10 and Unders ahead of Hill Preparatory and The Olive School while Sotu topped the other age groups.

In 11-12, Hill Preparatory and Greenhill joined Sotu on the podium while Aga Khan and BSK Rafters came second and third in the 13-14 age group. Ndejje University and Aga Khan joined Sotu on the 15 and Over age group podium.

In the mixed 4x25m freestyle relays, Greenhill topped the 10 and Unders while Sotu topped the 11-12 and 13-14 age groups. Aga Khan topped the 15 and Over age group.

In the gender medley relays, The Olive School topped the 10 and Under girls’ 4x50m medley relay while Greenhill topped the boys.

Sotu topped both the boys and girls’ medley relays in the 11-12 age group. In 13-14, Aga Khan topped the girls while Sotu topped the boys. Sotu also topped the 15 and Over boys while Greenhill topped the girls.

Vision for Africa topped the 10 and Under girls’ 4x25m freestyle relay while Greenhill topped the boys.

Again, School of Tomorrow topped the 11-12 boys and girls while Aga Khan and Sotu topped the 13-14 girls and boys respectively.

Sotu, again, topped the 15 and Over boys while BSK topped the girls.

UGANDA AQUATICS INDEPENDENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

How They Finished

School of Tomorrow – 1,494

Aga Khan – 1,255

The North Green – 1,145

Green Hill Academy – 1,135

BSK Rafters – 1,052

Hill Preparatory School – 984.5

Shree Sahajanand School – 586

Vienna College – 557

Hillside P/S Naalya – 536.5

The Olive School – 375

Top performer per age group

10 and Under

G: Denorah Natabi (Aga Khan) – 71 points

B: Raan Batuk (Hill Preparatory) – 72

11-12 Years

G: Mushirah Nabatanzi (Educare Jr.) – 76

B: Kristian Bwisho (Shree Sahajanand) – 73

13-14 Years

G: Zara Mbanga (School of Tomorrow) – 70

B: Jonathan Kaweesa (School of Tomorrow) – 80

15 and Over

G: Peyton Suubi (School of Tomorrow) – 76

B: Pendo Kaumi (School of Tomorrow) – 60

A new community-based health insurance scheme has given hope to poor parents and their children in Wakiso District. Under the scheme dubbed Renaissance Medical Fund, parents pool together resources to cater for their children’s medical bills whenever they fall sick.

Each parent pays Shs24,000 per child per year to a pool. Parents also have the option of paying Shs500 per week or Shs2,000 per month.

Mr Innocent Luther Kater, the chief executive officer of Pearl Foundation for Human Rights and Development (PFHRD), the charity organisation behind the health insurance scheme, said: ‘We want children to stay healthy and focus on their studies. Some of the children we are supporting have been missing school due to treatable ailments.’ In addition, parents can also benefit from the same scheme at the same cost.”

Ms Marion Nakyeyune, one of the beneficiaries who is enrolled in the scheme together with her two children, said it is a turning point.

‘I used to fall sick so often but I couldn’t receive the required treatment due to financial challenges. When I joined the scheme, I was able to get treatment. My weight has increased from 38kg to 60kg, after receiving the required medical treatment,’ she said.

Ms Rose Namatovu, a mother of three children, who said her husband abandoned her, also praised the scheme. She said the scheme had enabled her to secure treatment for her son, who has sickle cell disease.

‘I have been spending about Shs6,000 per day on his medication. When he gets an attack, he is hospitalised for a week or two. This was costly. His medical bill is now cleared by the insurance scheme,’ she said.

She added that her 15-year-old son is also a beneficiary of the education fund run by the same charity organisation. Mr Robert Mutungi, the deputy chief administrative officer of Kalangala District, one of the areas where the organisation operates, said supporting the education and health of the needy is vital given that it contributes to the country’s human capital development that is needed to spur economic and social growth.

Mr Jairus Mwesigwa, the managing director of PFHRD, said the organisation also initiated a general emergency fund that supports any community member.

‘This fund was able to support several Ugandans during Covid-19 lockdown with hefty medical bills when they were out of work,’ Mr Mwesigwa said.

He called upon President to assent to the National Health Insurance Scheme Bill that was passed by Parliament to ensure universal health coverage. In 2021, Parliament passed the Bill, but the President declined to assent to it due to disagreements among stakeholders.

Two weeks after the Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) released the list of its approved parliamentary flagbearers for the 2026 elections, at least 82 aggrieved aspirants who were left out have petitioned the party, challenging their rejection and seeking justice.

Among them, only one incumbent-Mr Aloysius Mukasa, the Rubaga South MP-has petitioned the party after being dropped in favour of Ms Euginia Nassolo. The rest of the dissatisfied aspirants have announced plans to contest as Independents against NUP’s chosen candidates.

On September 29, NUP formed a four-member tribunal committee chaired by Dr Moses Kanaabi, with members Mr Johnathan Elotu, Mr Marvin Saasi, and Ms Fatuma Cassim, to handle complaints from the aggrieved aspirants.

The committee was given two days after the release of the list to receive petitions. Speaking to this publication yesterday, Mr Elotu, who is also NUP’s secretary for legal affairs, said of the 82 petitioners, 46 came from the central region, 32 from the eastern region, and four from the northern and western regions combined.

He explained that after receiving the petitions, the committee follows two steps: first, reviewing the evidence to determine which cases are valid, and second, holding hearings where all parties are invited to present their arguments.

‘Last week we had a hearing from eastern Uganda; we called all the aggrieved and the candidate being challenged to hear from both sides. We are still processing the information to hear from central, western, and northern Uganda. We are currently scrutinising the petitions. After our stiff process of hearing, we will be able to confirm the legitimate NUP winners,’ Mr Elotu said.

When asked when the final results would be released, Mr Elotu said: ‘The role of the committee to make the recommendations to the NUP executive board will determine the next fate to come out with the final lists.’

What the petitioners say

Mr David Musiri, who was aspiring for the Makindye West seat, expressed his disappointment over the selection process, arguing that it undermines loyal party members. ‘After the release of the results, when I was missing on the list, everyone was shocked. Maybe there was a slight mistake. Ms [Zahara] Luyirika, who was selected, had been vetted for the Kampala City Woman MP. Her selection undermines our core values and integrity,’ Mr Musiri said.

Mr Robert Ssekidde, alias Tuff B (Makindye East) said: ‘In my petition I expressed the desire to know why a person who was given a card had not shown interest in it but had just shifted three days to vetting. His education credentials were questionable.’

Ms Zuraika Nalukenge Ssekito challenged the selection of Ms Veronica Nanyondo to represent the party in the Bukomansimbi Woman MP race, arguing that she had withdrawn her signature during the Shs1.7b service award saga that led to the attempted impeachment of Mr Mathias Mpuuga as a Parliament commissioner.

‘If the party is talking about a leader being reliable and understanding the party’s core values, they won’t have made such a decision. I have been an NUP district registrar; I have followed all the party’s core values,’ Ms Nalukenge said.

Other petitioners are Ms Faustina Nalubega Bitaano (Mityana Woman MP) and Ms Juliet Nanteza (Wakiso District Woman MP), among others.

Residents of Busoga have expressed hope that the ongoing upgrade of the Iganga-Luuka-Kamuli Road from murrum to tarmac will spur economic growth in the sub-region.

The Shs300 billion project, which is being undertaken by Arab Contractors Ltd, is expected to be completed within 36 months.

Ms Lydia Mbwali, a resident of Walugogo Valley in Iganga District, said for decades, residents of Busoga Sub-region have endured poor roads characterised by potholes, dust, and a muddy, virtually impassable state during the rainy season.

‘The road is expected to boost trade, agriculture, and transport across the Busoga region, one of Uganda’s most densely populated areas,’ Mr Mbwali said.

Mr Johnson Bukusuba, a businessman in Luuka Town, said farmers, traders, transporters and travellers have long complained about high transport costs, vehicle breakdowns, and difficulty accessing markets.

‘We have been waiting for this road for many years. Its completion will completely change our lives,’ Mr Bukusuba, said.

‘The farmers will finally transport their produce to markets in Iganga and Kamuli without losses, and traders like us will be able to restock our shops more easily,’ Mr Bukusuba added.

The locals expect transport fares to reduce after the project is completed. They also look forward to improved access to social services such as schools and health centres, especially for residents in remote villages.

Currently, travelling from Iganga Town to Luuka Town costs Shs10,000 on a motorcycle. This high fare is due to the poor state of the road, forcing boda boda riders to charge exorbitantly for the short distance.

Boosting economic growth

Locals believe the new road will become an economic lifeline for Busoga, a region that relies heavily on agriculture and trade.

Mr Medi Balikoowa, a boda boda rider in Kamuli Town, said the improved transport network will ease the movement of sugarcane, maize, rice, and other produce to major markets in Jinja and Kampala.

‘It will also attract investors to establish new businesses and industries along the corridor. This is a game-changer for Busoga,’ Mr Balikoowa said.

The road project falls under the government’s broader infrastructure development plan aimed at improving rural connectivity and supporting regional integration.

Ms Scovia Nabirye, a teacher in Kamuli District, said the upgraded road will ensure safety of travellers.

She added: ‘It will open up new economic opportunities for traders, farmers, and ordinary residents.’ Busoga leaders expressed hope that the upgraded road would resolve rampant poverty and unemployment in the sub-region by spurring economic development. The Iganga-Luuka-Kamuli Road is also expected to foster social unity by connecting previously isolated communities.

The LC5 Chairperson of Luuka District, Mr Simon Wakaze, said the people of Busoga are grateful to the NRM government for fulfilling its long-awaited promise of upgrading the road.

‘This is a promise that has taken long to be fulfilled, but we are now happy that it has finally become a reality,’ Mr Wakaze said.

He urged leaders and residents in the region to support the contractor and ensure that the project is completed smoothly and on time.

Mr Wakaze said Luuka is a major sugarcane-growing area, and the new road will greatly benefit farmers by improving the transportation of sugarcane and other agricultural produce to factories and markets. He explained that the road will connect to Kayunga District and serve as one of the key highways in the region, enhancing trade and movement between districts.

‘Once this road is complete, the face of Busoga will change,’ Mr Balikoowa said, adding: ‘It will bring businesses closer, make life easier, and give our youth new hope.’

The Resident District Commissioner of Luuka District, Mr Michael Kibwika, said: ‘We have already secured the contractor, who is now on site. The contractor has brought in the necessary equipment and recruited workers, creating jobs for our people in the region.’

Mr Salah Radwan, the general manager of Arab Contractors Uganda Limited, said the company would execute the project on time. ‘We are ready for work. We have already started and purchased the quarry that will supply the materials needed for construction,’ Mr Radwan said.

The site engineer, Mr Abdallah Khedr, said the company had already compensated 18 out of the 19 owners of the rock that will be used as a quarry site for stones to be used on the roadworks.

‘Out of the 19 beneficiaries, 18 have already signed and received their compensation directly into their bank accounts. Only one person has not yet signed. We have fully compensated the rightful owners of the rock,’ Mr Khedr said.

Background

According to the National Household Report of 2023/2024, Busoga Sub-region remains the poorest sub-region in Uganda, with 44 percent of its population living below the poverty line.

This means Busoga’s poverty rate is significantly higher than the national average of 21.4 percent. The report indicates that Busoga, which comprises 12 districts: Namutumba, Kaliro, Bugweri, Mayuge, Namayingo, Bugiri, Buyende, Kamuli, Luuka, Iganga, Jinja City, and Jinja District, has a total population of 3,584,730 people.

Uganda’s coffee processors have set their sights on the global stage as the country’s coffee export earnings soared to $2.2b in the last financial year.

Having dispatched their first products on International Coffee Day, Inspire Africa Coffee chief executive officer Nelson Tugume said the company is ready to position Ugandan brands alongside the world’s biggest names.

‘Of course, there are challenges; logistics, market protectionism, and regulatory hurdles, but these are lessons we will navigate as we grow,’ he said, noting that they had launched four products: drip, roasted ground, roasted beans, and coffee capsules, with a branding that meets world-class standards.

He revealed that Inspire Africa Coffee had already shipped samples and secured early orders from Turkey, China, Russia, the United States, and parts of Europe.

By December 2025, the company expects to be exporting to at least four key markets: Turkey, China, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Tugume said the venture was built around creating jobs and adding value locally before export.

‘Our goal is not just to sell coffee abroad but to transform livelihoods here at home,’ he said, adding that more product lines are under development as the company strengthens Uganda’s presence in the global coffee value chain.

State Minister for Agriculture Fred Bwino Kyakulaga said Africa produces a large share of the world’s coffee yet earns only a fraction of global returns.

‘Africa earns just $3.6b from coffee, while the global coffee trade generates $460b. We take a very small share. That is why value addition is essential. It’s what enhances our coffee value chain and ensures farmers and processors benefit more from their hard work,’ he said.

Uganda’s focus on value addition comes amid growing international recognition, with Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) recently saying that Ugandan coffee is ranked third best in the world, behind Ethiopia and Kenya, in a study by professional tasters certified by the Coffee Quality Institute.

The study, which evaluated 1,229 samples harvested between 2010 and 2018, awarded Ethiopia 84.88 points, Kenya 84.31, and Uganda 84.05, cementing Uganda’s reputation for producing coffee with a superior flavour.

It was August 2023 when the Electoral Commission launched the 2026 election roadmap. I don’t even remember what season of life I was in then, but I remember the sinking feeling in my stomach. Here we go again. Another political circus. The 2020/21 elections had already knocked the innocence out of most of us. We didn’t need our parents’ stories about violence, arrests, or intimidation – we lived it. We were front and centre to the brutality, the online censoring, the fear of being anywhere near town when demonstrations erupted. That day in August, it all came rushing back, and I strapped in for the madness ahead.

The party primaries this year confirmed my anxieties. NRM nominations were drenched in violence and bribery. NUP ticket allocations felt more like backroom deals than the will of supporters. The season hadn’t even started properly, yet the script was already familiar. We’ve all heard it: Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world. Seventy-five percent under 30. It is in every census, every research paper, every international headline.

But what does it actually mean in practice? Across West Africa, young leaders are shaking up the status quo. Watching from here, you can’t help but sigh: Lord, I see what you’re doing for others. Imagine what it would mean for us – our participation, our sense of ownership in the democracy of this country – if only our leaders matched the energy of the majority they claim to serve. Even the opposition, which once carried what little fight we had, has lost steam.

When parties like the Democratic Party (DP) and Democratic Front (DF) announced they were pulling out of the 2026 race, it didn’t shock anyone. Beneath their decisions lies the wider public mood: resignation. We see the clowns, we know the circus, but we still clap along as if we’re not part of the show. And yet, the youth remain divided. Some are still holding on to hope, some have walked away from politics entirely, and others are caught somewhere in the middle. I spoke to a few peers, and their reflections capture just how conflicted young Ugandans feel.

Enock, 26, Financial Management

‘I am optimistic about the chance to take part in election processes that will impact the nation’s future, although I’m still on the fence about youth inclusion beyond elections. Compared to 2021, I think the Electoral Commission did a better job qualifying presidential candidates. NRM has shown a fair display of internal democratic processes. Other parties still have the opportunity to show the nation how exactly they select their candidates in line with party mandates.’

Christiana, 28, Human Resource

I’m not really keen on the current political events because they feel like the same shenanigans as the last elections-lots of show and pomp but little substance.

I’m neither pessimistic nor optimistic; my current state is apathy. We already know who will win, whether we vote or not, so I might as well save my energy. Still, as a Christian, I can make my contribution by praying for a violence-free election. Despite many candidates being put forward, only two really stand out: NUP and NRM. One has been tested and found wanting; the other can only be tested by ideologies we rarely hear about.

Faith, 23, University Graduate

‘This year’s election season feels more peaceful than the last. Being a young voter in Uganda once felt meaningless because, no matter what, the person they wanted always went through. But I’ve seen a shift this time-youth have contested and been elected into positions. At the lower levels, I’m optimistic change will happen. I have hope for the future because I see more young people in Parliament, which is a good sign. Maybe, eventually, we’ll even have new leadership at the very top-who knows. Still, the state of political parties worries me. Every day, the opposition grows weaker, and if they don’t unite for a common cause, they may soon cease to exist.’

Latiffa, 28, Fashion Business Owner

‘I’m definitely pessimistic about the election results-it’s Uganda, after all. I have mixed feelings: sometimes I feel my role in the process matters, but most times I don’t, because of the massive rigging of votes in this country. Omusajja talina jalaga. Honestly, I only care about one opposition candidate-Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine). The others are wasting our time. It’s sad and sickening. the opposition feels no different from NRM.’

Andrew, 25, Insurance

‘I think the next election will be a hell of a tight one. We pray no lives are lost and that the process is successful. It feels good to contribute to such an important cause; however, I’m not optimistic about the country’s future leadership. The opposition needs to strengthen its spirit of nationalism.’ Junior, 30, Creative Artist ‘As a young voter, I am fully engaged and optimistic. As a student of history, I know change in any dictatorial government is always possible, and I see it as my civic duty to be part of that process. In the face of poor governance, I choose to support a political party or candidate who truly represents the people-not the puppets or opportunists, especially those emerging from newly created political parties.’

Faizo, 27, Media Professional

‘There’s going to be a lot of chaos this season, but it will be strategically masked by the Government and the EC. Don’t forget, Uganda is set to host the 2027 CAF championships with neighboring countries, so the Government knows it can’t afford a negative image in the press-anything that threatens that spotlight will be managed. As for the opposition, I doubt all of them will even make it to January. Candidates like Mubarak Muyagwa are already crying about finances, so they won’t go far. FDC is a shadow of its former self, so nothing much there. Mugisha Muntu simply doesn’t have the ground. That leaves NUP’s Robert Kyagulani-but even that is just smoke and mirrors. We already know how the 2026 election will end.

Hashim, 24, Graphic Designer

‘I don’t vote, so I’m removed from the whole election process. During the 2021 elections, I was on campus and the chaos made it impossible to do anything. To me, it just feels like a waste of time-election season always leaves me disillusioned with the entire voting system.’

Juma, 28, Boda Boda Rider

‘I’ve always taken part in elections. Local candidates and MPs matter because they affect my daily life. Yes, many people feel defeated, but I’d rather play my part and fail for reasons beyond my control. Come January, I’m ready to cast my vote. Regardless of who people think will win, I’ll still cast mine.’

Joram, 26, Business Owner

‘My worries are always about personal safety and business. Election season is looting season-you lose business, people are killed or abducted. It’s a racket. I just hope we don’t see a repeat of 2021. Will I vote? Maybe. I’m waiting to see how campaigns unfold and what the opposition puts in their manifestos. But honestly, I’m not holding my breath. I just want this season to pass.’

Grace, 23, University Graduate

I am not into politics at all. Just thinking about it gives me anxiety, it feels like a dark cloud. The last elections weren’t good, so for my peace of mind, I pretend it’s not happening. Most of my friends are the same. We don’t vote, and we don’t plan to this time either. Honestly, I don’t care. I’m already stressed looking for a job-this is the last thing on my mind.’

Marvin, 23, University Graduate

‘I follow election season because my father instilled it in me back in high school. But let’s not pretend we don’t already know who the next president will be in 2026. If anything, the Electoral Commission should save money instead of pouring it into campaigns-but since we’re a democracy, campaigns must happen for face value. I’m curious about new opposition entrants. It’s always comedic watching them try to change a rigged system, but sometimes they surprise us.’

Gladys, 25, Banking

‘Election season always feels like a waste of time and resources. The opposition doesn’t seem strong. Maybe along the campaign trail, after listening to manifestos, the tide could shift-but for now, I’m just observing. Not because I have faith, but because we need viable candidates to pressure the ruling party. As for MPs, I never understand that side of politics. Most are puppets. Whether you vote them in or not, they’ll side with whoever butters their bread.’

Edward, 23, Law Student

This time the opposition is a joke. Some parties are barely two months old-ill-prepared but aiming to unseat a party with strong organisation despite its faults. NRM rules because of its planning. How does a party form at the tail end of elections and think it stands a chance? You even have presidential candidates singing at rival rallies. The opposition leaves little to desire. Then came the signatures saga. I commend the Electoral Commission’s vetting process. Controversial as it was, I think it trimmed a lot of fat.

Despite the mix of optimism, apathy, and outright pessimism, one thing is certain: come January 2026, polling stations will open. And many of us will still show up, because that’s what citizens do. Deep down, we want to believe our voices count. But in the same breath, many will also plan their week around ordinary things; restaurant hopping, catching a football match, bingeing a new series. That is the paradox of being a young voter in Uganda; caught between duty and disillusionment, between wanting change and expecting nothing at all.

Not shocked

Even the opposition, which once carried what little fight we had, has lost steam. When parties like the Democratic Party (DP) and Democratic Front (DF) announced they were pulling out of the 2026 race, it didn’t shock anyone. Beneath their decisions lies the wider public mood: resignation. We see the clowns, we know the circus, but we still clap along as if we’re not part of the show.

Solutech, a regional technology firm specializing in sales automation and field management solutions, has called on the government to introduce stronger policy incentives to accelerate the growth of Uganda’s digital automation industry.

The company appealed as it expanded its footprint in the country, aiming to support businesses in adopting technology-driven solutions to improve efficiency and competitiveness.

In a statement shared with the media over the weekend, Solutech’s chief executive officer, Mr Alexander Odhiambo, outlined two areas that require urgent government attention.

First, he urged the introduction of targeted investment incentives to encourage companies to adopt automation and analytics tools.

According to him, such incentives would empower businesses to modernize their operations, boost productivity, and compete effectively not only in Uganda but also across the East African region.

Mr Odhiambo also emphasized the need to strengthen data protection and privacy regulations, noting that robust legal frameworks are critical in building trust among both businesses and consumers.

Without such frameworks, he warned, the uptake of digital platforms could be undermined by concerns over data breaches and misuse of personal information.

‘Automation and analytics are vital to modern business success. By creating a supportive policy environment, Uganda can position itself as a leader in digital transformation across the region,’ Mr Odhiambo said.

The appeal comes as Solutech expands its customer support network and works closely with Ugandan businesses through its SAT platform, which helps organizations adopt data-driven decision-making.

The company believes that with the right policies in place, the digital automation sector could emerge as a key driver of Uganda’s economic growth and regional competitiveness.

Founded in Nairobi in 2014, Solutech has grown into one of East Africa’s leading providers of field force automation solutions, serving over 80 companies and managing thousands of brands.

Beyond deploying technology, the company runs employee training programs to ensure automation complements human effort rather than replaces it.

Uganda has already made significant investments to position itself as a hub for data-driven innovation. Through the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the government has rolled out the Digital Transformation Roadmap and the National ICT Policy to guide digitization across public services and the private sector.

At the core of these efforts is the National Information Technology Authority-Uganda (NITA-U), which manages key e-government platforms such as UG-Hub and the national digital ID system, UG-Pass.

In recent years, Uganda has also invested heavily in its National Backbone Infrastructure (NBI), a high-speed fiber network linking over 700 government offices nationwide.

This has dramatically reduced internet costs, with wholesale bandwidth prices falling from more than $1,200 per Mbps per month in 2010 to about $70 today, making digital services more affordable for both government agencies and private businesses.

Despite these advances, challenges remain.

Experts point to the need for higher-quality and timely data, stronger legal frameworks for cross-border data flows, and increased financing for large-scale ICT projects such as data centers.

Solutech argues that addressing these gaps will not only boost innovation in sectors such as fintech, agritech, and e-health, but also create a fertile environment for businesses to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital economy.

By pairing its private sector innovations with government-backed policies and infrastructure, Uganda has the potential to become a regional leader in digital transformation, driving sustainable growth and improving lives through data-driven solutions.