Category: Daily Monitor

The Electoral Commission (EC) has called upon the foreign investors from various countries to be at the forefront of ensuring that peace prevails before, during, and after next year’s General Election, because it is key to the continuity of their businesses.

While addressing investors during the Beyond the Ballot CEO Breakfast in Kampala on November 6, the EC spokesperson, Mr Julius Mucunguzi, said that the business community is always the first victim of any violent election, which calls for their endless input in ensuring that the process is not a do-or-die.

‘Investors have an influence, and we therefore call upon them to rally their workers and partners to engage in a peaceful election because we aim to see people go vote and return to their businesses peacefully. We don’t want people to hoard food, fly out of the country, such messages create a perception that there is no danger, and we have learned that we need continuity and peace,’ he said.

He added, ‘Say no to violence because we don’t have a substitute for peace. An election should come and go, but leave us united as it has found us, and that is why the Electoral Commission is deliberate in providing accurate information. We are trying our best not to do anything that can make people go violent.’

The development comes barely a month after eight presidential candidates who were nominated on September 22 and 23, embarked on traversing the whole country seeking to be elected in the January 15 polls.

They include the incumbent president Yoweri Museveni of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who has ruled Uganda since 1986 and is seeking the seventh elective term, his closest 2021 challenger Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform (NUP) party, and former army chief Maj Gen (rtd) Gregory Mugisha Muntu of the Alliance for National Transformation (ANT).

Others in the race are: Nathan Nandala Mafabi of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), Mubarak Munyagwa of the Common Man’s Party, Frank Bulira Kabinga of the Revolutionary People’s Party (RPP), Elton John Mabirizi of the Conservative Party, and Robert Kasibante of the National Peasants Party.

Mr Mucungunzi commended the candidates and all other stakeholders for engaging in a peaceful campaign so far and prayed that the same be exhibited even during and after the polls.

Foreign investors gathered in Kampala to discuss the mechanism on how their businesses can survive and benefit from the election and the new government during the Beyond the Ballot CEO Breakfast that was organized by different partners, including the American Chamber of Commerce of Uganda (AmCham Uganda), French Chamber of Commerce Uganda, British Chamber of Commerce Uganda, and the Netherlands Uganda Trade and Investment Platform.

In his keynote address, Mr Rajesh Kumar Ag, Chairman of the Indian Business Forum, emphasized the importance of combating disinformation, misinformation around the election news for security purposes and peace.

‘Verify every information you receive before you share because there is a lot of fake news during election time. But as businesses, of course, you will be impacted, but resilience keeps you going. For security purposes, it’s important to focus on city growth and development, not just living and physical safety, but also information security. I hope this applies especially to those who have access to the internet,’ he said.

Mr Kumar called upon the business communities to scrutinise the manifestos of different presidential candidates and see how they will benefit from the new government.

‘When you look at one of the political parties’ manifestos, it starts with social and economic progress. It says, ‘We’ve made progress so far, and we need to continue what’s been done right for another five years.’ Get manifestos and identify the opportunities for your business. Map out these opportunities and analyse how your business could benefit from upcoming government policies,’ he said.

Ms Meg Jaquay, a business leader and the former AmCham Uganda President, said, ‘For my food business, the last election and COVID didn’t disrupt operations because I focused on delivering services. Precautions include extra generator fuel, SMS lists for staff, and staff living on-site. Optimism and preparation are key.’

Mr Patrick Joram Mugisha, the Commissioner for Business Development at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, said.

‘There has been a disconnect in the past between chambers of commerce and the ministry. Currently, the private sector isn’t involved in drafting national trade policies. We are starting the process to revise two key policies: the National Energy Policy (2015) and the National Standards and Quality Policy (2012). Businesses should engage early to influence these policies.

He further pledged that the ministry will improve inclusion in terms of accommodating the views of chambers during policy formulation.

When Cornwell Muleya was appointed chief executive officer of Uganda Airlines in February 2020, he was seen as the man who would steer the revived national carrier to success.

Two years later, he was out of a job, suspended, accused of mismanagement, and dismissed amid a storm of controversy.

Now, the Industrial Court of Uganda has ruled that Muleya’s dismissal was unlawful and unfair, ordering the airline to pay him about half a billion shillings in compensation.

In a ruling delivered by Justice Anthony Wabwire Musana, it was found that Uganda Airlines had violated both the Employment Act and its own Human Resource Manual by failing to accord the former chief executive officer a fair hearing before firing him.

Court found that Muleya was never properly notified of the disciplinary hearing that led to his dismissal, even as the airline claimed he refused to attend. Yet, it failed to produce any proof that he was served with the invitation.

‘The failure to serve notice of the oral hearing was a procedural misstep resulting in procedural unfairness,’ Justice Musana ruled.

Court also found that extending Muleya’s suspension for six months, beyond the legal limit of four weeks, was unlawful and that what the airline described as a termination with notice was in fact a disguised dismissal.

As a result, Justice Musana ruled that both his suspension and dismissal were procedurally and substantively unfair.

For failure to observe the law, court ordered Uganda Airlines to pay Muleya Shs252m as severance pay, Shs77m for failure to accord him a fair hearing, Shs126m as general damages for unlawful termination, and Sh460,800 as unpaid gratuity each month he had worked over the two years, which rounds off to about Shs11m.

He was also awarded half of his taxed legal costs. In total, the amount due to him, excluding costs, stands at about Sh455.8 million, which could take the total cost to about half a billion shillings (Shs500m).

Court also ordered Uganda Airlines to issue Muleya a certificate of service within 21 days of the ruling, by November 14, 2025.

Justice Musana noted that while the airline had alleged serious mismanagement, it failed to follow the required procedure to prove its case.

‘Because the [Uganda Airlines] was unable to show that it respected [Muleya’s] right to a fair oral hearing, we find his dismissal to be both procedurally and substantively unfair and unlawful,’ he ruled.

For Muleya, the judgment is a significant moral victory after a bruising three-year battle to clear his name.

Through his lawyers of Muwema and Co. Advocates, Muleya said the ruling was long-overdue justice.

‘Our client’s exit from Uganda Airlines didn’t follow due process. So his rights have been restored by this award,’ said Fred Muwema, on behalf of Muleya.

Muleya had sought more than Shs3b in damages for what he described as reputational harm, emotional distress, and financial loss, but the court granted only a fraction of that amount.

Muleya, who we understand has since left Uganda, has been working in his native country, Zambia.

Uganda Airlines has already moved to challenge the ruling, with the carrier, through SM and Co Advocates (formerly Shonubi Musoke and Co. Advocates), filing a Notice of Appeal, citing dissatisfaction with the decision.

In a follow-up letter, the airline requested the full record of proceedings to prepare for the appeal, signaling that the legal fight is far from over.

Both ambition and turbulence marked Muleya’s time at the helm of Uganda Airlines.

He oversaw the expansion of routes and acquisition of new aircraft, but his administration also faced persistent allegations of financial mismanagement and governance lapses.

His suspension in May 2021 and eventual termination in February 2022 came amid government investigations into the airline’s operations.

While the carrier may have hoped to close that chapter, the court’s ruling has reopened it, with a hefty financial cost attached.

If the Court of Appeal upholds the Industrial Court’s decision, Uganda Airlines will have to pay Muleya the full Sh466m plus costs, marking a costly reminder that even in matters of management and discipline, due process cannot be ignored.

The long school holidays are here and will stretch until the start of the new academic year in early February 2026. This break will keep millions of students away from structured learning for more than two months.

First to break were the Primary Seven leavers, who completed their Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) on Tuesday.

Next will be their Senior Four counterparts who end their Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) exams today. The Senior Six students start their Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams on November 10 and break off on December 5.

A total of 1,416,307 candidates were registered for the 2025 PLE, UCE, and UACE . These leavers will be joined by millions of more students moving up from Senior One, Two, Three and Five.

Watch and guide

While holidays offer a well-deserved break, the long stretch can expose the learners to negative influences, risky behaviour, and loss of academic focus, unless we keep them safe, productive, and mentally balanced.

Educationists and parenting experts warn that how this window is managed can either strengthen or derail a child’s growth, progress, and future.

Mr Fagil Mandy, an educationist, advises parents to take charge of their children’s schedules instead of leaving them to drift through the holiday without guidance. He says parents should deliberately plan how their children spend each day, balancing rest, learning, and responsibility.

‘Parents should have a clear programme of what they are doing and what the children have to do. Many of our children, especially those from boarding schools, lack basic knowledge of managing a home. This holiday should be used to teach them house chores such as cooking, cleaning, and home management,’ he says.

Mr Mandy adds that holidays provide a unique opportunity for experiential learning, encouraging parents to expose children to life outside school. ‘Children need to be well versed with key places in the country beyond Kampala. Many reach university without knowing their surroundings. They should visit relatives to understand their full family tree and develop a sense of belonging,’ he counsels.

Beyond home and travel experiences, Mr Mandy stresses the importance of vocational and hands-on skills that nurture creativity and independence. Mr Mandy says: ‘In this era of artificial intelligence, we need skills that technology cannot replace. Vocational skills such as carpentry, tailoring, crafts or cookery are essential. It’s even more beneficial to take your children to your workplace so they understand how money is made and appreciate the value of work.’

He adds, ‘Children should be encouraged to read widely so they can broaden their perspective and integrity. Parents, too, should dedicate deliberate time to guide and mentor them during this long break and teach them every skill and be organised into production.’

Mr Mandy says these experiences also help children understand consequences and develop independence. The Uganda National Teachers Union (Unatu) Secretary General, Mr Filbert Baguma, emphasises the importance of exposure to real-world problem-solving during the holiday.

‘Parents can turn the holiday into a practical learning experience by involving children in decision-making and problem-solving tasks. For example, budgeting for household expenses, planning a small garden project, or organising community initiatives teaches responsibility and critical thinking,’ he says.

Mapping chores, life skills

Indeed, some parents say they are already preparing structured plans for their children during the holiday. Ms Grace Nyakato, whose daughter has just sat for PLE this week, says she has mapped out a balance of chores, and skill-building for her.

‘We will first let our daughter rest for a week to recover from the exam fatigue. After that, she will help with cooking and gardening and we will also spend weekends visiting relatives who live upcountry,’ Ms Nyakato says.

Similarly, Mr Joseph Lutaaya, father of a UCE candidate, says he plans to guide his son explore vocational skills.

‘My son loves engineering, so I have arranged for him to attend a short-term mechanic course in a nearby garage and we will also schedule reading hours every day, and monitor his social media use to ensure he stays focused,’ Mr Lutaaya explains.

Mr Dickson Tumuramye, a parenting coach, says one of the biggest mistakes parents make after exams is rushing their children into new activities without giving them adequate time to rest. He says after months of academic pressure, students need space to unwind and regain emotional balance.

Social, peer pressures

Mr Tumuramye also warns that this year’s long holiday coincides with a heated political season, which calls for greater parental vigilance over children’s social activities.

‘Parents should monitor their children’s smart phone use because some are already organising unsupervised parties, which in the past have led to tragic incidents such as drowning during reckless swimming outings. Others may get drawn into political camps, which is not appropriate for their age and can easily expose them to manipulation,’ he warns.

Mr Tumuramye recommends that parents pay attention to their children’s interests and help them develop practical skills around them.

‘Once you identify what your child enjoys, support them to develop a skill around it whether it’s art, baking, music, or computing and this not only keeps them engaged but also boosts their confidence and sense of purpose,’ he explains.

He also highlights the importance of being alert to behavioural changes during the holiday, which could indicate stress, peer pressure, or drug influence.

‘When a child starts showing abnormal sleeping habits, a sudden loss or increase in appetite, or becomes too isolated or overly outgoing, it could be a red flag where parents should intervene early before the situation escalates,’ he explains.

Experts agree that keeping children engaged during the holiday is not about burdening them with work but guiding them towards growth and responsibility.

Correspondingly, child rights advocates maintain that the safety of children who may be left unsupervised during the long holiday come with an increase in cases of child abuse, teenage pregnancies, drug use, and child labour, especially in urban settlements and rural trading centres where parents spend long hours at work.

‘Long holidays without supervision can expose children to exploitation and guardians ought to know where their children are, who they are spending time with, and what they are doing. In the previous long breaks, child protection agencies have recorded spikes in incidents of sexual exploitation, particularly among adolescents who engage in unsupervised social gatherings or online interactions,’ warns Mr Damon Wamara, the executive director of Uganda Child Rights NGO Network.

Mr Wamara urges community leaders, religious institutions, and schools to take an active role in organising safe, structured activities that keep young people engaged and connected to positive role models.

‘Holiday camps, sports tournaments, church programmes, and community service projects give children a sense of purpose and belonging and create safe spaces where children can learn, interact, and express themselves without exposure to harm,’ he recommends.

Experts say when parents strike a balance between rest, skill development, supervision, and structured activities, children are more likely to return to school energised, focused, and ready for the new academic year.

What began as a tense legal proceeding at the High Court yesterday quickly turned chaotic when Justice Emmanuel Baguma delivered a ruling declining to refer Opposition leader Dr Kizza Besigye and his co-accused’s application to the Constitutional Court.

The courtroom descended into disorder shortly after the decision, as emotions spilled over among relatives of the accused. Moments after Justice Baguma concluded that Dr Besigye and his co-accused, Mr Obeid Lutale and Capt Denis Oola, had failed to raise a substantial constitutional question, a woman identified as Mariam Obeid Lutale, Mr Lutale’s daughter sprang from her seat and rushed to the bar.

Wearing a blue hijab over a grey suit and a white blouse, Mariam grabbed microphones, belonging to various media houses, within her reach.

Shouting over the murmurs in court, she cried out that her family was tired of what was happening in the case. ‘We are tired of this! This is too much!’ she exclaimed, moving toward the judge’s bench in tears.

Within a spitting distance were counter terrorism police officers deployed at the court who jumped over the furniture to reach her. The security officers moved swiftly to restrain her, but she resisted, pulling at the microphones of journalists and shouting at the officers.

‘I will beat you!’ she warned, pointing a microphone toward a police officer before several officers overpowered her and dragged her out of the courtroom. The commotion halted proceedings for about 10 minutes. Journalists, lawyers, and family members stood in stunned silence as order was restored. Dr Besigye and Mr Lutale stood in the dock all this while, observing the proceedings in silence.

When the court reconvened, defence lawyer Martha Karua rose to address the bench. ‘My Lord, from your ruling we need to get instructions from our client,’ she began calmly. Ms Karua added: ‘The lady, who has just been carried out is a daughter of Hajji Obeid Lutale. She must have been carried away by emotions. We pray that you use your discretion to order her release. When she gets released, I promise we will sit with her and calm her down not to repeat what she has done.’

Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Thomas Jatiko then stood to address the court and said:’In view of your guidance that this matter be fixed for scheduling, the State associates itself with the court’s direction.’

Defence lawyer Fredrick Mpanga, who appeared with Ms Karua and other counsel, requested that the legal team be allowed some time to speak privately with their clients before they were returned to confinement. ‘The last time we were allowed to speak to them briefly,’ he said. ‘In light of our schedules, we request for three weeks to organise our affairs and come back. Before we go, we also request for space to talk to our clients, we all cannot go to prison. We regret the incident that has happened.’

Mr Mpanga expressed concern about what he called ‘harsh conditions’ for the defence team’s access to court. ‘In the more rigid environment of the military, we were allowed in court. We do not hope to see civil courts acting the other way,’ he said, adding that the defence would advise the public about court decorum to avoid further disruption. Taking the floor, Capt Oola, one of the accused, spoke softly, saying: ‘It has taken me two years in prison, and I have not seen or talked to my mother and family. I am happy that my mother is in court today.’ He asked the judge to allow him a brief moment to speak to his mother before being taken back into custody.

The prosecution did not object to the defence’s request for more time. ‘We associate ourselves with the defence counsel for purposes of this adjournment,’ said Mr Jatiko. ‘We pray that court grants us four weeks. We have some high-profile matters coming up next week, including the Kagezi murder case and the Jamilu Mukulu case.’ Justice Baguma agreed to the joint request, fixing the plea-taking and scheduling for December 4. ‘This court will be available even today for a meeting with the parties and security officials to discuss issues of access and entry into court,’ the judge said before adjourning the case.

Earlier, Justice Baguma had ruled that Dr Besigye’s bid to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court did not meet the threshold under Article 137(5)(b) of the Constitution. He held that no substantial question of constitutional interpretation had been established, emphasising that ‘Article 28 of the Constitution lays down the principles of the right to a fair hearing, which this court is mandated to observe’.

The accused persons, through their lawyers, had requested the High Court to refer their case to the Constitutional Court, arguing that continuing with proceedings before Justice Baguma against whom they have a pending complaint before the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) violates their constitutional right to a fair and impartial hearing.

Their lawyers had framed the proposed constitutional question as: ‘Whether a court presided over by a judicial officer against whom a complaint by the accused persons seeking removal from office is pending is an independent and impartial court in accordance with Article 28(1) and Article 44(c) of the Constitution.’

However, Justice Baguma ruled that the matter did not meet the threshold for constitutional interpretation.

‘Article 137(5)(a) and (b) require that before a reference is made, the court must be satisfied that a prima facie case exists that interpretation of a constitutional provision is required, If this is not established, then no reference should be made,’ he stated.

Quoting previous authorities, including Sheikh Abdul Karim Sentamu and Another vs Uganda (1998) and Hon Sam Kuteesa vs Attorney General (2011), the judge emphasised that the court must first determine whether a real question of interpretation arises in the proceedings.

‘However much a party may request, he cannot have referred a matter that does not involve interpretation of the Constitution. Nor can a party give the court jurisdiction which the court does not have by law,’ Justice Baguma said.

He added:’The allegations that the accused persons will not get a fair trial are an imagination because Article 28 of the Constitution lays down the principles of the right to a fair hearing, which this court is mandated to observe.’

With that ruling, the treason case now moves toward trial preparations. Dr Besigye and Mr Lutale were returned to Luzira prison after the court session.

Right now, Uganda is in the middle of an electoral season, with election of President, Members of Parliament, Local Government leaders scheduled to take place in January 2026.

Nominations have been done, and aspirants for various positions have kick-started campaigns, with each carrying a message that they will enable them get supporters, and of course votes, come 2026.

Like me, I know other teachers will be keenly following the candidates’ proposed education agenda to see if they can really solve the current and future challenges.

Currently, the education sector, compared to eight years a go is doing fairly well. The new lower secondary curriculum is well in progress, thousands of new seed secondary schools have been built and teachers recruited, several online systems (EMIS, TMIS) have been launched.

Furthermore, the TVET, and Teacher’s policies have been rolled out, and the much-hyped enhancement of salaries for science teachers, and instructors.

Despite the progress, challenges still persist in Uganda’s education sector, including corruption in teacher recruitment, ghost teachers, mismanagement of grants, high school fees, poor pay for Arts teachers, limited support for ECD, and shortages of essential supplies.

Against this background, our leading presidential candidates have outlined their plans to address these issues.

President Yoweri Museveni and the NRM pledge to expand universal education (UPE, USE, and post-A-Level), recruit thousands of teachers, raise salaries for arts teachers, and modernise the curriculum to match labour-market needs.

The ruling party also promises to strengthen technical and vocational education (TVET), invest in digital learning, and improve school infrastructure nationwide.

On the other hand, the opposition parties emphasise equity, funding, and teacher welfare. Robert Kyagulanyi (NUP) proposes free and compulsory early childhood education (ECD) and primary education with meals, uniforms, and scholastic materials provided by the state, alongside better teacher-pupil ratios and digital learning resources.

Nandala Mafabi of FDC prioritises boosting capitation grants, introducing a national school-feeding policy, and ensuring fair teacher pay.

Meanwhile, Mugisha Muntu (ANT) focuses on improving teacher remuneration, expanding scholarships, and enhancing ICT use in education.

Collectively, their promises reveal broad agreement that Uganda’s education system needs better funding, motivated teachers, and stronger alignment between classroom learning and employable skills.

As a secondary school teacher with 13 years of service, who has also travelled and experienced other education systems abroad, I believe the following should form the foundation of an education manifesto for our next president. Firstly, curriculum reforms must continue.

Although the new lower secondary curriculum was introduced in 2020 and the first cohort sat for UCE in 2024, the A-Level and primary curricula remain unchanged.

Secondly, corruption remains a major obstacle that denies children quality education despite government funding.

A president who decisively tackles corruption will achieve much across all sectors.

Thirdly, digitization and internet access must be prioritised to support learning. Both primary and secondary school learners should have access to computers and Internet to support learning.

Fourthly, fair pay for all teachers is essential, as the 300 percent salary increment for science teachers while leaving Arts teachers behind was unfair.

Also, a system that rewards teachers equally and promotes them based on qualifications should be established. Fifth, the government should establish and support ECD centres because early learning lays the foundation for a child’s lifelong education and development.

Research shows that children who attend quality ECD programmes perform better in primary school, have better social skills, and are more likely to stay in school. Lastly, the growing number of private schools has left government schools, especially seed secondary schools under capacity.

Abolishing school fees in primary and secondary schools would change this, and strengthen public education and restore government schools to their central role.

These are some of the ideas and plans teachers and others are looking for. But our constitution states that power belongs to the people, and so voting for president is for all eligible Ugandans.

In conclusion, Uganda’s education sector stands at a critical point where meaningful reform, strong leadership, and accountability can redefine its future.

The next president has the opportunity to build an education system that is inclusive, equitable, and relevant to today’s world. An education that values both teachers and learners, embraces technology, and upholds integrity in public service.

It’s almost noon and the swelter tells the rest of the story of Limpopo, South Africa’s tropical province. Just two hours ago, we were departing Johannesburg, a bustling jungle of sky-smooching shiny buildings. That frame has now given way to sweeping savannah views on either side of N1 – a highway that spans 2,000km, from Cape Town via Joburg to Musina, a border town. N1, a part of the Cape-to-Cairo network, traces ancient trade routes that predate Kilwa Kisiwani, Mwenemutapa and Biharwe Eclipse.

Regular flights ply the Entebbe-Joburg route. Visitors fly then connect to local airports like Polokwane, the provincial capital. But, a road trip to this destination – flanked by Botswana, Moçambique and Zimbabwe – is meditative.

Home to Mapungubwe, Cradle of Humankind, the planet’s only savannah biosphere reserve, a massive national park and umpteen ancient rock paintings, this destination brags a year-round summer. Fields of varying sizes and hectares of farms pervade.

Young and old take to waterbodies to boat or just for gambolling. Icons such as broadcaster Aletta Motimele and Charlotte Maxeke, freedom fighter and teacher, hail from here. So does music maestro Master KG, known for Jerusalema, a hit during Covid-19.

The sky is a stunning blue today and the air cleaner here. Sites of ancient history and unparalleled beauty, with birdsong adding a melody to that frame, reign.

Inter-continental trade

Our ancestors must have been as enchanted. Traders, hunters and artists from the Kingdom of Mapungubwe traversed these lands centuries ago. Some of them participated in the intercontinental trade and exported gold to China, Egypt and beyond, taking in coastal states like the 1,100-year-old Mombasa.

Yanking us to the present, Limpopo-born youngster and anthropology student Vhuthuhawe Ramuli explains that these days a trip to Mapungubwe is akin to ‘a history lesson with a side of lions”: that site welds history and wildlife. Keeping true to their age-old tradition, baobab trees raise their hands in benediction.

‘If you love nature and enjoy great weather, you’ll love Limpopo place: the landscape, the scenery, sweet birdsong,’ marvels Grace Nakidde, a Kampala-based entrepreneur.

On the downside, visa restrictions between SA and Uganda stifle tourism, business leader Damali Ssali once noted in Monitor.

At last count, the annual tally of Azania-bound Ugandans was 13,000. VFS Global’s prohibitive fees and mistreatment of travellers from Uganda and other countries dampen traffic.

Strangely, VFS claims deep commitment to supporting’ the development of ‘travel and tourism to and from the continent’.

Further, Pretoria requires visas from DRC nationals while offering open access to many in the Global North. Malawi and Zambia’s recent visa waivers exclude the Congolese despite geographic and cultural proximity, exposing an ironic disjuncture.

Broadly, SA’s inbound traffic is over-reliant on Southern Africa which in turn accounts for almost two-thirds of the 9-million arrivals. Europe is the source of 1.3-million visitors (14%) and Asia 3%, exposing Mzansi’s lazy marketing in petrodollar-rich UAE or China, with 145-million outbound travelers. It’s about time today’s leaders learned from Mapungubwe which, centuries ago, penetrated global markets.

The numbers

For context, Uganda scrapes 4.2-million international and domestic holidaymakers to Zambia’s 2.4-million tourists.

Africa hosts an estimated 84-million annual visits with Morocco hosting 17.4-million of them. That’s double Azania’s tally but the latter should by now be approaching the 30-million mark given its numerous advantages: air connectivity, world-class infrastructure, cool pricing, visa exemptions for the subcontinent and most of the Global North and a diversity of attractions.

The medical tourism sector and the 2010 soccer jamboree, the globe’s biggest PR campaign, are yet to be capitalised on.

‘There’s so much that makes me want to come back. The experience was breath-taking,’ Ms Nakidde says of an achingly beautiful Magoebaskloof, a misty town east of Polokwane, reachable via the scenic R71 road.

Ubiquitous marula trees, amid little beneficiation, claim their share of the dreamscape. The young Ramuli is charmed.

“If I showed someone around, I’d take them to Blyde River, Mapungubwe and Magoebaskloof,’ she says, singling the latter for people who ‘love adventure like zip-lining, or just screaming your lungs out’.

These sights inspired the genius of Moses Tladi who went on to produce ‘poignant yet charming’ works, reported the Mail and Guardian.

‘His repertoire brings to life panoramic vistas of many sites in Limpopo’s Sekhukhuneland, the Free State and in Magaliesberg (Mogalesberg, actually). The Crown Mines painting is a reminder why the newspaper Umteteli wa Bantu described him as a ‘native genius’.’

Valleys, glades, ravines, hills and mountains blend delectably here. It’s as if this destination is a frame from Tladi’s canvas. While it’s off the beaten track, Waterberg – a birders’, hikers’ and photographers’ favourite and an oasis for city rats – is wondrous: the landscape gets greener and temperature warmer as you venture deeper. The province’s lushness and terrain remind Ms Grace of the Western Region.

On the savannah reserve’s eastern frontier sits Tiveka Game Lodge, a hit with travelers since its launch in 2006. “Some guests fall in love with our game drives and seeing the animals up close. Everyone seems to find their own special experience here,’ says founder MD Tiveka Mathumbu, listing Kruger’s Mopani Camp and Echo Caves as her personal favourites.

The sites

Busloads of tourists sample curated ‘authenticity’ where hotel bosses gather Africans to sing, dance and, sometimes, serve offal to guests. That’s not authentic. Visitors from across Africa can tell.

Anyway, materialising just south of Polokwane as we hit the culturally-rich Mokopane, is the escarpment named Lebopo and Maloti. The Cradle of Humankind heritage is named Makapansgat and Makapans Valley (since the Dutch and French mispronounced the eponym). The site is off the radar but brace yourself if you choose to go. By the time you’re done – if your guide is the affable Mariri Peter Molomo, who melds palaeontology, geography, economics and politics with ease and captivating storytelling skills – you’d feel you’ve traced the timeline from date to Stone Age.

Limpopo tourism boss Moss Ngobeni predicts annual domestic and global traffic will have grown by a third, to hit 10-million, by December. Overreliance on wildlife can harm the planet and stunt sectors like gastronomy, meetings, and creative industries. Barring wildlife, what is the province actively marketing to East Africans, Asians and others? Of the 70-million Europeans who holiday overseas, only a trickle visit Limpopo.

With this year’s G20 summit imminent, will government officials (tourism, arts, economic development, youth, etc.) host, in this province, politicians and captains of industry from Aotearoa, Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire, Denmark, Ethiopia, France, Ghana, Japan or Uganda? Like baobab trees with their raised hands, young hospitality graduates are praying. Savannah vistas and gems are waiting: historic Mapungubwe, a slice of Eden called Waterberg (including Bela Bela, a resort town of hot mineral springs), museums and events aplenty. Well, top dogs don’t care. Look at the VFS mess and squandered job opportunities.

Yet, beyond safaris, Limpopo’s menu is long: magical sunrises, mountain camping, heart-pounding abseiling, magical hot-air ballooning, stargazing, and so on. This is the junction of adventure and laughter, it’s the place where the present hangs out with the past.

“My entrepreneurial journey began eight years ago, shortly after completing Senior Six. I left Ntungamo for Fort Portal to help my uncle start a business, but the venture never took off. With only Shs40,000 to my name and nowhere to stay, a friend offered me shelter in an abandoned house. He was making liquid soap and encouraged me to learn the skill as a means of survival.

Using the little money I had, I bought ingredients and began experimenting. Within a few months, I was producing liquid soap and packaging it in reused mineral water bottles. I hawked my products around Fort Portal City, determined to make ends meet. When I tried to access financing from a bank, the requirements were discouraging. I later secured a small loan of Shs480,000 from a microfinance institution-far less than I needed-but I worked hard and repaid it faithfully.

My breakthrough came when a friend introduced me to Equity Bank’s Youth Loan. The process was straightforward, and the Relationship Officer guided me patiently. After mobilising a few friends, we received financial literacy training from the bank. With group guarantors, I successfully applied for my first youth loan of Shs2.5m.

That loan changed everything. I increased production, improved packaging, and expanded my market. Soon, I was invited by the Tooro Women’s Group to train them in soap making, which enhanced my visibility. My client base grew rapidly as I began supplying hotels, supermarkets, and other businesses. I hired my first employee-first temporarily, then permanently.

After repaying my first loan, I secured another for Shs4.5m to scale up production. Over time, I have accessed six youth loans ranging from Shs2.5m to Shs5m, and six digital loans between Shs1m and Shs3m. My working capital has since grown from Shs1.5m to Shs40m.

Today, my business, Klean Star Products, operates three branches-in Fort Portal, Kyenjojo, and Mbarara-and serves 11 districts across western Uganda. We’ve diversified our product line to include Jik, body lotion, jelly, shampoo, candles, and bar soap. I now employ eight full-time staff and supply raw materials to other soap makers.

From living in an abandoned house to owning land, a car, and livestock, my life has transformed. Equity Bank believed in me when others didn’t.

Their Youth Loan empowered me to dream bigger-and now I’m working towards turning Klean Star Products into a fully-fledged factory that creates jobs and serves the nation.”

Two years ago, a power struggle erupted between two factions of Sudan’s military. Today, this conflict is spiralling out of control, with thousands being killed in what a United Nations report has called ‘slaughterhouses’.

Last week, the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the paramilitary group battling Sudan’s army, captured the city of El Fasher, the last hold-out in the western Darfur region held by the military.

Soon after, reports of ethnically motivated massacres emerged. The World Health Organization said 460 people were killed in just one incident at the city’s hospital. Witnesses described widespread executions and sexual violence targeting certain ethnic groups.

A UN fact-finding mission found already last year that both sides in the conflict have committed war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Rights groups and analysts are now sounding the alarm about a possible genocide taking place. Some say the killings are reminiscent of the start of the Rwanda genocide in 1994, which killed a staggering 800,000 people.

The atrocities are also following the same troubling pattern as in Darfur 20 years ago, which killed an estimated 300,000 people.

Back then, celebrity activists such as George Clooney helped put Darfur on the map. It became a major foreign policy issue in the United States, Europe, Africa and elsewhere. The genocide in Rwanda was still relatively fresh in people’s minds. The slogan ‘never again’ was still taken somewhat seriously.

The global attention eventually led the International Criminal Court to indict Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir for allegedly directing the campaign of mass killings in Darfur, the first sitting head of state to be indicted.

Sudan is now home to the worst humanitarian crisis in the world. Hundreds of thousands have been killed since 2023, 12 million people have been displaced and 21 million people face what the UN calls ‘high levels of acute food insecurity’.

Yet, compared to the early 2000s, the international community has been largely silent.

Why global attention matters

It would be tempting to say the wars and suffering in Gaza and Ukraine have overshadowed Sudan in the minds of global leaders and concerned citizens alike. But this does not mean the world can’t do anything.

Global awareness did not solve anything by itself in Darfur 20 years ago, but it was a first step. It led to the eventual deployment of a peacekeeping mission by the United Nations and the African Union.

The mission was too small and limited, but it showed that international peacekeepers can still have a positive impact in the 21st century. They can monitor ceasefires, implement disarmament programs, protect civilians and prevent further escalations of violence.

More attention – and pressure – also needs to be placed on the external actors supporting both sides in the current conflict. These countries are pursuing their own strategic interests in Sudan and consider the power struggle a chance to increase their influence in the region and exert control over Sudan’s natural resources.

The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are backed by Egypt, Turkey, Iran and Russia. The United Arab Emirates, meanwhile, has been accused of funding and providing weapons to the Rapid Support Forces in clear violation of an arms embargo.

While these countries deny arming both sides, rights groups say a flood of weapons has nonetheless entered the country. The United Arab Emirates, in particular, is accused of covertly supplying drones, howitzers, heavy machine guns and mortars to RSF fighters in Darfur.

The United Arab Emirates has only just started to distance itself from the RSF following the recent atrocities in El Fasher.

What’s needed to bring peace

A ceasefire must urgently be agreed to, so humanitarian corridors can be opened to allow aid organisations to do their work.

All outside military support to the warring parties must end immediately. The current arms embargo is too limited and has been poorly implemented – it needs to be strengthened.

And more sanctions should be imposed, especially on the perpetrators reportedly responsible for international crimes. In January, the Biden administration levied sanctions on the RSF commander and several UAE-based companies supporting him – these must now be expanded.

This would make it more difficult for Sudan’s lucrative gold trade to continue to be used by both sides to sustain the war.

For the peace to hold in the long term, both sides must also agree on a mechanism to disarm or integrate the RSF fighters into the regular forces.

Establishing some form of justice and reconciliation process can also contribute to preventing further violence. This sends a clear signal that committing crimes will not be rewarded. It can also help communities heal and give peace a better chance.

Nothing of this sort has really happened in Darfur over the past couple decades. Instead, political actors continued to exploit and aggravate ethnic tensions. The RSF, in particular, has recruited fighters from the infamous Janjaweed militias responsible for the Darfur atrocities in the early 2000s.

A further complication is the increasing fragmentation of the situation, as the Sudanese Armed Forces and RSF are not perfectly integrated armies. They do not have centralised control over their various coalitions of fighters.

This means that while getting the leaders to agree on a ceasefire is important, it may not be sufficient.

As a result, peace initiatives must include local agreements with individual rebel leaders and smaller factions of fighters, which can greatly increase the security of the population in particular areas.

To be clear, lasting peace does not come from some miracle peacemaker. In fact, nothing tangible came out of previous attempts at peace talks aimed at ending the conflict this year.

But this is where other actors can play an important role. The United Arab Emirates, for example, may now feel pressured to exert a more positive influence on the RSF and urge it to come to the negotiating table. The same applies to Egypt and the Sudanese Armed Forces.

And a more comprehensive plan then needs to be worked out, ideally through an international organisation like the United Nations or the African Union, with the goal of empowering the people of Sudan to make their own political decisions.

Sudan is a stark reminder that making lasting peace takes huge efforts. The devastating situation in the country demands the world keep trying.

In a bid to bridge Africa’s digital divide and empower young innovators, Kampala International University (KIU) has partnered with Utrecht University of the Netherlands to strengthen research and capacity in digital education and innovation between Uganda and European youths.

The ten-day cross-continental programme has been designed to explore opportunities in digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural exchange, bringing together academics, policy makers, and technology experts for inclusive digital growth across Uganda and beyond.

KIU hosted Utrecht University for the 2025 International Summer School over the weekend under the Theme ‘Bridging Continents: African-European Youths Collaborating for a Diverse and Digital Future,’ an initiative that creates opportunities for young people in Uganda.

During the launch in Uganda, Ms Christine Mugimba, the director of ICT and research at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), hailed both universities for connecting young people through digital learning and innovation. She noted that such collaborations are vital for addressing barriers that limit youth participation in the digital economy and sustainable means that ensure inclusivity in technology-driven futures.

‘The future of Uganda’s development goes beyond academics – it is about giving our young people tools to create solutions that matter, and this lies in how we leverage technology to improve access to education, health, and employment,’ she said.

‘Such collaborations bridge a gap between innovation and community impact in ensuring that digital technologies reach marginalized communities, especially women, youth, and people with disabilities.’

The KIU Vice Chancellor, Prof Muhammed Ngoma, noted that the partnership aligns with their vision to position Uganda as a hub for digital innovation in Africa. He explained that the programme would equip students with practical digital skills while linking local researchers to international networks for digital exposure.

‘Statistics and facts indicate that Ugandan youths have very low levels of digital literacy, actually among the lowest globally. This hinders our youths from leveraging digital tools and technologies for education and innovation,’ he said.

Prof Ngoma added, ‘Most youths in Uganda use digital tools for unproductive activities. Many lack the skills to authenticate or exercise due diligence over what they post or read on social media platforms. This collaboration goes beyond academics – it is about giving young people tools to create solutions that matter through fostering shared diversity and youth empowerment through collaboration.’

Prof Ngoma further highlighted that the Summer school is designed to equip youths with the skills to identify and filter misinformation and disinformation, while learning how to harness digital tools for education, knowledge, innovation, and other productive activities.

The 2024 Ubos statistics reveal a concerning digital divide, with only eight percent of women aged 15 and above using the internet, compared to 11 percent of men.

Representatives from Utrecht University echoed their commitment to promoting sustainable digital solutions tailored to local needs. They emphasized that digital literacy and inclusion should form the backbone of Africa’s education systems if the continent is to compete globally.

Activities of the engagement, which is to continue at the KIU Western Campus in Ishaka, where participants will engage in digital innovation boot camps, cultural exchange programs, and research clinics. These sessions aim to strengthen collaboration, encourage creativity, and promote mutual understanding between African and European students.

The KIU-Utrecht partnership marks another step in Uganda’s growing embrace of technology-driven learning, with potential ripple effects on employment, entrepreneurship, and social inclusion.

According to the 2024 National Population and Housing Census report by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS), the unemployment rate stands at 12.3 percent with 42.6 percent of youths aged 15-24 not in employment, education, or training.

The Vice Chancellor noted that the digital skills acquired through the programme are expected to further bridge the gap between education and employment. He explained that students will learn techniques that enable them to create self-employment opportunities, secure online jobs from home, or even work while still attending university.

‘These skills will empower our youths to transform their education into tangible economic opportunities, whether through online work, entrepreneurship, or projects they develop while at university to minimize reasons of insufficient capital as contributing to unemployment,’ Prof Ngoma said.

Think about the hottest girlies you follow on Instagram, Snapchat or TikTok. Now think about them again after this feature. From Kampala to Istanbul, people are embracing cosmetic enhancements, dental makeovers, and body sculpting in the quest for perfection.

This feature explores the rise of modern beauty trends; from glass skin facials and smile makeovers to IV drips and full-body transformations, everyone is chasing fine looks and in 2025, Kampala clinics have been busier than ever.

Maybe it is the influence of social media, or our growing obsession with perfection as a society, but there has never been a time when the desire to look perfect and beautiful has been this intense. You would think make-up, filters, and a good photo editor would be enough, but not anymore. The beauty race has gone far beyond Korean skincare routines and gym memberships.

Today, beauty enhancements are not only about faces. People are getting taller, slimmer, curvier, or reshaping features that God did not quite perfect during the creation process. From smile makeovers to body sculpting, even procedures to change your eye colour or ear shape, there is a solution for almost everything.

And if you think this is something that is only happening in Hollywood, think again. A night out in Kampala will have you doing double takes, wondering how that influencer came back from her ‘social media break’ looking subtly (or not so subtly) different or why that old girl from school, the one who once earned a nickname for her not-so-slim nose, now has a perfectly chiselled one. She completely changed!

The face card

What started as a skincare craze with everyone chasing that ‘glass skin’ look that we see with K-pop stars, with serums and sheet masks, has evolved into something much more complex. Now, it is all about skin boosters, hydra facials, fillers, eye brow lifts, rhinoplasty, and chin contouring. A facial is not just a once-in-a-while indulgence anymore. The goal? Flawless, youthful skin that looks good even without filters.

Procedures we once only saw on TV shows such as Botched are now part of everyday life. You can spot the results while walking down a street in Kampala or at the airport in Istanbul, now known as one of the world’s major plastic surgery capitals. Treatments such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) or PRP facials, where your own blood is used to rejuvenate your skin, are slowly becoming part of regular beauty conversations. Even hairline restoration trips to Turkey are no longer just for celebrities; some local clinics now offer similar services right here in Kampala.

Veneers and braces

A bright, perfect smile has also become the latest must-have accessory. Veneers, whitening, and braces are now among the most requested dental treatments.

‘Braces are orthodontic devices placed on the teeth to correct crooked teeth or jaw abnormalities,’ explains Dr Emmanuel Kiwanuka, an orthodontist at Uriel Dental Clinic. ‘They can be metal or ceramic, and they help with both function and appearance.’

According to Dr Kiwanuka, braces are no longer just for teenagers. ‘We see adults all the time now,’ he says. ‘For most people, it is about confidence. When you fix your teeth, you do not just change your smile; you change how you carry yourself.’ He adds that modern diets, which often include soft and sugary foods, have contributed to alignment problems.

‘Many children lose their baby teeth too early, which affects how their adult teeth grow. But beyond that, social influence plays a role. Young people want braces because they have become trendy. Some even wear fake ‘fashion braces’ just for the look.’

On the other hand, the ‘Hollywood smile,’ often achieved through veneers, is also catching on. It is part of the wider shift towards curated beauty, where every feature, from teeth to hairlines, gets a little enhancement. And while some results look a little too perfect to be natural, there is no denying that having pearly white teeth is fast becoming the new standard. These days, a bright smile might just be your ticket to smiling more confidently in public.

Changing eye colour and shaping ears

If you thought teeth were as far as it goes, think again. Around the world, people are also experimenting with ways to change their eye colour, a trend that is slowly making its way to Africa. The procedure, known as iris implant surgery, was originally developed to treat eye injuries and certain conditions but is now being used for purely cosmetic reasons.

It involves placing an artificial iris over the natural one, instantly changing brown eyes to blue, green, or grey. The look can be striking, though it comes with medical risks such as inflammation or vision damage, which is why local experts strongly advise against it.

Even more surprising is the trend of ear elongation and reshaping. While it may sound odd, it has become popular among people who want their ears to appear more symmetrical or refined.

Gym body or surgery?

It is 2025, and a ‘hot body’ is not being built in the gym alone anymore. Surgical and non-surgical body sculpting options are booming. Daphine Tusiime, the head of Plastics at Daphine Medical, says the demand is growing daily. ‘Some of the most common requests we get are for the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), Liposuction 360, which targets fat around the stomach, back, and sides, hip dip correction, and breast lifts and reductions,’ she explains.

She adds that even more intimate procedures, like vaginal rejuvenation and hymen reconstruction, are increasingly being requested. ‘People want to feel confident in every part of their body,’ she says. But there are also the unusual requests.

‘We have had people ask to reduce their foot size so they can fit smaller shoes, or to lengthen their torso by adjusting their spine. Those are medically unsafe and we always advise against them,’ Tusiime says.

Her biggest piece of advice? ‘Always research your doctor. Disclose any underlying health issues before surgery, and never do multiple major procedures at once. The body can only handle so much,’ she warns. Tusiime adds that patients should treat cosmetic procedures with the same seriousness as any other medical operation. ‘People often come in thinking it is like getting their nails done,’ she says. ‘But these are real surgeries, with real risks if not done properly.’

She encourages clients to ask questions about the doctor’s qualifications, the clinic’s hygiene standards, and the recovery process. ‘Do not let social media posts or influencer results rush your decision,’ she says. ‘The safest surgeries are the ones done after careful thought and preparation.’

Beyond vanity

For some, however, cosmetic procedures are more than vanity; they are life-changing. Prim Nyoyozi, a content creator, knows this firsthand. For years, she struggled with obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. ‘My feet always hurt, and I was tired all the time,’ she recalls. ‘I was really unhappy. I would have bouts of sadness and I knew I did not want to live like that forever.’

At 140 kilogrammes, even simple activities felt exhausting. ‘A friend told me about gastric bypass surgery and recommended a doctor here in Kampala. I did my research, asked questions, and finally decided to go for it.’ The results, she says, changed everything.

‘After the surgery, my health improved drastically. I now weigh 73 kilogrammes. I am more active, my energy is back, and I feel lighter; both physically and emotionally.’

For Prim, it was never about chasing beauty ideals or fitting into a certain size: ‘It was not about being more beautiful,’ she says. ‘It was about saving my life, about being the best version of myself that I could be.’

The rise of drips and detoxes

Not everyone, however, wants to go under the knife. A growing number of people are turning to IV therapy, a non-surgical wellness trend that delivers vitamins directly into the bloodstream. According to Zahra Hassan from Zaril Spa, IV drips are among their most popular treatments. ‘They help with hydration, skin brightening, energy levels, and even mood balance,’ she explains.

Different formulas serve different purposes. ‘The ‘Snow White’ drip is great for glowing skin, while the ‘Sculpt and Shine’ works best for anti-ageing and body toning. Frequency depends on what you want to achieve; some clients come weekly, others monthly.’ For many, these treatments feel like a shortcut to wellness as there is no surgery, no downtime, just a quick boost and glow.

There is no denying that today’s world puts enormous pressure on people to look a certain way. Filters, influencers, and digital comparisons have made perfection seem achievable and necessary. But whether it is surgery, skincare, or simply self-care, one thing is clear: people want to feel good about themselves. Beauty, for many, is no longer just about vanity; it is about confidence, empowerment, and choice.

At the end of the day, whether you prefer your beauty natural or enhanced, the message is the same: everyone is simply trying to look and feel their best.

And whoever said money cannot buy happiness probably had not seen the glow that confidence (and maybe a great surgeon) can buy.