Category: Daily Monitor

As global leaders convene for COP30 in Brazil, Uganda should temper its expectations. Despite years of climate negotiations, real commitments to reduce emissions, finance adaptation, and ensure climate justice for vulnerable nations have remained elusive.

While these high-level talks often end with grand promises, the gap between rhetoric and reality continues to widen.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has been unequivocal, indicating that fossil fuels are responsible for over 75 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions driving the climate crisis.

Yet, paradoxically, Uganda continues to heavily invest in fossil fuel expansion through projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP).

Once completed, this 1,443-kilometre pipeline will transport crude oil from Hoima to Tanga, emitting an estimated 379 million tonnes of carbon over its 25-year lifetime.

This is a striking contradiction. On one hand, Uganda advocates for increased climate finance and loss and damage support for developing countries; on the other, it advances a project that will worsen the very crisis it seeks to address.

The country’s leaders argue that oil revenues will fund development, but this short-term gain comes at the expense of long-term environmental stability, public health, and global credibility in climate diplomacy.

At COP30, Uganda and other African countries will likely call for fairness and greater support from developed nations – a valid demand.

However, genuine climate leadership must begin at home. It is difficult to demand accountability from others while advancing fossil fuel projects that undermine global emission reduction goals.

Therefore, if Uganda is truly committed to a sustainable and climate-resilient future, it must urgently reconsider its fossil fuel trajectory and prioritise investments in other green sectors, including renewable energy, tourism, smart-agricultural practices and other community-led adaptation mechanisms.

These not only address climate change challenges but also promote environmental conservation, human rights and the livelihoods of the vulnerable communities that are at the forefront of climate impacts.

Until then, expecting major climate breakthroughs from COP30 will remain a political illusion and Uganda’s stance, a case study in climate hypocrisy.

There is no love lost between Vipers and KCCA – two heavyweights whose duels have become the very heartbeat of Ugandan football.

On Friday at the St. Mary’s Stadium, Kitende, their rivalry takes on a sharper edge as Allan Okello, once Lugogo’s golden boy, prepares to bare his fangs at his former club.

The mind games began long before kickoff. Vipers’ decision to rest Okello during last weekend’s laboured 1-0 win over Entebbe UPPC was no coincidence – it was a calculated pause.

The stylish playmaker, bred and idolized at Lugogo but now a champion in Kitende colours, was granted time to rediscover his rhythm ahead of this defining clash against the table leaders he knows inside out.

In what promises to be a closely contested encounter, Vipers head coach Ivan Jacky Minnaert will bank on Okello to inject the spark and bite that were missing in that narrow victory at Bugonga.

The Belgian tactician plans to unleash his star man among a forward trio that also includes Yunus Sentamu – the provider of last week’s winning assist for Karim Watambala goal – and skipper Milton Karisa, whose pace and movement will test KCCA’s backline.

Moment of truth

For KCCA’s Jackson Magera, this is more than a league fixture; it is a statement match. Sitting atop the StarTimes Uganda Premier League table with 11 points from five games, Magera’s hungry and fearless side has impressed with its attacking intent and composure.

Now, Magera – operating without his co-trainer Brian Ssenyondo, currently on national duty in Qatar – seeks to prove that he can stand tall on his own, even against the reigning champions on their intimidating home turf.

Okello’s return adds a layer of drama and symbolism to the fixture. Having fired 20 goals last season to guide Vipers to a league and cup double, the playmaker’s influence waned slightly during the recent Caf Champions League outings against African Stars and Power Dynamos, where fatigue dulled his usual brilliance.

But insiders at Kitende suggest Okello is recharged and eager to remind his old employers of the talent they once nurtured – and lost.

The stage, then, is set for fireworks. KCCA’s vibrant attacking trio of Joel Sserunjogi, Ivan Ahimbisibwe, and Shafik Kwikiriza – fresh from orchestrating a 4-2 demolition of Calvary – will look to keep the Venoms in check, while Vipers rely on Okello’s artistry to tilt the balance.

With both teams playing expansive football and boasting attacking flair, tonight’s encounter promises fireworks early in a season still recovering from administrative chaos.

The Kitende terraces are expected to be packed to the rafters, the atmosphere electric, as fans from both sides descend in full voice for one of Ugandan football’s signature fixtures – a clash that, at least on paper, looks too close to call.

Elsewhere, at Midigo, newcomers Calvary finally host their first home game after four winless outings, taking on fellow debutants Entebbe UPPC, who have amassed seven points from five matches under coach Abdallah Mubiru.

StarTimes Uganda Premier League

Friday

Calvary vs. Entebbe UPPC, 4pm

Vipers vs. KCCA, 8pm

The Court of Appeal in Kampala has upheld a High Court decision that ordered Imperial Royale Hotel Limited to refund USD 1,464,363.81 (about Shs5.5billion) to the government of Uganda for breach of contract over the provision of accommodation and conference facilities during the 2007 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm).

In a unanimous ruling, delivered by Justices Moses Kazibwe Kawumi, Irene Mulyagonja, and Oscar John Kihika, the court confirmed that the hotel was not ready for occupation during the agreed period and therefore, failed to fulfil its contractual obligations.

The court also maintained the High Court’s award of Shs800 million in general damages to the government, with interest and costs.

Justice Kawumi, who wrote the lead judgment, methodically addressed each ground and found no merit in the appeal.

On the question of readiness, Justice Kawumi noted that the hotel failed to demonstrate it was operational during the agreed period.

‘The trial judge correctly evaluated the law and evidence when he found that the hotel was not ready for occupation over the period of October 26, 2007, to November 18, 2007 and that therefore, the appellant was in breach of the contract,’ he held.

Regarding the occupation permit presented by the hotel as evidence of completion, the judge found it unreliable.

‘After a careful re-evaluation of the evidence, I would come to the conclusion that the occupation permit was issued without considering what was on ground,’ Justice Kawumi ruled, concurring with testimony from a Kampala Capital City Authority official who challenged its authenticity.

The court also rejected the argument that the hotel could not have carried out construction during the CHOGM event because of security cordons. Justice Kawumi observed that this defence was never pleaded in the hotel’s written statement of defence and thus could not be raised on appeal.

The court further upheld the High Court’s finding that the hotel breached the contract by charging higher rates than those agreed in the addendum. Evidence from the audit report by Messrs Johnson and Nyende showed that executive rooms were billed at USD 433.65 instead of the agreed USD 350 per night.

‘The charge was contrary to the clear provision of the addendum which was admitted as an exhibit and thus confirming the respondent’s grievance in the plaint, that there was a breach of contract,’ Justice Kawumi stated.

The Court of Appeal also dismissed the hotel’s reliance on an email allegedly sent by Mr. Hirji to the then Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, complaining about the absence of guests.

The justices held that the contract expressly required communication through the Executive Director of the CHOGM 2007 Secretariat and by postal address, not email.

‘The appellant’s failure to express its grievance to the contact person amounted to non-communication,’ the court held.

Having failed on all grounds, the Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal and upheld the High Court’s judgment in full.

‘The appeal ought to be dismissed and the orders of the High Court upheld,’ ruled Justice Kawumi.

In 2009, the Attorney General sued Imperial Royale Hotel seeking recovery of funds paid for unutilised rooms and incomplete facilities. According to court records, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had entered into an agreement with the hotel on June 15, 2007, and an addendum on September 10, 2007, to provide accommodation and conference facilities at a total cost of USD 2,566,849.

The government alleged that the hotel failed to complete the facilities in time for CHOGM 2007, rendering them unfit for occupation between October 26 and November 18, 2007, contrary to the contract. As a result, the government sought a refund of USD 1,464,363.81, representing payment for unutilised services.

Imperial Royale Hotel, through its managing director Karim Hirji, denied the claims, insisting that the facilities were ready for use by October 24, 2007. The hotel argued that any loss incurred arose from the government’s failure to utilise the booked rooms, not from any breach on its part.

High Court Decision

In February 2016, Justice Peter Adonyo , who was then at the High Court Commercial Division ruled that the hotel had not been ready to receive guests before November 18, 2007. The court held the hotel liable to refund the government USD 1.46 million, pay Shs 800 million in general damages, and meet the costs of the suit.

Unhappy with the decision, Imperial Royale appealed on six grounds, arguing that the trial judge erred in finding the hotel unready for occupation, disregarded discrepancies in audit reports, and ignored the occupation permit showing completion. The hotel also accused the trial judge of shifting the burden of proof and relying on inadmissible evidence.

The appeal was argued by Mr Timothy Lugayizi for the hotel, while Mr George Kallemera, a Commissioner in the Attorney General’s Chambers, represented the government.

Imperial Royale Hotel is now liable to refund USD 1.46 million to the government, pay Shs 800 million in general damages, and cover the costs of the case at both the High Court and Court of Appeal.

A day after city authorities halted all ongoing construction activities at the disputed Nakivubo drainage channel due to non-compliance with approved conditions, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja visited the project and cleared the contentious construction to proceed. The Nabbanja decision to overturn Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) directives followed floods that submerged traders’ shops and merchandise worth billions of shillings.

She asked the developer to go on with construction and called for swift action to assess damages and prevent future disasters, offering consolation to affected traders.

But in a November 3 letter addressed to Kiham Enterprises (U) Ltd, KCCA Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki raised serious concerns and instructed the city businessman Ham Kiggundu to immediately suspend all construction activities, citing violations of environmental conditions and non-compliance with planning until full adherence to the issued planning permission and building permit conditions was achieved.

This directive followed a technical inspection after heavy rains on October 31, which lasted approximately four hours, caused widespread flooding across the central business district, including Sebaana and Allen route roads, as well as adjacent properties.

According to KCCA, the flooding was partly linked to the Nakivubo channel construction activities.

The inspection revealed that the developer had blocked several stormwater discharge points, piled construction debris along the channel, and used timber formwork beneath bridge slabs, all of which disrupted the free flow of stormwater.

‘The ongoing construction of Nakivubo channel has sealed off several stormwater discharge points into the channel, causing a backflow along some parts of Sebaana and Allen roads. This explains why the water level in the channel was very low, yet the volume retained on the road was more and could not run off easily,’ the ED letter reads in part.

KCCA also noted that poor debris management and the use of vertical timber props exacerbated the situation by trapping garbage and slowing water movement.

In the letter signed by Ms Buzeki, Ham was directed to implement a series of corrective measures, including the immediate suspension of all construction works until full compliance with planning and building permit conditions is achieved, and removal of all formwork, hoardings, and timber props placed under the channel to restore the free flow of stormwater.

Others are opening of all tertiary drainage inlets on Sebaana and Allen roads to ensure unobstructed discharge of water into the channel, replacement of concrete culverts with open cut-off drains under the supervision of KCCA engineers, and the safe removal and disposal of all construction debris stockpiled along the channel edges.

To ensure enforcement, KCCA appointed a monitoring team led by Mr Maurice Kairania, the deputy director for roads and drainage, assisted by Mr Patrick Kaweesa, Mr Paul Rusoke and Mr Maximus Kwesiga, to submit progress reports to the executive director’s office.

In a phone interview, Mr Dan Nuwabine, the KCCA spokesperson, confirmed the Authority’s supervisory involvement since the construction commenced, but emphasized that the developer was operating under conditional approval.

‘We have been there to supervise because that’s our role, and as a directive or mandate of KCCA, we have to support the developer, not frustrate him. As you know, this was a conditional approval that had to be fulfilled,’ he stated.

The Nakivubo Channel is one of Kampala’s main drainage systems, running through the city center and discharging into Lake Victoria. Its ongoing redevelopment has attracted public scrutiny following recurrent flooding in the city’s business areas.

Mr Elias Lukwago, the Kampala Mayor, sharply criticised the handling of the crisis, describing the Prime Minister’s on-the-ground response as fumbling, with unpalatable directives and contradictions with the city authority.

‘Nabbanja’s approach to this crisis is as messy as Ham’s structure, which has no plan whatsoever. She has no policy agenda or action plan on how to address this particular crisis, and that is terrible. While Museveni directed that those who suffered losses should be compensated, Nabbanja stated there would be no compensation-only relief or financial support,’ he said.

Mr Lukwago added: ‘The sluggishness with which they are handling this matter is totally unacceptable, and we call for a harmonized government position on compensation and illegal structures along the Nakivubo Channel. Their position must be clear, and we must embark on implementation immediately.’

Background

The Nakivubo Channel is the main stormwater drainage channel for the city of Kampala. More than ninety-five percent (95%) of the developed central urban area of the city drains into this channel.

The main channel starts from springs located between Bat Valley, Wandegeya, and Makerere Kivulu to the northwest of the city, runs southwards for some three kilometres to Clock tower Roundabout, then turns eastwards for approximately five kilometres, through the Industrial Area of Kampala, before entering the swamp which leads to Lake Victoria, between Port Bell and Ggaba.

The existing channel is approximately 9 kilometres long, with a catchment area of approximately 27 square kilometers.

Church of Uganda Archbishop Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu has said the media should not be silenced but rather engaged through dialogue when misunderstandings arise, noting that the public relies on journalists for crucial information.

His remarks come after recent restrictions on National Media Group-Uganda journalists covering parliamentary and presidential events.

‘I would like to thank God for the news reporters. These are teachers. I can trace their work from Angel Gabriel, the patron saint of communication, because he was the one delivering good news from God to the people. Media is a very important ministry. Sometimes, they make mistakes as human beings,’ Archbishop Kaziimba said.

‘If there are any mistakes, they should be invited for dialogue, correction, or accountability, but they shouldn’t be stopped from doing their work or silenced because they are doing a good job and we need them,’ he added, Speaking at a media briefing held November 5 at the Church’s provincial offices in Kampala, Archbishop Kaziimba also announced the third provincial prayer convention, scheduled for November 19 to 25 at the Uganda Martyrs Anglican site, Namugongo.

The convention, organised under the theme ‘Arise: Pray for Your Generation’ (Esther 4:13-14), will gather faithful from various religious sects to pray for spiritual revival, transformation, and the fulfilment of God’s purpose in families, the church, and the nation.

On this year’s theme, Archbishop Kaziimba said the country must nurture a generation that guards against issues such as violence, pride, hypocrisy, and domestic abuse.

He also pointed to recent disasters, including floods in Kampala, landslides in Sebei Sub-region, accidents, high crime rates, and the upcoming general election as reasons for national prayer.

Fufa have renewed Uganda Cranes head coach Paul Put’s contract until 2028, ending weeks of uncertainty over the Belgian’s future.

The announcement was made on Thursday by Fufa CEO Edgar Watson, who said the federation had moved to ‘bring stability’ ahead of next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Morocco.

‘We have noticed a lot of anxiety from some sectors of the public in recent weeks, with rumours and speculation concerning the head coach,’ Watson told a news conference in Kampala.

‘I’m delighted to announce that Fufa has agreed with coach Paul Put on a new contract for the next two and a half years, starting with immediate effect.’

Put, 68, was appointed in November 2023 with the mandate to guide Uganda back to Afcon and improve the Cranes’ World Cup qualification standing.

Under his stewardship, the team sealed qualification for Afcon 2025 and impressed in competitive fixtures, winning 12 of 18 competitive games for a 67 percent success rate.

Shortly after signing the new deal, Put named his 28-man squad for two international friendlies in Morocco – against Chad on November 15 and hosts Morocco on November 19 – before the team’s Group C Afcon fixtures against Tunisia, Tanzania and Nigeria.

The coach retained experienced names such as goalkeeper Denis Onyango and midfielder Khalid Aucho, while exciting forward Allan Okello leads the domestic cast.

Europe-based defenders Elio Capradossi and Jordan Obita lead a foreign-based legion that also sees Thailand-based Melyvn Lorenzen, who has previously flirted with the Cranes, named on the team together with another new name in Baba Al Hassan, who plies his trade in Romania.

Uganda begin their Afcon campaign against Tunisia on December 23, before facing Tanzania on December 27 and Nigeria on December 30.

Uganda Cranes international friendlies

Nov 15: Uganda vs Chad

Nov 19: Morocco vs Uganda

Afcon 2025

Uganda’s Group C matches

Dec 23: Tunisia vs Uganda

Dec 27: Uganda vs Tanzania

Dec 30: Uganda vs Nigeria

Uganda Cranes squad

Goalkeepers: Salim Omar Magoola (Richards Bay – S. Africa), Denis Onyango (Mamelodi Sundowns – S. Africa), Tom Ikara (BUL – Uganda), Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC – Uganda)

Defenders: Toby Sibbick (Burton Albion – England), Elio Capodossi (FC Universitatea Cluj – Romania), Jordan Obita (Hibernian – Scotland), Rogers Torach (Vipers SC – Uganda), Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC – Uganda), Aziz Kayondo (FC Slovan Liberec – Czech Rep.), Herbert Achayi (KCCA – Uganda), Timothy Awany (FC Ashdod – Israel), Moses Alio (URA – Uganda)

Midfielders: Kenneth Semakula (Al-Adalah – Saudi Arabia), Khalid Aucho (Singida Black Stars SC – Tanzania), Allan Oyirwoth (New England Revolution – USA), Baba Al Hassan (FCV Farul Constanta – Romania), Bobosi Byaruhanga (Oakland Roots SC – USA)

Forwards: Allan Okello (Vipers SC – Uganda), Melyvn Lorenzen (Muangthong Utd – Thailand), Travis Mutyaba (CS Sfaxien – Tunisia), Joseph Mpande (PVF Cand – Vietnam), Rogers Mato (FK Vardar – Macedonia), Reagan Mpande (SC Villa – Uganda), Jude Ssemugabi (Jamus – S. Sudan), Uchechukwu Ikpeazu (St Johnstone – Scotland), Steven Mukwala (Simba SC – Tanzania), Shafik Kwikiriza (KCCA – Uganda)

When Wasswa Bbosa’s gritty Kitara side walks onto the Kadiba turf on Thursday to face Zeljko Kovacevic’s counterattack-obsessed SC Villa, it won’t just be another StarTimes Uganda Premier League fixture – it will be a meeting steeped in tactical contrast, growing rivalry, and a test of nerves.

Both sides are unbeaten in their last three outings – a sign of steady progress and growing confidence as the new league season takes shape.

The tension goes beyond the numbers. Bbosa once patrolled the Villa touchline but was never fully embraced due to his deep Express roots. Tonight, he returns as the enemy, facing a club whose fans still measure their identity through tradition and success.

For Kovacevic, the Serbian tactician guiding Villa’s resurgence, this is another opportunity to cement his philosophy – one built on patient buildup, precision, and total control.

Villa’s recent 3-0 dismantling of Buhimba United reflected that identity. Reagan Mpande’s cheeky lob and fine team goal, plus Aslam Ssemakula’s finish from David Owori’s corner, showcased both individual brilliance and collective sharpness.

Kovacevic’s side moves the ball quickly, presses high, and thrives on orchestrating attacks through a team unit controlled tempo.

Stern test

Kitara, meanwhile, continue to embody Bbosa’s trademark steel. Their 4-0 hammering of Lugazi was a reminder of his tactical pragmatism – structured defending, lightning counters, and improved finishing.

Patrick Kaddu led from the front with a brace, while Yunus Sibira and Gaddafi Wahab – scorer of a stunning corner kick goal – highlighted the team’s variety in attack.

At Kadiba, the duel will pit possession against pragmatism, tactical control versus aggression. Kovacevic’s midfield triangle must resist Kitara’s pressing traps, while Bbosa’s backline must contain the movement and flair of Mpande and company.

Beyond tactics, pride and narrative loom large – the ex-Villa coach seeking redemption versus the new man restoring lost glory.

Gunfire in Bombo

And earlier at Bombo Barracks, the ‘battle of the armed forces’ promises another tight affair as Paul Kiwanuka’s UPDF, 14th with three points from four games, host Matia Lule’s Police, fourth with eight points.

It’s a clash too close to call, though UPDF must keep a wary eye on Police’s red-hot striker Bedia Ikamba.

The Congolese forward has taken the league by storm, netting four goals in as many starts – including a dazzling winner against Maroons that left defender Boris Onegi sprawling.

With a silky first touch, clever footwork, and clinical finishing, Ikamba is the danger man UPDF must tame if they hope to stop the Cops’ surge.

StarTimes Uganda Premier League

Thursday

UPDF vs. Police, 4pm

SC Villa vs. Kitara,8pm

When Florence Kizza Nantaba met Samuel Amutuhaire in 2017, neither imagined that a simple introduction after church would blossom into a thriving partnership. Both were members of Phaneroo Ministries International, and what began as a friendly chat after a service quietly laid the foundation for a love story rooted in faith, friendship, and intentionality.

Today, the couple speaks with warmth and humility, often describing their journey as a testament to God’s faithfulness.

Florence vividly remembers her first impression of Samuel.

‘His heart for God captured mine, especially since I was new to church and eager to learn. I was drawn to his genuine love for people,’ she recalls.

For Samuel, it was Florence’s openness and sincerity that stood out. ‘She struck me as an outspoken, genuine person with a big, warm heart,’ he says.

Their friendship deepened over the years as they served and grew in faith together.

Through shared prayers, long conversations, and mutual encouragement, they discovered that they valued the same things: honesty, kindness, and a relationship grounded in faith. For a long time, though, neither saw the other as more than a friend.

It was only after seasons of personal growth and self-reflection that things became clearer. Samuel recalls December 2023 as a turning point.

‘After a period of intentional self-discovery, I found the courage to ask her out in February 2024,’ he shares.

Florence remembers that moment just as vividly. ‘On one of our dates, he asked about my thoughts on family and life. He was patient and made it clear that it was okay if I did not feel the same way. The way he listened to understand me showed that he was genuinely pursuing a partnership.’

Building love on friendship

The couple officially began dating in February 2024, after years of friendship. That strong foundation, they say, became the glue that held their relationship together.

‘We had known each other long enough to trust one another,’ Florence explains. ‘Prayer and open communication sustained us. We kept inviting God into the centre of everything we were building.’

Samuel agrees. ‘Our friendship was a solid foundation. We dated for one year and seven months before getting married, and besides the grace and mercy of God, that friendship carried us through.’

Grace and intentionality

Transitioning from friends to partners was not without its challenges. Florence admits she sometimes felt uncertain.

‘Having seen him as a friend for so long, I occasionally wondered if we were ready for what we were stepping into,’ she recalls. ‘But prayer and honest conversations helped. Samuel extended so much grace, and I had a strong support system reminding me it was okay to feel the way I did.’

Samuel, meanwhile, says his earlier life experiences gave him confidence. ‘By the time I spoke to Florence, I had learnt lessons from past experiences that assured me the choice I made was right,’ he explains. As they navigated their individual lives while dating, both were committed to intentionality.

‘We made it a point to understand each other’s seasons,’ Florence says. ‘We reminded ourselves that love is not about perfection but about grace.’

That sometimes meant showing up for each other even when it was inconvenient, and at other times, giving space to focus on personal growth.

Samuel emphasises the importance of communication and accountability. ‘We surrounded ourselves with people we trusted, those who could hold us accountable. That helped us work through challenges and stay grounded.’

Their shared values and spiritual foundation became the heartbeat of their relationship.

‘We did not just fall in love; we built it day by day,’ Florence explains. ‘Our friendship laid the foundation, prayer gave it direction, and commitment kept it growing.’

Both agree that their dating period was a time of learning.

‘I learnt that love takes patience and intentionality,’ Florence says. ‘It is not just about how you feel in the moment but about choosing each other through every season. I also learnt the importance of honest communication and forgiveness.’

Samuel’s biggest lesson came from within. ‘When a person truly finds themselves, decisions like choosing a life partner become clearer,’ he says.

‘Self-discovery and understanding your purpose bring clarity. And as Christians, we must deliberately uphold godly values in dating, regardless of how the world defines relationships.’

A prayer answered

Florence and Samuel wed on October 11, 2025, stepping into what they describe as a long-prayed-for season.

‘It feels beautiful knowing that the love and friendship we built are now celebrated as a lifelong commitment,’ Florence shares.

For Samuel, marriage is a testament to God’s mercy. ‘God is faithful. Being married now is a humbling reminder of His grace.’

As newlyweds, the Amutuhaires have already begun shaping routines that nurture their union. They pray and read devotionals together, check in on each other’s spiritual growth, and make time for small, meaningful moments. They are also setting goals for their finances, family, and personal development.

Their families and church community have been deeply supportive.

‘Seeing our families come together and celebrate with us was humbling,’ Florence says. ‘It reminded us that marriage is not just about two people, it’s about the village that surrounds and uplifts you.’

Samuel echoes this gratitude. ‘Our friends, family, and church supported us every step of the way, and we thank God for that.’

Dear moments

Among their many memories together, Florence cherishes one that stands out. ‘The day he surprised me with a ring on my birthday. It was not just the gesture, but the thoughtfulness and love behind it that made it unforgettable.’

Samuel smiles as he recalls his own favourite moment. ‘The day she said yes,’ he says simply.

Their wedding was filled with emotion and meaning. Florence recalls the most touching part of the day: ‘When our spiritual father officiated the ceremony and led us in prayer, I felt God’s presence so strongly. And when Samuel sang a song he had composed for me long before the wedding, it reaffirmed his love.’

For Samuel, the vows were the most powerful moment. ‘Standing before God and witnesses, committing to love her for life was deeply humbling.’

The future

Florence and Samuel’s marriage is anchored in faith. They agree that keeping their relationship grounded begins with one constant: Jesus Christ.

‘He is our only standard and guarantee that what we are building will last,’ Florence says. ‘We plan to continue nurturing our friendship, growing together, and celebrating every small win.’

As they begin this new chapter, the couple is united by a shared vision: to build a marriage that reflects God’s love.

‘We want our relationship to inspire hope and remind others of the beauty and joy that marriage can bring,’ Florence says.

Residents affected by the construction of the Bujagali Hydropower Plant in Jinja City have lauded Bujagali Energy Limited (BEL) for fulfilling the promises made in the memorandum of understanding signed before the project’s commissioning.

Communities in Budondo, Ivunumber, Namizi, and Bujagali villages expressed gratitude for BEL’s continued support in improving their livelihoods through education, clean water, and health services.

Mr Haruna Kapampa, the LC1 Chairman of Bujagali Village said children of people affected by the project have been educated as part of the company’s CSR.

Mr Kapampa said, besides providing vocational skill training for the children, the communities have been provided with safe water sources, health services and supply of electricity to the people.

He made the remarks during the commissioning of 36 residents who completed a tailoring course at Nile Vocational Institute, fully funded by BEL

Ms Jesica Akiise, one of the tailoring graduates, said the skills she learned will enable her to earn a living without relying on others’ support.

‘I can now make money because I have the skills. People will bring clothes for sewing, and I’ll be able to support my family,’ she said.

Mr Alaister McDougall, BEL General Manager, explained that the company’s education programs aim to empower both students and unskilled residents in the affected communities.

‘We have been offering scholarships to bright students, especially in science fields, so they can later be employed at the power plant. To balance opportunities, we also fund vocational training for residents who did not attain higher education,’ he said.

He added that this initiative forms part of BEL’s corporate social responsibility, ensuring that community members benefit directly from the project.

Jinja City Inspector of Schools, Mr Steven Kagoda, commended BEL for complementing government efforts in expanding access to education.

‘When partners like BEL support our education initiatives, the government’s workload is eased. I encourage BEL to extend this program to other communities because the demand is high,’ he said.

‘Art gave me everything; purpose, identity and family. And the best way to give back is to support others find their own voice,’ Kwezi Kaganda says. That voice continues to echo through stages, classrooms, and television screens across Uganda, a reminder that true artistry is not about the applause, but continuity. Kaganda’s first stage had no curtains, no lights, just a living room in Ntinda during the tense final days of Idi Amin’s regime.

‘In1978, I gathered my younger brothers and sisters, directed them in King Arthur, and we performed for our parents and neighbours,’ he recalls.

There was no applause that day, but something more powerful happened. A young boy discovered that stories had the power to bring people together.

From that moment on, theatre was no longer just entertainment; it became a language he wanted to speak fluently. At Kyambogo, he immersed himself in drama under the late Elvania Namukwaya Zirimu, one of the greats of Uganda’s performing scene.

His aunt, the late Prof Rose Mbowa, one of the iconic theatre educators of her time, nudged him towards formal training in Music, Dance and Drama (MDD) at Makerere University. His father, a writer and journalist, steered him towards the creative path. At an all-boys’ school, his soft voice often landed him in female roles. Today, he laughs at that memory, but says it trained him in flexibility. In 1988, fresh from university, he auditioned for The Ebonies, which had launched a drama wing. ‘We went with my friends; Kimera and Namiiro.

I was lucky enough to be picked,’ he recalls. His breakthrough role came by accident, or destiny. He was cast as an understudy for a character called Inspector Otim. When the lead actor got caught up in other commitments, Kwezi stepped in. The original actor never returned. Inspector Otim became a household name. Audiences laughed, loved, and remembered him. ‘People still call me Inspector Otim to this day.’ But his favourite role was one most audiences might not recall loudly — Alex Mutagejja, a Muganda English teacher trained in America, who returned home unable to speak Luganda properly.

Then came a major shift. After leaving The Ebonies, he joined Namasagali College as a teacher. Under the guidance of Fr Damien Grimes, then school headteacher, he started writing and directing school productions. ‘At Namasagali, I realised I had a gift beyond acting.’ Many of the performers gracing today’s stages and screens passed through his hands. Shy students acting nervous on their debut stage appearance were later supported to become confident actors, directors and producers. The stage was no longer his alone. It became a classroom of souls. ‘As you grow older, stage roles reduce,’ he says with the realism of someone who has fully walked the path.

‘But writing is different. Even at 80, you can still write,’ Kaganda adds. To harness his craft, he joined Maisha Film Lab, founded by Mira Nair, where he learnt the art of screenwriting. He explains: ‘Film doesn’t allow you to tell. You must show. On stage, you speak. In film, you suggest.’ His work and experience led him to contribute to productions such as That’s Life Mwattu, Hand in Hand, and later The Hostel, a youth drama that captured the pulse of a modern Ugandan generation. Today, he continues to write and edit for Sanyu, the popular Pearl Magic drama series. He remains a silent architect behind some of the television moments that Ugandans binge, love and laugh at, and quote.

Mention Fun Factory and his eyes soften. ‘I was there from the beginning,’ he says. ‘Back when it was still Theatre Factory.’ Their first show at TLC is etched in his memory. The audience was small, he recounts, with mostly friends. He was paid a plate of chips. At that time, it was acting and laughter shared in dimly lit corridors of the National Theatre. ‘What has kept Fun Factory together is that people are not there for money. They are there because it feels like home. We are a family. Even our families know each other,’ he adds. Kwezi was born during the 1966 Kabaka Crisis. Movement was restricted and his mother went into labour at night. His father helped her to deliver at home.

Perhaps that is where his life-long relationship with improvisation began, born into tension, raised into creativity. His father wrote. His mother healed. He grew up between stories and compassion, two things that still shape his work. He speaks of acting with a generosity, rare in an industry that often celebrates individual stars. His favourite actor was Kute, his colleague from the Inspector Otim era. He says: ‘People thought I was funny. But it was Kute who made me funny. He listened and reacted. Acting is a give-and-take craft.’ He speaks with deep admiration of Mariam Ndagire, someone he hoped to share a stage with one day, as well as Irene Kulabako and his all-time favourite, Irene Namiiro.

Today, Kwezi Kaganda is still working; writing, editing scripts and walking into theatre rehearsal rooms like a man coming home. But if there is one role he holds above all titles, it is mentor. He challenges local writers to write authentic Ugandan stories and avoid westernising all the content. ‘Most of the work on the market depicts the western culture yet we have a very rich culture.’ For budding writers, Kaganda says screenplay writing has many opportunities provided they deliver good quality stories.

He emphasises that it’s not a enough to have a good story. It should be told very well. Interest, watching other people’s works, reading, basic techniques of writing and practising, are some of the skills he enlists required to thrive in this industry. Matthew Nabwiso is one the talents he is proud of mentoring. ‘I taught him at Namasagali College and I have worked with him on several projects.