Category: Daily Monitor

Fresh from a devastating flood that washed away their fortunes last week, a section of Kampala City traders yesterday closed shops as they commenced a sit-down strike, protesting various unresolved issues. The traders under their umbrella Kampala City Traders Association (KACITA), are protesting unfair Value Added Tax (VAT), coercive enforcement of the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS) by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), and the $3 (Shs10,695) and $3.5 (12476) per kilo import tax on fabrics and garments.

They are also challenging the non-refunding of the 6 percent Withholding Tax, Chinese investors running retail shops and vending merchandise, and the charging of rent in dollars by some landlords. The protest comes two months after the traders called off a similar strike in August over the same concerns after a meeting between KACITA leaders and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja.

Government responds

But the State Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Mr Kyofatogabye Kabuye, yesterday criticised the traders’ action as unfair, saying the government had held several meetings with the traders and had an agreed position.

‘The government has been engaging those people. They first started with the KCCA executive director, then the prime minister, and a position was taken. Because most of the things which were in our power as Kampala were rent, and we agreed no landlord would increase rent,’ he said. He said his ministry is engaging other line ministries of Trade, and Finance, Planning and Economic Development to solve the issues raised by traders.

‘Most of the issues are not directly related to us, they fall under the ministries of Trade, Finance and URA. In fact, we are just shock absorbers of problems and facilitators without final decisions because the decision lies with the line ministries,’ Mr Kyofatogabye said.

Mr Jim Muganga, the spokesperson of the Finance ministry, said the government has demonstrated commitment to engaging the traders continuously. ‘We will continue engaging them through mechanisms they have used in the past to address their concerns. A strike is an escalation that may not necessarily solve the problem,’ he said. Last month, when the traders announced they would close their shops starting in the first week of November, Kampala and Metropolitan Affairs minister Minsa Kabanda, appealed to them to abandon plans for the strike.

‘The Ministry of Trade and other responsible government agencies are handling their issues. I request the traders to continue doing business as their concerns are being addressed,’ Ms Kabanda said on October 22.

Traders cite feet dragging

KACITA Chairperson Isa Sekitto said the most contentious issues raised during the discussions with the prime minister have since not been resolved despite the pledge to resolve the issues within two months. ‘When we closed back then, the prime minister gave us two months to come up with a solution, but it’s nearly three months, and the recent discussions with the government haven’t yielded any results,’ Mr Ssekitto said.

In the new protests, the traders also call for the removal of street vendors and containment of the growing competition from petty foreign traders. ‘Foreigners, especially Chinese, are the manufacturers, the wholesalers, the retailers, and vendors. You find them across the entire country trading chain.

They distribute goods without paying rent and sell an item at Shs10, 000 and goes and vends it to the final person at the same price. There is no chain of trade and this cannot be found in any sober country,’ Mr Ssekitto said.

‘Why is KCCA sleeping, the executive director gave the prime minister a week when we met, why do we have laws that are not implemented?’ Mr Ssekitto warned that the protest will only be called off upon governments’ commitment to addressing their grievances. The chairperson of Federation of Uganda Traders Association, Mr John Kabanda, said the traders are also protesting the insistence by their landlords on charging rent in dollars despite earlier government ban.

‘Downtown, we had agreed that nobody should pay rent in dollars and no one should increase rent by more than 10 percent, but all these issues are not being addressed. The only option we have is to close the businesses,’ he said. Traders argue that the current tax system, including tax by weight for textiles and garments, is unfair and was introduced without enough sensitisation. With heavy security personnel deployed in the city centre, some traders have expressed frustration, citing losses and disruptions to their businesses.

Mixed reactions

But a section of traders yesterday insisted they will remain open, citing pressing financial obligations such as bank loans and high non-waived rent. ‘When we close, some of our counterparts open quietly and make sales. At the end of the month, landlords and banks do not want to hear excuses. So what do you do? You open,’ Mr Frank Luzze, a trader on Datsun Street, said. ‘Most businesses rely on November and December to make the bulk of their annual earnings. The thought of missing this peak period is unthinkable,’ he added. Several traders shared similar experiences, particularly regarding financial institutions. Many said they have taken loans to restock for the festive season, and their repayment schedules remain rigid despite the disruptions caused by floods and the strike.

‘When the banks are demanding their loans, they do not ask whether there was a strike. They only want their instalment. Once you delay, they start calling and threatening to seize your securities. So you have no choice,’ Ms Rachel Namusoke, a textile trader, said. But Mr Ssekitto regretted that some people were taking advantage of the traders’ situation. ‘Some people are seeking selfish interests from traders’ situations, but we’re not forcing anyone. You saw how merchandise and other things got destroyed by floods. And as you reluctantly sit, it will soon come to you,’ he warned.

Uganda’s preparations for the Olympics have gotten finer by the years, ever since Stephen Kiprotich delivered marathon gold at the London 2012 Games.

For the roadmap to the Los Angeles 2028 Games, Uganda Olympic Committee (UOC), National Council of Sports (NCS) and federations are keen on raising numbers.

The route to LA28 on the west coast of the USA, hopes to take more than four disciplines, and the platforms to use for preparations include the Islamic Solidarity Games which get underway this weekend in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

UOC earmarked the Riyadh Games to fine-tune athletes, some of whom will be tasked to push for glory at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland next July.Inevitably, NCS assistant general secretary-technical Milton Chebet last week flagged off a sizable team to compete in Riyadh at the November 7-21 showpiece.

A team of 39 competitors across seven disciplines will feature.

‘The team is big as compared to the championship before,’ remarked Team Uganda chef de mission Sadiq Nassiwu. He will be deputized by NCS’s Muhammed Baale Waladde.

‘I think this is the second biggest team, next to the Konya Games (in 2022 in Turkiye). Clearly, showing that the interest and competition in these Games is evident,’ said the UOC treasurer Nassiwu.’I want to thank NCS and the government for financing this team. I am happy we are able to present 39 athletes to the Games.

That’s a big number according to us as a country,’ said UOC treasurer and Uganda Athletics (UAt) secretary general Beatrice Ayikoru.

‘When we started preparations for the Games, we had 15 sports. We now have seven.”It is always our job as government to see the young people going to represent Uganda,’ said Chebet, ‘I know you represent millions of people out there. I also know there are many left behind.

‘Boxers were the first to arrive in Riyadh on Monday and they include Alfred Ojok, Jimmy Adriko, Angel Katushabe and Fatuma Nabikolo.But, athletics makes the biggest composition, of 17 athletes including the captain Godfrey Chan-wengo, Abel Chebet who won the 10000 metres champion in Konya and 800 metres silver medalist Halimah Nakaayi from 2017 in Baku, Azerbaijan.Aquatics has four competitors featuring two Olympians in Gloria Muzito and Jesse Ssengonzi.

‘This is a big team and we expect to come with many medals out of these competitions. It has become a qualifier for other events (Commonwealth Games and Olympics),’ added Nassiwu.

‘Any competition in athletics links to another, provides a pathway for individual development and other major competitions including continental and World Athletics Championships and Games such as Commonwealth which builds into 2027 World Athletics championship and by extension to Cairo 2027 and LA28.

Next year we have the Accra Senior Championships in July 2026. Riyadh will offer opportunities to hit the standards,’ explained Ayikoru.

Uganda will feature in other disciplines like para powerlifting with Dennis Mbaziira as the sole competitor and table tennis has six entries.

There four are weightlifters most notably Davis Niyoyita, who won silver in the men’s 55 kg clean and jerk event at the African Games in Accra, Ghana last year.Wrestling will have the trio of Veronica Ayo, Rebecca Israel Amongi and Rodger Mukyeda.

TEAM UGANDA TO ISLAMIC SOLIDARITY GAMES

AQUATICS: Gloria Muzito (100m and 50m freestyle 4×100 mixed freestyle relay), Jesse Ssengonzi Ssuubi (50m butterfly mixed 4x100m freestyle relay), Tendo Mukalazi (50m freestyle, 100m freestyle mixed 4x100m freestyle relay), Tara Ann Mary Kisawuzi Naluwoza (50m backstroke, 50m butterfly, 100m and 50m freestyle, 4×100 mixed freestyle relay)

ATHLETICS: Shida Leni, Malvine Akwenyi and Maureen Akiiki Banura (all 400m and 4x400m Relay), Halimah Nakaayi (800m and 4x400m Relay), Knight Aciru (1500m), Charity Cherop (5000m), Risper Cherop (5000m), Annet Chemengich Chelangat (10,000m), Rebecca Chelengat (10000m), Josephine Lalam (Javelin), Godfrey Chan-wengo, Haron Adoli, Kenneth Omuka (all 400m and 4x400m Relay), Tom Dradiga (800m, 4x400m Relay), Leonard Chemutai (3000m Steeplechase), Samuel Simba Cherop (5000m), Abel Chebet (10000m)

BOXING: Alfred Ojok (80kg), Jimmy Adriko (60kg), Angel Katushabe (51kg), Fatuma Nabikolo (57kg)

PARA POWERLIFTING: Dennis Mbaziira

TABLE TENNIS: Jemimah Nakawala, Judith Mirembe, Judith Parvin Nangonzi, Joseph Sebatindira, Joshua Magaya, Jonathan Senyonga

WEIGHTLIFTING: Aisha Namataka (86kg), Steven Ojede (94kg), Figo Faluku Kyambadde (65kg), Davis Niyoyita (60kg)

WRESTLING: Veronica Ayo (57kg), Rebecca Israel Amongi (62kg), Rodger Mukyeda (74kg)

MAIN OFFICIALS: Zaid Sadik Nasiwu (Chef de mission), Muhammed Baale Waladde (Deputy CDM), Jonathan Wangolo (Administrative Personnel), Ivan Mugowa (Administrative Personnel), Priscilah Ondoga (Physiotherapist), Leonard Francis Were (Team Doctor), David Isabirye (Team Media Attache), Miriam Mirembe Nalubega (Physiotherapist)

UGANDA’S MEDALS AT THE ISG

2005 Mecca: Boniface Kiprop (10000 Metres Bronze)

2017 Baku: Halimah Nakaayi (800 Metres Silver)

2021 Konya: Abel Chebet (5000 Metres Silver and 10000 Metres Gold), Kirabo Namutebi (50 Metres Freestyle Silver), Husnah Kukundakwe (100 Metres Breaststroke SB4-SB9 Gold, 200 Metres Individual Medley SM5-SM10 Gold, 50 Metres Freestyle S4-S10, 400 Metres Freestyle S6-S10 Silver, 100 Metres Backstroke S6-S10 Silver, 100 Metres Freestyle S4-S10 Bronze)

Health experts and other stake holders in Bugisu Sub-region have raised concern over the high consumption of narcotics and other mind altering substances by street children in Mbale City and other urban areas. They said as a result of this, many of the street children face mental health challenges. According to the authorities, Mbale City has 300 street children.

Most of the street children in the city are from areas such as Bungokho, Lwaso, Namabasa, Bukonde, and neighboring districts like Sironko and Namisindwa, among others. Mr France Olaboro, the branch manager of Child Restoration Organisation (CRO),described mental health as one of the biggest challenges faced by children living on the streets.

The street children consume drugs such as marijuana and khat. They also sniff paint thinners, glue, and industrial alcohol, among others, in an attempt to get high and escape, even if only briefly, the hardships they are subjected to. ‘When we tried to ask where the aviation fuel they use comes from, one child simply said it comes ‘from above.’ If those ‘from above’ are not in a position to protect and control how these drugs are being distributed to children, it becomes very challenging to manage the situation,’ Mr Olaboro said. He added that abuse of drugs and other mind altering substances has exposed street children to serious health issues, damaging their minds and other organs.

Mr Olaboro called upon security agencies and local leaders to urgently address the issue . *Wanyala, a street child, said: ‘I came to the streets after my mother left when I was four years old, and my father later married another woman who mistreated me. Whenever I reported the mistreatment to my father, nothing was done about it.’ *Namusoso, a 10-year-old street child, said the drugs and other substances they consume relieve stress occasioned by the rough life on the streets. *Matenga, another child living on the street, said he has abused drugs and other substances for two years . ‘The reason I ended up on the street was because my family slaughtered my chicken and did not give me even a single piece.

On the street, you cannot cope without using drugs,’ he said. In September, police in Mbale City began hunting for suspects linked to the illegal trade in aviation fuel after officers impounded 11 jerry cans of the substance during an operation at a taxi park. Mr Rogers Taitika, the Elgon Region Police Spokesperson, said the police arrested a suspect who was reportedly found in possession of several jerrycans of jet fuel in a taxi parked at a petrol station near the taxi park. Mr Taitika said police are continuing with the investigations to establish the source and destination of the aviation fuel and to identify the dealers involved. Dr Benard Maumbe, a senior medical officer at Busiu Health Centre IV in Mbale District, said misuse of the fuel and abuse of drugs damages the brain and causes memory loss, poor concentration, confusion, among others.

‘Some children start using this fuel as young as eight years old and effects are not only mental but also physical and also prolonged use can lead to criminal behaviour and even madness,’ he said. Dr Maumbe added that because of long-term abuse of drugs and other substances, many children have ended up in mental health facilities. The abuse of the substances also causes complications in the respiratory system. He emphasised that these children require long-term treatment, including therapy and counselling from psychiatrists, as well as medical treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms. Dr Maumbe called upon the government to develop policies to prevent children from ending up on the streets. He urged parents to take responsibility and ensure their children remain at home to have a bright future.

Mr John Muganda, a resident of Mbale City , said the children face many challenges, with the girls being worst hit. He said some of the girls are sexually abused by unscrupulous men, leading to unwanted pregnancies and exposure to sexually sexually transmitted diseases. Ms Josephine Lunyolo, the female councillor for Industrial Division West, said the abuse of drugs and other substances causes street children to engage in criminal activities such as robbery. ‘As leaders, the situation is worrying, and we cannot make this town clean if we still have these children on the streets,’ she said. Ms Lunyolo added that the city leaders should establish places were these children can be rehabilitated.

‘As a city, we need to come up with a policy of confining these children in one place and planning for them including training them in vocational skills,’ she said. Ms Aisha Mutonyi Mugoya, another councillor, said child neglect and domestic violence are main causes of children leaving their homes to live on streets. She urged parents to make homes safe for children. Mr Dominic Wanzila, the senior probation officer of Mbale City, said the children living on the streets are both full-time and part-time-meaning some stay on the streets permanently, while others come during the day and return to their homes in the evening. ‘The numbers have continued to increase and this is a threat to the city, which is growing,’ he said.

He added:’During my interactions with the children, I found that the main causes of children living on the streets include family breakups, child neglect, gender-based violence, discrimination, peer influence, and several pull factors,’ he said. Mr Wazila explained that other pull factors include charity organisations providing free food, illegal food markets where children offer cheap labour, and other incentives that make street life appear more comfortable to them. Mr James Kutosi, the public relations officer of Mbale City, said the increasing number of street children, from 200 in 2024 to 300 this year, has become a major menace. *Names of the street children have been altered to protect their identities.

The humble 100×100 plot has become the canvas upon which the nation’s commercial future is being drawn. From the bustling corridors of Kampala to the growing town centres of Mbarara, Gulu, and Jinja, this piece of land represents a profound opportunity. For the visionary developer, it is not merely a parcel of land; it is a vertical ecosystem, a multi-layered revenue stream, and a legacy in waiting. This in-depth analysis explores a proven, high-yield blueprint for developing a mixed-use commercial mall, a project poised to become a cornerstone of your local community and your financial portfolio.

A synergy of form and function

This proposed development is a four-storey architectural marvel designed to maximise every square foot of the plot while creating a seamless flow between its various functions. The design philosophy is centred on creating a destination that serves the community from dawn until late evening, ensuring consistent footfall and vitality.

A floor-by-floor breakdown

Lower ground floor

One of the commonest mistakes property developers make, especially in urban centres, is ignoring parking space. In a world where the search for parking can deter even the most determined customer, this floor provides a critical competitive edge.

Construction expert Simon Peter Kazibwe says the space is designed to accommodate approximately 25 vehicles. It offers secure, dedicated parking for tenants, their staff, and premium customers.

‘This single feature significantly enhances the property’s attractiveness to high-value tenants such as banks, electronics stores, and restaurants, who prioritise accessibility for their clientele,’ he says.

Ground and first floors

These two levels are the economic engine of the entire structure. Meticulously planned, each floor houses 14 individual retail units, culminating in a total of 28 shops. This critical mass is key to success. It allows for a strategic tenant mix that creates a synergistic commercial environment.

Imagine a ground floor featuring an anchor mini supermarket, a leading telecom outlet, a pharmacy, and a bank branch. The first floor can then host a collection of specialised stores, including fashion boutiques, shoe stores, electronics shops, salons, and a coffee shop. This diversity transforms the mall from a simple building into a “one-stop-shop” destination, drawing customers for multiple errands and encouraging impulse visits.

Second floor

Ascending from the retail buzz, the second floor is dedicated to creating a serene and productive professional environment. This floor is configured as modern, flexible office spaces, suitable for a range of businesses, from law firms and insurance agencies to tech startups and NGO offices. This tenant base provides a steady, daytime population that patronises the ground-floor retail outlets during lunch breaks and after work, creating a virtuous cycle of internal commerce.

Third floor and rooftop terrace

The pinnacle of the building is reserved for experience and leisure. The third floor interior houses premium office space or a conference facility, while the crown jewel is the expansive rooftop terrace. This space is ideally suited for a high-quality restaurant or lounge, offering al fresco dining with panoramic views of the town.

In Uganda’s climate, an open-air restaurant is not just a business; it is a destination. It becomes a social hub in the evenings and on weekends, attracting a crowd that might not visit during standard shopping hours, thereby ensuring the property remains profitable long after the shops have closed.

A cost-benefit analysis

Undertaking a project of this magnitude requires a clear-eyed view of the financial commitment and the potential returns. This includes excavation for the basement, piling, the reinforced concrete frame, slabs, staircases, and the blockwork shell. For a building of this specification, the cost is estimated at between Shs1.5b and Shs1.7b.

This is a significant portion of the budget, covering installation of a robust electrical system, backup generators, water supply, sewage, and ventilation. High-quality flooring, tiling, suspended ceilings, painting, and glazing. Passenger lifts, escalators (or additional staircases), and modern toilet facilities. Professional fees for architects, engineers, and project managers is estimated at Shs800m.

The financial viability of this project is its most compelling attribute. With 28 shops, office spaces, and a flagship restaurant, the rental income is substantial. Let us model a conservative revenue projection based on a developing town centre, where rental rates are more modest.

28 retail shops: Assuming a conservative average monthly rent of Shs500,000 per shop:

28 x 500,000 = Shs14mper month

Office space (2nd floor and part of 3rd): With lower rental rates per square metre in this location, the office space could generate Shs8m per month.

Rooftop Restaurant: Even in a developing area, a prime, unique space can command a good price: Shs5m per month

Total Projected Gross Monthly Rental Income: Shs14m (shops) + Shs8m (Offices) + Shs5m (Restaurant) = Shs27m a month.

Rwanda’s plan to launch Africa’s first Green Exchange Window later this month marks a turning point not just for Kigali’s financial market, but for the entire East African region.

The Green Exchange Window will create a specialized platform for trading green, social, and sustainability-linked financial instruments, effectively opening new channels for financing climate-resilient projects across Africa.

The window seeks to make capital markets a driver of sustainable development. It will give Ugandan and regional investors a direct entry point into the global green finance ecosystem, allowing access to instruments such as green bonds, sustainability-linked debt, and climate-smart investment funds.

Rwanda Stock Exchange chief executive officer Celestin Rwabukumba said in a statement that the move responds to growing demand for credible, transparent platforms that support environmentally sustainable financing.

With over Rwf 70b (Shs210b) already raised through earlier sustainability bonds, the Green Exchange Window builds on a strong foundation of investor interest and aligns local markets with global ESG standards.

For Uganda, which faces both climate and fiscal challenges, the initiative opens vital opportunities. It offers local firms, especially in energy, agriculture, and real estate, a direct pathway to tap into green capital through a recognized regional platform.

The Green Exchange Window also feeds into Uganda’s National Development Plans that emphasize climate-resilient infrastructure and sustainable industrialisation.

Beyond financing, the platform strengthens regional integration. It complements ongoing efforts by the East African Securities Exchanges Association to harmonize capital market policies across the bloc, making it easier for investors from Uganda to diversify regionally and access international funding.

In doing so, it aligns with Uganda’s Green Growth Strategy, positioning the country to meet emerging ESG disclosure and compliance standards.

Bob Karina, chairman of Faida Investment Bank, said the Green Exchange Window is a ‘regional milestone,’ noting that it will deepen market integration and attract international investors looking to allocate capital to sustainable assets in emerging markets.

The development could drive fresh capital into East Africa’s renewable energy, transport electrification, waste management, and water resource initiatives, sectors that are vital to Uganda’s Vision 2040.

The Green Exchange Window draws inspiration from the Luxembourg Green Exchange, which has listed more than pound 1 trillion in sustainable securities since 2016.

Rwanda’s version adapts those best practices to African realities by focusing on projects that advance renewable energy, climate adaptation, and inclusive growth.

The Speaker of Parliament, Ms Anita Among, on August 26 blocked the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities and State Enterprises (Cosase) from probing the redevelopment of the Nakivubo Channel by businessman Hamis Kiggundu (Ham), and replaced it with a five-man ‘fact-finding team’.

In doing so, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, said she bungled the probe. ‘…those manoeuvres by the Speaker of Parliament were calculated to frustrate investigations into the Ham scam…,’ Mr Lukwago said on Tuesday. Parliament’s Director of Communication Chris Obore, however, said Ms Among did nothing wrong.

‘Parliament committees are not enforcement organs. Would the Ssegona-led committee also stop landslides that killed people in the Sebei Sub-region? Was Among a Speaker of Parliament when arcades were approved and built in Nakivubo Channel?’ Mr Obore asked.

The Among-selected fact-finding team, led by the chairperson of the Physical Infrastructure Committee, Mr Dan Kimosho (Kazo County), was tasked with conducting an oversight visit to the Nakivubo Channel and report back to Parliament within 14 days. The probe stemmed from Elgon North MP Gerald Nanguli’s query about the manner in which Ham was allowed to build structures over the channel. Mr Obore earlier defended Ms Among, saying: ‘The Speaker has the power to institute a fact-finding team. If she has done so, then Cosase is better advised to wait for the process to end.’

The project has proceeded with backing from President Museveni, who has publicly defended it as a ‘model of modern city redevelopment’, despite drawing widespread criticism. Mr Lukwago describing Ms Among’s decision to block Cosase from probing Ham Nakivubo deal as ‘shocking’ and ‘dramatic twist’. He added: ‘If the Speaker had addressed herself to the law and gravity of the matter, she could recall all MPs from recess and demand that the committee hears the matter expeditiously and make a report within a week, and not disrupt proceedings of a committee.’ ‘That is how they have frustrated the prosecution we had initiated – the charge sheet we had prepared against Hamis Kiggundu, and now they are at the apex of the audit system (August House),’ Mr Lukwago said, adding that his next course of action was to take on the Speaker and the House.

‘We are retreating back to our offices to chart a new course of action and direction to take on the Speaker and the House head-on; we are taking the battle to the Speaker until we regain control and possession of our national asset.’ Mr Lukwago, said a new company he identified as ‘Ki Ham’ has already acquired titles within the Nakivubo Channel corridor. ‘The title was previously owned by Ham’s bagboy, Nakibinge, but it has now been transferred to Ki Ham (Kiggundu Hamis),’ he said. Efforts to get a response to Mr Obore’s comment from Mr Lukwago were futile as he didn’t return our repeated calls or respond to messages. Last Friday, parts of downtown Kampala were submerged after heavy rainfall triggered floods that swept through shops, streets, and the New Taxi Park. Merchandise worth millions of shillings were damaged.

This ignited public outrage over the ongoing construction works atop the Nakivubo Channel. The traders have since have filed a lawsuit against Mr Kiggundu, KCCA, and National Environment Management Authority, accusing the trio of ‘negligence’. The traders, among others, want the court to halt the ongoing construction works and order compensation for lost goods. The traders contend that Ham Enterprises’ redevelopment works around diverted storm water, causing it to pour into arcades. Mr Godfrey Katongole, the chairperson of the Uganda National Traders Alliance, said ‘at least 300 traders’ have already reported losses, with the number still growing.

For years, menstruation has been treated as a source of shame, surrounded by myths and stigma that often force schoolgirls to miss classes or drop out altogether.

But in the Sebei sub-region, that narrative is slowly changing, thanks to school health clubs that are helping girls manage their menstrual health with confidence while promoting gender equality and hygiene.

Through the Heroes for Gender Transformative Action Programme, implemented by Amref Health Africa in Uganda and funded by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, schools in Sebei are quietly leading a revolution. These health clubs are teaching learners to break taboos around menstruation, maintain hygiene, and ensure that no girl misses class because of her period.

At Kabei Seed Secondary School in Bukwo District, Senior Four student Naomi Cheptoris recalls how difficult life used to be before the initiative.

‘Before, many girls were stigmatised during their menstrual cycles, some missed school because they lacked sanitary pads, and others dropped out,’ Cheptoris said.

She said the school health club has changed everything by offering a safe space where girls learn about menstrual hygiene, reproductive health, and self-confidence.

Through the Heroes programme, both teachers and students have been trained to make reusable sanitary pads, menstrual materials have been distributed, and incinerators installed to ensure proper disposal.

Cheptoris said the initiative has not only improved hygiene but also restored dignity among the young girls.

At Amanang Secondary School, health club member Noel Chepchumba said the project has improved both cleanliness and confidence among girls.

‘Some girls used to litter everywhere, but now that we have an incinerator, everyone knows where to dispose of them,’ she said. ‘It has improved hygiene and made our school a better environment for learning.’

Chepchumba added that the clubs are also empowering students to protect their rights and wellbeing through peer learning and discussions on gender-based violence and sexual reproductive health.

‘They teach us a lot about how to manage our periods, how to clean up properly, and how to stay healthy,’ she said. ‘With support from the Heroes programme, we receive sanitary towels for emergencies, which has made girls more comfortable and confident in school.’

According to the 2024 Value for Money Audit report by the Auditor General, 64 percent of female learners (138 out of 216) had missed school or classes due to menstruation. The report noted that government has yet to find the Shs42 billion required to provide free sanitary pads to vulnerable learners – just 0.05 percent of the Shs72 trillion national budget for 2025/26.

The same report highlights harmful myths and cultural beliefs that have fueled menstrual stigma, especially in Eastern and Northern Uganda, leading many girls to use unsafe methods and skip school.

Lona Chekwemboi, the Senior Woman Teacher at Kabei Seed Secondary School, said the Heroes programme is not only improving sanitation but also transforming mindsets.

‘Before Amref came in, girls lacked pads and would drop out of school or fall into early pregnancies,’ she said. ‘With reusable pads and training, more girls now stay in school. Girls’ absenteeism and school dropouts have reduced.’

Her head teacher, Mr Yeko Ronald, praised the initiative for empowering both students and teachers to speak openly about issues that were once considered taboo.

‘Previously we had a challenge of poor sanitary waste disposal, but with the incinerators, the girls now know how to dispose of them properly. The training through health clubs has also empowered them to speak out and understand their rights,’ he said.

At Amanang Secondary School, Mr James Sabila, the head teacher, recalled the earlier challenges they faced.

‘One of the biggest problems was poor disposal of sanitary pads – girls used to throw used pads anywhere, which was unhygienic and unpleasant,’ he said. ‘When Amref, through the Heroes programme, established incinerators, it was a huge relief that improved sanitation.’

Dr Tonny Kapsandui, the Head of Programmes at Amref Health Africa in Uganda, said menstrual health is central to empowering girls and achieving gender equality.

‘Our aim is to ensure that no girl misses school because of menstruation,’ he said. ‘By working with schools and communities, we are breaking the silence around menstrual health, building confidence among girls, and helping them achieve their full potential.’

The pressure is mounting fast in the StarTimes Uganda Premier League, and for two of its traditional powerhouses – Express and URA – Thursday’s fixtures could define the direction of their seasons.

For seven-time champions Express, coach Badru Kaddu must hastily rediscover the team’s sharp claws to overcome what has been a diabolical league start.

Since their opening-day 1-0 victory over equally struggling UPDF on September 26 at Nakivubo Stadium, the Red Eagles have looked unrecognizable from their once-feared selves.

They have since slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Police, a 1-0 loss to KCCA, and battled to uninspiring draws-0-0 with Bul and 1-1 with URA. That poor run leaves them languishing in 10th place on five points from five matches, a far cry from their traditional giant status.

Kaddu’s men now face a must-win situation this evening at Nakivubo, hosting a wounded Mbarara City outfit that has also forgotten how to win.

The Ankole Lions, under Simon Peter Mugerwa, remain second from bottom with just two points from five matches and are reeling from a 1-0 home defeat to Nec – a result that handed James Odoch’s charges their first victory of the campaign.

Mbarara’s struggles have been both psychological and structural. They have lost 1-0 to UPDF and 3-2 to Kitara, while managing only draws – 1-1 with Bul and 1-1 with Police.

Their defensive frailties and lack of cutting edge up front have condemned them to the early relegation mix. For the visitors, anything less than a point tonight could spell disaster, as another slump would likely trap them in the bottom two.

Express, however, will have to cope without creative attacking midfielder John Asiimwe, who is away in Qatar with Uganda’s U-17 World Cup team.

Kaddu will instead pin his hopes on forwards Richard Basangwa, Muhamad Ssenoga, and Rashid Kawawa to deliver the crucial goals against Mbarara’s fragile backline.

With the Nakivubo crowd expectant and patience wearing thin, the Red Eagles’ faithful will demand nothing less than a return to winning ways if any trophy hopes – however faint – are to remain alive.

Taxmen invade Luzira

Meanwhile, at Luzira Prisons Grounds, Muhammad Ssenfuma’s Maroons, 11th on four points, welcome URA FC, who are seventh with seven points.

The Tax Collectors, led by Alex Isabirye, finally broke their winless streak with a thrilling 3-2 triumph over UPDF last Wednesday at Nakivubo Stadium.

Skipper Moses Aliro struck twice – including a decisive penalty – to secure URA’s first win in five matches and promised to extend his goal-scoring form today.

But Maroons, still smarting from a 2-1 defeat to Police in Kamwokya, will look to capitalize on home comfort and frustrate the inconsistent Tax Collectors.

With both sides seeking stability, this encounter promises tactical discipline and flashes of attacking flair as the season’s early tension begins to bite across the league.

StarTimes Uganda Premier League

Thursday

Maroons vs. URA, 4pm

Luzira Prisons Ground

Express vs. Mbarara City, 8pm

Nakivubo Stadium

Express first five league matches

Bul 0-0 Express

Express 0-1 KCCA

URA 1-1 Express

Police 2-1 Express

Express 1-0 UPDF

At the weekend, we had a small gathering to discuss road infrastructure in Greater Kampala. The attendees were the typical nerdy types who grow out their hair and beards and find the idea of reading project appraisals and bid evaluation reports fun.

Also in attendance were the doers: the folks who design, finance, and build the roads. I learned many new things but the most insightful one came from a comment by one of the speakers about the relatively rapid pace of the new stadium in Hoima. How come the same country that took almost 20 years to complete the 21-kilometre Kampala Northern Bypass, 15 years to get the Bujagali dam done, and is many years late on several other infrastructure projects, is about to build a 20,000-seater stadium in a little over a year?

Some of the answers are easy to figure out. The most obvious are that a stadium has fewer moving parts than a power dam, financing was ring-fenced early, and this was a greenfield project without the usual fights over land compensation. In addition, the contractor is doing their first job in Uganda and has pressure of wanting to do a good job, fast, to unlock new opportunities, as well as not being corrupted by local contexts and business practices.

But there is more to it, and it has everything to do with incentives. The stadium must be built in time for the Africa Cup of Nations tournament which Uganda is co-hosting with Kenya and Tanzania. That introduces the need to not be compared with peers and found wanting.

The tournament will also be held in 2027. Unless there’s a regional or global force majeure event, it cannot be moved to early 2028, or 2029 simply because one of the co-hosts is still waiting for the paint to dry or the grass to grow. The games allocated to Uganda would simply shift to the other co-hosts, or the tournament itself moved to a country with ready infrastructure.

Thus, faced with an immovable object — the deadline by which the stadium must be ready, inspected, and certified for the tournament — and nudged on by peer pressure, our chronic delays and excuses all melted away, and the different state agencies have come together to ensure that the contractor delivers on time.

This is more than just bragging rights, mind. Infrastructure, say a road, is not a consumable but a growth multiplier. By cutting down travel time for goods and people and connecting markets to consumers, they facilitate economic growth.

The longer it takes a project to be completed, the longer it is for it to pay for itself, and that’s before you factor in the missed velocity in the delayed period. Once a commitment is made to do a project, therefore, it makes economic sense to build it on time and spec.

To rev up Uganda’s economy, we must improve the execution and delivery of public infrastructure projects and can do this by making small nudges to the incentive scheme.

One, since land compensation is a major cause of delays, road projects should be awarded through a competitive process with priority going to districts and municipalities that have secured rights of way or waivers from landowners. Even a simple commitment from landowners to allow construction to proceed while they fight over compensation sums would speed things up.

The second is to create a name-and-shame system where the public can see how long it takes each contractor to do each project. Contractors with undue delays would be blacklisted from winning public contracts for five to 10 years. Contracts should also be redesigned to provide stiff penalties for delays and bonuses for on-time completion.

We are bleeding money to the culture and practice of open-ended building and losing time and pace against regional and continental rivals. We can fix this by building faster and developing it as a competitive muscle.

If you travel by matatu, there’s rarely any hurry because if you miss one there’s another just round the corner. But if you turn up late for a flight you will pay through the nose for that tardiness. For Uganda to really take off, we need to act like airplane, not matatu, passengers.

Hoima stadium can be a turning point, not an outlier.

In the quiet, green hills of Kikakata Village, nestled within Lwanda Sub-county, Rakai District, lives a family whose story speaks not in words, but in gestures, glances, and enduring love. Their language is not verbal, but its impact resonates deeply.

Mohammad Wasswa, 36, and his wife Patricia Namulema, 24, are both deaf and non-speaking. Yet, in a world that often sees disability as a barrier, the Wasswa family has woven a life rich in purpose, love, and unwavering resilience.

Wasswa’s life changed forever at the age of eight. Born on February 14, 1989, his early childhood was full of typical laughter and noise. But one day, a sudden illness swept through him with alarming speed.

‘We thought it was an ordinary fever,’ recalls Hanifa Kobusingye, his mother. Sitting outside her modest family home on a papyrus mat, her voice is tinged with memory and emotion.

‘He was playing on Monday, but by Thursday, he could not hear or speak. We rushed him to Mulago Hospital in Kampala. When we returned to our home, our son was silent,’ she adds.

The family tried everything – traditional herbs, prayers, and countless consultations – but the damage was irreversible. In time, they stopped hoping for a cure and focused instead on adapting to the new normal.

‘We raised him with love and care. Never pity. We knew that the fact that he could not speak does not mean that he cannot have a fulfilled life,’ Kobusingye explains.

A love story beyond words

Years later, Wasswa met Namulema at a community workshop organised by a local non-governmental organisation (NGO) that supports people living with disabilities. Namuleme, also deaf and non-speaking, was immediately drawn to his quiet confidence.

‘They connected instantly,’ says Mohammad Kasozi, Wasswa’s father. ‘They did not need words. They understand each other with a look, a gesture, a shared moment. Their’s is a love that many couples envy.’

Wasswa had a daughter from an earlier relationship, who is now 13 and in Primary Four. Together with Namuleme, he now has three more children, namely Rahman Mugabi (6), Shafik Byamukama (4), and Gaddafi Ahimbisibwe (2).

Despite their parents’ disabilities, the children thrive. From infancy, they picked up sign language and gestures as naturally as other children learn to talk.

‘The children are incredibly smart. In public, they act as interpreters for their parents, but at home, they are just a family. You would be amazed at how seamless their communication is,’ Kobusingye explains.

Wasswa now runs a small but successful salon in Lwanda Town, a few kilometers away from his home. With clippers in hand and precision in his fingers, he trims and styles hair with a skill and patience that have earned him a loyal clientele.

‘He does not speak, but his hands do. He is disciplined, focused, and incredibly respectful. We trust him,’ says Ssekanjakko Luutu, one of his regular customers.

Wasswa’s earnings cover the basics – food, clothes, and some school supplies. However, school fees remain a constant struggle, and that is where his extended family comes in.

‘I help where I can. Sometimes we sell a goat or weed someone’s garden to raise school fees. I believe my grandchildren deserve to go to school,’ Kasozi explains.

The family has not faced open ridicule in the community, but an invisible barrier still exists. Stigma, though less aggressive today, still lingers in whispered assumptions

‘Some people still consider deaf people to be cursed,’ says Kobusingye with a sigh. ‘But our family has proved that disability is not inability.’

Legal recognition and protection

While the Wasswa family’s journey is one of resilience, it also highlights the importance of legal protection and awareness for people with disabilities, especially in rural Uganda. Allan Musasire, the managing director of Katembeko and Company Advocates in Mbarara City, offers legal insights.

‘Under the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2020, deaf people are entitled to a wide range of rights and protections. They have a right to education, employment, access to health services, and participation in public life. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against people with disabilities,’ he says.

Musasire adds that courts are obligated to provide sign language interpreters where needed. However, even with all these provisions, enforcement remains a challenge.

‘The law is clear, but in practice, rural communities often lack resources and awareness. It is important for government agencies, legal practitioners, and communities to work together to ensure these rights are not just written in the law books, but are lived by real people, like the Wasswa family,’ he advises.

At the local level, leaders in Lwanda Sub-county are aware of these challenges.

‘We need to do more because these families do not need sympathy. They need equal opportunities like vocational training, accessible schools, and health services that consider their unique communication needs,’ says Martin Buwembo, the district’s community development officer (CDO).

Some positive changes are beginning to take root. Churches, NGOs, and even boda-boda riders in the area now know basic signs to use when interacting with Wasswa and his wife. The couple is increasingly being seen not as victims, but as valued members of the community.

Charles Muliira, the chairperson of Lwanda Sub-county, believes their story has become a mirror for the village.

‘They are deeply loved by our people. We even use them as examples when mediating marital disputes. I tell couples, ‘If Wasswa and Patricia, without speech or hearing, can understand each other, what excuse do the rest of you have?” he asks with a laugh.

Parenting beyond limitations

Indeed, the couple has helped redefine what it means to communicate and to love. Despite their communication barriers, Wasswa and Patricia are deeply involved in their children’s education and emotional growth.

‘They are very active parents. During school meetings, they come with an interpreter or one of the children. They listen, ask questions through sign language, and follow up on their children’s homework,’ says Jane Kyomugisha, a teacher.

The extended family, particularly the grandparents, remains crucial, helping to take the children to school, preparing meals, and ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks.

Back in Kikakata Village, as evening settles and golden light straddles banana plantations, Wasswa walks home from work. His children ran to meet him. Namuleme stands by the door, her hands already in motion, signing him a welcome.

No words. Just gestures, smiles, laughter, and a language of love. In their silence, there is strength. In their struggle, there is triumph. And in their daily life, there is a profound lesson for all of us: love needs no sound to be heard.

The Wasswa family’s journey is more than a tale of overcoming disability. It is a testament to human dignity, the importance of inclusive laws, and the irreplaceable value of community support.

Their story reminds us that disability is not a defect, but a different way of being. It also teaches us that love, respect, and resilience can thrive even when spoken in silence.

Communicating with deaf people

Communicating with deaf people does not have to feel intimidating. Most of the time, it just takes a little thoughtfulness and intention. The best way to start? Ask what works best for them individually and follow their lead. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

Always speak directly to the deaf person, not the interpreter or support staff. Even if someone else is helping facilitate communication, like an interpreter or speech-to-text provider, it is important to make eye contact and talk to the person you are actually engaging with.

Let the deaf person decide how they want to communicate. Some people use sign language. Some prefer to type, write things down, or use apps. Some prefer to speak using their voice. If someone tells you their preference, go with what works best for them. You do not have to understand every reason to honor their choice.

Speak at a natural pace. Slowing down too much or exaggerating your words can make it harder to understand you. Do not shout, just speak clearly and calmly.

Limit movement while you talk. Moving around too much, like pacing or turning your head often, makes it hard to see your face, mouth, or expressions. Try to stay still and face the person when you are speaking.

Natural gestures can help! If you naturally use your hands when talking, that can make things easier to understand. Just do not force gestures if it does not feel natural to you.

Keep your hands away from your face. Covering your mouth, talking while eating, chewing gum, or smoking, can make it difficult for someone to see your expressions.

Give extra time. When using interpreters or captions, there is often a short delay. Be patient and wait for the full message to come through before moving on. Make space for the deaf person to respond without rushing or interrupting.

What matters most is showing that you are aware and willing to make communication work. Deaf people are skilled at adapting – and they will value your effort to do the same.