Category: Daily Monitor

As Uganda approaches the 2026 General Election, the role of the media in shaping public discourse and holding power accountable has never been more critical. Yet the state of press freedom is under unprecedented strain.

According to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, Uganda ranks 143 out of 180 countries, behind even South Sudan. This sobering figure reflects a broader erosion of freedom of expression, a cornerstone of any democratic society. One of the most pressing concerns lies in media ownership.

Uganda has more than 300 radio stations, but many are controlled by politicians of the ruling party or religious institutions closely aligned with the ruling party.

This concentration of ownership narrows the range of perspectives available to the public and limits the possibility of genuine political dialogue.

As media practitioner Daniel Kalinaki observes, the deficit in press freedom is both a supply issue, due to systemic and structural constraints and a demand issue, given the absence of institutions meant to protect independence in thought leadership and operation.

Independent media that questions authority is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Yet Uganda’s shrinking civic space, combined with the securitisation of the State and the weakening of institutions, has left both the press and the public struggling to navigate a fragile democratic environment.

At the same time, new media platforms are reshaping how Ugandans access information. Youth-led initiatives such as the Media Challenge Initiative and other citizen journalism projects are filling gaps left by mainstream outlets.

Social media has become a space for storytelling, accountability, and civic engagement, especially among younger audiences. But these digital platforms come with risks such as surveillance, targeted harassment, misinformation, and the weaponisation of regulation.

The periodic ‘switching off’ of online spaces during elections undermines transparency and democratic participation at a time when openness matters most.

Gender inequity within the media that has kept women underrepresented in newsrooms, and their voices are often marginalised in public discourse.

Patriarchal norms within both media institutions and society at large continue to silence women’s perspectives. As activist Brenda Kugonza has noted, this exclusion is not accidental but rooted in structural inequalities that weaken democratic practice.

Ensuring gender equity in journalism is not simply a question of representation; it is a prerequisite for a media landscape that reflects the realities of all Ugandans. The threats to press freedom extend well beyond structural issues. Journalists continue to face arrests, harassment, and intimidation.

Regulatory bodies and laws such as the Computer Misuse Act are sometimes weaponised against critical reporting.

Lawyers, diplomats, and civil society actors have also been targeted, revealing a wider breakdown of democratic norms. What we are witnessing is not just a media freedom crisis, but a broader assault on civic life that is yet to escalate in the coming 2025 general election.

To protect Uganda’s media environment ahead of the 2026 elections, several steps are urgent.

First, independent oversight mechanisms such as ombudsmen or press councils should be established to uphold ethical, impartial journalism. These bodies can help rebuild public trust, ensure transparency, and safeguard against both misinformation and censorship.

Second, a National Dialogue Process is needed post the election cycle to bring together citizens, journalists, policymakers, and civil society to redefine the principles of democracy and media governance.

Such a dialogue must include youth, women, and marginalised groups so that political coverage and freedom of expression are protected in practice, not just in law.

Capacity-building programs are vital to equip journalists, especially women and young reporters, with digital reporting skills, investigative techniques, fact-checking tools, and online safety strategies. Training must also include legal literacy to help journalists understand electoral regulations and protect themselves in a risky political climate.

Finally, Uganda needs inclusive regulation.

Regulatory bodies must operate transparently and in consultation with media and civil society, ensuring that election accreditation is fair, and that laws protect journalists from harassment rather than enabling arbitrary censorship.

Inclusive frameworks must also dismantle systemic barriers such as gender bias and the exclusion of independent and community media. As the Washington Post reminds us, ‘Democracy dies in darkness.’

Uganda’s 2026 elections present not only a test of political will but also a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm the media as the voice of the people.

By addressing systemic challenges, responsibly embracing technology, and amplifying marginalised voices, Uganda can move toward a media landscape that upholds accountability, transparency, and democratic values.

Rights activists have cautioned the government against reckless spending during the election period.

The activists advised the government to put in place safeguards to stabilise agricultural production and protect household incomes in order to avoid a food crisis post 2026 elections.

The Executive Director of Food Rights Alliance, Ms Agnes Kirabo, said Uganda is once again on the brink of a nationwide food crisis post the 2026 General Election, adding that previous elections were followed by food crisis.

‘After the 2011 General Election, Uganda witnessed a sharp rise in food and fuel prices that triggered the ‘Walk-to-Work’ demonstrations, a civil reaction to the escalating cost of living and food scarcity. The 2016 election cycle was followed by similar distress,’ she said.

She added, ‘Uganda’s first nationwide Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) report in 2017 revealed that over 10.9 million Ugandans were food insecure, with 1.6 million in crisis. The analysis attributed this situation to poor rainfall, high market dependency, and economic shocks, all aggravated by the post-election slowdown’.

Ms Kirabo said following the 2021 elections, between 2.5 to three million Ugandans faced a food crisis post the elections, compounded by Covid-19 disruptions and high prices. Ms Kirabo made the remarks during a joint civil society organisation (CSO) press conference on food security crisis post Uganda’s elections in Kampala on Sunday.

‘As civil society, we are convinced that something cannot happen in this country consistently for 15 years and it is not going to happen again post 2026 elections.. This is evidenced by the recent report that was released by the government last week, which signalled significant food insecurity already prevailing in the country,’ she said.

She added, ‘The population census report actually revealed that four in every 10 households, meaning 40 percent of the population in Uganda, are already finding it difficult to find a meal to eat even before we go into the elections’. Ms Kirabo said the 2025 IPC and national food security and nutrition assessment projected an increased circulation of money in the market during the general elections, potentially temporarily boosting household spending capacity.

‘However, such election-related spending often distorts the economy rather than strengthening it, as large sums of money are channelled into campaigns instead of productive sectors, such as agriculture, food systems, or social protection,’ she said. Ms Kirabo said the artificial liquidity may trigger inflationary pressures, drive up prices of essential commodities, and worsen the cost of living for ordinary citizens once the elections end and spending tightens again. The Participatory Ecological Land Use Management (PELUM) Programme Officer for Advocacy, Mr Lawrence Kanakulya, said the government should treat food security and nutrition as a national priority for social, economic, and political stability during the post-election period.

‘Government and stakeholders should consciously note that food insecurity spikes instability, an empty stomach. On the other side, you might think that someone hungry does not have the energy to create violence, but you also need to note that they have nothing to lose,’ he said. Mr Kanakulya said the government should release development funds pre-elections so that production and other developments continue ahead of the elections to avoid a crisis.

Need to check govt spending

The CSBAG Programme Associate, Ms Christina Namubiru, said there is need for the government to put in check its spending during elections.

‘When we look at the 2026 elections, we are still sceptical about what is really going to happen. The World Bank is assuming that by the time we reach the elections, our debt will have shot up to 52 percent of the GDP unless we ensure resource mobilisation and we improve our spending behaviours,’ she said.

Worried

When we look at the 2026 elections, we are still sceptical about what is really going to happen. The World Bank is assuming that by the time we reach the elections, our debt will have shot up to 52 percent of the GDP unless we ensure resource mobilisation and we improve our spending behaviours- Ms Christina Namubiru, CSBAG programme associate

After 12 intensive weeks of coursework, assessments, and mentoring under ICC’s elite educators, Grace Mutyagaba has ticked off another major milestone in his coaching career – the ICC Level 3 badge.

His certification, confirmed this week by ICC’s Participation Programmes Manager Abhishek Shekhawat, places him among the 77.78 percent of candidates from the global cohort who met the required competency standards.

Mutyagaba’s case study, titled ‘Creating a Sustainable Environment to Develop U19 Fast Bowlers from Northern Uganda into Uganda National Teams,’ reflected both his technical depth and passion for regional player development. He was assessed by ICC’s master educators Janith Tharaka Samaratung, Cam Tradell, Jolene Campher, Prachur Shukla, and Esther de Lange.

Emerging from adversity

‘The course stretched me in many ways – balancing work, school, and the project was tough,’ Mutyagaba said. ‘But as they say, rough seas make stronger sailors. It’s those tough times that build great people.’

For Mutyagaba, the achievement isn’t personal glory but shared progress.

‘This achievement is not mine alone. It stands as a testament to our collective effort, dedication, and shared vision at UCA. I look forward to extending this knowledge to empower more local coaches and contribute meaningfully to raising the standards of cricket across Uganda,’ he added.

Mutyagaba, who re-did his Level 1 and Level 2 ICC coaching courses between 2021 and early 2024, has steadily built a reputation as one of Uganda’s most methodical and forward-thinking coaches. He has previously guided the Victoria Pearls to their first African title in 2017 and later to the Global Qualifiers in 2018 (Netherlands).

Shekhawat, in ICC’s official correspondence, praised Uganda Cricket Association for its progress:

‘We congratulate Uganda Cricket Association on this strong result and appreciate your continued commitment to strengthening high-performance coaching within your system.’

Mutyagaba now joins Uganda’s elite class of ICC Level 3 coaches that includes Emmanuel Isaneez, Deus Muhumuza, Henry Okecho, Justine Ligyalingi, and Davis Turinawe – a small but influential group shaping the country’s coaching future.

The ICC will issue a digital certificate to all successful candidates within four weeks, officially sealing Mutyagaba’s name among Africa’s fast-rising technical minds.

Fast Bowling Focus.

Mutyagaba’s project underscored his commitment to grassroots talent development, especially from Northern Uganda. By establishing sustainable structures and coaching frameworks, his work aims to transform raw pace prospects into polished national-team assets.

Full Name: Grace Mutyagaba

ICC Certification: Level II (Certified), Level III (Certified)

Current Role: Northern Uganda Development Officer – UCA

Notable Achievement: Led Victoria Pearls to first African title (2017) and Global Qualifiers (2018, Netherlands)

Specialisation: Fast Bowling Development, Community Cricket, Player Mentorship

Coaching Philosophy: ‘Coach the human first – cricket second.’

Key Projects: ICC Global Level 3 project on Creating Environments for Fast Bowlers in Uganda

President Museveni has congratulated his Tanzanian counterpart, Hassan Samia Suluhu, upon her re-election, noting that her victory was a reflection of the confidence Tanzanians have in her leadership.

Ms Suluhu was declared on Saturday the landslide winner of an election that set off deadly protests across the country over the exclusion of her main challengers.

‘I congratulate Her Excellency Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM) Party on her re-election as President of Tanzania. This victory reflects the confidence that the people of Tanzania have in her leadership and vision. Uganda and Tanzania share historic bonds of friendship and cooperation. I look forward to working with President Samia to further strengthen our partnership in trade, infrastructure, and regional integration for the peace and prosperity of our peoples,’ President Museveni said in a Monday statement on X.

Tanzania’s electoral commission said Suluhu, who took power in 2021 after the death in office of her predecessor, John Pombe Magufuli, received more than 31.9 million votes, or 97.66% of the total, handing her a five-year term.

The main opposition party CHADEMA, which was barred from the election for refusing to sign a code of conduct and whose leader Tundu Lissu was arrested for treason in April, said late on Saturday that the results were “completely fabricated”.

It added, “CHADEMA strongly rejects the so-called election results announced by the National Electoral Commission. These results have no basis in reality, as the truth is that no genuine election took place in Tanzania,” it said on X.

“The countrywide demonstrations are clear proof that citizens did not take part in what is being called an election, and that they reject anyone emerging from this flawed electoral process,” the party added in the statement on its account.

Protests erupted during Wednesday’s vote for president and parliament, with some demonstrators tearing down banners of Hassan and setting fire to government buildings and police firing tear gas and gunshots, according to witnesses.

Demonstrators are angry about the electoral commission’s exclusion of Suluhu’s two biggest challengers from the race and what human rights groups have said are widespread arrests and abductions of opponents.

In a speech from the administrative capital Dodoma after being certified as the winner, Hassan said the actions of the protesters were “neither responsible nor patriotic”.

“When it comes to the security of Tanzania, there is no debate – we must use all available security avenues to ensure the country remains safe,” she said.

Hassan, 65, won praise after taking office in 2021 from Magufuli for easing government repression but has more recently faced criticism from opposition parties and activists after a series of arrests and alleged abductions of opponents.

Last year, she said she had ordered an investigation into reports of abductions, but no official findings have been released.

During the campaign, she touted accomplishments expanding road and railway networks and increasing power generation capacity.

Presidential candidate Mubarak Munyagwa has pledged to expel all foreigners engaged in non-professional activities in Uganda within 48 hours if elected in the January 15, 2026 General Election.

Addressing supporters in Rukungiri District on November 2, Munyagwa, of the Common Man’s Party, said foreign nationals, particularly Chinese and Indians, are occupying small businesses that should be run by Ugandans.

‘When you reach Kampala, you find Chinese and Indians who came as investors dealing in small businesses that are supposed to be done by your sons and daughters. What you need to do is vote me in the office of president and you will see what will happen to them,’ Munyagwa said.

He added: ‘The so-called investors are not only dealing in small businesses but they are also working as security guards. Others are busy selling pancakes and yellow bananas and the government is just seated. So my government will not tolerate such nonsense.’

The presidential hopeful also promised to secure the release of opposition strongman Dr Kizza Besigye, a prominent opposition figure and Rukungiri native, once in office.

‘I started the struggle of liberating our country Uganda from the hands of corrupt and incompetent leadership of Museveni and his people with your son Dr Besigye. So I can’t forget him, I promise you that I will do whatever it takes to free the son of the soil because he is the father of opposition in Uganda,’ he said.

Munyagwa further pledged to restore equality and ensure all Ugandans have access to national resources.

‘My leadership will work for all, that’s why I choose ‘Orusania’ as my symbol so every Ugandan will be worked on and treated equally without favor, color or tribe,’ he said.

Key priorities outlined by Munyagwa include equitable distribution of resources, increased civil servant salaries, agricultural transformation, and improved market networks.

‘For every country to develop, there should be equal distribution of resources. What is killing our country is the absence of equality where a few are holding national resources that would have contributed to the development of our country Uganda,’ he said.

Residents at the rallies expressed strong support for Munyagwa. Dickson Nuwamumpa, a businessman, said: ‘He has a good manifesto because he promised to create a market for our local products which I think will contribute a lot towards the development of our families.’

Mubaraka Byamukama said: ‘I vote him because he has promised us to fight for the release of our son Dr Kizza Besigye. I will not only vote for him because of that but also for fronting equality.’

Denis Natukunda added: ‘In him I see a good visionary leader who leads us in a peaceful and developmental way. So that’s why I will vote for him as my president.’

Munyagwa is among seven candidates officially nominated by the Electoral Commission to challenge President Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly 40 years.

Ntungamo District leaders have launched an investigation into a troubling incident at Kajumbajumba Primary School in Kyafoora Parish, Rugarama North Sub-county, where health workers mistakenly administered the wrong drug to over 100 pupils during a deworming exercise.

The incident that left many pupils unconscious, caused widespread panic, with at least 44 pupils hospitalised across various health facilities, sparking fear and anxiety among the public.

‘Following the Integrated Child Health Days (ICDHs), the vaccination team on Friday went to the school and used phenobarbitone instead of mabendazole. Over 100 are unconscious and admitted in various clinics and facilities,’ said Dr Amon Bahati, the district health officer.

He added, ‘We need urgent help to evacuate children for further management.

The wrong use of drugs was due to the out-of-stock of Mebendazole, and the team mistakenly picked phenobarbitone tin instead of Albendazole tin. Out of the 2000 children dewormed, 100 need attention.’ Across Uganda, health workers are currently implementing Integrated Child Health Days (ICHDs), during which children under 12 receive various vaccines and deworming tablets.

Albendazole, the intended medication, is a prescription antiparasitic used to treat a range of intestinal and tissue-based worm infections. After the drug was administered at Kajumbajumba Primary School, pupils began falling ill. In response, Dr Bahati shared a message on the district health workers’ WhatsApp group, which later circulated publicly.

The message clarified that phenobarbitone, a drug typically used to calm individuals with violent or mental health conditions, had been administered instead of Albendazole. Phenobarbitone (also known as phenobarbital) is a long-acting barbiturate primarily used as an anticonvulsant to treat epilepsy. It can also serve as a short-term sedative to relieve anxiety or induce drowsiness.

‘The vaccination team went to the school (Kajumbajumba) and used phenobarbitone instead of Albendazole. Over 100 are unconscious and admitted to various clinics and facilities. The wrong use of the drug was due to the out-of-stock for Albendazole and the team mistakenly picked phenobarbitone tin instead of Albendazole tin,’ the message read.

The message was a response to calls for emergency intervention. Dr Bahati explained that it was intended to calm fears, as many parents initially believed vaccines were to blame, raising concerns about potential resistance to immunisation efforts. ‘Response from communities was turning against immunisation. When we investigated, we found the cause and withdrew the team immediately. We hope the situation remains normal,’ he said.

The District Chief Administrative Officer, Mr Fedelis Kizza, confirmed that officials and health teams are investigating how a Grade A drug was mistakenly administered under a Class C system.

‘At the moment, we have concentrated on treating the victims. As I speak, they are all out of danger. The next step will be to investigate how these drugs got there, how they were administered, and who is responsible for it. Whether it is a result of negligence or a simple human error, and who should be held individually liable,’ he said.

The Resident District Commissioner, Ms Mirriam Mugisha Kagaiga, emphasised the importance of a thorough investigation, especially given the potential impact on public trust in immunisation programmes. ‘We are so happy with the response of our medical teams on the incident.

However, I feel a lot must be investigated. I am impressed that the children are out of danger and the ICHD is going on well. Vaccination is a core programme under this government, and anything that happens within it is a cause of worry,’ she said.

This is not the first immunisation-related incident in Ntungamo District. In 2010, a child died at Kishami Health Centre after choking on an Albendazole tablet that was swallowed without medical supervision.

The 2025 Primary Leaving Examinations (PLE) kicked off across Uganda today under heightened security and vigilance from the Uganda National Examinations Board (Uneb) following the arrest of three suspects in Lira City for allegedly attempting to bribe an examination scout.

According to Uneb Principal Public Relations Officer Jennifer Kalule Musamba, the suspects, a school director, a former teacher at the same school, and another teacher from a different school, were arrested after they allegedly tried to influence the scout assigned to supervise PLE in Oyam District.

‘The three suspects were arrested at Garden Hotel in Lira City after attempting to offer a bribe of Shs1 million to a UNEB scout in exchange for assistance during the examinations,’ Ms Kalule said.

‘Police recovered the money, which has since been exhibited as evidence,’ she added. Ms Kalule said the suspects are being investigated under Section 26(1)(g) of the UNEB Act, Cap 259, which provides for a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a fine of Shs20 million, or both upon conviction.

Uneb Executive Director Dan Odongo has cautioned all those involved in the conduct of the exams to uphold integrity and avoid malpractice.

‘We urge everyone to maintain the highest standards of integrity. Anyone caught aiding or abetting malpractice will be arrested and prosecuted, regardless of their position,’ he warned. This year, a total of 817,885 candidates have registered for PLE, up from 797,444 in 2024, a 2.5 percent increase.

The candidates are drawn from 16,140 examination centres across the country and will sit Mathematics and Social Studies today, followed by Integrated Science and English tomorrow. According to Uneb statistics, 389,529 candidates (48 percent) are male, while 428,356 (52 percent) are female.

Of these, 522,039 candidates (64 percent) are funded under the Universal Primary Education (UPE) programme, while 295,846 (36 percent) are privately sponsored.

Among the registered candidates are 61 inmates from Upper Prison School, Luzira, including 54 males and seven females. Uneb said 3,644 candidates with special needs will receive additional support during the examinations.

‘We have made the necessary arrangements to provide braille question papers and answer sheets for 33 blind candidates, large print papers for 620 with low vision, and sign language interpreters for 300 deaf candidates,’ Mr Odongo said.

He added that 1,318 learners with dyslexia or severe physical impairments will be assisted by transcribers, and all special needs candidates will get 45 extra minutes per paper. A total of 1,505 support personnel have been deployed to assist them.

To ensure smooth conduct of the examinations, Uneb has deployed 59,890 field personnel nationwide. These include district monitors, scouts, chief invigilators, invigilators, and security officers tasked with overseeing the examinations, protecting candidates, and safeguarding materials.

Mr Odongo noted that field management of the PLE is a joint effort between Uneb and local governments.

‘The Board calls upon Chief Administrative Officers to promptly process and release funds, oversee the distribution of papers, ensure prompt payments to invigilators, and clamp down on malpractice,’ he said.

He also warned against fraudulent online activities, saying some individuals have been collecting money on social media under the guise of leaking PLE papers.

‘Security agencies have arrested some of these, while others are on the run. Anyone found circulating fake papers will face prosecution under Section 25 of the Uneb Act, which provides for up to 10 years in prison or a fine of Shs40 million, or both,’ he cautioned.

Police are pursuing kidnappers of a child who are demanding Shs7m ransom for her freedom. The Kampala Metropolitan Police deputy spokesperson, Mr Luke Owoyesigyire, yesterday confirmed the pursuit by Katwe Police Station.

He said the police in Nyanama Zone, Rubaga Division in Kampala, received a complaint from Ms Grace Athieno, the child’s mother, claiming some unknown people had raided her home on Saturday night, grabbed and carried off her three-year-old daughter, and were demanding Shs7m for her release.

‘The detectives visited the scene and recorded several statements from the house occupants, and investigations are ongoing,’ Mr Owoyesigyire said. He said no suspect has been arrested.

Ms Athieno said she left home for work on Friday and left her daughter and three other children with their sister-in-law, Ms Catherine Abbo. Ms Abbo told the police that some unknown people stormed the home at night, knocked on the doors and windows, and ordered them to open. She said upon opening, a group of three ladies and four men entered the house and demanded to see Mr Denis Opendi, and his wife, Athieno. Ms Abbo told police that on realising the duo was not in the house, the strangers grabbed the child and carried her away.

Ms Athieno told this publication yesterday that the suspected kidnappers called her husband demanding Shs7m for the release of their daughter. Mr Owoyesigyire said the case could be linked to a tours and travel company that parents worked for in Nyanama and was linked to labour export overseas. He said the demand for ransom could be connected with money paid for unmet promises for work abroad. Mr Owoyesigyire said the police are looking for Mr Opendi to record a statement as investigations continue. This is the fifth kidnap case being reported at Katwe Police Station in less than three months.

Background

From 2018, cases of kidnap dropped after the highly publicised case of Susan Magara, the then cashier of Bwendeiro Dairy Farm, who was held captive for three weeks as her kidnappers demanded Shs3.6b. Police records show that 401 cases of child abduction and kidnap were reported in 2019, with 382 reported in 2020, and another 291 cases recorded in 2021.

The opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) has established a legal team to register complaints from traders affected by Friday’s flash flooding in Kampala, aiming to seek government compensation for lost property.

The team, unveiled on Monday by NUP Secretary General David Lewis Rubongoya, comprises lawyers Shamim Malende and Samuel Muyizi, who have begun collecting complaints from traders affected by heavy rains along Nakivubo Channel.

Addressing traders and supporters at NUP headquarters before embarking on his campaign, NUP President Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine, expressed sympathy for those displaced by floods across Uganda and called for unity for leadership change.

‘The government all along has failed to effectively plan for its people before such disasters affecting Ugandans. As the floods swept people’s merchandise in Kampala, we saw the same disasters in Kapchorwa, Kwene, and Bulambuli, and the cycle continues,’ Kyagulanyi said.

‘It is now 40 years; it is the right time to unite for the common goal of all and avoid lamentations,’ he added.

Traders recounted heavy losses following the flooding that left at least three people dead. Agricultural dealer Geoffrey Jjemba said he lost 18 sacks of fertilizer and chicken feed, estimating his losses at Shs 10 million.

‘There are my fertilisers. They were destroyed by the floodwater,’ he said.

Ivan Kalule, a polyene bag dealer at Container Village, said he lost Shs70 million.

‘The water swept everything. The government should come up with a comprehensive plan to prevent such a disaster from happening again. We are tired of being slaves in our own country,’ he said.

Mattress dealer Ismael Kabasa Kibanza estimated losses of Shs 80 million.

‘I had just gotten Shs100 million from the loan to develop my business. On Friday I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. if we are not helped, I am likely to lose my house that I used as security,’ he added.

Blanket retailer Aisha Nakatawa lamented, ‘I have experienced the worst moment in my life. Why do poor people continue to suffer? We want justice.’

On her part, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) Executive Director Sharifah Buzeki said teams had been deployed to assess damages.

‘Our technical team is on the ground to assess the liability, to see where the problem started from and what the way forward is. The report will be so important to make a decision on our next step,’ she said.

According to the Makerere Meteorological Department, Kampala recorded 63.4 mm of rain, causing flash floods along Nakivubo Channel and near the Old Taxi Park, affecting basement premises and merchandise.

I was given a herb called HANS, and I was told that it would make my penis longer and bigger. However, after three months of use, I see no results. Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,

It is important to understand that penis size is largely determined by genetics. Many men believe their penis is smaller than average, which can lead to a desire for enlargement. Unfortunately, most methods marketed for increasing penis size, such as pumps, jelqing, traction with weights, various exercises, and herbal remedies, have not proven effective and can often result in negative side effects.

These techniques are generally not medically recommended, except in specific cases such as micropenis, where medical intervention may be necessary.

I am unsure of your age, but if you are taking herbal testosterone, it may only benefit the penis size of children undergoing puberty or infants with low testosterone levels. Low testosterone in these groups can lead to a small penis or delayed development.

For adults, low testosterone levels might result in decreased libido and erectile problems.

While herbal testosterone may help with these issues, it is unlikely to lead to penis enlargement and could pose serious risks, including an increased likelihood of blood clots, heart issues, infertility, and potential stimulation of existing prostate cancer.

It is advisable to consult a doctor instead of relying on herbal remedies.