Category: Daily Monitor

In a bid to strengthen citizen participation in the 2026 General Election, political parties and civil society organisations in Tooro and Rwenzori sub-regions have rolled out a grassroots mobilisation campaign aimed at tackling voter apathy. The initiative seeks to encourage eligible voters to take part in the election.

Local leaders said the Electoral Commission (EC) voter register contains a large number of citizens, but many do not vote. They said this growing voter indifference threatens not only political outcomes but also the spirit of democracy.

Statistics from the EC show that in the 2021 General Election, in Tooro and Rwenzori, there were 1,347,702 registered voters but only 852,530 voted. Nationally, voter turnout was also low, with 18.1 million registered voters, but only 10.7 million cast their ballots, representing a 59 percent turnout. For example, Kabarole District had 107,428 registered voters in 2021, but only 65,479, about 61 percent, participated in the polls. ‘We are moving door-to-door to remind people that their vote matters. Our goal is to ensure that no registered voter stays away from the polls. When citizens participate fully, our democracy grows stronger,’ Ms Victoria Businge Rusoke, the State Minister for Local Government, who is also the Kabarole District NRM chairperson, said.

Ms Rusoke explained that a new structure has been established, with 30 coordinators in each of the 347 villages from 15 lower local governments in the district, and each coordinator will be responsible for mobilising 10 voters to ensure that every registered voter participates in the polls. She added that community sensitisation meetings and civic education campaigns will continue throughout the district to remind people that democracy depends on their active involvement.

The Alliance for National Transformation presidential candidate, Maj Gen (rtd) Mugisha Muntu, said in his campaign, he has focused much on talking to voters directly so that they get solutions to their problems and be able to vote.

‘Our strategy is not about the size of the crowds we attract. It is about ensuring that our message reaches the people. We want voters to understand our solutions to their personal problems so that they make informed choices at the ballot box,’ he said. The National Unity Platform Tooro Regional Coordination, Mr Innocent Natukunda Bitariho, said the rising voter apathy is a signal that people feel that their votes no longer count. ‘We are educating and inspiring citizens to understand that staying home helps the status quo.

Refusing to vote is not neutrality, it’s surrender. We are encouraging people to turn their anger, disappointment, and pain into a peaceful protest vote,’ Mr Bitariho said. He added that party flagbearers and members have been tasked to engage in community dialogues to sensitise voters that democracy is not a one-day event. ‘The majority of non-voters are young people who feel abandoned, and we are reconnecting with them through sports, music, and digital campaigns, showing them that their frustrations can become a force for transformation through the ballot. Don’t protest by staying home. Protest by voting,’ he said.

Mobilisation strategy

Last Friday, leaders from Rwenzori and Tooro launched a mobilisation strategy using the structure of Generation Seven to combat voter apathy. The State Minister for Primary Healthcare, who is also the Fort Portal City North Division MP, Ms Margret Muhanga, said many people, including educated elites, often assume that election outcomes are predetermined, a misconception that fuels low voter turnout. ‘Some people have told me they have never voted because they believe the outcome is automatic. But it’s not automatic. Every vote counts. We must all mobilise our friends and neighbours to go and vote. How can your preferred leaders win if you stay home on election day?’

The former chairperson of Generation Seven, Mr Gilbert Olinga, said voter apathy is worrying. ‘It is unfortunate that millions of registered voters do not participate. During previous elections and by-elections, many eligible voters stayed home in NRM primaries. We want to change that narrative,’ he said. Mr Olinga added that the Generation Seven network, which brings together about 1.4 million members nationwide, plans to reach communities directly through youth-led mobilisation, civic education, and door-to-door engagement to inspire a sense of ownership in the electoral process.

Mr Peter Byakuyaba, from Tooro Net, a civil society organisation, said the EC is mandated to carry out voter civic education, but this has not been adequately done.

‘As a country, we have many challenges, including unemployment, internal party conflicts, poor service delivery, and presidential candidates are not addressing issues. I have not seen a candidate talk about policy; they make pledges,’ he said. Mr Joshua Tusiime, from Kichwamba Sub-county, an NRM supporter, said he lost faith in the independence and fairness of the EC.

‘I stopped voting in 2011 because I don’t believe the results reflect the will of the people. The EC seems biased, and until I see real change, I won’t waste my time lining up to vote,’ he said. Ms Olivia Kagabe, an FDC member in Kiko Town Council, Kabarole, said voting has become meaningless, arguing that outcomes are predetermined and that the voices of ordinary citizens are ignored.

EC speaks out

However, the EC said it is impartial in the conduct of its duties. The Kabarole District Returning Officer, Mr Rogers Kasoro, said the EC has already embarked on a voter education campaign in the district and other parts of the country to encourage participation in next year’s elections. ‘We are using radio, social media, and public gatherings to create awareness. The presidential voting day is set for January 15, 2026, and the public is already aware of this date,’ Mr Kasoro said.

He appealed to all eligible voters to participate in the forthcoming elections.

EC statistics

Statistics from the EC show that in the 2021 General Election, in the Tooro and Rwenzori sub-regions, of the 1,347,702 registered voters, only 852,530 voted.

Nationally, voter turnout was also low, with only 10.7 million of the 18.1 million registered voters casting their ballots, representing just 59 percent.

The Uganda Woodball Federation (UWbF) entered a new chapter on Friday as Paul Mark Kayongo was sworn in for another term as president, promising to transform the sport into a national and continental powerhouse.

The brief ceremony at the federation headquarters in Nakulabye drew officials from the Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Council of Sports (NCS), corporate partners and new executive committee members. It marked the beginning of what Kayongo called ‘a new era of success’ driven by growth, international competitiveness and improved governance.

Kayongo said Uganda holds the franchise to manufacture woodball equipment for the African continent, yet the country still struggles to satisfy even its local market.

‘We are sitting on a gold mine. The machines are already here. We just lack space to set up a proper plant. The market is in abundance across Africa. We only need government support to produce equipment that matches the international standard,’ he said.

Uganda currently produces what Kayongo described as ‘grade three’ equipment, though a Chinese-donated production line sits idle at Ndejje University due to infrastructure challenges.

Kayongo celebrated the sport’s impressive growth, noting that national teams have competed at eight World Cups, earning second and third places in global rankings, even while the sport remains in what officials describe as an ‘infancy’ stage.

Growth on the continent

Kayongo, who also serves as Africa’s Vice President for the world woodball body IWbF, is keen on spreading the game beyond its borders.

‘This is a sport for all. Whether you have one leg or one arm, whether young or old. It promotes teamwork and inclusivity,’ he said.

His goals for the new term include a multi-sport complex approved in principle by President Museveni, an archive and Hall of Fame, expansion of research and rehabilitation programmes and a sustainability strategy driven by new partnerships and revenue streams.

Kayongo warned that the sport still battles major challenges including limited funding, misconceptions from the public, hooliganism among some athletes, gambling influences and ‘misuse of social media’.

‘My re-election is a mandate to restore integrity and make woodball a sport for everyone,’ he said.

The introduction of the New Sports Act further requires federations to operate on a regional basis, stretching already thin budgets.

‘We must diversify revenue and government must consider increasing the federation’s budget. Our overall performance depends on how well we navigate these challenges,’ he urged.

Govt urge integrity, grassroots

Representatives from the Ministry of Education and Sports and NCS applauded the federation for exceeding the required 75% district coverage and positioning woodball in schools.

Gilbert Orikiriza, the Ministry’s Education Officer, hailed progress but warned against leadership vices.

‘One of the things that has made federations fail is greed. Leaders must remain objective and guided by the vision,’ he said.

NCS Senior Sports Officer Sarah Anne Nankya emphasised compliance with the constitution and the New Sports Regulations, including strict anti-doping measures.

‘Don’t violate your powers. Govern with excellence and ensure woodball reaches all districts,’ she advised.

New woodball executive committee

President: Paul Mark Kayongo

1st Vice President: Lukman Kiirya

2nd Vice President: Enid Nyendwoha Joy

General Secretary: Adam Kato

Assistant GS: Gloria Koli

Treasurer: Matthias Kalema

Technical Director: Fredrick Busuulwa

Public Relations Officer: Johnson Were

Male club rep: Ramadhan Shaineh Nagoso

Female club rep: Sylivia Kembabazi

Moses Aliro scored twice as URA edged UPDF 3-2 in a five goal thriller that kicked off match-day five action of the Uganda Premier League at Nakivubo Stadium on Wednesday.

The victory was the first for four-time champions URA this season having opened the season with four consecutive draws.

The result capped an interesting day’s action that also included Congolese striker Djuma Ikamba scoring both goals in Police’s 2-1 win over Maroons at the Kiira Road Police Arena earlier in the day.

At Nakivubo, URA edged a see-saw game after taking the lead on 25 minutes when Joseph Ssemuju completed a run on the left with a cutback converted by Aliro.

But UPDF equalized almost immediately when the lively Samson Kigozi side stepped a defender before placing the ball beyond URA goalkeeper Chrispas Kusiima on 27 minutes.

George Masembe then restored URA’s advantage in first half added time with a swift turn and shot after corner.

The end to end nature of the game continued into the second half yielding a second UPDF goal when Kigozi was brought down as burst into the box.

Sam Ssekamatte then stepped up to convert the subsequent penalty after 54 minutes.

The striker then wasted a one on one opportunity opting to pass when through on goal and his team was immediately punished at the other end when UPDF captain Bernard Muwanga fouled in the box.

The result lifted URA to sixth with seven points while UPDF are 12th with four points after four games.

Aliro again converted as URA held out for victory.

At the Police Arena, Congolese striker Ikamba took his tally to a league leading four goals in a 10-minute spell in the first half.

First, he held off Maroons defender Borris Onegi to side foot past goalkeeper Hassan Matovu to give Police the lead on 18 minutes.

He then beat the Maroons offside trap and escaped goalkeeper Matovu’s weak challenge before a quick feint sent Onegi to the ground for the striker to roll the ball into an empty net.

Maroons then woke up from their slumber with striker Dickson Niwamanya hauled off for Jackson Nunda on 36 minutes.

Nunda’s ingenuity then saw him run onto a pass on the left side of the attack before cutting the ball back for Rogers Kiwanuka to half the deficit three minutes before half time.

The Maroons fight back then suffered a dent when Norman Odipio was sent off for two needless fouls as his team succumbed to a second loss in four games.

StarTimes Uganda Premier League

Results

Police 2-1 Maroons

URA 3-2 UPDF

The occasion was different but the scoreline was the same as South Sudan beat Uganda 3-0 in the 2025 IBSA Blind Football Africa Division II final at Hamz Stadium on Wednesday.

It was the same scoreline by which Sudan beat the hosts in the opening match on Monday.

Even the scorers were the same. Only that Yona Sabri, who bagged a brace on Monday, this time scored one, while captain Martin Lado, who scored once on Monday, was the man of the match, scoring two goals.

All the goals on Monday came in the first half. In the final, all happened in the second half. The first was a penalty after goalkeeper Moses Musasizi handled the ball outside his box. Lado coolly converted it to give the guests a timely 1-0 lead.

It wasn’t long before Sabri added the second, squeezing the ball between the goalie’s legs. Lado iced the cake with a sublime strike into the roof of the net as Uganda struggled with injuries.

Captain Rashid Ssemakula, who scored brilliantly against Zimbabwe on Tuesday, had a difficult time against the Sudanese before being substituted with a cut above his right eye after a head collision.

Coach Ali Zinda made several changes but no avail.

“The fact that we have lost to the same team twice shows that they are better than us,” Zinda said post-match. “But we are happy for hosting this event and qualifying the Division I, which is a step closer to the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.”

Simon Madol Akol, the South Sudan coach, attributed his team’s success to cohesion and determination. He also predicted the future of blind football to be bright.

“I started playing football to prove that even the blind can do something. Now this victory is more testament to that a’d will inspire many more in South Sudan,” said Lado, who was the tournament’s MVP.

Sabri was the top scorer with six goals. Charles Bepo, kept three clean sheets for South Sudan, and emerged the best goalkeeper.

FINAL

Uganda 0-3 South Sudan

Scorers: Martin Lado (2), Yona Sabri (1)

As a way of finding a lasting solution to learners who drop out of schools in the North Eastern Karamoja Sub-region, President Museveni, who is seeking re-election to serve another term, has promised to ensure that the free education policy in all government-aided schools is enforced to the letter.

Addressing a crowd in Nakapiripirit District, Mr Museveni attributed the high school dropout rates in the mineral-rich restive Sub-region to fees charged by heads of government-aided schools.

He said the Universal Primary Education (UPE) rolled out in 1996 aimed at making education entirely free to all learners who cannot afford to pay fees in private schools, but along the way, some people started charging fees.

‘Because of that, children get out of school,’ Mr Museveni said, as he canvassed for votes on Wednesday ahead of the January 2026 General Election.

It’s partly upon this background that he reportedly started to establish skilling hubs like the one in Napak District, where school dropouts have been embraced and given life-changing skills.

Mr Museveni said that because of such initiatives, abandoned children are able to make unique products through the skilling hubs, which were previously imported from China and Dubai.

‘So in the next government, I ask you to support free education in all government schools, so that we don’t lose those children,’ Mr Museveni, 80, asked the people of Nakapiripirit District, where he campaigned before heading to Nabilatuk for his second rally.

Nakapiripirit District has only 27 primary schools and seven secondary schools.

‘The plan is to have one primary school per parish, and one secondary school per Sub County,’ Mr Museveni, who doubles as the ruling NRM chairperson, said.

The president said that there are seed secondary schools that have been constructed, like Nakapiripirit Seed Secondary School and Moruita Seed Secondary School, whose works are still ongoing.

He added that under the economic infrastructure, they have been able to handle the issue of hydroelectric power, the roads, telephone, railway line, touting the tarmac in Nakapiripirit as an excellent example.

Commenting in the issue of water coverage in Karamoja,he said the government scored tremendously well with 179 villages out of 209 villages in Nakapiripirit having safe borehole water , which he says accounts for 82% in safe water coverage provision for the people of Nakapiripirit district, ‘This is very good.’

He said that the other districts equally have a better safe water coverage, apart from Amudat district that has low water coverage, at 18 percent.

He said there are also dams that have been worked on by the government.

The president who was accompanied by his wife, the minister of education and sports, Janet Museveni, said that the NRM government intends to establish Namalu large irrigation scheme with a capacity of 11.8B litres of water, reasoning that the facility will help serve over 750 hectares using irrigation.

Under social economic development, he said the government is also planning to have all health centre II’s in Nakapiripirit upgraded to health centre III’s. Sub

Counties without health centres will also receive health facilities in the next term of government.

On the aspect of poverty alleviation, Mr Museveni said that getting out of poverty takes individual initiative, adding that the national development projects like roads and others do little.

He told the NRM supporters that from the time the NRM came into power in 1986, they have shared with the people the gospel on poverty alleviation, those who have listened to their messages and are flourishing, citing an example of a farmer in the cattle corridor in western Uganda, among others, as people who are earing millions every year as model farmers.

Mr Museveni also asked the people not to listen too much to some politicians who think it is only the government that will provide wealth through the creation of jobs, stating that the entire civil service in the country is barely 460,000.

‘Get out of the thinking that jobs can only be provided by the government,’ the president, who is seeking to be re-elected, said.

Mr Museveni expressed his joy that the factories that they recently brought have at least managed to employ at least 1.3M people, three times what the government can afford to employ.

Touching on the aspect of peace, Mr Museveni said that Karamoja is what it is today because of his stance on disarmament despite pressures from some people who perceived the idea as suicidal because of the armed neighbours of Kenya, South Sudan and Ethiopia.

He said that they reasoned that if the people of Karamoja were disarmed, they would be exposed to the armed Turkana and Pokot of Kenya, the armed communities of South Sudan and some of Ethiopia.

‘I said bring the guns, I will protect you against the Kenyans and you have seen how I have done it,’ he said.

It all began on a Sunday morning. The congregation at the church had gathered as usual, each person carrying their own quiet prayer. Among the orderly ushers stood a young man named Henry Jassa, looking sharp in his suit, exuding the calm assurance of someone who serves out of calling. In one of the pews sat Linda Ochen, radiant in her quiet grace, unaware that destiny had seated itself beside her story.

With a smile, she recalls: ‘I remember thinking that he was kind, funny, and confident without trying too hard.’ That day, he offered her a bottle of water, an act so small it could have easily gone unnoticed, yet it lingered in her memory.

It was not the water itself that touched her; it was the thought behind the gesture. That simple act would later take root in her heart, like a seed of something divine. For Jassa, this moment is just as vivid.

‘The story started in church in 2018,’ he reflects. ‘I believe it was God who brought us together.’ His voice softens when he speaks her name, Linda, just as someone sharing a prayer that has finally been answered.

Love in the details

For her, love did not come as a whirlwind of grand gestures but through something much rarer: consistency. He kept showing up at church and in her life. She says: ‘He remembered small details about me. He encouraged my dreams and made time to really listen. That is when I knew he was not here to play games.’

Jassa smiles at the memory. ‘Her love and commitment to serving God left me with no other choice,’ he says, shaking his head in quiet amusement at his good fortune.

‘The more I got to know her, the more I realised she was kind, honest, patient, and hardworking, a woman bringing peace and light into my life.’ While so many people chase love that glitters, they found each other in the gentle glow of shared purpose.

The lovebirds prayed, laughed, and grew together like two branches reaching toward the same sky. The day he professed his love was fittingly another Sunday. After the service, when the last song had faded and the congregation had drifted away, he asked if they could talk.

‘I told her plainly,’ he recalls, ‘that I wanted to build a future with her, not just date casually.’ There was no pretense or dramatic flair, just truth. She smiled, her heart quietly catching up to what her spirit already knew.

The reaction left him filled with joy. ‘She smiled, and I knew then I had found my partner.’ In that simple exchange, words spoken in the courtyard of their church, began a love story not born of convenience but of conviction.

Marriage rooted in faith

Both Ochen and Jassa entered marriage not as flawless individuals, but as partners eager to learn and grow together. For Ochen, marriage represents a friendship strengthened by faith. She explains: ‘A marriage rooted in love, friendship, and faith is essential. It is a partnership where we communicate openly, grow together, and create a home filled with laughter and respect.’

Jassa shares this vision with tenderness, saying: ‘I envision a partnership where we support each other’s dreams and face challenges as a team. I want our marriage to be peaceful, purposeful, and inspirational.’

Their shared vision serves as the guiding principle of their union. At the heart of their home lies faith, not merely as a ritual, but as a steady rhythm; a quiet pulse that sustains their love, especially when life becomes chaotic.

Weathering life’s storms

Like any couple, they have faced their share of challenges. ‘Balancing our careers and spending quality time together has been one of the biggest obstacles,’ Ochen admits. As a monitoring and evaluation officer, her days often blend into reports, deadlines, and strategy meetings. Jassa on the other hand works in the hospitality industry, where he frequently has long shifts and irregular hours.

‘Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves that love requires time, not just promises,’ she says

.

He nods thoughtfully. ‘We have learnt to accept that challenges will arise, but we do not blame each other. We take a moment to pause, talk, and forgive quickly. It is not always easy, but it is worth it.’

They have come to understand that marriage is not a fairytale; it is faith in action. It is about choosing patience when tempers flare, showing kindness when silence would be easier, and selecting love even when the day feels long.

Teamwork

One of their greatest strengths as a couple is their transparency. She explains: ‘We are open about finances. We both contribute to household expenses based on our incomes and plan for significant financial goals together. We also maintain a joint account for family needs and separate accounts for individual projects.’

This approach has fostered not just trust, but also teamwork. ‘It is about honesty. You cannot claim to be united in love while being divided in your plans,’ he adds.

When asked what keeps their marriage thriving, he responds without hesitation: ‘Teamwork, patience, and faith.’

‘We treat our marriage like a living thing; it needs care, time, and attention to grow.’ She agrees, saying: ‘Commitment is not about just having butterflies in your stomach. It is about choosing each other every day, even when emotions fade and challenges arise. Do not just marry someone who makes you laugh; marry the one who inspires you to be better.’

This advice seems to resonate deeply with them, forged through prayer, laughter, and late-night conversations about the future.

Looking ahead

Henry and Linda Jassa’s love story is one deeply rooted in faith and purpose. As they look ahead, they hope to expand their family ‘by God’s grace’ and build a home that extends beyond themselves, a haven where others can experience warmth, wisdom, and the beauty of faith-built love.

To them, marriage is more than companionship; it is a ministry that shows love still works when two people walk together in purpose.

Their bond thrives not on perfection but on presence; shared laughter, prayer, forgiveness, and simple daily acts of care. From meeting in church to building a joyful home, their journey is a testament to enduring love, one grounded in faith, grace, and the quiet strength of commitment.

For close to two decades, Uganda has waited for the flow of first oil, which is expected to come with better schools, equipped hospitals, good roads, and infrastructure, and national development. In 2024, President Museveni said these would relieve the country of external debt, drive infrastructure and science development. Estimates place annual earnings at $2 billion (Shs6.9 trillion). While oil and gas are the loudest in Uganda’s mining sector, the country is hugely endowed.

In September, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development announced the discovery of high prospects for valuable minerals in the Karamoja Sub-region following a three-year geological mapping survey. Iron ore, copper, gold, and limestone, adding to the large pool of more than 50 minerals, including rare earth minerals, scattered across the country, including cobalt, tin, tungsten, and tantalum. These resources, experts say, hold the potential to transform the nation, driving domestic revenues, industrialisation, manufacturing, jobs, infrastructure, and trade.

According to the National Development Plan four, mineral development will contribute to the tenfold growth of the economy from $50 billion to $500 billion by 2040. This only works if the process and earnings are prudently handled. Yet an insidious threat in the form of illicit financial flows and money laundering in the sector, if uncurbed, could thwart these ambitions, the Auditor General,Mr Edward Akol, has warned. Mr Akol states in a November 2024 report that Uganda risks losing out on national development and transformation by failing to capitalise on its vast mineral resources.

If the government does not close the leakages in the form of illicit financial flows such as corruption, smuggling, tax evasion, and mispricing, they could wipe out earnings, undermine revenue mobilisation. Whereas extensive legal and regulatory frameworks have been put in place, loopholes remain, particularly due to the poor implementation of these provisions. ‘The potential of the mining sector’s contribution to Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) may be affected by illicit financial flows. To benefit from revenues and royalties realised from the extractive industry for socioeconomic transformation, there is a need to curb and completely deal with the illicit financial flows from this industry,’ Mr Akol writes in his report that assessed the effectiveness of the legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks in curbing illicit financial flows in the extractive industry.

Additionally, he warns that the lucrative sector could easily become a haven for money laundering that could taint the country’s reputation globally. A 2023 National Risk Assessment by the Financial Intelligence Authority identified the mining and extractive sector as a high-risk area for illicit financial flows. Illicit financial flows in the sector manifest in the form of illegal mineral exploitation, corruption, tax evasion, and illegal mineral trade, smuggling, among others.

‘The extractive industries sector is considered one of the most prone to illicit financial flows. To date, numerous national, regional, and international instruments have been adopted to target the extractive industries sector or combat illicit financial flows. However, the effectiveness of these instruments remains uncertain,’ the Financial Intelligence Authority states.

Illicit financial flows can be defined broadly as movements of money and value from one country to another that are illicitly earned, transferred, and or utilised. Capital being transferred is considered illicit when, first, it is transferred across countries illegally (money laundering, cash smuggling). Second, it results from an illegal act (drug trade, tax evasion). Lastly, it is used to finance an illegal activity (organised crime, terrorism). Uganda was only removed from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Grey list and the European Union’s list of high-risk countries in February 2024 after passing a raft of regulations to address money laundering in its jurisdiction. For nearly four years, the country had been grey-listed, meaning there were significant loopholes in its ability to prevent money laundering and terrorism financing.

This resulted in extra scrutiny. Ensuring it doesn’t slide back to this list means strict adherence and implementation of the laws, and constantly tackling new and emerging concerns, particularly in high-risk sectors like mining, real estate. The country will undergo its next assessment in 2028. Mr Samuel Were Wandera, the executive director of FIA, says the high-risk ratings results for the mining and extractive sector were due to weak controls, including the absence of a complete licensing and reporting framework, proximity to DR Congo, and the porous borders. ‘When you say it is high risk, we don’t mean that you have evidence that the laundering is high, but it is as if you don’t close the door of your house, he will be able to steal easily.

The controls around the sector in terms of safety framework were weak,’ he says. ‘If you have been in the media, most of the scams are basically related to gold. So many people are scammed in terms of gold trading. The investigations we are having in terms of that area are high.And the whole reason why you do a national risk assessment is basically to identify the threats, the vulnerabilities that exist. And then you come up with a remedial action plan, which then targets those sectors that have weaknesses. You flag them for them to address. When they come, most of the gaps which have been identified would be mitigated,’ Mr Wandera adds.

Loses

According to the Global Financial Integrity Policy Memo issued in July 2023, Uganda is estimated to lose more than Shs2 trillion annually to IFFs. In 2023, Mr Akol reported that the government lost revenue amounting to Shs68 billion from unlicensed gold exports. Additionally, officials could not verify the origin and purity of the gold. During the period under review government lost revenue of up Shs72.4 billion due to non-tax payment where 22 mineral categories were exported without any assessment. This was attributed to the non-existence of an enabling law to facilitate the collection of export levies for the listed minerals, which led to the loss of revenue to the government.

According to the World Bank, IFFs drain domestic resources and tax revenue needed to fund poverty-reducing programmes and infrastructure in developing countries, worsen inequalities, fuel instability, undermine governance, and damage public trust. Dr Arthur Bainomugisha, the executive director of the Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment (ACODE), says Illicit financial flows mean there is no transparency and no accountability, and there are people who will be marginalised. ‘You find that some of the companies that have been licensed to explore minerals, they just use that, they use the exploration license to even start mining. So they have been in exploration for years, yet actually they are mining quietly, disguised as exploration,” he says.

A study by Global Financial Integrity also pointed out that insufficient financial transparency and government accountability in Uganda, coupled with a regulatory system that can incentivise financial crimes, are helping to drive high levels of illicit financial inflows and outflows in the country. Dr Bainomugisha says closing these leakages will enable the Uganda Revenue Authority to increase its collections from the current 12 percent. ‘These financial flows certainly rob us of our ability to finance ourselves. Uganda is behind other regional countries in terms of revenue mobilisation. That is the money we lose. So, if we can cover that, we will be able to finance our budget to a large extent and be free from donor dependency,’ he says.

The auditors also red-flagged the continued exportation of unprocessed minerals despite a presidential directive banning the same. This led to a loss of tax revenue. URA attributed this to the absence of clear guidelines on what constitutes unprocessed minerals. By the time of the audit, the ministry had also not constituted the Uganda Mining Company. The ministry also had no model agreement to guide negotiations of any future agreements as mandated by law.

The lack of an approved format for the mining agreement exposed the government to potential loss of revenue. For now, however, officials from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development say the country has not lost any money to illicit financial flows.

‘Government is not losing revenue through illicit financial flows. This is because all mineral exports are closely monitored by both the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), PMPU, and MEMD to ensure that. All taxes are collected before minerals are exported,’ the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ms Irene Batebe, explains.

She, however, acknowledges challenges in limited capacity to enforce compliance with the requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), for dealers in precious metals, adding that while it has not recorded any case of illicit financial flows, ‘through the Police Mineral Protection Unit (PMPU), the MEMD has registered a number of cases of fraud within the gold trade.

These cases mostly involve the theft of money from intending gold buyers by groups that sell fake gold.’ Ms Batebe says the loopholes highlighted in the audit report have since been addressed. The Uganda National Mining Company was inaugurated, and it commenced operationalisation. A model agreement was approved and Uganda has also joined global standards bodies, including the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, where it was admitted in 2020.

In 2020, Uganda also joined the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), a global standards initiative for promoting open and accountable management of oil, gas, and mineral resources.

On export of unprocessed minerals, Ms Batebe says: ‘The ministry has sensitised URA on the policy for mineral value addition that requires that minerals should be fully processed in the country; any exceptions shall be defined through a statutory instrument. Therefore, there is no ambiguity on what constitutes processed minerals for export.’ Mr Humphrey Asiimwe, the chief executive officer at Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum, an association that brings together players in the oil and gas and mining sector, says transparency and appropriate investment will be key if Uganda is to maximise its mineral resource potential.

‘There is a lot more that needs to be done. Ugandans, by and large in this day are not very much aware of Uganda’s mineral potential. The government needs to invest a little more money. You have a whole country with eight to nine mining inspectors. We need way bridges to streamline the whole movement of ore and minerals within the country,’Mr Asiimwe says. He adds: ‘We also need to make sure that the Mining Act of 2022 has all the attendant regulation put in place. As we speak now, about two regulations are in place out of a possible seven regulations. So there is work that needs to be done to make sure that the mining sector is stabilised.’

WHAT EXPERTS SAY

Revenue gap. ‘These financial flows certainly rob us of our ability to finance ourselves. Uganda is behind other regional countries in terms of revenue mobilisation. That is the money we lose. So, if we can cover that, we will be able to finance our budget to a large extent and be free from donor dependency,’

Dr Arthur Bainomugisha, ED of Advocates Coalition for Development and Environment

Investment.

‘There is a lot more that needs to be done. Ugandans, by and large in this day are not very much aware of Uganda’s mineral potential. The government needs to invest a little more money. You have a whole country with eight to nine mining inspectors. We need weighbridges to streamline the movement of ore and minerals,’ Humphrey Asiimwe, CEO of Uganda Chamber of Mines and Petroleum.

Hello Paul, I have just bought my first car, and I would like to know what I can do to avoid high fuel consumption. Joseph

Hello Joseph, fuel is the primary energy source burnt by internal combustion engines to propel a vehicle, so it will inevitably be consumed. However, fuel consumption becomes a concern when an engine is less efficient. In other words, when the amount of work done per kilometre is not proportional to the amount of fuel used, it raises concerns. To avoid high fuel consumption in your car, there are a few essential steps to take:

Regular maintenance: Ensure your car’s engine is properly tuned and that its maintenance is up to date. Over the past three decades, car manufacturers have been developing newer and more efficient fuel delivery technologies. For example, modern petrol engines often use direct electronic fuel injection systems, while diesel engines may have common rail high-pressure fuel delivery systems. Both systems are sensitive to tuning and require up-to-date maintenance of filters, lubricants, and the types of fuel used.

Engine tuning: Tuning your engine involves keeping it operating in line with the manufacturer’s standards. Regular maintenance includes replacing serviceable ignition components such as spark plugs (for petrol engines) or glow plugs (for diesel engines), and changing filters (air, fuel, and oil) to maintain an optimal fuel-air ratio for efficient combustion.

Use recommended lubricants: Regularly renewing your engine lubricants with the correct viscosity grade (thickness) recommended by the manufacturer can reduce frictional damage and engine load, ultimately decreasing fuel consumption. It is also advisable to use lubricants and fuels that contain detergents (for cleaning) and performance-enhancing additives, as recommended by car manufacturers.

Improve driving habits: Adjust your driving style to avoid aggressive acceleration, delay shifting gears, and utilise features like overdrive. Additionally, avoid overloading your vehicle and ensure your tyres are correctly inflated, as all these factors can greatly influence fuel efficiency.

Essentially, the CX-30 is a taller Mazda 3 hatchback with some rugged styling flourishes and plastic cladding over its wheel arches. This hatch-based crossover concept is not new, but it continues to be highly popular among car buyers who want the practicality of a hatchback with the higher driving position of an SUV.

At 4.4 metres long and 1.5 metres tall, the CX-30 is slightly shorter and taller than the hatchback it is based on. This design makes it more manoeuvrable in urban settings, while still providing the elevated stance and road presence typical of crossovers. It competes in a densely packed segment alongside vehicles such as the Ford Puma, Hyundai Kona, Peugeot 2008, Renault Captur, Seat Arona, Skoda Kamiq, and Volkswagen T-Roc. The competition is fierce, but the CX-30’s combination of styling, driving dynamics, and interior quality helps it stand out.

Those interested in electric alternatives might consider the Kia EV3 or the Volvo EX30, though Mazda’s CX-30 still appeals to petrol enthusiasts seeking efficiency and a fun driving experience.

Engaging performance

The CX-30 shares its underpinnings with the Mazda 3 hatchback, which is no bad thing. It uses the same mild hybrid engines, including the clever ‘spark-controlled compression ignition’ petrol engine that borrows efficiency techniques from diesel engines, and the same smooth gearboxes. On the road, its hatchback roots are evident.

The car benefits from being lower than most rivals, which enhances handling and cornering stability.

The steering is precise, and the manual gearbox feels crisp and engaging, reminiscent of the MX-5 roadster. However, the ride can be firm on uneven road surfaces, which are common in Uganda, transmitting some harshness into the cabin.

Nevertheless, the CX-30 strikes an enjoyable balance between fun and comfort, making daily drives, city commutes, and country trips more rewarding.

The CX-30 comes with two petrol engine choices. The more conventional is the 2.5-litre e-Skyactiv G petrol, producing 138 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds with a manual gearbox and 10.3 seconds with the automatic.

Fuel efficiency ranges between 43 and 50 miles per gallon, though real-world figures in Ugandan city and highway driving suggest mid-to-high 30s and low 40s mpg.

For those seeking more performance, the e-Skyactiv X 2.0-litre engine delivers 183 horsepower with the unique spark-controlled compression ignition system. This allows it to operate with diesel-like efficiency at low revs while maintaining petrol-like responsiveness at higher revs. The CX-30 with this engine hits 0-100 km/h in 8.3 seconds, and fuel economy in mixed driving can reach the low 40s mpg.

All-wheel drive

All-wheel drive is offered with the e-Skyactiv X engine, but the CX-30 is not designed for serious off-roading. Front-wheel drive is more practical, lighter, and more affordable. The choice of transmission greatly influences driving enjoyment. Mazda’s manual gearboxes are widely regarded as some of the best in mainstream cars, and the CX-30 is no exception.

The automatic transmission, which is a traditional torque-converter type, is smooth but not particularly engaging. It adds around £1,500 (about Shs4.9m) to the overall cost and does not offer the precision found in modern dual-clutch alternatives. For those who enjoy driving, the manual transmission is clearly the better option.

Premium interior

Inside, the CX-30 mirrors the Mazda 3’s cabin. The dashboard is minimalist, with clear and tactile climate controls separated from the infotainment screen. While the screen can be operated as a touchscreen when stationary, the main method of interaction while driving is via a central clickwheel, which reduces distraction. The system now comes with Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant as standard, which is handy for simple tasks but less effective for complex commands.

The cabin feels sophisticated and well-built, with soft-touch materials, grown-up switchgear, and clear graphics. Compared to competitors, the interior exudes a premium feel and can be considered more stylish than some Volkswagen or Audi equivalents, even if the badge does not carry the same prestige.

Front passengers enjoy excellent comfort and adjustability, though taller drivers may wish the seat bases were slightly longer to support the thighs better. The driving position is highly adjustable, allowing the steering wheel to be moved almost entirely out of the dashboard for a perfect fit. Rear passengers, however, may find space limited.

The Mazda 3 hatchback is already compact, and the CX-30’s shorter length means legroom is tight. Taller adults may find knees pressing against seatbacks on longer journeys, although under-seat foot space provides some relief.

The boot offers 430 litres of space, sufficient for everyday errands, and folds down to 1,406 litres, though it lacks clever storage features such as tie-downs, cubbies, or split-level floors.

Pricing

In Uganda, the Mazda CX-30 is priced from Shs86m (£25,865) for the base Prime-Line model to Shs104.9m (£31,565) for the top-end Takumi with the base engine. The more powerful e-Skyactiv X engine starts at Shs97.5m (£29,315) and rises to Shs125.6m (£37,765) for the AWD Takumi automatic.

The CX-30 offers a variety of options for different budgets, ensuring that drivers in Uganda can select a model that suits their needs. For those wanting a manual gearbox, two-wheel drive, and the more clever e-Skyactiv X engine, the Homura trim priced around Shs101m (£30,415) represents the best combination of economy, equipment, and driving enjoyment.

Verdict

For Ugandan drivers, the CX-30 is a blend of performance, practicality, and premium feel. While the Mazda 3 hatchback remains more practical and economical, the CX-30’s elevated ride height, modern interior, and crossover appeal make it a strong choice for those who want style, and a fun driving experience in one package. With prices starting from Shs86m, the CX-30 is accessible to a range of buyers and continues Mazda’s reputation for delivering cars that are a pleasure to drive.

The financial sector is becoming increasingly diversified with non-bank financial institutions expanding their role in mobilising savings and extending credit, gradually reducing the dominance of commercial banks.

The 2024 Bank of Uganda Statistical Abstract report, released this month, indicates that whereas commercial banks still dominate, their share of credit and savings has been declining.

The report indicates that commercial banks, as of December 2024, controlled the largest portion of the financial system, accounting for about 78 percent of total financial sector assets.

However, this was a three-percentage-point decline from 2022, reflecting the steady rise of non-bank financial institutions such as microfinance institutions, credit institutions, Saccos, and pension funds.

Total banking sector assets stood at Shs60.8 trillion, from Shs54.4 trillion in 2023, while total deposits grew to Shs42.5 trillion, up from Shs38.2 trillion the previous year.

Despite the growth, the pace of asset expansion among non-bank institutions has been higher, pointing to a gradual rebalancing in the financial landscape.

Saccos and microfinance institutions are now a major source of credit for small and medium enterprises and rural households.

Collectively, they held assets worth Shs5.4 trillion in 2024, up from Shs4.1 trillion in 2023, representing a 31 percent annual increase, the fastest growth rate across the financial sector.

Their loan portfolios rose to Shs3.1 trillion, while customer deposits increased to Shs2.2 trillion, as more Ugandans turned to community-based savings groups and microfinance institutions for accessible lending and saving options.

On the other hand, credit institutions and microfinance deposit-taking institutions also registered steady growth, with combined assets rising to Shs4.8 trillion in 2024 from Shs4.3 trillion in 2023.

Deposits rose by 10 percent to Shs3.2 trillion, while lending to the private sector reached Shs2.6 trillion, a clear indicator that smaller institutions are capturing a larger portion of the business lending market, especially among small traders and farmers.

Their contribution to total sector credit now stands at approximately 9 percent, compared to 6 percent five years ago, highlighting their rising significance in Uganda’s credit market.

Impact of insurance and pension funds

Outside traditional banking and microfinance, insurance companies and pension funds have continued to strengthen their asset base.

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) remains the single largest non-bank financial institution, with assets surpassing Shs26 trillion as of June 2025.

Private pension schemes, meanwhile, collectively managed Shs3.5 trillion, marking an annual growth of about 12 percent, while the insurance industry’s total assets reached Shs7.1 trillion, up from Shs6.4 trillion in 2023.

Combined, pension and insurance funds now account for over 23 percent of Uganda’s total financial assets, underscoring their increasing importance in long-term savings and investment.

Sector diversification

Overall, Uganda’s total financial system assets stood at Shs101.2 trillion as of December 2024, up from Shs91.5 trillion, of which non-bank financial institutions accounted for 22 percent, up from 18 percent in 2021.

The report highlights that this diversification is creating a broader, more inclusive financial ecosystem, capable of supporting both formal and informal economic activity.

However, the rapid growth of non-banking financial institutions also calls for stronger regulatory oversight, particularly for Saccos and microfinance institutions, to safeguard depositor funds and ensure prudent lending.

Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority and the Insurance Regulatory Authority have been tasked with expanding supervision frameworks to match the sector’s growth, while the Bank of Uganda continues to harmonise standards across financial intermediaries.

The details above indicate that Uganda’s financial system is steadily transitioning from a bank-dominated structure to a multi-tiered financial ecosystem, with non-bank financial institutions serving millions of low- and middle-income Ugandans.

The diversification has also competition, thereby building a more inclusive, competitive, and resilient financial sector.

However, sustaining this growth, Bank of Uganda indicates, will depend on continued regulatory reforms, improved governance, and the digital transformation of smaller financial institutions.

70 % of bank transactions now happening outside branches

Meanwhile, agent banking is fast overtaking traditional banking halls as the preferred channel for financial transactions, according to the Bank of Uganda Integrated Annual Report 2025.

The report, which highlights the performance of different sectors of the financial markets, shows that the value of transactions conducted through Agent Banking rose by 76.1 percent in the year to June, rising from Shs16.7 trillion in June 2024 to Shs29.4 trillion.

Transactions increased by 50.5 percent, from 8.3 million to 12.5 million, while the average transaction value grew from Shs2m to Shs2.35m.

The surge has positioned agent banking as the fastest-growing access channel in the formal financial system, handling nearly half the value processed through banking halls.

Agent Banking is a shared network connecting 24 financial institutions, 23 commercial banks, and one microfinance deposit-taking institution.

The network’s expansion has been remarkable, with the number of registered agents rising by 49.1 percent, from 15,288 in June 2024 to 22,793.

While agent banking transactions soared by more than three-quarters in value, branch-based transactions grew by less than 10 percent over the same period. The contrast underscores how quickly customer behaviour is shifting away from physical banking halls to agent-assisted and digital services.

The Shs29.4 trillion processed through agents represents close to half the total transaction value handled by banking halls, a striking achievement considering the channel is less than a decade old.

Banks have increasingly scaled down costly brick-and-mortar expansion in favour of shared agent networks, which provide services closer to customers, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas.

Agent banking’s rise reflects a wider trend across the sector, with customers moving toward low-cost, technology-enabled channels for cash deposits, withdrawals, bill payments, and account transfers.

The average transaction value of Shs2.35m shows that agents are no longer serving only low-income clients but are now facilitating higher-value transactions for traders, SMEs, and salaried workers.

By contrast, banking halls are gradually evolving into service centres for advisory, business banking, and corporate transactions rather than day-to-day retail operations.

Industry data shows that more than 70 percent of all cash-based customer transactions in 2025 occurred outside traditional branches, either through agents, mobile platforms, or ATMs.