Category: Daily Monitor

For decades, Uganda has been transforming its juvenile justice system from a focus on punishment to one that prioritises protection, rehabilitation, and dignity. This journey began in the 1950s with the establishment of Naguru Remand Home, and was strengthened by global frameworks such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1990) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (1991).

These shaped national reforms such as the 1995 Constitution, which enshrines children’s rights and protections. Uganda’s justice system has steadily evolved to prioritise the best interests of the child. The Justice for Children (J4C) initiative, supported by Unicef, EU, and JLOS, promotes child-friendly procedures that safeguard children’s rights and dignity.

Laws and practices now emphasise diversion, legal representation, timely hearings, and supportive services, ensuring children in conflict with the law are treated fairly and given opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration.

The introduction of the 2016 Diversion Guidelines by the Uganda Police Force has been a game-changer, allowing petty offences to be resolved at the police or community level rather than through the formal court system.

Today, 74 percent of eligible cases are diverted, giving children the chance to remain in their communities, continue school, and access counselling instead of facing detention. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has also pioneered reforms that make justice accessible and sensitive to children’s needs.

From the use of anatomical dolls to help survivors of sexual abuse share their stories to informal courtroom settings where wigs and gowns are set aside, the justice process is becoming more humane.

Across the country, child-friendly spaces have been established in ODPP offices and courts in Kampala, Masaka, Soroti, Mbale, and Fort Portal. These softly lit rooms with dolls, drawings, and comfortable chairs reduce trauma and help children express themselves freely.

Gender desks ensure the child’s safety and privacy, and that female officers accompany girls to receive medical care, helping them feel safe, heard, and believed. Courts have also begun gazetting specific days for child-related cases, reducing delays and stress while ensuring that trained probation officers and social workers are present.

Children receive psychosocial support, vocational training, and life skills at remand homes, leaving with DIT certificates in trades such as tailoring and agriculture. Some even return as tutors to inspire others. This progress is driven by collaboration among the Governance and Security Secretariat, Ministry of Gender, Unicef, the EU, and other justice actors.

Legal aid officers also play a vital role, offering free legal representation and counselling to children who would otherwise face the system alone. Yet challenges remain.

Many districts still lack trained probation officers, remand homes face overcrowding and outdated infrastructure, and verifying children’s ages continues to be difficult-sometimes leading to minors being detained with adults. Limited funding and transport also hinder follow-up and reintegration efforts.

Still, Uganda’s vision remains clear: a justice system that protects rather than punishes. Fred Ngabirano from the Ministry of Gender reminds aserts that justice for children isn’t just about courts; it’s about every actor, from the village LC1 to the High Court, understanding their role and fulfilling it.

The transformation of Uganda’s juvenile justice system shows what is possible when compassion, collaboration, and commitment come together. To sustain this progress, communities, leaders, and policymakers must continue to speak against corporal punishment, support diversion, and invest in child-friendly spaces.

Every child deserves a chance to heal, learn, and thrive, not to be defined by their worst mistake.

Namuwongo Blazers are struggling to turn good starts to games into victories and now find themselves 2-0 down in the National Basketball League finals.

This follows Sunday night’s 90-83 loss to City Oilers at the Lugogo Indoor Stadium, which left the Blazers with work to do ahead of Tuesday’s Game Three.

The defending champions have heavily relied on their mid-season imports Chad Bowie and Kurt Wegscheider in the two games to pause tough questions for the challengers.

Bowie took charge in Game One, recording 29 points to deliver the victory. And it was Wegscheider who carried the gun in Game Two, shooting 10-for-20 from two-point range and two-for-four from downtown to silence the Lugogo crowd.

He also went 11-for-15 from the free throw line enroute to a game-high 37 points.

The 24-year-old was unplayable all game and kept the 10-time champions in the contest earlier on when the Blazers were firing from all corners.

Rogers Dauna’s lay up was counted after deliberations by the referees and that gave Oilers a 24-23 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Fayed Baale got hot late in the second frame, knocking down three triples as Oilers led stretched their advantage to four points (43-39) going into the halftime break.

Redemption time

Innocent Ochera started Game One on Friday but struggled to impress, scoring three points in 12 minutes.

The guard, however, sparked life into Game Two with his big plays in the third quarter giving the Blazers control of proceedings.

Ochera sank four of his eight three-point attempts and five of seven from inside the paint to record 23 points on the night.

His hand, however, got cold down the stretch in the fourth frame and the Blazers failed to get another hot hand to finish the game.

Joel Lukoji, who led the charge for the Blazers in Game One, went cold on Sunday, managing just five points.

Anthony Chukwurah was dominant in the paint, scoring 17 points and picking 14 rebounds but when the stakes were high in the fourth quarter, he had already accumulated five fouls and on the bench.

Jimmy Enabu recorded 11 points, eight rebounds and five assists but also failed to impact the game in the final moments.

Big task

On paper, Oilers are two wins away from clinching an 11th straight championship. But the Blazers still have the opportunity to make things right.

Victory on Tuesday night would swing the momentum ahead of Friday’s Game Four.

With Bowie having a somewhat quiet night (16 points, five rebounds and six assists) on Sunday, Wegscheider took charge. Veteran Ben Komakech hit three big threes to go home with nine points and five rebounds.

Stephen Nyeko’s charges have work to do in the series and how they close games will be important if they are to have a chance against Oilers.

JKL back in it

JKL Lady Dolphins responded to their Game One defeat by dominating Game Two to level series. The four-time champions relied on MVP Hope Akello and Brenda Ekone to win 52-38.

Akello recorded a double-double of 16 points and 21 rebounds while Ekone had 14 points. The Lady Jaguars struggled for offense on the night and had no player scoring in double figures.

National Basketball League Finals

Game Two results

Women: JT L. Jaguars 38-52 JKL (1-1)

Men: City Oilers 90-83 Nam Blazers (2-0)

Seven National Resistance Movement (NRM) party candidates across the country have been given a bye to the 12th Parliament without any contest in their respective constituencies. Mr Julius Mucunguzi, the spokesperson of the Electoral Commission (EC), said: ‘To be unopposed is provided for in the law. So far, I don’t have an updated list of the MPs who were newly nominated unopposed, but they will be declared next year as MPs.’

Earlier, Mr Mucunguzi had said: ‘Section 31 of the Parliamentary Elections Act states that if a candidate is unopposed by the time of the close of nomination, the returning officer declares them the duly elected MP of that electoral area, effective the polling date, and this case is January 15, 2026,’ he said. The EC conducted the nomination of parliamentary candidates across the country on Wednesday and Thursday last week. But some of the circumstances under which the seven legislators were declared unopposed have attracted criticisms of use of strong-arm tactics to secure the seats.

Speakers untouchable

Among those who sailed through unopposed were Speaker of Parliament Anita Annet Among (Bukedea District Woman MP), Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa (Ruhinda North County), Moses Magogo (Budiope East), Lillian Paparu Obiale (Arua District Woman MP), Emmanuel Banya (Koboko County), Jeniva Arinaitwe Nalongo (Rubirizi District Woman MP), and Ruth Mushabe Rujoki (Kiruhura District Woman MP). The top leadership of Parliament, Speaker Anita Among and her deputy Thomas Tayebwa, were among the first to be declared unopposed. Both were announced to have secured their parliamentary seats without challenge for the second consecutive term.

Ms Among, who has represented Bukedea District since 2016, has maintained a firm hold in her home district, where no other aspirant was reported to have returned nomination papers. Similarly, Mr Tayebwa, the Ruhinda North County MP, remained unchallenged, continuing his unbroken streak in Mitooma District politics.

In Budiope East County, Mr Moses Magogo, who is also the president of Fufa and husband of the Speaker of Parliament, was declared unopposed for the second term after no other candidate filed nomination papers by the deadline. Mr Magogo was first elected Fufa president in 2013, succeeding Mr Lawrence Mulindwa, and was re-elected in July 2025 for a fourth unopposed term, which will run until 2029. The Returning Officer said the nomination process was peaceful and concluded without any contest, ensuring Mr Magogo’s smooth path to the 12th Parliament.

Arua and Koboko follow suit

In Arua District, Lillian Paparu Obiale also retained her seat unopposed. Born in 1978, Ms Paparu first joined elective politics in 2021 and, just like in the previous election, faced no challenger.

The District Returning Officer, Ms Marion Janis Audo, confirmed that no other candidate turned up for nomination, clearing Paparu to represent Arua for another term. In neighbouring Koboko District, Emmanuel Banya, a newcomer to elective politics, was also declared unopposed. Mr Raymond Kasirale, the Koboko District Returning Officer, said no one appeared for nomination against Mr Banya by 5pm, prompting his declaration unchallenged.

In Rubirizi District, Ms Jeniva Arinaitwe Nalongo emerged as the sole nominee for the District Woman MP seat. According to the Returning Officer, Mr Nicolas Twinomujuni, three people initially picked up nomination papers, but only Ms Arinaitwe submitted hers before the deadline. ‘Ms Arinaitwe is the only one who returned the papers for nomination, and we duly nominated her on Wednesday. By close of business, no other candidate had shown up, so she is unopposed,’ Mr Twinomujuni said. Ms Arinaitwe’s victory follows her earlier win in the NRM primaries, where she defeated former Woman MP Grace Kesande Bataringaya and Judith Amanya, who had contested twice before.

Ms Ruth Mushabe Rujoki, 44, was also declared unopposed. Daughter of the late Canon John Rujoki and sister of John Musinguzi Rujoki, the Commissioner General of the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), Ms Mushabe aims to build on her father’s legacy of service. She defeated incumbent Jovanice Rwenduru in the NRM primaries, and Rwenduru later withdrew from the race. District Returning Officer Alex Komuhangi said the nomination exercise ended peacefully. ‘Nomination exercise in Kiruhura District has been completed without any challenge. We nominated Ruth Mushabe Rujoki as the NRM candidate and duly declared her unopposed,’ Ms Komuhangi said. Ms Mushabe Rujoki had earlier defeated incumbent Rwenduru in the NRM primaries. Ms Rwenduru, who was expected to run as an Independent, later withdrew from the race on October 7 to honour the NRM party regulations.

On October 31, St Mary’s Cathedral, Rubaga, will be celebrating 100 years since its consecration.

The building of this church started way back in 1914, and its consecration took place 11 years later in 1925. The 100-year celebration count starts from 1925 to 2025. This year’s celebrations will be held under the theme, ‘The Temple of God is Sacred. You are that Temple’.

This year, 2025, is a jubilee year for the archdiocese. It is the year of the Centenary Anniversary of the consecration of the cathedral (1925-2025). The date of the consecration, therefore, has coincided with the centenary birth anniversary on October 31, 1925.

In an interview with this publication, Fr Richard Nyombi, the coordinator of the Society of Missionaries of Africa in Uganda under Kampala Archdiocese, said the cathedral has succeeded other cathedrals. ‘And in the series of the cathedrals, it is the tenth cathedral with the first cathedral being built in 1885,’ Fr Nyombi said.

Making of a cathedral

At that time, the whole of Uganda was one diocese, going up to Kisumu in Kenya, and in Tanganyika, stretching to Mwanza. According to Fr Nyombi, the first church was built by the White Fathers in Nabulagala and the second in Nalukolongo, both suburbs of Kampala in Rubaga Division. In Nalukolongo, they stayed for three years, from 1885 to October 1888, when the war between the Christians (Protestants and Catholics) and the Muslims broke out, which was eventually won by the Muslims and the Missionaries were expelled. When they left the Mission in Nalukolongo, it was destroyed, and they were given land at Nabunnya, near the present-day Pope Paul II Memorial Hotel.

The third church was built here in 1890, which they used between 1890 and 1891. At Nabunnya, Father Lourdel (Mapeera) died in 1890. Fr Nyombi describes Nabunnya as a grass-thatched cathedral with walls built using mud and reeds, which did not last long. By then, Kabaka Mutesa I had already died, and the White Fathers asked Kabaka Mwanga for land on Rubaga Hill.

Kabaka Mutesa I, had also moved away from Rubaga Hill to Kasubi-Nabulagala, where he died. Kabaka Mwanga gave them the land at the end of 1890, and in 1891, they started building the third cathedral at Rubaga. In 1891, they moved in, relocating from Nabunya.

The third cathedral was also built out of mud and reeds and thatched with grass. Other churches followed up to the ninth church, but all were not long-lasting, and they were weakened either by rain, fire, or earthquake, among others. In 1901, a stronger church was built, which was later replaced by the current one.

Rubaga is built

The construction of Rubaga cathedral started in 1914. It was built using bricks. Following the killing of the Uganda Martyrs in 1885, 1886, and 1887, the first bishop, Henry Streicher, proposed in 1901 to build a beautiful cathedral that would portray Uganda as the land of the martyrs, like cathedrals in Europe.

According to Fr Nyombi, Bishop Streicher called his curia , which included the parish priests, among others, who discussed the church project he wanted to be built. Among those in the meeting was the then leader of the laity, Stanislaus Mugwanya and all agreed to go ahead with the project, which would give glory to God.

A committee was put in place, and Bishop John Forbes, who was to succeed Bishop Streicher, was the chief fundraiser. Ugandans were trained on how to make bricks that were used to build the church, and most of the materials were produced locally in the areas of Wakaliga, Kisubi and Nalukolongo.

To achieve that, the White Fathers started St Joseph Technical School in Kisubi in 1911 to train those who were going to build the cathedral. A pilot church was first built in Kisubi, and within two years, the church was finished. In 1914, the building of the bigger present-day cathedral in Rubaga started.

Built amid challenges

The construction works faced challenges following the outbreak of the First World War in 1914 as the fundraising could not go on in Europe and other places, Works were halted until 1917 when the construction resumed until 1925.

The millions of bricks and other materials to the site were carried by hand, lifted on the head, and with carts since these were the available means of transport at that time. According to Fr Nyombi, ‘One of the interesting stories is that when Mr Stanislas Mugwanya, who was a regent of the Kabaka Daudi Chwa, passed by the kiln where they were making the bricks, he would carry two or three on his head.’

In 1925, the cathedral was ready, and on October 31, 1925, it was consecrated by Bishop Streicher. In attendance were Kabaka Daudi Chwa and seminarians from Katigondo and Bukalasa. Fr Nyombi says the church is a symbol of the living community, the believers.

It was merry-making at St Mary’s Cathedral, Rubaga, as Christians marked 100 years of the church’s existence. It was established in 1925.

In a joyous mass at a function presided over by President Museveni and attended by hundreds, church and the surroundings were adorned with beautiful decorations of white, yellow and blue, while beautiful flowers created a stunning visual tapestry that welcomed parishioners and visitors alike.

As the clock struck 9am, thousands of Christians began to gather, dressed in their finest attire. Men donned crisp suits and traditional wear while women radiated elegance in their colourful dresses. Bursting with energy, children clutched their parents’ hands and their faces lit up with curiosity and joy.

Outside the cathedral, those who missed entering the church due to the large numbers observed the mass on the screens. Families and friends exchanged warm greetings, their laughter mingling with the soft sound of hymns that floated through the open doors. Inside the cathedral, the joyous sounds of the choir echoed throughout the sanctuary, harmonising beautifully with the rhythmic beating of drums, setting the tone for a day of celebration.

The voices rose in unison, singing hymns of praise that resonated with the walls of the historic cathedral. President Museveni, who addressed the congregants, urged Christians to work hard and drive both the spiritual and economic transformation to improve the Christian livelihoods. He called on the priests to encourage Christians to engage in developmental projects like agriculture.

‘You Christians, priests, you must be hard-working; you must work. Even St Paul in the Bible said those who don’t work should not eat. Influence people by what you do, not what you say. People will learn from you,’ Mr Museveni stated.

He commended the Church for preaching his anti-poverty campaign. He particularly cited Kabale Diocese and its Bishop Callist Rubaramira and Rev Can Nathan Ahimbisibwe, the bishop of the newly-created South Ankole Diocese of the Church of Uganda, among other religious leaders who have spearheaded this campaign. He wondered why poverty still existed amongst the faithful yet the Christians and Muslims dominate Uganda’s population.

‘Besides doing what the Lord told you – to love the Lord with all your heart and love neighbours as you love yourself – I emphasise that you work to support the Church, State and families. I am not impressed by a Christian living in poverty, yet they can get out of it,’ the President said.

The mass was also attended Prime Minister Robinah Nabanjja, ministers, legislators and local government officials. The Buganda government was represented by Katikkiro (prime minister) Charles Peter Mayiga and Prince David Wasajja, among other officials Leaders of Catholics, Anglicans and Muslims were among the thousands who attended the historical mass, among other dignitaries.

Key issues

The Church condemned land grabbing, and called for peaceful elections. In his message to Christians before leading the mass, Kampala Diocese Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere recounted the significance of Rubaga Cathedral since its consecration in 1925, pointing out that it transformed millions of believers spiritually and socially. He reaffirmed that the Church will continue thriving as it navigates the modern era. ‘We reflect on the deeper message of faith and hope the cathedral symbolises.

It has stood through times of joy and trial, colonial times and independence, social changes, and now the globalised and digital age. May it continue to inspire holiness, unity, and love for God and country,’ Archbishop Ssemogerere prayed. He, however, expressed fear about the increasing cases of grabbing of Church land, stating that it hinders the Church’s projects.

‘The Church is in an intense land-grabbing crisis; the land that was given to us by the government, the Buganda Kingdom, and other generous people is continuously being taken by people who don’t fear to touch the wealth of God,’ Archbishop Ssemogerere said. He further stated: ‘Land grabbing does not only affect the church land but also other institutions and private individuals.

Mr Museveni, we encourage you and your government to continue doing well for the common goal of all Ugandans without discrimination.’ He called for peace, harmony and justice as Uganda heads to the 2026 General Elections, appealing Ugandans to peacefully vote for the leaders of their choice.

Archbishop Ssemogerere urged political, religious, and community leaders to provide proper guidance on maintaining peace and unity to avoid conflicts, for Uganda to continue shining as the ‘Pearl of Africa’.

Kabaka on constitutional reforms

In his message, delivered by Buganda’s Prime Minister Mayiga, Kabaka of Buganda Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II acknowledged the Church’s influence in the spiritual and social transformation of Ugandans. He called for continued preaching against injustices and human rights violations. ‘We call upon the Church to continue with advocacy against human rights violation, discrimination based on tribe, religion and political affiliations,’ Kabaka Mutebi said.

He also advised the youth not to be misled by those in power and involve themselves in corruption, expressing fear that Uganda’s political future is being destroyed due to the quality of leaders we have, who only priorities their selfish interest at the expense of suffering Ugandans. ‘This is the right time to combine our voices to ask the leaders to engage in dialogue on injustices, fair distribution of Uganda resources, and constitutional review for a better future,’ Kabaka Mutebi added.

A total of 64 candidates are set to contest for 11 parliamentary seats across the Greater Luweero area, setting the stage for intense political competition in the 2026 General Election.

The two-day nomination exercise, which ended last Thursday, saw Luweero District registering the highest number of aspirants with 29 candidates vying for four parliamentary seats. The nominations signal intensified political activity across the Greater Luweero region, with the National Unity Platform (NUP) and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) fielding candidates in most constituencies.

They are joined by several candidates on the independent ticket and from other political parties, including the Democratic Party (DP), Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), People’s Front for Freedom and Democracy (PFF), and the Democratic Forum (DF). However, the proliferation of independent candidates-many of whom remain aligned to their former political parties-threatens to fragment the electoral landscape and significantly impact the prospects of official party flagbearers.

This is particularly concerning the NRM, which is battling to reclaim parliamentary seats in Luweero District, widely regarded as the party’s political Mecca (cradle land) and historical stronghold. Of the 29 candidates nominated in Luweero District, 13 are running as independents, with six of them reported to be NRM-leaning after losing in the July party primaries. In Katikamu South Constituency, the NRM-leaning candidates who have been nominated as independents include Patricia Magara, Alfred Muwanga, Mugisha Marvin, and Zena Ali Merycillar. In Katikamu North Constituency, former Luweero District chairperson and ex-Luweero NRM chairperson Ronald Ndawula has rejoined the race as an independent candidate after losing in the party primaries.

Mr Ndawula alleges he was robbed of victory during the primary elections. His candidacy is expected to split the NRM vote and potentially undermine the chances of the party’s official flagbearer, Mr Gaddafi Nassur, winning. A similar scenario is unfolding in Bamunanika Constituency, where Ms Elizabeth Anyine Salabwa has been nominated to contest as an independent candidate, citing unfair treatment during the party primaries. Her decision poses a significant threat to the NRM flagbearer, Mr Robert Kiyini, whose prospects of securing victory could be jeopardised by the divided party vote.

Despite various efforts and multiple reconciliation meetings aimed at persuading defeated aspirants to support official flagbearers, most have refused to step down. Apart from Ms Cissy Mulondo, who was prevailed upon by President Museveni to withdraw from the Luweero Woman MP race, all other dissatisfied candidates who lost in the NRM primaries have returned to contest as independents.

NRM responds

The surge of independent candidates with NRM affiliation is a critical concern for the ruling party as it seeks to reclaim parliamentary seats in the Greater Luweero area. Ms Rose Namayanja, the NRM deputy secretary general, attributes the party’s loss of all four MP positions to NUP in the 2021 General Election to this same phenomenon. ‘During the last elections, when you combine the votes of all NRM members, including those who ran as independent candidates, they were more than what the NUP candidates who won the seat got.

This means if we had fielded one candidate in each of the constituencies, the NRM would have won,’ Ms Namayanja explained. The trend extends beyond Luweero, with Nakasongola District registering 13 independents out of 19 candidates, 11 of whom are identified as NRM-leaning. In Nakaseke District, four of the 16 candidates are running as independents, with one being NRM-leaning after losing in the party primaries. Nevertheless, party leaders said they are going to embark on an intensive grassroots mobilisation campaign in the next two months to secure victory for all party flagbearers.

They plan to undertake door-to-door outreach and ward-level meetings to consolidate support and rally voters behind the party’s candidates in what has become a fight to reclaim its former stronghold. ‘We aim to reach everyone in less than two months, explaining to the people the reasons why they should vote for the NRM,’ Ms Namayanja said. According to the Electoral Commission, official campaigns for MP races will run from November 10 to January 13, 2026. Polling is scheduled for January 15, 2026.

Experts and leaders in Masindi District have expressed concern alcohol abuse. They said many residents have taken to irresponsible drinking of locally made alcohol, leading to financial instability, domestic violence and divorce.

Mr Amos Tusiime, coordinator at the Bunyoro Youth Drugs Control Forum, said there is a strong connection between alcohol abuse and intimate partner violence. ‘Most cases of domestic quarrels and physical abuse that we handle involve men who have been drinking local brew. These drinks may seem harmless, but they often trigger aggressive behaviour, putting women and children at risk,’ Mr Tusiime said.

Mr James Mukisa, the Rwensa LC1 chairperson, said many perpetrators of domestic violence have a history of alcohol abuse. The experts added that the damage caused by alcohol abuse extends beyond physical violence to economic strain on already vulnerable households. Ms Hellen Karamagi, the Masindi District probation officer, said the proliferation of cheap alcoholic drinks has worsened poverty and domestic instability.

‘Family breadwinners divert limited resources to purchase alcohol, neglecting essential needs like food, school fees, and healthcare. This financial strain increases tension at home and, in many cases, leads to family breakdowns,’ Ms Karamagi said.

Ms Nabirye, a 35-year-old mother of four in Masindi Town, said she was forced to end her marriage after enduring years of violence linked to her husband’s abuse of alcohol. She added that because he used to drink daily, they reached an extent where they lacked basic needs at home, and the children had dropped out of school.

‘My husband drinks every evening. He would come home angry and beat me without any explanation. After several assaults, I decided to leave him to protect myself and my children,’ she said.

Mr John Kato, 42, a resident, said: ‘I never used to drink, but after losing my job, I started drinking to forget my problems. Soon, I was arguing with my wife almost every day. One day we fought, and she left home. Now I live alone.’

According to the Uganda Alcohol Report 2022, Masindi recorded a high rate of male drinkers at 71.34 percent, with spirits accounting for 40.78 percent of all alcohol consumed. Nearly half of the alcohol drinkers surveyed exhibited risky drinking habits, though the rate in Masindi (38.31 percent) was lower than that of Jinja District (58.97 percent).

A 2024 study by the Addictive Society of Bunyoro on adolescent drinking habits in Masindi found minimal alcohol use among young people, with peer pressure identified as a potential influence, though no significant link was found between social support and alcohol consumption.

In Masindi, the trend mirrors the national picture. Locally made alcohol is popular because it is cheap, accessible, and culturally accepted, but the social costs are devastating. According to the 2024 police report for the Albertine Region, which includes Masindi, authorities recorded 547 cases of domestic violence, up from 200 cases the previous year.

Of these, 525 resulted in convictions, five in acquittals, 135 were dismissed, and 837 cases remain pending in court. Dr Rose Nakato, a clinician at Katasenywa Health Centre IV, warned that many locally distilled spirits contain toxic substances such as methanol, which can cause severe organ damage or even death.

‘These brews are cheap, yes, but they are not safe. We treat patients with liver disease, stomach ulcers, and even neurological problems directly linked to drinking home-made alcohol,’ Dr Nakato said. Mr Musa Tusiime, a community mobilizer, emphasised the need for a multi-sectoral response.

‘We need a multi-pronged approach. Education about the dangers of alcohol, counselling for families, and strict enforcement of existing laws can help reduce these cases,’ Mr Tusiime said.

Deputy Presidential Press Secretary Faruk Kirunda has directed Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) and Resident City Commissioners (RCCs) across the Busoga sub-region to immediately recover National Identification cards (IDs) confiscated by illegal moneylenders, warning that the practice is denying citizens access to key government empowerment programmes.

Speaking during an engagement in Iganga on Friday, Mr Kirunda said many residents, particularly women, have been locked out of opportunities such as the Generating Growth Opportunities and Productivity for Women Enterprises (GROW) project because their IDs are being held as collateral for small loans.

‘I am ordering RDCs and RCCs in this region to track and recover all IDs held as collateral for loans, a practice that has left many residents vulnerable and unable to access essential government services meant to benefit them economically,’ Mr Kirunda said.

The directive comes as Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, where a valid National ID is required to vote.

Mr Kirunda said the government has affordable and accessible funding to support citizens, especially women engaged in small and medium enterprises. He urged residents to avoid moneylenders and instead seek financial services from licensed institutions.

‘Work closely with local leaders, security agencies and the police to identify and recover all withheld IDs,’ he said, adding: ‘Those found guilty of detaining them will face stern legal action.’

According to local officials, more than 500 participants in the Busoga sub-region have applied for GROW loans, but some women have failed to qualify due to lack of land titles or confiscated IDs.

The GROW project, funded by the World Bank, supports women entrepreneurs in trade (42%), agriculture (22%), construction (9%), and professional services (8%). By 2024, Shs73.3 billion had been disbursed countrywide, reaching 2,958 women borrowers across 113 districts and eight cities, with loan amounts ranging from Shs4 million to Shs200 million at interest rates below 10 percent.

Dr Ruth Aisha Kasolo, the GROW Project Coordinator, said the programme targets a specific group of enterprising women and aims to help them sustain and expand their businesses.

‘We want women to benefit from this money to support themselves, educate their children and develop their enterprises,’ Dr Kasolo said.

Busoga has performed well under the project, with Shs3.47 billion disbursed cumulatively: Kamuli District received Shs1.2 billion (67 beneficiaries), Jinja got Shs1.23 billion (75 beneficiaries), and Iganga received Shs666 million (44 beneficiaries). Dr Kasolo said the sub-region is expected to benefit from an additional Shs16 billion in the second phase, with reduced paperwork.

Representing the Minister for Presidency, Col (Rtd) Dhamuzungu Oguli, the patron of RDCs and RCCs in Eastern Uganda, said the government remains committed to empowering its citizens economically.

However, some residents expressed frustration over loan access conditions.

‘You cannot say this is a government project for poor women when banks still ask for land titles,’ said Ms Christine Nakato from Mayuge.

Every election cycle across Africa paints familiar picture — candidates traversing towns and villages unveiling manifestos, and promising transformative leadership. For incumbents, it’s a moment of accountability, a chance to highlight achievements and justify continuity.

For challengers, it’s a platform to spotlight the gaps left unaddressed. Yet, beneath the applause and rhetoric, one recurring theme dominates political conversations: ‘the health sector has failed.’

While this statement reflects a harsh reality, it too often remains rhetorical rather than reformative. Uganda, like many African countries, grapples with limited health financing, shrinking donor support, and competing national priorities.

However, not every solution to Uganda’s health crisis requires billions in funding. A manifesto that includes actionable commitments on public health, TB prevention, HIV awareness, or gender-based violence would not only serve as a campaign tool but also as a living framework for change proving leadership in practice, not just in promise.

Imagine if campaign rallies are used to add a voice on health education, if every politician campaign speech included a minute of TB awareness, HIV prevention messaging, or hygiene promotion. The outcome would be transformative. A manifesto that integrates community health and preventive education wouldn’t just seek votes; it would save lives even before Election Day.

Elections should never be mere theatre, where words glitter like icing on a cake sweet to the ear but empty of substance, they should mark the beginning of practical change. Instead, campaigns should spark conversations about sustainable solutions, a forward-thinking candidate could, for instance, integrate Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives into their agenda.

Promoting clean water, sanitation, and hand washing during campaigns requires no funding but immense willpower and coordination.

Politicians already command influence during this campaign period that could amplify such community health drives. For example, simple Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions like promoting clean water access, hand washing, and safe waste disposal require more mobilization than money.

Politicians already possess the networks and influence to champion such preventive actions. Yet, many, including qualified professionals and even ministers, fail to use their platforms effectively. Instead, they echo familiar criticism without offering sustainable alternatives.

In doing so, they miss opportunities to connect policy with humanity and to lead by example. During the Covid-19 pandemic, Uganda witnessed a rare and inspiring moment: government and opposition leaders spoke with one voice.

Political divisions momentarily disappeared as all sides’ emphasized one national priority saving lives. This unity showed that when leadership channels collective energy into public health, real transformation is possible even amid scarcity.

That same model of cooperative governance can be replicated in fighting TB, HIV, and other preventable diseases that silently erode our national resilience. As the 2026 General Election campaigns gain storm, there’s an opportunity for political candidates to redefine their campaign strategies. The new political frontier should not be based on amplifying problems, but on offering actionable, measurable solutions.

Politicians can become champions of community-led health interventions, youth-driven TB awareness campaigns, or partners in strengthening community extension work.

A manifesto that inspires health-conscious citizenship is not just visionary it’s revolutionary. True leadership does not begin after the oath of office it starts with what one does before the ballot is cast.

If a politician cannot lead small interventions that require no funding, how will they handle complex issues that demand substantial resources? A strong manifesto must reflect not only what a leader intends to do but what they have already started to do. A nation that neglects the wellbeing of its people is campaigning for its own decline.

The future of Ugandans or Africa at large democracy lies not in louder promises but in smarter, life-saving action where health awareness, community mobilization, and preventive leadership become the true symbols of political progress.

If our politicians begin acting today not after the elections then democracy will no longer be a race for power, but a race to protect life itself.

Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) has posted a strong financial performance in the year ended June, with its total assets rising from Shs409b to Shs475b.

The scheme registered an increase of Shs65b, driven largely by returns on investments in government securities, which accounted for 86.3 percent of total investments in real estate, equities, fixed deposits, and unit trusts.

The scheme currently has 3,368 active members and paid Shs21.7b in benefits to members against Shs36.57b in total contributions.

This included Sh18b in normal retirements, Sh227m for members relocating abroad, Sh147m in death benefits, and Sh2.8b in mid-term access.

In partnership with ICEA, the scheme also facilitated annuities worth Sh180m for retiring members.

Dr Michael Kizito, the board of trustees chairperson, said the growth was largely driven by strong performance in treasury bonds.

‘Yes, we have a lot of concentration in the treasury bonds. They are the ones at the moment that bring in the good returns,’ he said.

However, Dr Kizito noted that the university council had not remitted member contributions since the year started, which is not a good thing.

‘Of course, there are some historical debts, which, like you heard, the chair council and vice chancellor, have committed to pay,’ he said, but noted that historical arrears of Sh747m dating back to 2014, remain unpaid.

Mr Mark Straicus Lotukei, the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority manager of market conduct supervision, who represented the chief executive officer, said while the Makerere University scheme may not yet rival NSSF in scale, its steady progress reflects maturity and resilience in Uganda’s retirement benefits sector.

‘A well-managed scheme like [Makerere University’s] inspires confidence,’ he said. During the year, total contributions stood at Sh20b, split equally between the employer and employees at Sh10b each.

Contracts and projects added Sh1.3b, voluntary member contributions totaled Sh156m, while the scheme’s secretariat contributed Sh40m.

The scheme now has 8,515 members, including 3,368 active contributors and 5,147 deferred members, whose savings continue to grow within the scheme.

To reduce concentration risk, the scheme plans to diversify beyond government securities into alternative, higher-yielding investments such as infrastructure, private equity, and other emerging asset classes, while maintaining the safety of members’ funds.