Category: Daily Monitor

The world has lost a towering figure of compassion, science, and conservation. Dame Jane Goodall (1934-2025), the legendary primatologist and conservationist, leaves behind not just a compelling body of research, but an enduring legacy-a moral compass for humanity in an age of glaring ecological peril.

A bastion of conservation indeed! Goodall’s name is inseparable from the forests of Africa, where she revolutionised our understanding of primates, chimpanzees-in particular. Reflecting on Goodall’s legacy, I am inclined to the credence that beyond Gombe in Tanzania, Uganda held a special place in her journey.

It was there, on the shores of Lake Victoria, that Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary became a living emblem of her philosophy – that every life matters, that restoration is possible, and that conservation must be woven together with community.

When she returned to Ngamba in 2023 to mark its 25th anniversary, Goodall stood not just as a scientist but as a witness to resilience – of chimpanzees given new life, of Ugandan conservationists rising to safeguard ecosystems, and of young people inspired by her steadfast belief that hope lies in collective action.

Through her partnership with Ugandan institutions and leaders, she demonstrated that protecting wildlife could never be detached from uplifting human dignity and livelihoods. Her global legacy is irrefutably profound.

Goodall’s patient observations at Gombe shattered entrenched scientific dogmas, proving that chimpanzees use tools, express emotions, grieve, and celebrate. In them, she saw not ‘specimens’, but individuals with distinct personalities – a truth that forever altered how science speaks about animals.

Yet Goodall’s impact was never confined to the scientific community. Through the Roots and Shoots programme, she mobilised millions of young people around the world to act for animals, people, and the environment.

In Uganda, as elsewhere, countless youth like me, found in her message a source of agency: that no action is too small, and no voice too insignificant to contribute to a more just, greener and sustainable world. Her death compels us to confront the unfinished work she leaves behind.

Uganda’s forests are still shrinking, wildlife remains endangered, and the climate crisis is intensifying. If we are to truly honour Jane Goodall, it must not be with words alone but with deeds! We must expand sanctuaries, champion local stewards of the natural world, and weave conservation into the very fabric of education and development policy.

We must teach present and future generations, that nature is not a mere resource to exploit, but a heritage to steward. We ought to rethink our anthropocentric approaches to development, and the environment.

Goodall showed us that courage, empathy, and science could walk hand in hand.

She showed us that a voice – with steadfastness and conviction – can awaken the conscience of the world. I should love, ultimately, to add that the responsibility now rests with us, to ensure her flame does not dim, but burns brighter in our collective pursuit of harmony with nature-between people and planet. Her voice may be silent, but her call to action resounds louder than ever!

Lawyers representing two Kenyan activists allegedly abducted in Uganda last week have petitioned the Civil Division of the High Court in Kampala, seeking orders to secure their release from incommunicado detention. The activists, Nicholas Oyoo and Bob Njagi, were reportedly arrested shortly after attending a campaign rally for presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, who is the leader of Uganda’s opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).

Kiiza and Mugisha Co Advocates filed the petition, naming Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, the Chief of Defence Intelligence and Security, the Inspector General of Police, and the Attorney General as respondents. The petition includes an affidavit by Mr Koffi Atinda, a colleague of Njagi, who claims to have witnessed the arrest after Bobi’s rally in Kaliro District in eastern Uganda.

‘The respondent’s military arrest and detention of the applicants at the 2nd respondent’s detention facility since Wednesday, 1st October, 2025, in Mbuya is incommunicado detention, illegal and unlawful,’ Mr Koffi states. Mbuya is the headquarters of the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs.

‘The applicants have since been in an illegal and incommunicado detention for more than 48 hours, without trial or charges,’ he adds. Mr Koffi said his colleagues, members of the African Movement, had come to Uganda to show support for Bobi Wine, whom they also consider personal friends. He recounts: ‘It’s during their stay that they were brutally arrested by men wielding guns in military and civilian clothes, around Kaliro District at Starbex Petrol Station, where they had parked their vehicle. I witnessed the arrest and survived by a whisker.

They were taken in a Toyota Hiace van, commonly known as Drone, at a terrible speed to a place one of them said was Mbuya.’ He expressed concern for the activists’ safety, citing past instances of military harassment and torture of critics of President Museveni. ‘It’s important that this honourable court brings to an end the illegal military detention of the applicants and orders their unconditional liberty,’ he pleaded.

By press time, it was unclear when the court would hear the habeas corpus application, though the Constitution mandates fast-tracking of human rights cases. The Kenya High Commission in Kampala reportedly inquired about the activists’ whereabouts following petitions from Vocal Africa and the families of Oyoo and Njagi, though no response had been confirmed. Police, however, deny involvement.

Assistant Commissioner Kituuma Rusoke told the media: ‘I am not briefed by the police that we have them in our custody. At the moment, I do not have any information that they are in police custody.’

He suggested the publication seek clarification from other security agencies. Maj Gen Felix Kulayigye, the director of public information in the Defence Ministry, said Bobi Wine had not provided proof of the alleged abduction and challenged him to provide evidence, including vehicle registration, for verification. ‘In law, the onus of proof lies in the hands of the accuser,’ Maj Gen Kulayigye said. Bobi Wine maintains that the Kenyans were targeted for supporting him and demanded their release. Conflicting accounts exist over the arrest location, with Bobi posting on X that the duo was ‘picked up mafia-style . from a petrol station in Kireka [Waliso District] and driven off to an unknown destination.’

Videos show Njagi on stage beside Bobi at a campaign rally. The activists reportedly arrived in Uganda on Monday with some Ugandans before joining Bobi’s campaign. Rights groups have circulated posters demanding their immediate release. Security agents in plain clothes have previously been accused of abducting, detaining, and torturing Opposition members, some of whom later face treason charges in court. On Sunday, Dr Hannington Mutebi, the former Assistant Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kampala, condemned the abductions during a confirmation ceremony at St John’s Church, Makerere.

‘The government should champion the rule of law and not abduct citizens and dissenters into safe houses and prisons. Everyone’s rights must be respected, and alleged offenders should be brought to court,’ he added.

In an era where savvy investors are looking to optimise their portfolios, unit trusts have emerged as a compelling choice. These investment vehicles not only provide cost-effective access to the bustling fixed income and stock markets but have also gained traction in Uganda’s financial landscape.

Among these, the UAP Umbrella Trust Fund stands out as a powerful asset, helping investors outpace inflation while ensuring security and convenience. Imagine investing borrowed money for essential expenses, such as school fees. If navigated wisely-where the loan interest rate is lower than the returns from your chosen fund and the investor exercises discipline, the outcome can be positive.

This article dives into the world of unit trusts, offering a vital guide for families and savvy savers in Uganda, where traditional banking solutions often fall short and astute investing can lead to both financial growth and peace of mind.

Unit trusts are gaining traction as a practical means of wealth accumulation in Uganda, particularly for short-term objectives such as education financing. They offer yields that outperform standard bank interest rates and are subject to regulatory oversight. They are also designed with beginners in mind.

As the financial landscape transforms, unit trusts stand as a beacon of oversight and quick investment access.

According to Isaac Simbwa, a global markets dealer, institutional banking, corporate and investment banking at Absa Bank, the allure of unit trusts lies in their ability to diversify risk while tapping into the expertise of professional fund managers.

‘Unit trusts pool resources from multiple investors with a shared goal, building a portfolio of diverse financial instruments, ranging from equities to bonds and cash deposits,’ he explains.

For those weighing unit trust options, Absa features three distinct offerings: the UAP Money Market Fund, the UAP Balanced Fund, and the UAP Umbrella Trust Fund. Each fund is crafted to meet different investment goals, underscoring the importance of aligning choices with personal financial objectives.

When diving deep into unit trusts, consider your investment timeline: Are your goals short-term or long-term? The balance between immediate liquidity, prospective returns, and risk tolerance is crucial.

‘If you aim to save for a child’s upcoming school fees within three months, unit trusts or treasury bills could be the right fit, ensuring your capital remains safeguarded while earning reliable interest.

Meanwhile, for those eyeing long-term wealth accumulation, the bond market may provide more enticing returns-outpacing unit trusts by 300 to 400 basis points over five years,’ he adds.

Evaluating diverse asset classes is imperative. An investor may notice subtle differences in returns-while one asset class yields 12 percent, another might shine at 12.5 percent or 12.1 percent.

Right investment

Simbwa emphasizes that selecting the right investment goes beyond mere interest rates. It is about aligning with one’s risk appetite and investment ambitions.

For those focused on cash management, utilising a unit trust can be a strategic way to build capital over a year.

Simbwa adds: ‘For wealth seekers, diving into the bond market may unlock higher yields and leverage the compounding interest effect and the liquidity that numerous banks offer, allowing cash-out in mere hours-is a considerable advantage in urgent situations.’

The decision rests on understanding your investment goals. Pose the right questions: ‘Are you preparing for immediate expenses, or are you cultivating a nest egg for the future?’ he asks.

Different investment vehicles resonate with unique individuals based on their financial aspirations.

No one size fits all

In the realm of Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), no one-size-fits-all solution exists, Simbwa notes.

‘In the vast ocean of investment opportunities, no single unit trust or asset class dominates. Each investment vehicle is tailored with specific objectives in mind, addressing a variety of risk profiles and investment horizons. For example, a parent budgeting for educational costs may opt for a three-year bond, where a long-term investor might favour a 20-year bond to enrich capital growth,’ he explains.

As you navigate your investment journey, keep sight of the ambitions that drive your choices.

‘By aligning these aspirations with the available asset options, you will be better positioned to pinpoint which unit trust aligns most closely with your financial goals,’ he elaborates.

Mr Sanjay Rughani, chief executive officer of Standard Chartered Bank, emphasizes that when considering returns, it is important to assess not only the financial aspect but also your comfort level with the associated risk.

He notes that the Standard Chartered product called Shillingi offers an attractive rate, which currently stands at 12.5 percent.

‘This rate applies when you lock in your funds; even if you invest for just three days, you will receive returns based on the duration your money is held,’ Sanjay notes.

Mr Richard Patrick Byarugaba, board chair of Old Mutual Investment Group (OMIG), highlights that unit trusts are becoming increasingly popular as they can serve both as a consistent source of daily earnings and as a means of building long-term passive income.

As a financial services strategist and personal transformation coach, Byarugaba emphasizes the potential of unit trusts to transform investment strategies in Uganda.

He recognises the untapped potential of collective investments and collective savings, noting that the fastest-growing sector in Uganda is indeed in this area.

Byarugaba pointed out the prevalence of savings societies in towns across Uganda, indicating a strong local commitment to collective saving initiatives.

Growth of unit trusts

During Old Mutual Investment Group Uganda’s 2025 annual general meeting, Mr Zac Kisesi, managing director of Old Mutual Investment Group Uganda, shared impressive growth figures for their unit trusts.

Just a year prior, total investments in Old Mutual’s unit trust products stood at approximately Shs2.1 trillion. This has risen to around Shs2.8 trillion.

In terms of dollar-denominated unit trusts, they have increased from about $24 million to $47 million, largely due to enhanced customer experience and the dedication of their investment advisors.

This growth reflects a significant advancement in financial inclusion in Uganda, with a remarkable 67 percent increase in total unit holders-from 30,165 to 50,416,’ he notes.

Kisesi expressed pride in the fact that more than 20,000 new investors joined Old Mutual’s unit trusts in just one year, underscoring the growing awareness and accessibility of investment solutions available to Ugandans.

The financial results were equally encouraging. OMIG’s chief financial officer, Mr John Golooba, reported a 43 percent increase in total assets under management, amounting to Shs2.407 trillion.

Each of their funds performed admirably, with the Umbrella Fund yielding 11.77 percent, the Money Market Fund returning 11.28 percent, and the Balanced Fund achieving a return of 12.64 percent, all surpassing their respective benchmarks.

Notably, the Dollar Fund more than tripled in value to $39.22 million, with a net return of 5.03 percent, credited to a strategic reallocation towards fixed income and longer-dated government bonds.

Given the current economic climate, characterised by rising interest rates driven by the government’s domestic financing needs, OMIG recalibrated its portfolios to focus on higher-yielding long-term bonds. For instance, bond exposure in the Umbrella Fund grew significantly, and the allocation to tenors above 10 years rose to 47.4 percent.

Comparing returns of unit trusts vs traditional methods

In contrast to traditional savings methods, such as those offered by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), which recently announced the successful growth of its voluntary savings scheme, unit trusts appear to offer more attractive returns.

NSSF has seen 32,000 members contributing Shs21 billion in just seven months through its Smart Life Flexi portfolio, which attracts micro-savers from the informal sector.

While NSSF reports a focus on accessibility and cutting administrative costs through digitisation to attract savers, the tangible returns seen in unit trusts-especially with their performance over the past year-suggest that for those seeking better investment outcomes, unit trusts could be a more favourable option.

Mr Patrick Ayota, NSSF’s managing director, acknowledges the rapid uptake of their voluntary savings scheme and the positive shift in saving behaviours among Uganda’s population.

However, the growth and performance of unit trusts indicate that they may be the smarter choice for investment, especially for those looking to maximise returns and grow wealth over time.

While both unit trusts and traditional savings methods play essential roles in personal finance, for those aiming for higher returns, investing in unit trusts with a reputable firm might present a more lucrative opportunity.

When JOO and his estranged wife, MBO, parted ways in 2008, their property dispute highlighted a question now central in Kenyan courts: Does marriage automatically entitle a spouse to half of everything?

The Supreme Court and earlier the Court of Appeal delivered a clear answer-No. According to the courts, matrimonial property is not shared by default but through contribution. Both financial and non-financial input, including domestic work and emotional support, count, but a spouse must prove such contributions. Judges emphasised that equality does not mean duplication.

A spouse who invested money, acquired land, or developed assets cannot be stripped of half simply because of marriage. Similarly, a homemaker who sacrificed career opportunities to raise children or manage the household should not walk away empty-handed-but they must demonstrate effort, not entitlement.

Before the JOO vs MBO case, courts relied on the 2007 Echaria vs Echaria ruling, a property dispute between former diplomat Peter Mburu Echaria and his estranged wife, Priscila Mburu Echaria. The High Court initially granted Ms Echaria an equal share of their 118-acre Tigoni Farm based on Section 17 of the Married Women’s Property Act, 1882, which presumed co-ownership of property acquired during marriage.

Mr Mburu appealed, and in February 2007, a five-judge Court of Appeal bench, including Philip Tunoi, Emmanuel O’kubasu, Erastus Githinji, Philip Waki, and William Deverell, changed the landscape of matrimonial property law. The court ruled that a spouse must prove contribution to acquire a share of property registered in the other spouse’s name. Distribution should reflect the contribution of each party.

Court of Appeal judge Patrick Kiage echoed the principle in 2017. ‘The reality remains that when the ship of marriage hits the rocks, flounders and sinks, the sad, awful business of division and distribution of matrimonial property must be proceeded with on the basis of fairness and conscience, not a romantic clutching on to the 50:50 mantra,’ he said.

He added that justice ‘does not get to be served by simply cutting up a contested object. into two equal parts.’ Section 7 of the Matrimonial Property Act reinforces this: ‘Ownership of matrimonial property vests in the spouses according to contribution. and shall be divided between the spouses if they divorce or their marriage is otherwise dissolved.’

FIDA challenged the section in 2018, arguing for automatic equal rights under the Constitution, but the High Court dismissed it, noting that allowing such a claim could create a ‘loophole for fortune seekers.’ The Supreme Court, presided over by Deputy Chief Justice Philomena Mwilu, stressed that Article 45(3) of the Constitution ensures equality only at the point of dissolution and does not automatically grant co-ownership. ‘Nowhere in the Constitution. do we find any suggestion that a marriage between parties automatically results in common ownership,’ the judges said. Equity, the court added, considers indirect contributions.

Even if a spouse lacks direct financial input, their support may have enabled the other to acquire property. ‘Equity advocates for such a party who may seem disadvantaged for failing to have the means to prove direct financial contribution not to be stopped from getting a share,’ the judges said.

The court warned that interpreting Article 45(3) to allow automatic 50:50 division would encourage marriages where one party contributes nothing but expects half the property upon divorce. Such an outcome, the Supreme Court concluded, could not have been the law’s intention.

Thirty-three-year-old Kevin Ajibo, a resident of Olep Village in Ochero Town Council, Kaberamaido District, wakes up every day feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. Despondent, confused, widowed, and landless, her struggles exemplify the challenges faced by many Ugandan women.

Five years ago, following the death and burial of her husband, Ms Ajibo’s in-laws evicted her from her matrimonial home, claiming it belonged to their deceased brother and that customarily they were the legitimate heirs. The entire community backed her in-laws. She, however, refused to give up the fight. With assistance from her local LC1, the matter was reported to police, who referred her to the NGO Redeem International.

The organisation provided legal aid, and this year the Soroti High Court ruled in her favour. Today, Ms Ajibo is attempting to rebuild her home and her life. Her experience mirrors that of many women dispossessed of land due to customary practices, compounded by the long delays courts take to dispose of land cases. The Justice Benjamin Odoki Constitutional Commission report highlighted that land is a vital natural resource and a common heritage unmatched by any other.

‘Ownership of land by the individual, family or community confers real or potential wealth, social prestige and a sense of economic security. Population growth continues to put a great deal of pressure on land, and hence the need to look at the land issue very carefully,’ the report reads in part.

During the Odoki consultations, concerns raised included land grabbing by the rich and powerful, fear of foreigners taking over land, excessive centralisation of land administration, and corruption in land offices, with the process of acquiring land titles riddled with malpractices at every stage.

The Constituent Assembly that debated the Constitution ultimately settled on four land tenure systems: customary, governed by certain groups under local norms; leasehold, which is time-bound under specific conditions; freehold, ownership in perpetuity; and mailo, in which a registered owner holds title forever, but tenants have protected user rights.

Article 237 of the Constitution vests ownership of all land ‘to the citizens of Uganda and shall vest in them in accordance with the land tenure systems provided.’ Thirty years on, nearly all the problems highlighted by the Odoki Commission persist. The land question remains unsettled, particularly in Buganda Sub-region, where mailo tenure dominates, and increasingly in northern and north-eastern Uganda, where customary tenure applies.

Colonial roots

Before 1894, when present-day Uganda became a British protectorate, land rights in different cultural polities were governed through unwritten customary norms passed orally across generations. Consequently, the colonial administration implemented three tenure systems: freehold, leasehold, and mailo in Buganda, where land was allocated in square-mile blocks.

Outside Buganda, the 1903 Order in Council declared all land crown land, while customary land ownership was recognised within certain limitations. The 1962 Independence Constitution established a federal system, under which Buganda’s land was administered by the Buganda Land Board, and mailo lands were accountable to the Administrator General and Parliament.

Following the 1966 crisis, the 1967 Constitution maintained private mailo land but hinted at future reforms. In 1975, President Amin’s Land Reform Decree declared all land public, vested in the state, and administered by the Uganda Land Commission. By the time the 1995 Constitution was drafted, land was a highly polarising issue. Nonetheless, the new supreme law introduced sweeping reforms.

Dr Rose Nakayi, a senior lecturer at Makerere University School of Law, argues that the Constituent Assembly ‘seem to have adopted an approach which accommodates all tenures to allow them to naturally evolve, with the expectation that some may over time fall through the fissures if no longer relevant.’

‘What we see today are legal and other means in pursuit of a different kind of land tenure system, seemingly towards uniformity. Maybe more engagement with this matter would have given a clearer campus,’ she says.

Ms Carol Kayanja, the programme associate at the NGO Uganda Community Based Association for Women And Children Welfare(UCOBAC), which is leading the Stand for Her Land Campaign, argues that while the Constitution’s provisions have been domesticated into other laws such as the Land Act, the country is still struggling with land disputes.

‘However, the framers of the Constitution could have envisaged what lay ahead. At that point, my assumption would have been that they would have addressed the question of who are the people of Uganda, how do they organise, how do they relate with each other, and how can we enhance that relationship in terms of development and how can that inform the relationship especially on mailo,’ she says.

She adds that although the Constitution confers equal rights to men and women in ownership of land and property, ‘the country is witnessing a lot of injustices as courts take a long time to dispose of cases and selective application of the law amid lack of information and empowerment of people on their rights.’

An unending headache

Land offices and courts are rife with corruption. Other challenges include absentee landlords, insecure tenant rights, evictions, and conflicts over land across the country. According to the Ministry of Lands, Central Uganda accounts for more than 80 percent of land disputes due to the mailo tenure system. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao concurs that ‘the land question is far from settled, which undoubtedly will be part of the proposed Constitution review.’

‘We have learned to our detriment that having land purely in the hands of the people can actually sabotage development. Now, when the government is not strong on development issues, it cannot invoke those clauses about determining land use,’ Mr Mao says.

‘Ideally, even if land belongs to the people, planning-but the government seems too weak to enforce planning codes. So we have chaos in the arena of land. In the last 30 years we have had an alarming rate of landlessness. It has led to a surge in rural-urban migration, congested cities, slums, etc,’ he adds.

Dr Doreen Kobusingye, a facilitator at the National Land Coalition, an umbrella organisation of 40 local and regional NGOs, said the 1995 Constitution addressed most concerns surrounding the land question, but weak institutions such as district land boards and courts exacerbate problems.

‘Most of the problems we have in the country are as a result of failing to resolve the impasse on the mailo tenure system,’ Dr Kobusingye said.

‘The other problem was introduced by the Land Act of 1998, which introduced the conversion of customary land to freehold. For instance, in most parts of Western Uganda land is owned under individual customary tenure, but we don’t hear many problems. But where the bundles of rights of certain groups are not defined, such as in the north and north- east, land is becoming a big question,’ she adds.

Wherever there is a brewing land conflict, women and other vulnerable groups such as the elderly, widows, youth, and persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected.

‘Whereas the 1995 Constitution talks of equality of women and men, most land is owned by men. Women own approximately 16 percent of land. Even with the Succession Act (2023), that regulates inheritance of immovable property of a deceased person, some communities and parents still prefer males to females, on top of other social norms that impede women’s ownership of land and property,’ Dr Kobusingye explains.

Both Ms Kayanja and Dr Kobusingye argue that proposed reforms must address recurring issues, particularly under mailo land tenure, by streamlining landlord-tenant rights and resolving disputes over conversion of customary land to freehold. Meanwhile, public land held by central or local governments is also under threat.

In the sweltering heat of Mbarara’s national delegates’ conference in June, the Democratic Party (DP) of Uganda laid bare its soul, or whatever that remained of it. Months later, party president Norbert Mao stunned many by openly declaring support for President Yoweri Museveni’s 2026 re-election bid.

His statement tore through the ranks of DP loyalists, deepening an already visible fracture. For many supporters, this was the final betrayal in a long story of decline and compromise. Yet, amid the noise, a small band of diehards has refused to walk away.

They find their comfort in lyrics from Kadongo Kamu legend Paul Kafeero: ‘Gwe ate bwoba olezze kabebbi ko, bwekakwononeera otuga katuge? Mbadde oyonja nozza n’okalere?’ loosely translated as ‘If you are carrying your baby and it soils you, do just strangle it?

I thought you just clean it and continue holding it?’ Kafeero’s words in a song titled Abako Mugyebale Emirimu (Endulu) , stripped of melody, have become a moral compass for these DP loyalists. They believe the party, despite its filth and fatigue, still deserves a chance to be cleaned.

The baby, however dirty, is theirs. To throw it away would be to abandon not only the party but also the ideals and memories it carries. This reflection captures what it means to belong to a party that once stood as Uganda’s conscience.

Founded in 1954, DP predates independence. It symbolised a vision of politics grounded in rule of law, social justice, and faith-based ethics.

It was the political home of Benedicto Kiwanuka, Uganda’s first prime minister and one of the earliest martyrs of conscience. Through the turbulence of coups, detentions, and ideological shifts, DP remained a moral voice, even when power eluded it. But that was then.

Today’s DP looks different. Mao’s 2022 ‘cooperation agreement’ with President Museveni blurred lines that once defined Uganda’s Opposition politics. To critics, it confirmed what they had long suspected-that the NRM had infiltrated, weakened, and domesticated the once-proud party.

They now call DP a ‘shell,’ its organs hollowed out and its purpose diluted. Still, some supporters remain. When pressed, they sound weary but not hopeless.

‘Yes, DP is broken,’ one longtime member in Masaka said. ‘But if all of us run away, who will stay to rebuild it?’ For them, political migration is no solution.

They view other Opposition parties as unstable, opportunistic, or similarly captured. To them, defecting to the National Unity Platform or Forum for Democratic Change or People Front for Freedom would be to join another house already on fire. Journalist Baker Batte, always asked why anyone would remain in DP ‘when Museveni already ate it for dinner.’

The question stings, but it misunderstands the emotional bond between party and members. Many of those who stay do so out of memory and conviction. They remember the party that stood for truth and justice not in word but in action. Their loyalty is not naïve; it is rooted in history.

To them, leaving DP feels like erasing the footprints of Uganda’s democratic journey. The struggle of Kiwanuka, Ssemogerere, and others cannot be discarded like a worn-out slogan.

History, they say, must not be buried under the weight of temporary setbacks. ‘DP was the first to speak truth to power,’ one elder said. ‘Even if it has stumbled, we cannot spit on our own grave.’

Of course, critics counter that sentimentality feeds paralysis. They argue that clinging to the past prevents political renewal. They remind the faithful that ideals mean little when leadership has sold out. They accuse the loyalists of emotional blindness, saying DP has lost its ideological spine and organisational relevance.

But the ‘Paate’ members and supporter persist. To them, DP is Kafeero’s soiled baby. You do not throw away your child because of dirt. You clean it, even if the cleaning takes time.

First, they know their party has fallen, but they also believe decline is not death. Their patience may look foolish to outsiders. But in their quiet defiance lies a belief that time still matters in politics.

Regeneration, they argue, begins with presence, not absence. They wait, not because they expect a miracle, but because they see no dignity in abandonment. And so they stay as they wait for the season when the baby is clean again.

Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC) on Tuesday met campaign agents of presidential candidates and senior police officials to iron out emerging disputes and ensure the ongoing presidential campaigns proceed peacefully ahead of the January 2026 polls.

The meeting, chaired by EC Chairman Justice Simon Byabakama at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala, came amid growing complaints from opposition camps about security interference in campaign activities across the country.

‘We convened a meeting of all agents of the candidates currently undertaking presidential campaigns, together with the police, to discuss the progress of the campaign process so far, to hear any issues or complaints that the candidates may have, and to agree on the way forward,’ said EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi.

He said the talks focused on promoting harmony, compliance with electoral laws, and respect for the agreed campaign programme.

‘Our objective is to ensure that the process is peaceful, follows electoral laws, abides by the campaign programme that was harmonized, and ensures that the entire exercise is conducted in a tranquil atmosphere,’ he added.

According to Mucunguzi, since campaigns kicked off on September 29, the overall environment has been largely peaceful and in line with EC guidelines.

However, some candidate representatives raised grievances over how police have handled campaign movements, particularly with regard to accessing venues and enforcing route restrictions.

Some agents reportedly complained about being directed by police to use specific routes against their will, which Police defended as measures necessary to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of both candidates and their supporters.

The engagement followed days of tension, with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) accusing security agencies of deliberately obstructing their campaign activities in parts of the Busoga sub-region.

Police and opposition candidates have often clashed over access to venues and processions, a recurring flashpoint since previous elections.

Last month, the EC warned the Uganda Police Force against blocking presidential candidates from reaching approved venues, saying such actions had fueled clashes between security officers, candidates and supporters during the 2021 campaign period.

Eight candidates have been cleared for the January 2026 presidential race, including incumbent President Museveni of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who is seeking a seventh 5-year term in office. His main challenger is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Other contenders include Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC), Gen Mugisha Muntu (Alliance for National Transformation), Robert Kasibante (National Peasants Party), Joseph Mabirizi (Conservative Party), Kabinga Bulira (Revolutionary People’s Party), and Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga (Common Man’s Party).

‘The mandate of the Electoral Commission is to ensure that campaigns are organized and conducted in an atmosphere of peace,” Mucunguzi emphasized.

Kyambogo University lecturer, Associate Prof Grace Lubaale, has been elected as the new Bishop of Busoga Diocese by the Anglican church.

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Dr Lubaale was elected as the fourth bishop of the diocese on Tuesday by the House of Bishops of the Church of Uganda, sitting at Lweza Training and Conference Centre.

ýHe will be consecrated and enthroned on December 4, 2025, at Christ Cathedral Bugembe in Jinja, according to a statement from the Anglican church.

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ýBorn on October 9, 1978, in Bugombya Zone, Butansi Parish, Butansi Sun County, Bugabula County in Kamuli District, Dr Lubaale got saved in December 1994, the Church said.

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ýHe was ordained a Deacon in the Diocese of Kampala in 2008, a priest in 2009, and installed as a Canon of Education and Training at All Saints Cathedral, Kampala, on November 1, 2024.

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“He is married to Clare Louise Atuheirwe, and God has blessed them with four Children. ýHe holds a Doctorate of Philosophy in Development Studies, Master of Arts in Theology, Master of Arts in Development Studies and a Bachelor of Arts with Education,” added a Tuesday afternoon statement issued by ýMr Balaam Muheebwa, the acting Provincial Secretary, ýChurch of Uganda.

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ýMeanwhile, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Dr Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu on Tuesday commissioned the Provincial Tribunal to handle disputes within the Church.

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ýBefore being commissioned, the tribunal underwent orientation with Justice Mike Chibita of the Supreme Court as the lead facilitator, according to Mr Muheebwa.

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ýMembers of the Tribunal include; Canon Naboth Muhairwe the Provincial Chancellor as the Chairman of the Tribunal, Bishop Prof Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa of Ankole Diocese, Bishop Onesimus Asiimwe of North Kigezi Diocese, Bishop Pons Awinjo Ozelle of Nebbi Diocese, Bishop James Bukomeko of Mityana Diocese, Bishop George Turyasingura of East Ruwenzori and Bishop John Wilson Nandaah of Mbale Diocese.

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ýOthers are Justice Hellen Obura representing the Laity and The Very Rev. Canon. Dr Rebecca Nyegenye, representing the Clergy.

Why is it important for commercial banks to value small scale enterprises?

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of any economy. In Uganda, as in many developing markets, SMEs and micro-businesses are the true drivers of economic growth. This is because they are significant players in the supply and distribution chains of large corporates. For instance, these enterprises will bulk up farm produce from farmers such as grain, coffee, milk and sell these to the processors.

From a distribution perspective, they will distribute the finished goods from the large manufacturers through the value chain that may or may not go through a stockist and retailer to the final consumer. Many enterprises also engage in international trade, and contribute to foreign exchange earnings.

They provide employment and absorb a significant portion of Uganda’s youth workforce and improve on their living standards. From an SME perspective, we have over a million SMEs in Uganda. Each of these SMEs provides direct or indirect employment to millions of people. On average, each adult in Uganda has 7 to 9 dependents; thus, when a business closes, the ripple effect reaches many people. So, that segment is at the heart of any economy. It drives Uganda’s economy.

Our role is to support these enterprises across sectors like agribusiness, energy, manufacturing, education, logistics, and infrastructure. We also collaborate with community-based financial institutions such as SACCOs and cooperatives, which play a crucial role in reaching underserved areas and providing financial services to the last mile.

How do you view the state of Commercial Banking in East Africa?

Commercial banking in East Africa is experiencing robust growth, driven by strong economic fundamentals and regional development. The region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeds $240 billion, with growth rates averaging above 5.5 percent, supported by key sectors such as agriculture, oil and gas, and infrastructure development.

The East African Community (EAC), comprising a population of over 300 million people, presents a vast and evolving market with increasing demand for food, energy, transport, education, and healthcare services.

This dynamic environment still attracts significant foreign direct investment across member states, including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan, further fueling economic expansion.

The interconnected nature of the region and its demographic momentum offer immense opportunities not only for commercial banks but also for businesses and investors seeking to tap into the growth across multiple sectors.

As the region matures, commercial banking benefits substantially from the expanding financial needs of individuals, enterprises, and governments alike.

Stanbic is a continental bank; with specific reference to the East African region, how active is the bank’s operations in the region?

Stanbic is deeply embedded across East Africa, with a strong operational presence in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan. This regional footprint enables us to provide seamless, cross-border banking solutions tailored to the needs of clients operating across multiple markets, ranging from multinational corporations to SMEs.

Our ability to support regional trade and investment flows is a key differentiator, ensuring continuity in service delivery and helping businesses manage their operations efficiently across borders.

East Africa is a highly integrated economic zone. With Kenya and Tanzania providing access to the Indian Ocean, they serve as vital gateways for the import of raw materials and essential goods such as fuel and for the export of products from landlocked countries like Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the DRC. The interdependence of these economies is such that regional shocks in one country can ripple across others, underscoring the importance of a unified banking partner.

This is why Standard Bank’s presence across the region is so critical. We are positioned to facilitate secure, efficient, and scalable financial solutions that support the ambitions of our clients and the broader economic integration of East Africa.

There’s been a noticeable rise in personal loans over the past year. What’s driving this?

The growth in personal loans is indicative of a broader trend in retail banking, driven by increasing financial inclusion and greater access to credit. Personal loans, along with trade loans and communication loans, have become some of the fastest-growing segments in banking.

That said, the commercial banking side of the business, particularly corporate lending, is still integral to our strategy. For example, a grain processor may need financing to build silos and processing lines, but for their business to succeed, they need a reliable supply of raw materials. This is where supporting smallholder farmers comes in.

By helping these farmers, often through their SACCOs, VSLAs or producer cooperatives, we create a more robust ecosystem for the processor. This ensures that every link in the supply chain is supported, which benefits both the businesses and the wider economy.

Year in-year year out, people complain about the high interest rates in banks. Why is this so?

Interest rates in any market are influenced by several factors, including the cost of funds, the level of risk, and the economic environment. It is important to recognise that lending rates are not universal; they vary across different financial institutions based on their cost structures and risk appetites.

At Stanbic, we work with partners like SACCOs to provide funding at subsidised rates.If we were to lend to these institutions at our standard rates, they would, in turn, lend at even higher rates, which would defeat the purpose of our intervention. We also consider the credit risk of borrowers. For example, a client who pays their loans on time will receive better terms than one who defaults, as the cost of collection for a defaulter is higher.

Over the years, high operational cost remains a disturbing factor in commercial banking, what is your view on this?

Operational costs are indeed a challenge, and they are something we continuously work to manage. At Stanbic, we are investing heavily in digitising our processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

However, we are also mindful of not leaving any of our customers behind. While digital transformation is crucial, it’s equally important that we provide accessible services to those who may not be fully comfortable with digital platforms.

Striking this balance is key to ensuring that we maintain high service standards while improving our cost structures. As we continue to innovate and streamline operations, we are confident that these improvements will create value for both our customers and the bank.

As Uganda’s insurance sector evolves, a new chapter is unfolding with the introduction of Takaful-an Islamic insurance model rooted in mutual support and inclusivity.

This article explores the benefits and challenges of this model, and its potential impact on individuals and the broader economy.

Takaful holds immense promise for Uganda’s insurance landscape, particularly in addressing financial exclusion. With the right investment in awareness, regulation, and skills development, Uganda can indeed be ready, not just to embrace Takaful, but to lead in inclusive insurance innovation in East Africa.

Once a tool for social cooperation, insurance is coming full circle as Takaful reintroduces community-based risk sharing. But this shift requires more than just policy change. It calls for public education, mindset transformation, and the establishment of a dedicated fund to enhance understanding of Islamic finance.

Takaful operates on the principle of tabarru, where participants contribute to a shared pool, supporting each other in times of need. As Uganda prepares to roll out these products, the question remains: Is the country ready to embrace this model?

When asked if Uganda is ready for Takaful, Dr Twaha Ahmed Kasule, a senior lecturer at the Islamic University in Uganda (IUIU) specialising in Islamic banking, finance, and economics, expressed optimism.

‘Yes, we are ready because the Ugandan government has taken the necessary steps toward legal reforms, which have now been completed,’ he says.

Dr Kasule notes that the legal reforms finalised by the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) will be signed soon. ‘We have trained more than 200 students in Islamic finance and banking at IUIU, which means there is already a foundation of knowledge regarding Islamic insurance in the market,’ he explains.

He emphasizes that companies intending to offer Takaful insurance should establish Shariah committees to ensure compliance with Shariah principles in investments and resource handling. ‘This will broaden the scope of the insurance business. There are always groups that are excluded from traditional insurance, but Takaful can enhance insurance inclusion and improve penetration within the industry,’ he adds.

Alternative way of insuring

As Takaful is a new model, players in the industry must pay attention to several key factors.

Dr Kasule points out that, as an alternative insurance method, companies must understand that they will not own the resources but act as agents for the resource owners. This will require structural reforms and a deep comprehension of operational dynamics.

Furthermore, Shariah governance will be crucial at the company level. Each company will need to have a Shariah committee comprising at least three members to ensure compliance with Shariah regulations.

The business model will also need to adhere strictly to ethical considerations in investments and resource management. While these tasks are significant, they are achievable.

Advantages of Takaful

Dr Kasule notes that while there are many advantages to implementing Takaful, substantial efforts are required to educate the public and industry stakeholders.

‘We are still in the process of educating the market. People will need to learn this alternative method of insurance,’ he states.

He highlights that Takaful can address issues of exclusion.

‘By introducing Takaful, we are promoting insurance inclusion, which parallels inclusion in the banking sector. This will enhance the penetration rate of the insurance industry and create greater employment opportunities, increase premium collections, and facilitate the expansion of the insurance sector in the country,’ he says.

Differences between Takaful and traditional insurance

Unlike traditional models, Takaful prohibits interest (riba), gambling (maysir), and excessive uncertainty (gharar), and requires investments to be made in Shariah-compliant instruments.

Traditional insurance often charges high premiums, one of the factors that have kept insurance penetration in Uganda at less than 1 percent.

However, how does Takaful differ in this aspect?

Kasule explains that premiums in Takaful are not set precisely. Participants in the Takaful system will collectively determine the premiums they can afford.

Since they are the owners of the pool of funds, they come together to support one another. If individuals with limited financial means decide to participate, they will unite to agree on a premium rate that suits their budget. While Takaful companies may provide advice on viable rates, the decision lies with the participants.

‘Takaful takes care of the poor. If those with limited resources can only afford a lower premium, they will collaborate to establish a rate that works for everyone involved,’ Kasule comments.

Mr Bernard Obel, the director of supervision at the Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda (IRA), says the Authority is in the advanced stages of licensing the first Takaful insurance service provider.

He emphasizes that the structure allowing policyholders to share in the profits generated by a Takaful insurer at the end of a specified period is a significant advantage of this product.

‘This feature is expected to expand and enhance the insurance market, particularly among the uninsured populace that has been wary of conventional insurance,’ he says.

Takaful is an ethical financial model rooted in the principles of cooperation, shared responsibility, and social solidarity.

It is based on Shariah law which emphasizes fairness, transparency, and ethical investments, distinguishing it from traditional insurance models.

‘Takaful operates as a cooperative system in which participants contribute to a shared pool of funds which are used to support group members in times of need, embodying the principle of collective care,’ he says.

Insurance regulators

Uganda’s insurance sector is growing but remains underdeveloped relative to regional peers.

According to IRA’s latest performance report, the sector recorded Shs1.79 trillion in gross written premiums in 2024, up 12 percent from the previous year.

However, sector penetration remains low, and challenges around trust, awareness, and accessibility persist, especially in rural aeas.

Ms Francesca Kakooza, the director of legal at IRA Uganda, states that as insurance regulators, they are studying the ecosystem and encouraging all insurance players to enhance it.

‘At the IRA, we began this journey three years ago by benchmarking and examining our approach. While Takaful may have a slow start, it will gain momentum,’ Kakooza notes.

She also advocates for the introduction of Takaful windows to attract more clients and promote growth within the insurance sector.

Takaful, in addition to innovations like micro-insurance and bancassurance, can improve this outlook.

Micro-insurance, which targets low-income earners, was the fastest-growing segment in 2024, expanding by 67 percent.

Meanwhile, premiums collected through bancassurance-insurance products sold via banks-rose from Shs142.7 billion in 2022 to Shs179.5 billion in 2023, highlighting its growing importance as a distribution channel.