Category: Daily Monitor

Amber Court Market, a decades-old trading hub that supports thousands of traders and supplies fresh produce across eastern and central Uganda, has become the centre of a growing dispute after the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority (UCAA) ordered Jinja City Council to relocate the market from airfield land.

The market was established in early 1970s before it was relocated from Faraday Road to the current UPDF land in 2004, but UCCA argues that its presence it poses a threat to aviation safety.

UCCA also highlights the need for the upgrading and full utilisation of the airfield. The standoff has sparked a difficult debate over balancing public infrastructure development with the livelihoods of about 3,800 traders and thousands of people who depend on the market.

In a June 30 letter to Jinja City Council, signed by Eng Ayub Sooma, the Director of Airports and Aviation Security at UCAA, the authority directed the immediate relocation of Amber Court Farmers’ Market, saying the land it occupies has been reserved for the planned upgrade and full operationalisation of Jinja Airfield.

According to UCAA, the area is required for the expansion of the runway, taxiway and apron. The authority also argued that market activities generate waste that attracts birds, domestic animals and other wildlife, creating a significant risk of bird strikes and other aviation hazards.

UCAA further said the market contravenes the Civil Aviation (Aerodromes) Regulations, 2022, warning that failure to relocate it within three months could jeopardise the licensing of the aerodrome.

Unrealistic demands However, Jinja City Council says while it supports the expansion of the airfield, the relocation timeline is unrealistic and ignores the livelihoods of thousands of traders.

Jinja City Council Speaker Mr Juma Ssozi said the council has formally written to the relevant government authorities seeking an amicable solution.

“We have officially written to the relevant authorities after receiving UCAA’s directive. Before this, there had only been verbal communication about relocating the market,” Mr Ssozi said. He said the market has operated on the site for many years with the knowledge of government authorities.

“The land belongs to the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), not the airport, and UPDF allowed traders to operate there legally. The issue of relocation has only arisen because of the planned expansion of the airfield,” he said.

Mr Ssozi said the council is not opposed to the redevelopment of Jinja Airfield but believes the government should first secure a suitable alternative site before relocating the traders.

“We appreciate the importance of expanding the airfield, but the government should not simply chase people away without providing an alternative. These are people whose livelihoods depend on this market,” he said.

He added that Amber Court also generates revenue for Jinja City Council and accommodates many traders who were previously removed from the streets during the city’s enforcement of trade orders.

“These traders were relocated here by the government. It would be unfair to evict them again without a clear plan,” he said.

Mr Ssozi revealed that the city had intended to modernise Amber Court Market rather than relocate it.

He added that although land in Budondo has been proposed as a possible relocation site, no final decision has been reached.

A WhatsApp group that was started as a means of social networking among peers, has become a game changer in transforming the livelihoods of communities in Nyakishenyi Sub-county in Rukungiri District.

According to Mr Moses Tukesiga, the coordinator of the Nyakishenyi at Heart group, it was established in 2021 by a group of 20 youth. Its membership has since grown to 1,200.

He says that as years progressed, they realised they had to use the group to empower communities. The group has embarked on massive fundraising where they have mobilised and spent over Shs200m on community development activities.

These include holding medical camps, supporting school- going children with scholastic materials and constructing homes for the needy families.

Members also raised Shs3m within days after a video exposed the severe poverty in Kakonde village.

‘One of our members posted a video clip showing the living conditions of the people, it depicted extreme poverty, in the village of 500 residents there are only two iron sheet roofed homes, the rest are grass thatched, no roads, health facilities,’ he said.

Mr Tukesiga said after seeing the video in a few days members mobilised Shs3m and sent a team to assess the poverty situation on ground and donated some household items that included soap, food stuff and beddings.

‘We realised our communities back home were in dire poverty. We noted that if our colleagues had a chance to visit this community, we would be ashamed by the visible poverty indicators, such as the many grass thatched homes,’ he added.

On Wednesday, June 23, the group members visited Kakonde village in Nyakishenyi, one of the areas where residents live in extreme poverty.

‘We were there mainly to assess the situation, report to members and then mobilise resources to come and assist these people.

But we could not go empty handed, hence going with a few donations,’ Mr Tukesiga said The residents urged leaders to provide better social services to the area.

Mr Moses Byaruhanga, 49, a resident, said the nearest health facility and school are about 15 kilometres away.

‘Our children do not go to school because of the long distances, the sick get healed at the mercy of God. Even those that engage in farming cannot access the market because of the poor road network,’ he said.

Ms Musiimenta Munda, 76, another resident, said: ‘People live in extreme poverty and we do not have any income generating activity here. We appeal to government and other well-wishers to come and economically empower our community,’ he said.

How it started.

I hatched a plan of forming a WhatsApp group of people born and raised in Nyakishenyi Sub-county purposely for networking. I sold the idea to a few friends and we started the group but it was mainly for networking. It is where we would share information on weddings, burials and social outings,”- Mr Moses Tukesiga, coordinator, Nyakishenyi at Heart group

President Museveni has officially presented former Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leader and veteran diplomat Ambassador Olara Otunnu as Uganda’s candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General.

Speaking during a high-level diplomatic meeting with representatives of the UN Security Council at State House, Entebbe, President Museveni reaffirmed the government’s full commitment to mobilizing international backing for Otunnu’s bid.

Introducing the former opposition figure to the envoys, Mr. Museveni described Ambassador Otunnu as a seasoned statesman whose deep experience within the UN system makes him uniquely qualified to lead the body amid escalating global challenges.

‘He is really the type of person you will need in the UN system because he is very much aligned to it. I therefore hand over Olara Otunnu to you,’ President Museveni said, adding that he has known Otunnu since their student days at Makerere University.

The President also highlighted Otunnu’s fluency in both English and French as a major diplomatic asset for the role.

Highlighting Uganda’s UN credentials

President Museveni used the engagement to highlight Uganda’s strong standing on the international stage, specifically pointing to its regional peacekeeping efforts and open-door refugee policy.

‘Uganda’s credentials in the UN are many, but the uncontested ones are two: our contribution to regional security-I don’t think anybody will say Uganda is not known for that-and our support for refugees. Our candidate comes from that background,’ the President noted.

Ambassador Otunnu expressed gratitude for the official endorsement, revealing that several Security Council members had previously sought assurances regarding Uganda’s commitment following past unsuccessful bids.

Otunnu’s vision for the United Nations

Ambassador Otunnu outlined a broad diplomatic strategy centered on conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and structural reforms to enhance the UN’s transparency and efficiency.

Key priorities highlighted in his address include:

Global Security: Prioritizing conflict prevention, peacebuilding, and post-conflict recovery.

Development Financing: Mobilizing long-term funding for developing countries with sound economic plans.

Emerging Technologies: Spearheading global cooperation on governance and fair access to Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Institutional Reform: Championing merit-based recruitment and structural accountability across UN agencies.

Rugunda to lead diplomatic campaign

To solidify support across global capitals, President Museveni announced that former Prime Minister Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda will lead a special diplomatic envoy to lobby foreign governments.

‘We are going to send our delegation led by Dr. Rugunda to your capitals,’ the President told the diplomats.

Dr. Rugunda described Otunnu’s candidacy as a long-awaited milestone, stating: ‘I think now is the time to actualise this long-postponed aspiration.’

The Entebbe meeting was attended by diplomats representing both permanent and non-permanent UN Security Council members, including representatives from the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, Denmark, Pakistan, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Uganda’s justice sector has unveiled an ambitious five-year programme aimed at improving access to justice, reducing case backlog, and strengthening institutions responsible for the administration of justice as the country pursues its 2030 development agenda.

The programme, launched on Friday in Kampala by Chief Justice Flavian Zeija and other heads of justice sector institutions, is aligned with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) covering the period 2025/26 to 2029/30.

According to the statement released by the Judiciary, the initiative is designed to address persistent and emerging challenges affecting justice service delivery while mobilising resources for interventions expected to have a broad impact across the sector.

“The project is aimed at mobilising resources to implement unique interventions that have a higher multiplier effect on all programme result areas,” the Judiciary said in a statement released after the launch.

Among its key targets is reducing the national case backlog from 27.2 per cent recorded in the 2023/24 financial year to 15.2 per cent by the end of the 2029/30 financial year.

The programme also seeks to expand the coverage of the Administration of Justice Programme from 87.4 per cent to 94.9 per cent over the same period, with officials saying this will make justice services more accessible, affordable and people-centred.

Other priorities include strengthening the capacity of justice institutions and rights holders, enhancing oversight and compliance with justice service delivery standards, and improving coordination among institutions involved in administering justice.

Implementation will involve several government agencies, including the Judiciary, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), the Judicial Service Commission, the Law Development Centre, the Uganda Police Force, the Uganda Prisons Service, the Ministries of Internal Affairs, Gender and Local Government, Local Council Courts, the Tax Appeals Tribunal, Kampala Capital City Authority, the Inspectorate of Government and Justice Centres Uganda.

According to the Judiciary, the programme is expected to reinforce the rule of law, promote fair competition, protect individual and corporate rights, and contribute to social stability and sustainable economic growth by strengthening public confidence in state institutions.

The administration of justice encompasses institutions responsible for investigating offences, prosecuting suspects, adjudicating disputes, enforcing court decisions and promoting alternative mechanisms for dispute resolution.

The programme also supports Uganda Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV objective of doubling the country’s economy by 2030.

The Premier of the Buganda Kingdom, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, has issued a passionate call to Ugandans to resolutely defend and preserve their cultural identity in the face of fast-spreading global cultural influences, warning that no society should sacrifice its heritage under the guise of embracing modernity.

Addressing a high-profile congregation during the Buganda Kingdom’s annual coronation thanksgiving service held at Watoto Church Central in Kampala, Mr Mayiga emphasized that culture remains the indispensable foundation of a people’s dignity, historical continuity, and sense of belonging.

The thanksgiving service was organized as part of the main events marking the 33rd coronation anniversary of the Kabaka of Buganda, His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.

Reflecting on this year’s anniversary theme, ‘Fortitude as We Promote Our Cultural Values,’ the Katikkiro noted that the contemporary world increasingly pressures local communities to discard their distinct traditions, languages, and belief systems in pursuit of a standardized global culture.

“Culture is a set of beliefs and values that define a people. Since the biblical era of the Tower of Babel, God ordained different languages, tribes, and communities. Therefore, being a Muganda, an Englishman, or any other nationality is a God-sanctioned occurrence, not an accident of history,” Mr Mayiga declared.

He added: “Globalization tends to turn the human race into one uniform entity. Advocates of globalization often tell you that your native language is not universal and that your local way of life lacks global appeal. We must cultivate the moral and intellectual fortitude to preserve and promote what defines us.”

To illustrate that adherence to tradition is not at variance with modern living, the Katikkiro cited the deeply rooted cultural rituals observed in the United Kingdom following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. He pointed to centuries-old traditions such as the formal ceremony of informing the royal bees of the monarch’s passing and the symbolic Broken Wand ceremony performed at St George’s Chapel.

“If the global community regards the English as modern, yet they meticulously observe such centuries-old traditions, then culture remains vital for any civilized society,” Mr Mayiga remarked. “Modernity is simply what is currently trending, but culture is deeply rooted in a people’s permanent heritage.”

Clarifying the core theme of the celebration, Mr Mayiga cautioned against misinterpreting fortitude as an invitation to confrontation or social division.

“Fortitude is not synonymous with physical fights, aggressive outbursts, or hostile political exchanges,” the Katikkiro explained. “It requires a firm, unwavering belief in one’s values, the conviction to speak the truth without fear, and the commitment to embrace formal education, spiritual devotion, and a sophisticated understanding of the world around us.”

Government pledges partnership

In a speech delivered on his behalf by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, President Museveni extended warm congratulations to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II upon reaching his 33rd coronation milestone. The President offered prayers for the monarch’s continued health, wisdom, and stable stewardship of the kingdom over the past three decades.

“I congratulate Your Majesty upon your 33rd Coronation Anniversary and thank Almighty God for the 33 years of your reign since your historic coronation at Naggalabi, Buddo in 1993,” President Museveni stated.

The President reiterated that the decision by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government to restore traditional institutions in 1993 was guided by a commitment to strengthen national cohesion and preserve Uganda’s rich socio-cultural fabric.

“This historic restoration was born out of a shared vision between the NRM government and traditional institutions to restore cultural heritage as a vital pillar of identity, morality, and social cohesion,” Mr Museveni noted, adding that cultural institutions remain essential partners in driving national development.

“The NRM government has always maintained that cultural institutions are not an obstacle to modernity, but indispensable partners in national transformation,” the President observed.

He praised the Buganda Kingdom administration at Mengo for its grass-roots mobilization capacity, particularly in supporting government initiatives aimed at public health and poverty alleviation.

“Your Majesty’s leadership has been central in mobilizing our people for critical development initiatives,” President Museveni said. “We particularly commend the Kingdom’s active participation in public health campaigns, especially the fight against HIV/AIDS, maternal health awareness, and poverty eradication.”

The President noted that Mengo’s socio-economic campaigns directly complement government wealth-creation initiatives, such as the Parish Development Model (PDM). To support the anniversary activities, President Museveni contributed Shs 40 million towards the organization of the coronation events.

A historic milestone for the Church

The hosting of the annual thanksgiving service at Watoto Church marked a historic departure from tradition, representing the first time an Evangelical Pentecostal church hosted the Buganda Kingdom’s official annual coronation service.

Welcoming the royal delegation, the Senior Pastor of Watoto Church, Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo, expressed gratitude to the Kingdom leadership for selecting the sanctuary for the national prayer service.

“My wife, Vanita, and I are deeply honored that the Buganda Kingdom chose Watoto Church to host this important celebration,” Pastor Rwotlonyo said. “We are committed to ensuring that this thanksgiving service glorifies God and honors His Majesty the Kabaka and the people of Buganda.”

Pastor Rwotlonyo commended Kabaka Mutebi for his fatherly guidance and unifying leadership, noting that his reign has continued to inspire citizens across ethnicity and denomination.

Context and background

Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was crowned the 36th King of Buganda on July 31, 1993, at Naggalabi, Buddo in Wakiso District-the traditional site where Buganda kings have been crowned for centuries. His coronation followed the constitutional amendment by the NRM government that restored traditional kingdoms, which had been abolished in 1967 under the government of President Apollo Milton Obote.

Over the past three decades, the Kabaka’s reign has prioritized economic empowerment, education, youth development, and healthcare. Mengo’s health drives, such as the Kabaka Birthday Run, have raised funds and public awareness for campaigns against fistula, sickle cell disease, and HIV/AIDS.

Dignitaries Present

The thanksgiving service brought together high-ranking leaders from government, traditional leadership, and the clergy.

Police in Masindi district have confirmed that three people were hospitalised on Friday and livestock killed following a violent clash between members of Canaan Jerusalem Miracle Ministries Church and a group of sugarcane cutters in Kyarutanga Village, Kijunjubwa Sub-county, Masindi District.

The violence occurred on Friday at around 7:00 a.m., when more than 100 sugarcane cutters, allegedly armed with pangas, sticks and other crude weapons, stormed the church premises and attacked worshippers.

Many of the worshippers come from several districts, Nakasongola, Nakaseke, Kiboga and Luweero, and camp at the church praying for deliverance.

The incident is alleged to have been triggered by tensions arising from the recently concluded Local Council One (LC1) elections in Kyarutanga Village.

The Albertine North Regional Community Liaison Officer and Acting Regional Police Spokesperson, ASP Solomon Mugisa, confirmed the incident, saying the preliminary investigations indicate that the violence stemmed from disagreements related to the recent LC1 elections.

According to police, members of Canaan Jerusalem Miracle Ministries Church supported one Kamugisha, who is also a church member, and had contested against incumbent chairperson Mr Sabiiti Yokoyasi for Kyarutanga Village, who also supervises the sugarcane cutters. Kamugisha lost the election.

Police confirmed that one sugarcane cutter was injured during the clashes while three church members were hospitalised.

ASP Mugisa said police have arrested one suspect, Rakaya Festo, a sugarcane cutter, to assist with investigations.

“We condemn all acts of violence and urge residents to resolve disputes through dialogue and establish local leadership structures instead of taking the law into their own hands. One suspect has already been arrested to assist with investigations,” Mugisa said.

Church members allege that disagreements began before the elections after they objected to sugarcane cutters, who work in different sugarcane farms in Kyarutanga Village, many of whom they claim are not permanent residents of the village, being included in the village voters’ register.

They further allege that because the sugarcane cutters are supervised by Mr Sabiiti, they overwhelmingly voted in his favour, leading to his victory on Tuesday 28th July.

According to church members, tensions escalated on Tuesday evening shortly after voting when a group of sugarcane cutters allegedly attacked some of the church members at its premises. They claim they managed to repel the attackers, and one sugarcane cutter was arrested and handed over to police.

However, they allege that Friday’s attack was carried out in retaliation.

The three critically injured victims have been identified as Geoffrey Ninsiima, Charles Talemwa and Robert Ninsiima, all church members. They are receiving treatment at Purity Medical Centre in Masindi Town.

Church members also claim that the attackers killed sheep belonging to the church and drove away four cows during the violence.

Mr Daniel Abaho, one of the church members, said the attackers arrived unexpectedly on Friday morning while armed with pangas and sticks.

“We suddenly saw a large group of sugarcane cutters armed with pangas and sticks storming the church. They destroyed property and assaulted believers who were at the church. We tried to defend ourselves, but they outnumbered us. This was the second attack within a week after a similar incident on Tuesday,” Abaho said.

Another church member, Mr James Byaruhanga, said he was asleep at the church when the attack started.

“I woke up after hearing people screaming. When I came outside, I found sugarcane cutters attacking fellow church members with sticks and pangas. Many people were injured. They also killed sheep and took away four cows belonging to the church,” he said.

Pastor Daniel Muhanuzi, attached to the church, said the attackers surrounded the church before assaulting everyone they encountered.

“I am yet to understand the exact motive because the candidate they supported actually won the election. It is true that our church also fronted a candidate who lost, and we accepted the results. We are wondering why they attacked us. Police have visited the scene, and we are asking for justice and protection because our members are living in fear,” Pastor Muhanuzi said.

He added that the attack lasted for nearly one and a half hours, from around 7:00 a.m. until about 8:30 a.m.

Another church member, Mr Robert Barugahare, believes the violence was politically motivated.

“I believe this attack was linked to the recent LC1 elections because members of the church supported the losing candidate. Since the violence started on Tuesday, the LC1 chairperson has never visited us, yet he is the leader of the village. We suspect some level of political influence behind the attacks,” he alleged.

Victims recount ordeal

Mr Geoffrey Ninsiima, one of the injured victims, said he sustained injuries to the chest, legs and abdomen while trying to rescue women and children.

“I was injured while trying to save mothers and children who were being beaten. We are innocent people. We pray that justice prevails because we were attacked while at our place of worship,” he said.

Mr Charles Talemwa said he suffered deep injuries to the head and other parts of his body.

“I appeal to the authorities to intervene before this situation claims lives. I have a deep cut on my head, and I am in severe pain,” Talemwa said.

Mr Christopher Tumusiime, the officer in charge at Purity Medical Centre, confirmed receiving the three injured victims.

“They arrived in critical condition with multiple deep cuts and excessive bleeding. We are doing everything possible to save their lives,” he said.

The Bishop of Canaan Jerusalem Miracle Ministries Church, Fred Tumusiime, appealed to government and security agencies to provide lasting protection to church members.

“I call upon the authorities in Masindi to intervene because this has become a serious security threat. Police and the UPDF responded but later left without maintaining security at the church. We fear the attackers could return, especially at night,” Bishop Tumusiime said.

He added that the church attracts worshippers from several districts, including Ngoma, Nakasongola, Nakaseke, Kiboga and Luweero, making the insecurity even more worrying.

Mr Sabiiti Yokoyasi, the LC1 chairperson of Kyarutanga Village, denied allegations linking him to the violence, saying that after receiving information, he immediately alerted police after learning of the attack.

“My responsibility was to notify the police, and I did so immediately. I condemn indiscipline from both sides and believe dialogue is the best solution. I was not behind the attack as alleged. As the elected chairperson, I serve everyone regardless of who voted for me,” Sabiiti said.

He added that village leaders would convene a meeting to peacefully resolve the dispute.

Veteran opposition leader Col (rtd) Dr Kizza Besigye remains in critical condition in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Mulago National Referral Hospital following his collapse in court earlier this week, sources and political allies have confirmed.

As of Saturday, August 1, 2026, close family members caring for the founder of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) described his health status as deeply worrying, even as heavy security continues to surround the medical facility.

Neither the Mulago Hospital administration nor Uganda Prisons Service officials have issued an official statement regarding his medical condition. When contacted, Mr Frank Baine, Senior Commissioner of Prisons and spokesperson for the Uganda Prisons Service, declined to comment.

PFF leaders blocked from visiting

On Friday evening, a delegation of top PFF leaders was turned away when they attempted to visit the veteran politician at Mulago. The delegation included Deputy Secretary General Harold Kaija, Kampala Deputy Lord Mayor Doreen Nyanjura, and the party’s Head of Mobilisation, Ingrid Turinawe.

According to Ms Nyanjura, the Deputy Executive Director of Mulago Hospital, Dr John Ssekabira, informed them that hospital policy strictly prohibits visitors from entering the ICU.

However, Ms Nyanjura strongly criticized the heavy military and police presence stationed around Besigye’s bedside.

“Why should a critically ill, unconscious man in an intensive care unit be subjected to a show of force? This excessive display of guns inside a sacred place of healing is both absurd and deeply inhumane,” Nyanjura said.

Byanyima condemns heavy-handed security

Writing on her official X (formerly Twitter) account on July 31, Dr Besigye’s wife and UNAIDS Executive Director, Dr Winnie Byanyima, revealed that medical doctors are still trying to determine the exact cause of his collapse. She described his state as extremely weak and only partially conscious.

Dr Byanyima also accused prison authorities of denying her the right to participate in medical briefings via phone while traveling back to Uganda.

“Our family received a briefing from the Mulago doctors treating KB. Yet Prison Officer Siima denied me, his next of kin, the right to join the briefing by phone. His reason? He ‘didn’t have permission.’ This is the arrogance of arbitrary power,” Byanyima posted, adding that she was traveling from Rio de Janeiro to be at her husband’s bedside. “Stand aside, Siima. No one will keep me from him.”

In a follow-up post on August 1, Byanyima expressed profound heartbreak over the political situation in the country.

“The pain is immense. In Uganda today, the price of speaking, thinking, or believing differently has become intolerably high. This is not the Uganda we want. It is not the Uganda we deserve,” she wrote.

Collapse followed court protest

Dr Besigye’s medical crisis began on Wednesday when he collapsed inside the dock during court proceedings.

The collapse occurred shortly after he protested the commencement of his trial without legal counsel of his choice. Although the court had appointed state legal representation for him, Besigye informed the judge that he had not been granted sufficient time to consult with them and requested a one-week adjournment to prepare his defence.

The court rejected his plea and ordered the prosecution to proceed, shortly after which Besigye collapsed.

The four-time presidential candidate has been in state custody since November 2024, when he was snatched from Nairobi, Kenya, and brought back to Uganda to face treason charges. He is jointly charged alongside Hajj Obeid Lutale and Captain Denis Oola.

Besigye’s detention has fueled anger among local and international human rights activists, with the Commonwealth calling for his release.

In February, Besigye was briefly hospitalized after going on a hunger strike to protest his detention. In April, Dr Byanyima told rights group Amnesty International that “his health is not that good.”

Besigye has been pressing the government to restore his defence team after his lead attorney, Martha Karua, a Kenyan national, was declared persona non grata. Meanwhile, another senior lawyer on the team, Erias Lukwago, was arrested and charged with misprision of treason. He remains in custody.

President Museveni has declared that African countries will continue supporting Somalia’s peace and stabilization efforts, even if the United States and other international partners withdraw financial and logistical support for the African Union mission.

Speaking on the final day of the Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State of Troop-Contributing Countries to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) at Speke Resort Munyonyo on Friday, President Museveni emphasized that Africa has repeatedly overcome security challenges through regional solidarity rather than external assistance.

“If the international community wants to pull out, let them. All the problems we have solved here, we solved without their support. We got support from our brothers. When we fought Amin, it was Tanzania and Mozambique. On Sudan, it was us. Somalia will not be abandoned. We have the capacity. Whether others pull out or not, we shall stand,” Mr. Museveni said.

He cited Africa’s historic liberation struggles as evidence that the continent possesses the resilience to confront its security challenges. Defending Uganda’s ongoing military deployment in Somalia, Mr. Museveni noted that the intervention was driven by regional security imperatives and principle rather than foreign interests.

According to the President, Uganda deployed troops after extremist groups attempted to use violence to impose their ideology, threatening peace across the Horn of Africa. He added that Uganda also acted in solidarity with Ethiopia, which faced growing threats from armed groups operating from Somalia and Sudan.

“When therefore we decided to involve ourselves in Somalia, it was out of principle and strategy. We did not accept the chauvinism of Islamic groups who come here and waste our time… The second reason was to extend solidarity to Ethiopia… We had to stand with them,” he said.

The Munyonyo summit was convened amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future financing of AUSSOM after the United States informed the African Union on July 1, 2026, that it would not support renewing the mission’s mandate when it comes before the United Nations Security Council in December.

The decision comes as Washington reviews funding for several UN and international peace support operations.

Despite the financial headwinds, continental leadership reaffirmed its commitment to Somalia’s security transition, demanding predictable financing aligned with African-led priorities.

Briefing delegates at the summit, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mr. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, highlighted three core messages from the continental body regarding the future of the peacekeeping mission.

“I wish to assure the government and people of Somalia that the Commission will continue to mobilize all the political, diplomatic, and financial support necessary for the success of this mission,” Mr. Youssouf assured.

Mr. Youssouf also paid tribute to the African troops serving under AUSSOM, praising their professionalism, discipline, and sacrifices in helping restore stability to the region.

Uganda became the first country to deploy troops to Somalia in 2007 under the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Since then, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have played a pivotal role alongside the Somali National Army in liberating key territories from the Al-Shabaab militant group and safeguarding critical government infrastructure.

In 2024, AMISOM transitioned into AUSSOM, shifting focus toward strengthening Somali national security institutions, protecting civilians, and facilitating a gradual, full transfer of security responsibilities to Somali forces.

The summit concluded with participating Heads of State issuing a joint communique reaffirming their commitment to AUSSOM and calling on global partners to ensure sustainable, long-term financing to safeguard regional stability.

Residents of Muiyibwe fishing community in Lugala Zone, Lugoba Parish, Ssibukumi Sub County, spent Saturday stranded after suspected goons dug a ditch across the only road connecting them to the rest of the village.

The ditch, dug on the night of Friday, July 31, lies less than a kilometer from the lakeside community toward the village centre, blocking vehicles and making movement difficult for more than 2,000 residents.

Residents told the Monitor the attackers are allegedly linked to the late city criminal Ssobi, who was killed in a land dispute last year.

‘They were deployed on the land by people who claim to own 640 acres on Plot 491, Block 2,’ one resident said.

The land is at the center of a court battle between Kiziba Estates and Sir Henry Morgan and Associates Limited, with each side claiming ownership.

Locals accuse the goons of terrorising them since last year.

‘I acquired 100 acres on this land 10 years ago but three years ago people from Sir Henry Morgans who claim to be owners of the land started threatening to evict me. Since then goons have destroyed my farm on a daily basis, they beat up my workers, destroy my properties. I have really suffered,’ said Mr Rugumayo, a kibanja holder.

Mr Fredrick Wilson Sselwanise, an estate manager for Kiziba Estate, condemned the attack and called for urgent intervention.

‘Whenever they learn about our presence or coming, they hide and choose to terrorize residents when we go away. We have the title of this land because it’s a Leopard clan land which was given to our grandfather by the Kabaka of Buganda,’ Sselwanise said.

He added that he and other residents will file a case with police on Sunday and return to the land with leaders for a village meeting.

The outgoing village chairperson, Mr Joseph Walugembe, said he had not yet visited the scene.

‘I have not been in the village but upon my return, I received a call just 20 minutes ago about this incident and have not yet personally gone there but once I visit the scene tomorrow, I will be able to give an elaborate comment,’ he said.

The case over the 640 acres is currently before Lugazi High Court.

When the Uganda Performing Rights Society (UPRS) announced the distribution of Shs216 million in royalties to eligible rights holders this year, it should have been a moment of celebration for Uganda’s music industry. Instead, it triggered one of the most intense debates the country’s copyright ecosystem has witnessed in recent years. The controversy reached its peak after celebrated musician Douglas Mayanja, alias Weasel, publicly disclosed that he had received Shs285,498 in royalties.

To many fans and industry players, the figure appeared inconceivable for one half of Radio and Weasel, arguably one of Uganda’s most commercially successful music duos whose catalogue has dominated airwaves, concerts and public spaces for nearly two decades. The payment immediately ignited accusations of inefficiency, opacity and possible mismanagement within Uganda’s royalty system. Soon after, Goodlyfe Magic Limited announced its intention to terminate UPRS’ mandate over the Radio and Weasel catalogue, citing concerns over transparency and confidence in the collective management system. What followed was not merely a disagreement over one payment.

It exposed deeper questions about copyright administration, collective management, music rights documentation and whether Uganda’s royalty ecosystem is fit for purpose in an increasingly digital music economy. The debate has become less about one artiste and more about whether the country truly understands how royalties are generated, collected and distributed.

Could the popularity myth be at play here?

It is highly probable. For years, many Ugandans have believed that the biggest musicians automatically receive the biggest royalty cheques. The logic appears straightforward. Radio and Weasel music continues to enjoy regular rotation on radio and television stations, in bars, hotels, restaurants, public events and across digital platforms. Therefore, many assume the duo’s royalty earnings should naturally run into millions of shillings every distribution cycle.

Copyright administration, however, as music business consultant Geofrey Ekongot explains, operates very differently. Popularity alone does not generate royalties. ‘Before any musician receives payment, several processes must happen. A work has to be properly registered. Rights holders must be identified. Ownership percentages have to be documented. The collecting society must hold the necessary mandate,’ Mr Ekongot says, adding that music users must obtain licences and pay for them.

What explains the paperwork behind every song?

Put simply, usage data must be captured, matched to registered repertoire and reconciled before distribution is calculated. Break one link in that chain and even a hit song may fail to generate the royalties its owner expects. That distinction sits at the centre of the current debate. The dispute also highlighted a challenge of weak rights documentation that has quietly existed within the music industry for decades. Many artistes still operate under informal arrangements built on friendships, verbal agreements and studio understandings rather than properly documented contracts. A song may involve composers, lyricists, performers, producers, publishers, featured artistes and investors.

Each may hold different rights requiring clear documentation before royalties can be accurately distributed. Paying a producer for studio time, for example, is not automatically the same as acquiring that producer’s copyright interest. Likewise, paying a featured artiste does not necessarily extinguish future performer rights unless clearly agreed in writing. The Copyright and Neighbouring Rights (Amendment) Act, 2026 strengthens this position by recognising written assignments, licences and transfers as central to ownership and rights administration. Without complete documentation, royalty distribution becomes increasingly complex. Many Ugandan musicians have managed successful careers but relatively incomplete rights records.

What has the response from the UPRS been like?

Facing mounting criticism, the UPRS defended its distribution process. Board Chairman Martin Nkoyoyo acknowledged that Shs216 million remains far below what Ugandan creators deserve, describing the latest distribution as ‘one step in a much larger journey’ towards building a stronger copyright economy. He argued that royalty payments are not rewards for fame or membership but compensation based on documented use of registered works and the society’s approved distribution methodology.

Mr Nkoyoyo said the society can only distribute money that has actually been collected from licensed users and matched to registered repertoire, for a particular year. The organisation also clarified that royalties are distributed proportionately rather than equally, meaning some members receive only modest amounts while others receive substantially larger payments depending on documented usage. UPRS further pointed to longstanding structural challenges affecting collective management in Uganda, including low copyright compliance, limited enforcement and widespread unlicensed commercial use of music. In other words, the society insists the size of the royalty pool itself remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges.

What has been the biggest lesson that has emerged from the dispute?

Perhaps the biggest lesson emerging from the dispute is that Uganda’s royalty problem begins long before distribution day.

‘A collecting society cannot distribute money it has never collected,’ Mr Nkoyoyo told the Weekend Monitor in an interview. For years, musicians have complained that businesses continue to play copyrighted music without licences. Others acquire licences but provide incomplete playlists or inadequate usage records. Some broadcasters and entertainment venues reportedly remain outside effective licensing systems altogether.

Consequently, even an efficient distribution formula cannot compensate for a relatively small collection pool. This explains why many observers believe Uganda’s royalty debate should shift from distribution alone towards improving collections, compliance and monitoring. The conversation, therefore, is no longer simply about how money is shared but how much enters the system in the first place. While UPRS has defended its methodology, the public reaction suggests something equally important: a crisis of trust.

Many musicians say they struggle to understand how final royalty figures are calculated. They receive payment notifications but often lack detailed explanations showing which songs generated revenue, how frequently they were used, what ownership percentages were applied and whether some earnings remain suspended because of missing information. Without such visibility, even correctly calculated payments can appear arbitrary. ‘UPRS must move beyond simply issuing payments and instead provide accessible royalty statements explaining every stage of the calculation process,’ songstress Beckie 256 urged adding that transparency is becoming just as valuable as the payment itself.

Can digital tracking be of any help?

The controversy has also renewed calls for technology-driven reform. Uganda National Musicians Federation president Eddy Kenzo has been among those advocating for digital monitoring systems capable of capturing real-time music usage across broadcasters, hospitality businesses and other commercial venues. Supporters argue that automated monitoring would reduce reliance on incomplete playlists and manual reporting while providing more reliable evidence of actual music consumption.

A modern Copyright Management System could potentially generate play-count data, improve repertoire matching and reduce disputes arising from incomplete usage records. Technology alone, however, is unlikely to solve every problem. ‘Digital systems remain dependent on accurate metadata supplied by artists themselves. Songs that are poorly documented, incorrectly registered or missing ownership information may still struggle to generate accurate royalty payments regardless of how sophisticated monitoring becomes,’ Mr Ekongot says. He adds that technology should strengthen-not replace-the existing copyright administration framework.