Category: Daily Monitor

As millions of tourists descend on Paris for the summer season, Uganda has launched an ambitious campaign to market its tourism attractions directly to some of the world’s biggest travel audiences.

For the next two weeks, branded buses carrying images of Uganda’s iconic tourist destinations will traverse the streets of Paris, turning the French capital into a moving showcase of the country’s tourism potential.

The campaign, launched by the Ugandan Embassy in Paris on Tuesday, features three buses wrapped in colourful images of mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains, the Source of the Nile and the wildlife-rich savannahs of Kidepo Valley National Park.

The initiative is aimed at increasing Uganda’s visibility among European travellers and positioning the country as a preferred destination for international tourists.

Uganda’s Ambassador to France, Spain and Portugal, Ms Doreen Ruth Amule, said the campaign was strategically timed to coincide with the peak summer tourism season when Paris receives millions of visitors from across the globe.

‘Paris is one of the world’s leading tourism destinations and attracts visitors from every continent. We want to take advantage of that opportunity by bringing Uganda closer to potential travellers,’ she said.

According to the ambassador, the buses will cover more than 200 square kilometres daily, targeting both residents and visitors in the French capital.

Each bus carries a Quick Response (QR) code that allows commuters and tourists to instantly access information about Uganda’s tourism products, travel opportunities and investment prospects.

The embassy believes the digital component will help convert curiosity into actual travel decisions by providing immediate access to detailed information about visiting Uganda.

Ms Amule said the decision to focus on France, Spain and Portugal was informed by the three countries’ strong performance in the global tourism industry.

France remains the world’s leading tourism destination by visitor numbers, while Spain consistently ranks among the top tourism markets. Portugal has also emerged as one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel destinations.

‘We want to understand what makes these countries attract millions of visitors every year and position Uganda to benefit from those travel flows,’ she said.

‘Our objective is to secure a share of the tourists who visit Europe annually by ensuring they know what Uganda has to offer,’ she added.

Improved visibility

The ambassador noted that Uganda’s visibility in these markets has improved significantly over the years through sustained branding campaigns, partnerships with tour operators and participation in international tourism exhibitions.

She said tourist arrivals from France, Spain and Portugal have grown from fewer than 2,000 visitors annually in the past to more than 7,400 visitors. The embassy is now targeting at least 10,000 visitors from France alone during the next financial year.

The campaign has also received support from fellow African diplomats based in Paris. Zimbabwe’s ambassador to France and UNESCO, Dr Irene Sekai Nsenza, praised Uganda for adopting innovative approaches to tourism marketing and raising Africa’s profile in international travel markets.

‘We’ve come a long way together as African countries. Uganda has unique attractions that many countries do not have, including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. These are experiences travellers from around the world are eager to see,’ she said.

Dr Nsenza said increased tourist arrivals would create employment opportunities and boost incomes for local communities that depend on tourism.

‘When more visitors come to Africa, local communities benefit through jobs, business opportunities and improved livelihoods,’ she said. The launch was also attended by Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, who represented the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Mr Ssentongo described the initiative as an important component of Uganda’s economic diplomacy strategy, which seeks to use foreign missions to promote trade, investment and tourism. He said the campaign is intended not only to raise awareness about Uganda but also to encourage European tour operators to include the country in their travel packages and holiday itineraries.

‘The goal is to ensure that travellers who see these campaigns eventually choose Uganda as a destination and experience the country first-hand,’ he said.

He added that the buses provide an opportunity to connect Uganda’s tourism industry with thousands of potential travellers and tourism businesses that operate across Europe.

The Government of Uganda unveiled an ambitious Shs84.39 trillion budget for the 2026/27 financial year, the largest in the country’s history. Anchored on the tenfold growth strategy, the budget aims to transform Uganda into a $500 billion economy through investments in oil production, industrialisation, commercial agriculture, infrastructure, science, technology, and human capital development. These investments reflect government’s commitment to economic transformation. However, a critical question remains: where does the informal sector fit within Uganda’s growth strategy?

The informal sector is Uganda’s largest employer and a vital pillar of the economy. More than 80 percent of the country’s workforce is employed in informal activities. While these enterprises contribute little to formal tax revenues, they provide livelihoods for millions of households and play an important role in poverty reduction. As the government pursues industrialisation and large-scale investments, it must recognise that sustainable economic growth cannot be achieved without strengthening the enterprises that support the majority of citizens. Economic transformation should not only be measured by large infrastructure projects and industrial parks, but also by improvements in the livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans.

One of the biggest challenges facing informal businesses is limited access to affordable financing. Many entrepreneurs lack collateral, business registration, and financial records required by commercial banks, forcing them to rely on expensive informal lending arrangements that limit growth and profitability. The government has attempted to address this challenge through wealth creation initiatives such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model (PDM). Emyooga has disbursed more than Shs 550 billion to enterprise groups, while PDM continues to receive annual allocations exceeding Shs1 trillion. These programmes have expanded access to financial resources for previously excluded households and businesses. However, their impact remains limited relative to the size of the informal economy due to challenges such as inadequate business skills, market access constraints, implementation gaps, and limited funding per beneficiary.

The situation is further complicated by rising transport costs, fuel prices, rent, electricity charges, and inflation, all of which continue to erode profits for small enterprises. Infrastructure investments, including the Malaba-Kampala Standard Gauge Railway, road maintenance projects, and the operationalisation of Kabalega International Airport, are expected to stimulate economic activity and improve market access. However, these benefits will only be fully realised if small businesses are empowered to participate in the opportunities created.

Agriculture presents another important opportunity. Although the sector has received Shs 2.26 trillion, the allocation remains relatively modest given that agriculture remains Uganda’s largest employer and the backbone of the economy. Investments in irrigation, agricultural research, extension services, and anti-tick vaccines could improve productivity and household incomes. However, farmers and small agribusinesses still require access to markets, affordable financing, and value-addition

opportunities.

The Shs1.14 trillion allocated to science, technology, and innovation could also improve efficiency and profitability among small enterprises through digital platforms, mobile payments, and e-commerce solutions. Yet meaningful digital transformation will require investment in skills development and affordable technology.Another concern is the growing cost of public debt. Approximately Shs 33.4 trillion, nearly 40 percent of the budget, has been allocated to debt servicing. While borrowing can support development, the government must ensure that future debt generates tangible economic returns and employment opportunities.

Ultimately, the success of the Tenfold Growth Strategy will depend on whether economic growth translates into improved livelihoods for ordinary citizens. With the budget now approved and presented, attention should shift to implementation. Policymakers must prioritise interventions that strengthen micro and small enterprises through affordable credit, business skills training, simplified formalisation processes, improved market infrastructure, and digital inclusion.

Uganda’s Shs 84.39 trillion budget has the potential to drive transformative growth. However, for the tenfold growth strategy to succeed, growth must be inclusive. The true measure of success will not be the size of the budget or infrastructure projects completed, but whether ordinary traders, boda boda riders, farmers, and young entrepreneurs are able to share in the nation’s economic progress.

Engineers under the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers have called for stronger regulatory frameworks as the Ministry of Works and Transport and Parliament move to fast-track the law regulating Uganda’s construction industry.

According to Eng. Peterson Mwesigwa, President of Engineers in Uganda, the proposed law will address local content concerns for engineering professionals and streamline accountability and standards in construction.

He was speaking at the grand launch of the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers Voice, a monthly public dialogue platform meant to spotlight UIPE’s work to members and the public.

‘Our first intention therefore under the UIPE Voice, is a direct legislative call and will be making a formal urgent appeal to the ministry of works and transport, and Parliament to fast track the law relating to the regulation of Uganda’s construction industry,’ he said.

‘We need a law that will address local content concerns of Uganda’s engineering professionals and streamline accountability and standards in the construction industry and business,’ he added.

The UIPE Voice will also provide a forum for discussion of key engineering issues that shape Uganda’s development, innovation, sustainability and national priorities. The launch introduced the vision of using the platform to explore collaboration between engineers and the media in promoting informed public discourse.

Speaking at the Kampala launch on June 25, Minister in charge of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister Eng. Hillary Onek acknowledged concerns on modernizing the engineering regulatory framework.

‘I have taken note of UIPE concern regarding modernization of the engineering regulatory framework and to the need to strengthen professional accountability,’ he said.

He urged engineers to prioritize ethics over money: ‘Some of the engineers have adored and honoured money more than their profession, asking them to have a second thought to it to stand out as a pillar and have respect in the society.’ He said government values UIPE as a strategic partner in delivering safe, sustainable and resilient infrastructure.

UIPE was formed in 1972 to bring the engineering fraternity together to share ideas and promote the profession. It now embraces engineers, technologists and technicians from college through senior practice, helping them build careers and advocate with government, education and private enterprise.

Membership grants professional recognition and links engineers with peers in Uganda and beyond. UIPE has over 7,466 members: 2,433 students, 3,097 graduates, 1,564 corporate members, 111 technologists, 215 technicians, and 39 fellows.

As Uganda responds to the ongoing Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain, one lesson stands out clearly: infectious diseases do not respect borders. The recent outbreak, which spread from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) into Uganda through cross-border movement, demonstrates that our strongest defence against Ebola begins long before patients reach treatment centres. It starts with strong surveillance systems in communities and at points of entry.

Uganda’s border districts, particularly in West Nile, face a unique public health challenge. Districts such as Arua, Koboko, Yumbe, Moyo, Obongi, and Adjumani experience daily movement of people crossing from DRC and South Sudan for trade, education, employment, and family visits. While this movement supports livelihoods and regional integration, it also increases the risk of infectious diseases crossing borders unnoticed.

The current outbreak highlights the importance of cross-border surveillance-the systematic detection, reporting, and response to public health threats occurring at or near international boundaries. Early detection remains the most effective tool for preventing widespread transmission. Uganda’s previous successes in controlling Ebola outbreaks have largely been built on rapid identification of suspected cases, prompt investigations, and timely response.

There is a common saying that “diseases do not read books.” They do not follow administrative boundaries, policies, or schedules. Instead, they exploit weaknesses in preparedness systems. Equally important is the recognition that diseases start in communities. The first warning signs are often noticed by families, village health teams, community leaders, and frontline health workers. Their ability to recognise and report unusual illnesses can mean the difference between a contained incident and a major outbreak.

This is why strengthening community-based surveillance must remain a national priority. Communities should be empowered to report unusual illnesses without fear, stigma, or misinformation. Public trust and community engagement are as important as laboratories and treatment units in outbreak control. Investing in surveillance is also a sound economic decision. Prevention is more cost-effective than treatment. The resources required to strengthen surveillance systems, train health workers, and support community reporting are far less than the human and financial costs of managing a full-scale Ebola outbreak. Every case prevented saves lives, protects livelihoods, and reduces pressure on already stretched health systems.

Preparedness must therefore be continuous, not reactive. Strengthening surveillance at points of entry, improving information sharing with neighbouring countries, investing in digital reporting systems, and conducting regular preparedness exercises are critical measures that will protect Uganda from future outbreaks. The ongoing Ebola outbreak serves as a reminder that disease threats remain a reality for our region. However, it also demonstrates that early detection, rapid reporting, and community participation can significantly reduce their impact. For border regions such as West Nile, strengthening surveillance is not merely a health sector priority; it is a national security imperative.

Uganda’s ability to prevent the next Ebola outbreak will depend on how well we strengthen and sustain the systems that detect the first case before it becomes the next epidemic.

With 18 months left before the Shs850 billion GROW Project ends in December 2027, many women entrepreneurs in Busoga remain locked out despite demand for affordable financing.

Interviews with district focal persons, banks, leaders and women point to collateral requirements, limited bank access, poor awareness and fear of spouses taking the money as the main barriers.

In Mayuge, only seven women have accessed GROW loans since rollout.

“Very many women have welcomed the GROW project but are unable to benefit because of a few challenges. Most women in Mayuge do not own land, yet banks mainly require land as collateral,” said Ms Susan Namuwoya, Mayuge GROW focal person.

She added that some married women avoid applying: “Many women are afraid to access the loans because they fear their husbands will take control of the money. Some women don’t even want their spouses to know they are applying.”

In Luuka, distance to banks is a hurdle. “Many women must travel to Iganga to access banking services. Transport costs and repeated trips to the banks discourage applicants,” said Ms Janet Luwano, Luuka focal person. “Most women do not own land titles. They have to seek consent from husbands or relatives, which complicates the process.”

Namutumba’s Mr Nicholas Kairu said registration and distance are blocking applicants: “Most enterprises are not registered in their own names… Namutumba does not have a branch of any of the participating banks, forcing women to travel to Iganga.”

Kaliro’s Ms Harriet Atibwa said frustrations have eroded trust: “Women are told to return several times and some eventually lose trust in the process.”

Programme implementers insist money is available. “As of March, 349 women entrepreneurs in Busoga had received GROW loans,” said Paul Nuwagaba, Access to Finance Specialist at PSFU. He added that informal businesses can qualify: “As long as the business can be verified, women can qualify.”

Banks say documentation is the challenge. “Most women do not have formal ownership documents for land or other assets. This makes it difficult to assess business ownership,” said Mr Basil Oyet Otoo of Centenary Bank Iganga. By June 2026, Centenary had disbursed Shs1.3 billion to 61 women in Busoga.

Women leaders want SACCOs and microfinance included. “The women are eager to borrow and grow their businesses, but they need clearer guidance and financial institutions that are closer to them,” said Luuka Woman MP Annet Nabirye.

Some beneficiaries say it works. “I received a Shs20 million GROW loan, which has helped me expand my business,” said Ms Joyce Mukyala of Luuka. Others missed out: “I have never received a GROW loan because I did not know the programme existed,” said Ms Florence Namukose.

The five-year World Bank-funded GROW Project runs to December 2027. It offers loans of up to 10% interest annually through nine banks, plus training and grants.

A dramatic online exchange between the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, and the Minister for Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has gripped Ugandans on X (UOX) following shocking DNA results regarding the lineage of the late Kadongo Kamu music icon, Prince Job Paul Kafeero.

The definitive scientific findings, released by the Uganda Police Forensic Directorate on Thursday, June 25, 2026, revealed that out of 25 individuals claiming to be Kafeero’s biological children, only four are his actual offspring.

The stunning revelation has not only upended a two-decade-long multi-billion estate battle but has also triggered a profound national debate on genetics, facial resemblances, and paternal trust.

Reacting to the sweeping disqualification of 21 claimants-many of whom bear a striking physical resemblance to the late Walumbe Zaaya singer-Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa took to social media to express his disbelief. He questioned whether the late singer’s brothers should also be tested to verify if another family member fathered the rejected children.

“I propose we go ahead and do DNA with the rest of Kafeero’s brothers to close this chapter. Otherwise that resemblance cannot be wished away comrade Atenyi,” Tayebwa posted on X, addressing Minister Barugahara. “Total closure of this matter is needed especially for those children who are total photocopies of the late. Who fathered them? I trust you on handling such complicated matters and I’m sure you will handle.”

Minister Barugahara, who heavily stepped in to coordinate and fund the costly forensic exercise, swiftly countered the Deputy Speaker’s skepticism. He defended the rigorous nature of the scientific process, noting that multiple elite institutions had verified the findings.

“Better, my brother Rt. Hon. @Thomas_Tayebwa,” Balaam replied. “Three independent laboratories have confirmed this fact-not just one: MBN Laboratory, Police Forensic Laboratory, and the Government Analytical Laboratory. These are verified findings. However, the late Paul sang a song that many should listen to carefully and reflect upon.”

Unconvinced by the absolute finality of the laboratory reports, Tayebwa jokingly noted that the outcome creates an existential worry for many children across the country.

“I do not doubt science but if this gentleman is not Paul Kafeero’s son then we might need to do DNA of our parents when they’re still alive. Cheeiiiii!!!” Tayebwa fired back.

The highly anticipated results were unveiled on Thursday afternoon at the Police Headquarters in Naguru. Tensions ran high as dozens of claimants, family members, and legal stakeholders gathered in a hushed room to hear the definitive scientific findings.

Reading the results, the Director of Forensic Services for the Uganda Police Force, Acting Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIGP) Andrew Mubiru, announced that a staggering 21 claimants had been scientifically excluded.

According to the official forensic report, only the following four individuals share a biological match with the late maestro:

Simon Peter Kafeero

Elizabeth Nagawa

Thomas Swazi Kafeero (Schwarz)

Benedict Kafeero (Dube)

“Science does not lie,” AIGP Mubiru noted during the briefing. “These forensic results provide an indisputable, legal framework to finally establish the rightful heirs to Kafeero’s name and estate.”

The massive DNA verification exercise was conducted under the direct supervision of the Ministry of Local Government and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development. Key officials overseeing the process included Minister Barugahara and the Director of the Government Analytical Laboratory, Kepher Kuchana Kateu.

Paul Job Kafeero, who tragically passed away in 2007 at the age of 36, remains one of the most influential and celebrated figures in the history of Ugandan music. Renowned for his deep storytelling, mastery of the acoustic guitar, and timeless hits like Buladina, his music still enjoys massive airplay and generates substantial royalties.

However, because Kafeero died intestate (without a valid will), his vast musical catalog, intellectual property, and extensive land holdings became the center of bitter family feuds. Over the last two decades, the number of individuals claiming to be his children grew exponentially, stalling the distribution of his estate.

The scientific breakthrough follows a dramatic turn of events when the remains of the music icon were exhumed from his resting place in Buikwe District following a strict court order. The exhumation was necessary to obtain viable bone and tissue samples for accurate comparative testing.

Government Chief Pathologist, Dr. Moses Byaruhanga, who oversaw the sensitive procedure, defended the decision as a necessary measure to put an end to years of internal family rancour.

Earlier, Stella Nantongo, one of Kafeero’s widely acknowledged children, expressed the emotional weight the family carried throughout the process, describing the exhumation as a painful but unavoidable step.

“This is the last thing we wanted to happen to our father’s resting place,” Nantongo said. “But if it is the only way to solve the underlying issues tearing the family apart, then it is good that it has been done.”

Away from the public disputes, much of Kafeero’s physical estate has gradually disappeared over the years. According to administrators, several houses the singer once owned in Kawuku, Lweza, Namuwongo, Maganjo, and Entebbe were sold off during the early years after his death.

“We sold off the Kajjansi house under pressure and duress from the family,” Thomas Kafeero Schwarz told Monitor. Schwarz was only 14 when his father died. On January 30, 2025, letters of administration over Kafeero’s estate were officially granted to him and Elizabeth Nagawa.

For the administrators, the focus is now moving toward preserving Kafeero’s real inheritance: his music. Through the Prince Job Paul Kafeero Cultural Heritage Foundation, led by executive director and legal adviser Derrick Fredrick Namakajjo, efforts are underway to formally protect and catalog at least 71 songs connected to the maestro.

While the family conflict and the political exchanges between Tayebwa and Balaam continue to generate national headlines, the long-running feud over the legendary crooner’s lineage has finally reached its scientific endgame.

Fixed broadband provider Savanna Uganda has officially entered the country’s competitive mobile telecommunications sector, signaling an aggressive push for market share with an unlimited voice and data proposition.

The move transitions the company from a strictly Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) provider into a fully integrated Mobile Network Operator (MNO), intensifying competition in a market traditionally dominated by giants MTN Uganda and Airtel Uganda.

Initially launching across Kampala and the Greater Kampala region, the new service introduces a converged billing model. Under this setup, existing home or office fiber internet clients can add mobile SIM cards to their subscription plans for an incremental fee, managing both fixed and mobile services under a single account.

Speaking at the launch, Savanna Uganda Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alex Wanyoike, described the expansion as a milestone for both the company and the country’s digital economy.

“Today marks a transformative moment for Savanna Fibre Uganda and for the people and businesses we serve. We are proud to extend our robust fiber-driven customer model into mobile, delivering truly unlimited voice and data at an affordable incremental price,” Mr. Wanyoike said.

He added that integrating mobile SIMs with existing fiber plans would create a seamless and scalable connectivity experience, setting “a new standard for value, simplicity, and performance in Africa’s telecom landscape.”

Savanna’s entry comes at a time of robust growth within the local digital landscape. According to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) market report for the first quarter of 2026, Uganda’s telecommunications sector boasts 61.6 million mobile subscriptions, 2.37 billion mobile money transactions, and Shs 1.6 trillion in quarterly sector revenues.

Industry observers view the launch as a significant disruption, particularly as demand for affordable high-speed internet and mobile data continues to surge among households, small businesses, and digital entrepreneurs. By offering “unlimited” packages-a major pain point for data-heavy users in Uganda-Savanna aims to carve out a niche among tech-savvy urban consumers.

While the immediate rollout focuses on the central region before expanding to other parts of Uganda, the company has set its sights on cross-border growth. Management indicated that its long-term strategy involves replicating this integrated connectivity model in other African markets, including South Africa.

The company stated that its expansion reflects a commitment to driving digital inclusion by leveraging its established fiber infrastructure to provide cheaper, more reliable communication services.

Iconic male chimpanzee Asega, 28, died on Wednesday after sustaining blunt force trauma in the head, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary management has revealed.

In a statement issued Thursday evening, the management said Asega was “found lying unresponsive in the sleeping chimpanzee facility on Ngamba Island” and preliminary post-mortem results indicated “the cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head, with sudden death.”

Management explained the incident likely occurred during the chimps’ normal morning activity.

“On the morning of the 24th, there was a short but heavy downpour at about 6:30am, and as usual, the male chimpanzees were swinging around thumping against used tyres and platforms in the sleeping structure as is their normal behavior,” the statement reads.

Asega “was particularly known for this and very agile and athletic about swinging from hanging tyres in acrobatic moves, often including summersaulting, etc. It believed to have possibly missed a step resulting into collision of his head with the concrete floor.”

Rescued from Arua in 1998, Asega was a high-ranking male known as “the acrobat” for his ability to jump over 3m fences. His prowess “prompted the construction of a special high-security fence for him and his closet colleague, Mawa, in 2023,” management noted.

“The trust added that “Asega’s story will continue to serve as a poignant example of the urgent need for conservation efforts and the invaluable work of sanctuaries like Ngamba Island.”

Ms Dorothy Basemera, Communication and Marketing Officer at Chimpanzee Trust, said Asega’s death is a blow to the sanctuary.

‘Asega’s death has shocked us because we are worried about how Mawa will survive without him. They were very close,’ she said.

She added that Mawa may struggle to adjust to the rest of the group: ‘What we will do to support him is identify other chimps he can bond with and keep him company.’ Basemera noted burial arrangements for Asega will be communicated soon.

Located 23 kilometers southwest of Entebbe on Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary was established in 1998 to care for chimpanzees rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and other threats. The center currently provides a safe haven to 55 orphaned and rescued chimpanzees saved from poaching, deforestation, and human-wildlife conflict.

The yellow jerrycans are still lined up every morning at water points across refugee settlements in West Nile. But unlike a few years ago, when boreholes provided a reliable source of water for both refugees and host communities, today many residents spend hours waiting for a few litres.

In settlements such as Rhino Camp in Madi-Okollo District and Imvepi in Terego District, prolonged dry spells linked to climate change have intensified competition over scarce resources, triggering tensions between refugees and host communities.

Rhino Camp, home to more than 202,000 refugees and asylum seekers, has been among the hardest hit. The Ugandan government provided land for settlement while humanitarian agencies installed boreholes and solar-powered water systems. For years, the arrangement worked.

However, recurring droughts have lowered water tables, reducing the output of many boreholes and leaving thousands struggling to access clean water. Residents say they often walk long distances to reach water points, only to find long queues stretching along dusty paths.

A June 2018 report by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) highlighted similar challenges in Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, noting limited access to clean water, long waiting times and congestion at water points. The report also cited delays in repairing damaged boreholes and inadequate social services such as education facilities.

Today, many of those challenges remain. At some water points, solar-powered pumps that once supplied communities throughout the day now produce only a trickle as groundwater levels continue to decline. In Imvepi Refugee Settlement, women leader Sunday Joyce Joseph says climate change has increasingly affected livelihoods and access to water.

‘Where we are in Imvepi, the terrain is very rocky and very hot both day and night. The dry spells are very long. In 2024, the drought lasted about three months and everything we planted dried up. Last year was slightly better, but this year remains unpredictable,’ she says.

She adds that prolonged dry seasons dry up rivers and other traditional water sources, forcing residents to crowd around the few functioning boreholes.

According to residents, queues often begin before sunrise. Women and children leave their homes as early as 5am, hoping to secure water before supplies diminish.

As temperatures rise during the day, frustration often grows. Community leaders say disputes frequently arise when desperate residents attempt to jump queues or access water ahead of others.

In one recent incident, an argument between a refugee and a member of the host community escalated into a physical confrontation at a water point. Women shouted while children scrambled away clutching empty jerrycans.

Although such incidents are usually contained before they escalate, local leaders warn that increasing pressure on natural resources is straining relations between communities. Water is not the only source of conflict.

In districts hosting large refugee populations, including Madi-Okollo, Yumbe and Terego, competition over land for cultivation, firewood and grass for thatching has also increased.

Prolonged dry spell

The sub-region experiences a prolonged dry season from December to March, followed by another shorter dry spell around May.

During these periods, communities depend heavily on limited natural resources for survival. Ms Grace Neima Khemis, the chairperson of the Refugee Welfare Committee in Bidi Bidi Refugee Settlement, says dialogue remains critical in preventing conflicts.

‘We have scarce resources such as water, firewood and charcoal. People struggle for these resources during both the dry and wet seasons. Whenever conflicts arise, we call meetings and encourage dialogue to resolve the issues,’ she says.

The Terego District Environment Officer, Mr John Engavile, says many disputes stem from the harsh realities communities face. ‘For most people in the settlements, it is a matter of survival,’ he says.

Similarly, Yumbe District Senior Gender Officer Jamal Kira says conflicts often emerge when residents cross into neighbouring communities to collect water, firewood or fruits.

‘Such disagreements occur, but they are usually resolved through discussions and community dialogue,’ he adds.

Development partners are increasingly warning that climate change is becoming a major driver of insecurity in refugee-hosting areas.

Speaking during a dialogue on peacebuilding and climate resilience involving political leaders, technical officers and refugee-led organisations, Oxfam Uganda Country Director Francis Shanty Odokorach called for integrated responses to the growing crisis.

‘Climate change is no longer a distant environmental concern. It is already affecting livelihoods, food security and community stability across Uganda, particularly here in West Nile,’ he said.

‘When access to land, water, forests and livelihoods becomes strained, tensions can arise within and between communities. This is why we must invest in integrated solutions that strengthen resilience, promote inclusion and build lasting peace,’ he added.

I struggle with the idea of crying openly

The last time someone genuinely checked on me was about two weeks ago. A friend I work with pulled me aside and said, ‘Let us put work aside for a moment. How are you?’ We ended up having a real brotherhood conversation. I was surprised because we are usually focused on projects and deadlines. When I hear the phrase ‘be a man,’ I have mixed feelings. On one hand, it can feel affirming, especially if you are working towards matching the stereotypical idea of a man. On the other hand, it comes with pressure and unrealistic expectations. As men, we are often valued only for what we provide or achieve rather than who we are as human beings. Sometimes it says more about the person using the phrase than the person receiving it. Many of the expectations attached to masculinity were shaped in a different era. Society has changed, but some of those ideas have remained, making it difficult for men to navigate modern life while carrying traditional expectations.

If I could change one thing about men’s mental health, it would be encouraging more dialogue between generations. We need honest conversations about why so many men are struggling and how society has changed. Many young men are carrying the weight of expectations they can no longer meet, and it is affecting their wellbeing. Men will thrive when they are allowed to explore different paths, express themselves freely, and pursue the things that give their lives meaning. When it comes to vulnerability, I believe it is healthy for men to express their emotions. However, if I am honest, I still struggle with the idea of crying openly. Personally, I would rather cry in private than in public. That is not because I think crying is wrong, but because many men are still judged for showing emotion. Even so, I believe men should not suppress their feelings. Sometimes emotions become too overwhelming to hide, and there should be no shame in expressing them.

One challenge many men face is feeling pressured to follow a narrow definition of success. Society often celebrates careers such as medicine, law, or engineering while looking down on creative paths. As a digital creator and storyteller, I experienced that firsthand. In the beginning, I was ridiculed for the work I chose to do. Even some members of my family did not understand my vision. People questioned my choices and doubted my future. Thankfully, I believed in myself and stayed committed to my calling. Today, the same work that was once mocked is beginning to make sense to those around me. I feel happiest and safest when I am doing what I was created to do. Storytelling, meaningful conversations, music, creativity, and art make me feel alive. They reconnect me to a sense of purpose and allow me to contribute positively to the world around me.

Ivan Nuwaha, Student at Kabale University

Sometimes people dismiss your struggles

The biggest sources of stress for men are usually financial responsibilities, family obligations, and social pressure. Young men also face challenges. There is pressure to establish yourself financially, support your family, maintain relationships, and prepare for the future. And then there is comparison. You look at your friends and peers and see them achieving certain milestones, while you may feel left behind. Whether it is career growth, financial success, or personal achievements, comparison can make a man question his own progress and worth. Unfortunately, coping with stress is not always easy. Society often tells men to ‘man up.’ When a man opens up about his struggles, some people view him as weak or incapable. Because of this, many men choose to suffer in silence.

Personally, I try to talk to close friends when I am going through difficult situations. Many men also turn to sports and entertainment as a way of relieving stress. Watching football, for example, helps some people take their minds off their problems for a while. Some men resort to alcohol or substance use when they feel overwhelmed. Men need more opportunities to openly discuss the challenges they face. Workplaces can create spaces where employees talk about stress and mental wellbeing. The more these conversations happen, the more men will feel comfortable seeking support.

I would rate my own support system five out of 10. There are times when I open up to family members and trusted friends, but there are also times when I keep things to myself because sometimes people dismiss what you are going through and tell you that your problem is too small to worry about. That can make it difficult to seek help again. My message to fellow men is to not carry every burden alone. Sometimes the strongest thing a man can do is ask for help.

Andrew Mwanguhya, Journalist and Host of The Game of Life Podcast

Many people see the success, the smile not the struggles

One of the biggest things society needs to change is how it views men emotionally. Men feel, hurt and have emotions. Most importantly, men want to be understood. There is often an assumption that only women want understanding and emotional support, but men need that too. Being understood gives them fuel to move forward

Vulnerability, I believe, differs from person to person. We all have different levels of comfort when it comes to sharing our struggles. There are things I can talk about openly and things I cannot. There are moments when I feel ready to share, and moments when I decide to deal with something privately. It comes down to self-awareness. When you understand yourself and your emotions, you are better equipped to respond to challenges.

I sometimes struggle to ask for help, especially when it comes to finances. Part of it is not wanting to inconvenience other people. I often tell myself that I can find a way through the situation on my own. However, when circumstances become overwhelming, I turn to people I trust and explain what I am going through. I have learnt that talking to the right people can bring a great sense of relief. Many people see the success, the smile, and the achievements but do not see the personal struggles behind the scenes. Sometimes you are carrying financial pressures or unfulfilled ambitions while still showing up every day and doing your best.

What glitters on the surface is perhaps not the full story. When people return to the quiet of their homes, the truth reveals itself. So again, awareness. When it comes to happiness and peace of mind, financial stability certainly helps. Money may not solve every problem, but it gives you the freedom to meet your responsibilities and make decisions without constant stress. Beyond that, I find a lot of peace in solitude. I enjoy spending time with people, but I also value my own space.

Gideon Nova Kwikiriza, Digital consultant

Many men are trapped in silence

There is progress around men’s mental health. Years ago, the perception was very different. Men were often expected to suppress their emotions and be strong at all times, yet challenges do not choose between men and women. I am a victim of those social expectations myself. However, I have come to understand that being emotionally open is not a sign of weakness. If a man is struggling, he should be able to talk to someone he trusts. When men are denied that opportunity to express themselves, the consequences can be serious. Many men find themselves trapped in silence, carrying burdens they feel they cannot share because they have been told that ‘a real man’ does not talk about his problems. Some reach a point where they feel completely alone. This is one reason why we see high rates of suicide among men.

Our upbringing also plays a role in how we handle mental health. Some men grow up in environments where emotions are openly expressed, while others are raised to suppress them. Because of these differences, we cannot expect all men to respond to difficulties in the same way. For me, one of the most important lessons is knowing when to seek help. If you cannot speak to a friend or family member, then seek professional support. There is no shame in doing so.

Beewol – Radio host

Allow men to break down

The things that stress me as a human being, not just as a man, are many. On any given day, there could be more than 20 things weighing on my mind. It could be bills. Other times it is uncertainty about the future. I get stressed when things do not go according to plan, when expectations placed on me feel overwhelming, or even when the sports teams I support perform poorly.

When I feel overwhelmed, I listen to music, meditate, and read. When I am particularly low, I often sit quietly and allow myself to process whatever I am feeling. It may seem unusual, but silence helps me find clarity. One thing I rarely do, however, is share my struggles with other people. I tend to look inward for solutions rather than outward. Perhaps that is something that needs to change.

In terms of support, I do not ask for much. I have learnt to live with simple and modest expectations. What I want from family, friends, colleagues, and the people around me is understanding. I want them to recognise that I am doing my best. None of us is perfect, and failure and disappointment are part of life. The same grace I extend to others is the grace I hope they would extend to me. I find peace by spending time by myself. It may seem ironic because I love people, but being alone with my thoughts gives me a sense of calm.

Sadly, I do not think my support system is particularly strong. The ugly truth for most of us men is we keep things to ourselves because we do not think those around us can handle the pressure we have. Others have tried to open up and have been judged harshly so we cave in to the fears of things like vulnerability and sharing. If I could change one thing about how society treats men, it would be to allow men to break down, feel emotions, and ask for help without fear of ridicule.

Society needs to be kinder to men, especially those who are pillars of others. Such men give so much love but rarely get that love given back to them. Do I feel appreciated enough as a man? The truth is people far away from me usually tend to appreciate me more than those close to me. And that is the natural order of things. A prophet is never appreciated in his hometown. Some hobbies that men are often judged for enjoying prompt comments such as, ‘Why would a fully grown man watch soap operas, sing karaoke, read romance novels, drive a small car, or buy flowers?’ I do not watch soap operas myself, but I do not mind when other men do.