Category: Daily Monitor

As offices close for the holidays and the usual rush fades, many accountants wonder how to stay relevant when operations slow down. T

he truth is that this period, though quiet, offers some of the most valuable opportunities for professional growth. With fewer demands competing for attention, accountants can use this time to strengthen their skills, improve their systems, and position themselves for a stronger year ahead.

Here are practical, and educational ways accountants can remain relevant even when the office lights are off.

1. Use the quiet time to think clearly

When everything slows down, you finally get the chance to step back and actually think. Not the rushed thinking you do between tasks. Not the reactive thinking you do during crises. But the deeper kind, that helps you understand your patterns, your bottlenecks, and your future direction.

This is the perfect moment to ask yourself questions you ignore during busy months:

What drained me this year? Which tasks consistently overwhelmed me? Where did my processes break again and again? What do I want to remove, add, or redesign in my workflow before 2026 starts? Which habits need to stay behind in this year?

These questions shape your evolution. Reflection does not look productive on the outside, but it is the foundation of better decision-making and smoother systems.

The accountant who understands their own weaknesses and patterns is the one who grows faster than the accountant who simply survives deadlines.

2. Turn your knowledge into value

While the world is relaxing, business owners are quietly planning. They are reviewing the year, thinking about next steps, and preparing for Quarter 1. This is when your insights matter more than you think.

When you share a thoughtful observation during this season, maybe a mistake you saw many businesses repeating, a trend shaping next year, or a smarter approach to structuring finances, it lands deeper.

People actually have the mental bandwidth to absorb new ideas in December. And they remember the professionals who help them think ahead, not just the ones who close their books.

Your value is not only in what you know, it is in how you help others see more clearly.

3. Bring order to your own chaos

Let’s be honest. Every accountant has a ‘chaos corner.’ The folder is a mess. The desktop clutter. The half-finished template you intended to perfect. The automations you promised to set up. The digital workspace that makes you sigh every time you open it.

Well. now the pace has slowed down.

The holiday period is the perfect opportunity to give your professional environment a reset. This does not require pressure or intensity, just slow, intentional organisation.

Sort through old files. Clean up your digital systems. Name your documents properly. Archive what you don’t need. Create templates that save you time in January. Set up small automations that make your 2026 workload lighter.

These micro-adjustments create major clarity. When you start the year with order, you work faster, think better, and feel more in control.

4. Learn with intention, not overwhelm

December is filled with discounted courses, online trainings, and ‘year-end learning marathons.’ But staying relevant isn’t about signing up for everything. It is about choosing one thing, one skill, one tool, or one area that aligns with the direction of your profession moving toward.

Maybe it is a new compliance standard you need to understand. Maybe it is a tech tool that could streamline your work. Maybe it is analytics or financial interpretation, or maybe it is a new approach to advisory services.

The goal is not quantity. Its depth.

The accountants who grow steadily are the ones who learn with intention, not the ones who collect certificates for show.

5. Stay present without performing workaholism

You don’t need to prove you are working during the holidays. You don’t need to post your laptop next to a glass of juice at the beach. You don’t need to act like you are powered by hustle.

Presence can be subtle, strategic, and calm. A simple message to your clients thanking them for the year is enough. A short reflection on LinkedIn keeps you visible. A helpful resource shared online shows you’re still thinking about your community. A small reminder about year-end tasks positions you as proactive without overworking.

You can be present without being loud. You can be visible without being exhausted.

6. Build your personal brand during the holiday calm

Your personal brand is not your job title. It is how people experience your expertise. And the holiday season is the perfect time to focus on it because the online space becomes quieter, more reflective, and more receptive.

This is your moment to show who you are beyond spreadsheets. Take time to articulate your expertise through content.

Your personal brand is built through clarity, consistency, and authenticity, not loudness. When people understand your voice, your thinking, and your approach, they don’t just see you as an accountant. They see you as the trusted professional whose insights they want in their corner.

This is how you position yourself for bigger opportunities in the coming year, better clients, better partnerships, and better visibility.

7. Rest because your mind needs it

Rest is not laziness. Rest is not falling behind. Rest is not unprofessional.

For all professionals, especially during this time of the year, rest is a competitive advantage.

A rested mind interprets numbers more accurately. A rested brain spots errors faster. A rested professional communicates better and handles clients with more clarity. A rested person makes better strategic decisions.

Burnout blocks the very skills that keep you relevant in the age of automation, judgment, insight, communication, and analytical thinking.

Rest protects the parts of your work that machines can’t replace.

Finally, the real advantage of the holiday is to slow down. Your relevance isn’t built by staying busy. It is built by staying intentional.

When the office is closed, your value comes from your clarity, your reflection, your organisation, your learning, your controlled presence, and your willingness to rest.

The holidays don’t take anything away from you. They create the space where you sharpen what you bring to the table. If you use this season well, you enter the new year not just refreshed, but smarter, clearer, and more strategically positioned than before.

Before you log off for the year, take a moment and ask yourself this:

What is one intentional action you can take during this holiday season that will make your 2026 easier, smarter, or more profitable?

Is it clarifying your processes? Refreshing your personal brand? Organising your digital chaos? Learning a tool you have ignored all year? Or finally positioning yourself as the strategic accountant businesses rely on?

Dedan Mutatinensi is a tax consultant and accountant.

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) has restricted the importation of all Starlink satellite internet equipment into the country.

The December 19, memo from the office of the Customs Control Department (CCD) at the URA signed by a one Asadu Kigozi, that surfaced on Monday December 22, 2025, directed all customs staff to stop clearing the importation of Starlink gadgets, communication equipment or associated components unless the importer presents a clearance from the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Force (UPDF). The CCD is mandated to manage, collect, and administer international trade taxes, facilitate legitimate trade, and protect society by enforcing customs laws and regulations.

The memo reads in part: ‘This communication serves to officially notify staff about the immediate restriction on the importation and customs clearance of Starlink technology gadgets, communication equipment, and associated components.’

It added: ‘Any import declaration of the aforementioned items should be accompanied by a clearance/authorisation letter from the Chief of Defence Forces – Uganda Peoples Defence Force (UPDF)…This guidance takes effect immediately, and all staff are expected to adhere to it.’

Mr Kigozi did not, however, give reasons for the restrictions, which took effect immediately. Efforts to get a comment from URA were futile by press time because Mr Robert Kalumba, the assistant commissioner for Public and Corporate Affairs, did not answer our repeated calls. Calls to the Acting UPDF Spokesperson, Col Chris Magezi, also went unanswered.

But Mr Ibrahim Bbosa, the spokesperson of the Uganda Communication Commission (UCC), the government agency mandated to regulate all communication in the country, defended the move. ‘… the Commission, working closely with the security agencies, has raised concerns about unscrupulous individuals importing satellite dishes that have not received type approval from the Commission. In response, the Commission is collaborating with the security services to share intelligence and address the illegal importation of non-type-approved devices, in line with the law.’

He added that satellite dishes are classified as communications equipment and are therefore subject to mandatory type approval by the Commission before they can be imported, sold, installed, or used.

The requirement, he added, is set out in the Uganda Communications (Equipment Type Approval) Regulations, 2019, which apply to all communications equipment that is capable of transmitting, receiving, or interacting with radio or satellite signals.

‘Type approval is a regulatory process through which the Commission verifies that a piece of communications equipment complies with prescribed technical standards, safety requirements, and spectrum-use conditions. Once approved, the equipment is issued with a type approval certificate and must carry an official approval label,’ he said.

He added: ‘Satellite dishes receive radio frequency signals and interface with satellite communications systems. If unapproved equipment is used, it can cause harmful interference, compromise network integrity, or pose safety risks to users and installers. The regulations therefore require approval to protect consumers, ensure efficient spectrum use, and safeguard national communications infrastructure.’

Mr Bbosa further said the obligation applies to manufacturers, importers, distributors, sellers, installers, and users of satellite dishes because any equipment intended for use in Uganda, whether imported for commercial sale or private use, must be approved by the Commission unless a specific exemption or one-off approval has been granted.

Importation and enforcement

Importing or distributing satellite dishes that have not been type-approved is unlawful. The Commission works with other government agencies to verify compliance at points of entry and within the market. Non-approved equipment may be denied connection, confiscated, or subject to enforcement action under the law.

According to its official website, Starlink Technologies, owned by South African tech guru Elon Musk, is a satellite-based broadband internet service operated by Starlink Services, a subsidiary of the American aerospace company SpaceX.

The system uses a constellation of thousands of low Earth orbit satellites to deliver high-speed, low-latency internet directly to user terminals on the ground, bypassing the need for extensive fibre or mobile network infrastructure. It has been rolled out in numerous countries worldwide, particularly targeting regions with limited or unreliable internet access.

Due to its latest technology, it can bypass any Internet outage in case there is a blackout. The government, a few days before the 2021 polls, switched off the internet, a move officials said was aimed at taming disinformation and misinformation during the voting process and tallying.

The state minister for national guidance earlier this year said the government may again switch off the internet during the polls. Uganda will go into presidential and parliamentary polls on January 15, which is less than a month from now. This publication understands that the UCC is formulating a policy that will regulate the use of Starlink Technologies in Uganda.

The new development comes a few months after President Museveni met Starlink officials at State House, Nakasero, where discussions centred on the company’s proposed entry into Uganda’s telecommunications market. During that meeting, Museveni expressed interest in Starlink’s ability to provide affordable, high-speed internet to remote and under served areas, describing the technology as a potential solution to persistent connectivity gaps in rural Uganda.

Father Deusdedit Ssekabira, a priest of the Catholic Diocese of Masaka, is set to appear before the Masaka Chief Magistrates Court over allegations of money laundering involving Sh500 million at Centenary Bank’s Masaka branch, according to a police charge sheet seen by this publication.

The prosecution alleges that between 2023 and 2025, Fr Ssekabira and others ‘intentionally concealed or disguised the true ownership’ of the funds, knowing or suspecting that the money was the proceeds of crime. The charges cite Sections 3 (b), 119, and 139 (1) and (1)(a) of the Act of the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

Fr Ssekabira was abducted on December 3, 2025, by armed men in unmarked vehicles without a warrant or formal explanation. He was subsequently held incommunicado at an ungazetted detention facility.

The army, in a statement, justified his detention because he was allegedly involved in violent subversive activities against the state. ‘Rev Fr Ssekabira is currently in lawful custody to assist with further investigations into the matter. He will be produced in the courts of law and charged accordingly,’ said Co Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information.

The arrest prompted strong reactions from members of parliament and Catholic lawyers, who described the detention as unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental human rights. Many called for his immediate release or for him to be produced before a court without further delay.

Fr Ssekabira’s appearance before the Masaka Chief Magistrate’s Court marks the next stage in a high-profile case that has attracted widespread attention, as the legal proceedings unfold.

The festive season is a time for joy, connection, and celebration for various people, but it can also put pressure on your finances.

The Christmas season is always a great time to come together as families to celebrate the year. For some, this means going back to the village, visiting parents and traveling out of the country.

It is also a season when Ugandans are gearing up to splurge on Christmas celebrations. From gifts to decorations, food, and entertainment, the holiday season is a time for indulgence and merriment.

It is certainly fine to celebrate this season since it is partly what life is about.

For many Ugandans, Christmas is a time to let loose and enjoy the fruits of their labour. With the economy growing and disposable incomes increasing, many people are willing to splurge on gifts, travel, and entertainment.

According to a recent survey, more than 70 percent of Ugandans plan to spend more on Christmas this year compared to last year.

Gift giving is a significant part of Christmas celebrations in Uganda. From electronics to clothing, jewelry, and toys, the list of gifts to buy is endless. Many people start shopping early to avoid last-minute rushes and take advantage of discounts and promotions. With the rise of online shopping, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect gift without breaking the bank.

No Christmas celebration is complete without a feast. Ugandans love indulging in traditional dishes such as luwombo, matooke, and roasted meats, accompanied by cold drinks and festive cocktails. With the increasing popularity of social media, many people are also opting for catering services to make their Christmas parties more memorable.

For many Ugandans, Christmas is a time to travel and explore new destinations. With improved infrastructure and more affordable transportation options, many people are taking advantage of the holiday season to visit friends and family or explore new places.

Christmas spending has a significant impact on the Ugandan economy. According to estimates, Christmas spending accounts for a substantial portion of annual sales for many businesses. From retail stores to restaurants and hotels, many industries rely on Christmas spending to boost their sales.

But how can you keep the festive cheer without breaking the piggy bank for Christmas?

According to a survey, more than 40 percent of Ugandans take loans or dip into their savings and one of the activities they fund Christmas celebrations. Many people also rely on mobile loans and savings apps to access funds quickly.

Financial counsel

According to Ronald Mukasa, a financial literacy coach at Enterprise Uganda and Geuka Africa Limited, “Christmas season is always a great time to come together as families to celebrate the year, thank God for overcoming challenges.”

However, Mukasa cautions that it is essential to celebrate in moderation and avoid overspending, which can lead to financial difficulties in the New Year.

Before splurging on festive activities, Mukasa advises taking a step back to reflect on what is important during this season.

“What is most important to you during this season?” he asks. Is it spending quality time with family, relaxing, or exploring new places?

By identifying what’s truly important, individuals can focus on activities that bring joy without breaking the bank. As Mukasa notes, “Some may only need presence and good planning,” rather than a hefty price tag.

Budgeting

Once priorities are established, set a realistic budget for the Christmas season. Mukasa suggests allocating a specific amount for festivities and sticking to it.

“If all you have is Shs500,000, don’t plan to do an activity of Shs2m,” he advises. By being mindful of one’s financial limitations, individuals can avoid financial stress and debt.

Managing expectations

Mukasa also emphasizes the importance of managing family expectations and communicating openly about what is and is not possible.

“If you can’t afford to go to the village this year, call the family and share this with them, send a manageable contribution and tell them you can’t be there physically,” he suggests.

By being proactive and transparent, you can avoid financial strain and still enjoy quality time with loved ones. As Mukasa puts it, “Enjoy yourself within your means…it could be in your house, neighbourhood but have fun within your means.”

By following these guidelines, individuals can celebrate the Christmas season with joy and financial peace of mind. As Mukasa notes, “It may not be wise to spend all your saving to ‘have fun’ during the season.” Instead, consider setting aside funds for January expenses, such as school fees, to avoid financial stress in the New Year.

By prioritising financial prudence, individuals can start the New Year on a solid financial footing. The pressure to spend during Christmas can be overwhelming. With social media platforms filled with images of lavish gifts and parties, many people feel compelled to keep up with the Joneses. However, financial experts warn that overspending can lead to financial stress and debt.

According to Naseem Mubarak Nakato, a financial inclusion consultant, “Having a specific goal, like saving for Christmas, gives purpose to your savings. It’s amazing how having a clear objective can make saving more meaningful and motivating.”

By setting aside a specific amount each month, individuals can ensure a joyful celebration without breaking the bank. For instance, saving Shs250,000 per month for 12 months can help reach a goal of Shs3 million, making it possible to enjoy Christmas without financial stress.

Nakato emphasizes the importance of planning and discipline in managing finances, especially around predictable events like Christmas.

“Breaking the piggy bank can lead to emotional spending patterns and disrupt long-term savings goals.” By starting to save early, individuals can spread the cost and enjoy the festivities without financial stress. This approach helps break the cycle of impulsive spending and promotes a healthier relationship with money.

Creating a sinking fund is a strategic way to save for Christmas, making it a deliberate, planned part of one’s finances. As Nakato puts it, “A sinking fund is like having a dedicated ‘Christmas bucket’ where you put aside a little bit each month, knowing exactly how much you’ll have when the time comes.”

This approach takes away the excuse of “getting away with it” and sets individuals up for success, allowing them to enjoy the festivities without financial stress.

Sinking fund strategy

By implementing a sinking fund strategy, individuals can benefit from a more intentional and prepared approach to holiday savings.

Nakato’s approach can help people prioritise and make conscious financial decisions, ensuring a joyful Christmas celebration without breaking the bank. As he asks, “How do you think others can benefit from implementing a sinking fund strategy for their own holiday savings?” The answer lies in taking control of one’s finances and making saving a deliberate part of holiday planning.

Creative ways to celebrate

For those on a tight budget, there are creative ways to celebrate Christmas without breaking the bank. From homemade gifts to potluck dinners and game nights, there are many ways to have fun and festive cheer without overspending.

Christmas spending is a significant aspect of Ugandan culture. While many people break the piggy bank for Christmas, others adopt budgeting strategies to manage their expenses. By focusing on the true spirit of Christmas and adopting smart financial habits, you can have a festive and memorable holiday season.

Security chiefs in the Busoga sub-region have identified crime hotspots ahead of the Christmas and New Year festivities and urged residents to take extra precautions.

The officials, who addressed journalists in different districts, also issued safety tips to curb crime during the festive season.

The Busoga East Police spokesperson, Mr Michael Kasadha, identified Idudi Town and Busembatya Town in Bugweri District as major crime hotspots.

He also cited Kigandalo Sub-county in Bunya East, Mayuge District, noting that insecurity there is driven by political violence and other criminal activities.

‘As I speak now, we have just come from a security meeting in Mayuge District where rival supporters attacked one another, among other incidents,’ Mr Kasadha said, advising residents in the affected areas to remain vigilant and avoid moving with valuables late at night, especially without security.

In Kaliro District, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner and deputy head of security, Mr Rogers Kiduma, identified several crime black spots, including Sakka Bridge along the Kaliro-Pallisa road, Lumbuye Swamp between Bulamogi North West and Bulamogi County, Naigombwa Swamp bordering Kaliro and Namutumba districts, and the Lumbuye stretch near Luuka District.

Mr Kiduma said at least two people have been killed by thugs since the beginning of December, including a boda boda rider identified as Ali Kiige, who was murdered in Butongole.

He cautioned boda boda riders to be extra vigilant, noting that criminals are increasingly targeting them to steal motorcycles and personal belongings.

‘Some criminals place chloroform in their bags and ask riders to carry them in front, causing dizziness before robbing them,’ Mr Kiduma warned.

He added that a new police patrol vehicle has been deployed to improve security, although it cannot cover all areas simultaneously.

In Luuka District, crime hotspots were identified as Bulanga Town Council, Bunafu Village in Ikumbya Sub-county, Namansenda in Bukooma Sub-county, and Luuka Town.

The Assistant RDC, Mr Rogers Ntogona, said women have been raped, residents attacked with machetes, and property stolen in the affected areas.

‘We have not yet recorded any deaths, but some victims have suffered serious injuries, including loss of body parts,’ Mr Ntogona said, urging residents to work closely with security agencies by being vigilant and reporting suspicious individuals to help curb crime.

In Jinja District, security officials confirmed that four people have been killed in attacks at known crime hotspots.

The Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Mr Samuel Kawuta, identified the areas as Buweera Village in Kagoma Town Council, Kiko Swamp along the Buyengo-Muguluka Road, Mwiri Ward in Kakira Town Council, Wanyange Lake Village, and Polota Village in Kakira Town Council.

Mr Kawuta advised residents to use registered boda boda riders operating from recognised stages when travelling during the festive season to reduce the risk of robbery.

The Jinja Resident City Commissioner, Mr Richard Gulume Balyaino, said several key suspects have been arrested and remanded to prison.

He urged the public to remain security-conscious, avoid moving alone at night, and strengthen neighbourhood watch arrangements.

‘As authorities, we have deployed security personnel at major public places. If possible, move in groups, especially at night, to avoid attacks,’ Mr Gulume said.

He also assured residents of peaceful elections, urging them to avoid violence and reminding them that they will continue living together after the polls.

Mr Gulume added that more than 1,000 police constables trained in Jinja will be deployed to polling stations to maintain security.

Louise Nakayenga is not one to be confined by the obvious path. She is a builder, but her most significant creation has been her own career. A trained economist, Nakayenga charted her course through varied fields before arriving at her true calling; furniture making. Her journey began with the safe choice; a Bachelor of Arts in Economics after Senior Six. It was a sensible, structured path, the kind that placates parents and ambition with the promise of security.

Yet, even as she navigated the graphs and theories of economics, a different part of her mind resisted containment. Classrooms felt rigid; sciences were a struggle. Her natural habitat was the creative space, a world of intuition and expression. This was most evident in music. From childhood, she held a profound connection with the piano, pursuing formal training and examinations with a seriousness that hinted at a deeper passion. That passion never faded; today, she not only performs professionally but has also channeled it into founding the annual Piano Evenings; a testament to her creative drive. It was this innate need to make, to shape raw material into meaning, which economics could not satisfy. The logical framework of her studies provided a foundation, but the expressive force of her artistry demanded an outlet.

In her mother’s footsteps

After university, Nakayenga entered a season familiar to many graduates: dropping brown envelopes at offices and waiting for a call that never came. A period of uncertainty, it was defined by hope and a quiet desperation. Then, a casual conversation changed everything. A stranger offered her mother simple, profound advice; young people needed practical skills, not just degrees. “Let them study something they could do with their hands,” he said.

Nakayenga listened. In 2013, she travelled to South Africa to study landscape design. The plan made perfect sense; she was following a path her mother had pioneered.

In the 1970s, when such a course was almost unheard of in Uganda, her mother had studied horticulture in the United Kingdom. Before founding a respected landscape design firm, she had built a business in floral arrangements and décor. Nakayenga grew up in that creative world, spending Saturdays carrying stands into churches, tying ribbons, and watching temporary beauty bloom and fade. Later, her mother opened a plant showroom in Kansanga, shifting from events to selling potted plants and, eventually, designing gardens for a 1990s Ugandan market still unfamiliar with the concept. In this home, creativity was the norm. There were no hard “no’s” to ideas, only encouragement to try.

So, Nakayenga studied landscape design with every intention of returning to Kampala to join the family business. She did return, and she did work alongside her mother. But a quiet dissonance grew. “The more I did it, the more I realised I was not interested,” she says simply.

She stayed longer than she wanted to, burdened by the investment in her training and a fear of disappointment. For years, she pushed herself to show up at sites she did not love, doing work that drained her spirit. Yet, this period of wrongness was shaping her in essential ways. Landscape design trained her eye to see space in terms of layers, texture, balance, and flow. It also revealed a glaring contradiction to her: people would spend lavishly to build, paint, tile, and landscape their homes, only to fill them with boring, uninspired furniture.

“Just flat tables with four legs,” she recalls. “It did not make sense to me.”

That thought became a quiet obsession. While still working in landscaping, she began experimenting. She partnered with a skilled carpenter, designing a mirror here, a wine cabinet there. She hid these prototypes in her mother’s garage, tucked between wheelbarrows and tools, as if she herself wasn’t ready to claim them. Then, an ordinary day delivered an extraordinary moment. A woman came to the house to buy plants, wandered into the garage, and saw the mirror.

“What is this?” she asked.

Nakayenga explained.

The woman asked the price. Nakayenga, summoning a figure from the air, said: “Shs780,000.”

Without hesitation, the woman paid and asked for delivery the next day.

Nakayenga had never delivered or installed furniture. She figured it out. “I learnt on the job,” she says. That single, seamless sale changed everything. It was a vote of confidence not just in the product, but in her own vision.

A new path

With the path now clear, Nakayenga made a decisive pivot. In November 2014, she stopped working in landscape design and chose furniture, stepping out of her mother’s footsteps not to abandon creativity, but to pursue its purest expression.

Her mother’s blessing was simple and knowing: ‘I had already noticed. Go ahead.’

To mark the beginning, Nakayenga hosted a small, personal launch at home. She invited about 50 friends and family, set up tents in the garden, displayed her pieces, and served drinks. This was no grand commercial opening; it was an intimate, honest introduction. She named her venture Star Creations Antique Furniture, a name reflecting her artistic spirit and love for aged beauty.

Her focus on restoration and deliberate aging represents a profound rejection of the disposable and a deep commitment to creating art, not just furniture. This choice stems from an early observation that became a guiding conviction. She noticed that people would invest in beautiful homes only to furnish them with what she saw as lifeless objects; “flat tables with four legs” that were functional but devoid of soul. In response, she consciously turned toward old wood to oppose a culture of generic design, seeking instead to inject narrative, warmth, and intentional imperfection into the spaces of daily life.

Restoring heirlooms

Where others might see a worn-out wardrobe or a discarded table, Nakayenga sees a raw canvas with a hidden history. Her process is an act of artistic revelation, a form of collaboration with the material itself. She discovered that her clients often had deep emotional attachments to inherited pieces, seeking not replacement but resurrection. Her work, therefore, becomes about honouring a family’s story by giving a cherished heirloom a renewed future. She listens to the wood; its unique grain, scars, and patina, and allows it to guide the creative process.

By refurbishing, staining, and distressing, her goal is not to make the piece look new, but to heighten its inherent character, making its age beautiful and deliberate. This ensures that no two pieces are ever alike, each one a unique collaboration between the artist’s vision and the material’s own biography. This foundational philosophy is what defines her brand’s identity. Art carries a narrative; a brand-new piece has no past, but an antique or deliberately aged piece by Nakayenga carries the whisper of its former life, now layered with her artistic intervention. It becomes a living conversation piece whose beauty evolves as its surfaces wear and warm with time.

Her signature rustic style, which embraces imperfection, actively challenges the sterile perfection of mass production. The cracks, variations in stain, and handmade carvings are not flaws but the cherished marks of authenticity and artisanal intent, inviting both touch and contemplation. Nakayenga’s dedication to old wood extends beyond aesthetics into a sustainable and spiritual practice.

By reclaiming and revitalising existing timber, particularly Uganda’s precious indigenous hardwoods such as Mvule, she engages in a form of environmental stewardship, giving new life to resources without the need for new harvests. On a personal level, the process is deeply spiritual. She speaks of seeking “guidance, not exact things,” finding a meditative focus in the workshop. In the transformation of weathered wood, she sees a powerful metaphor for human resilience; that pain and difficulty can be refinished into strength and beauty.

The endurance of the material mirrors her own journey. She chooses to commit to depth over novelty, story over convenience, and soul over mere function. She is not just building furniture; she is curating legacy, proving that profound artistry often lies not in creating something from nothing, but in seeing the masterpiece waiting within what time has left behind.

Staying the course

‘When I started, few in Uganda made rustic antique furniture; now, many do. When fear creeps in, I remind myself to stick to my lane. You do not change your idea because others are coming,” Nakayenga says.

She shares her knowledge freely, advising others on marketing and client relationships, and believes Uganda’s advantage lies in its abundant hardwood and skilled, under-exposed carpenters.

Looking ahead

Her next goal is Nairobi, where she hopes to introduce her rustic style through thoughtful exhibitions. She aims to move slowly, letting her work speak for itself. For now, she is content. Wood was just another material until it sparked her creativity; now, it is the medium through which she is carving a lasting legacy. With precision, passion, and determination, she works with the quiet confidence that it can only get better.

Nakayenga believes art carries a narrative; a brand-new piece has no past, but an antique or deliberately aged piece carries the whisper of its former life, now layered with her artistic intervention. It becomes a living conversation piece whose beauty evolves as its surfaces wear and warm with time. Her signature rustic style, which embraces imperfection, actively challenges the sterile perfection of mass production.

Police are investigating the circumstances under which an 11-year-old female passenger died in a taxi at Kampala’s Old Taxi Park.

The juvenile who is yet to be identified is said to have died in a Toyota Hiace taxi at Tororo Stage, Kampala Central, at around 9 am on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

‘Preliminary investigations indicate that on December 22, 2025 at around 1630 hours, the driver of motor vehicle registration number UBM 696P, a Toyota Hiace (commonly known as a Drone), identified as Bosco Kalulu, was loading passengers at a stage in Tororo District, when a guide only known as Asuman brought to him a girl aged approximately 11 years, who was allegedly traveling to Walusubi in Mukono District,’ said Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, SP Racheal Kawala.

According to police, the driver was provided with two telephone contacts of the person who was to receive the girl upon arrival.

‘However, upon reaching Walusubi at about 0030 hours, the driver attempted to contact both numbers; but, one phone was switched off, while the other was answered by a person who stated that it was a wrong number,’ Ms Kawala added.

The driver then decided to proceed with the girl to Kampala, with the intention of taking her back to Tororo should the contacts remain unreachable.

‘The deceased spent the night inside motor vehicle UBM 696P. In the morning, after the vehicle was loaded to return to Tororo and was exiting Old Taxi Park, one of the passengers noticed that the child was motionless,’ ASP Kawala said in a Tuesday evening statement.

Police were notified of the incident, and a case of sudden death has since been registered. The body was conveyed to Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) mortuary at Mulago for postmortem.

A police search of the girl’s belongings unearthed a piece of paper containing two telephone numbers, a yellow T-shirt bearing the badge of St. Anthony Parents Mukono, with the name ‘Kiiza’ written on it.

Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased and trace her relatives.

‘We would like to advise parents and guardians to ensure that children travel in the company of a responsible adult or are appropriately supervised at all times for their safety,’ Ms Kawala said.

Two senior Luuka District engineering officials have been remanded to prison after being charged with stealing fuel meant for road works and orchestrating a job-selling scheme, anti-corruption agencies have said.

The Anti-Corruption Unit, in conjunction with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), on Monday arraigned Rajab Musisi, the Acting District Engineer, and Daniel Sengoba, an Assistant Engineering Officer (Civil), before the Iganga Chief Magistrate’s Court.

The two face charges of conspiracy to commit a felony and theft of fuel.

Court heard that the accused, together with Bernard Kayeyera, an assistant engineer who is still at large, allegedly misappropriated fuel worth Shs222.4 million during the 2024/2025 financial year.

The fuel was part of a Shs1 billion road maintenance grant and was intended for works on several roads, including Busanda-Ikumbya, Busalamu-Waibuga, Ikumbya-Nantamali, Bukoova-Nawaka, and Kyanvuma-Wandago.

Investigators allege that the engineers inflated fuel requirements, diverted fuel through irregular withdrawals or by issuing it to private individuals, and colluded with fuel station managers to falsify records. The fuel was allegedly accounted for as having been used by Works Department drivers, who later denied receiving it.

In a separate case, George Muduuli, the head teacher of Tabingwa Primary School, was charged with extortion related to recruitment exercises.

Prosecutors allege that Mr Muduuli collected between Shs5.7 million and Shs17 million from job applicants, promising to secure them positions within the district. He reportedly claimed the money would be paid to members of the District Service Commission to influence recruitment outcomes.

Investigations into other district officials and members of the District Service Commission are ongoing.

Court remanded the accused until January 8, 2026, as investigations continue.

For over six years, Ms Huda Yepuru, a resident of Arua City, had lost hope in life after she failed to attain a white-collar job, which she yearned for after completing her education.

After unsuccessful attempts to apply for jobs in several offices, she retreated to her village in Yumbe district. She was almost thrown into a state of despair because she had lost hope of attaining a job.

As the economy kept biting, she also tried establishing a business but did not succeed because of bad debts. She almost dropped out of school because of the school fees hardships.

But recently, her hope has been restored after she applied for a skilling project where she was picked.

She learnt tailoring and garment cutting at Mungufeni Foundation in Arua City for three months. She is now hopeful that she could become that cherished tailor in society because of the demand for new fashions both within Uganda and neighbouring South Sudan.

‘I was unable to get a job and became vulnerable just like other people who are educated but without jobs. I have gained the necessary skills because the knowledge is endless riches. People doing skilled jobs can even earn more money than those in white-collar jobs,’ she told the Monitor at the weekend.

She said there are women, orphans, and widows who are suffering economically because they cannot afford it. ‘I will need to upgrade with creativity using online platforms like YouTube because there are so many educational fashions there,’ she said.

Teenage motherhood, joblessness and being an orphan are framed as detrimental life and so there are preventive initiatives and interventions being conducted by both the government agencies and non-governmental organisations to avert the trend in the West Nile sub-region.

Another youth, Mr Gerald Akuku, who dropped out of school in Senior Twoare due to school fees challenges, said: ‘Life in a jobless world is very difficult because I dropped out of school and was just staying home. When there is a need for you to buy some personal effects, it becomes difficult. You can turn into a beggar.’

But now, Mr Akuku, who has got some skills in Tailoring, said: ‘I will use this skill to develop and become one of the best tailors. With the high population in Arua City, I can earn money that can sustain my life.’

The intervention for the disadvantaged lot

The Secretariat Manager for Mungufeni Foundation, Mr Hophin Jakwonga, said several youths are suffering from a detrimental life, with many losing hope. ‘We hope the knowledge and skills provided for that lot will be a turning point for them. We want to ensure that vulnerability in homes is reduced.’

He noted that the youths should not despise hands-on skills because there is an abundant market. ‘We have markets for new-fashioned clothes in Arua City, DRC and South Sudan. This offers a great opportunity for people who have skills in tailoring,’ he said.

The Administrative Officer of Mungufeni Foundation, Mr Lawrence Econi, said over 176 disadvantaged groups attained the skills to offer them the opportunity to become self-reliant.

‘We dealt with a vulnerable population who had lost hope in life. But we want to restore their hope. We want to see that tomorrow, he/she sits under a verandah to do a job to earn money to afford basic needs. The jobs are few because of the high population of people who are educated,’ he said.

The Resident City Commissioner, Rtd Maj. Betty Otekat encouraged the disadvantaged group to work on principles of integrity and trust at their businesses.

‘Be focused and never misbehave because people will have trust in the business and you will get more customers. You need to read more from the digital platforms and improve your skills. Do not use those platforms for abusing people but to learn and polish your creativity,’ she said.

Unemployment rate in Arua City

According to the National Population Housing Census by UBOS, unemployment in Arua City is a significant issue, particularly for youth, with one report highlighting of the total population of 384,382, there is a damning 85 per cent youth unemployment rate, leading many to informal work like street vending or boda boda driving.

Rev Fr Deusdedit Ssekabira, a curate attached to Bumangi Catholic Parish in Masaka Diocese, has been charged with money laundering and remanded to prison, days after he disappeared after being abducted by UPDF soldiers early this month.

Fr Ssekabira appeared before Masaka Grade One Magistrate Abdallah Kayiza, who read to him charges of money laundering and told him that the case is only triable by the High Court. He is charged with money laundering contrary to section 3 (b) 119 and 139 and 139 (1) (a) of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, Cap 118.

Mr Kayiza further told the court that the case would be taken to the Anti-Corruption Court since it’s the one responsible for trying such offences.

Fr Ssekabira, who was represented by Masaka Diocesan legal officer Alexander Lule and his personal lawyer Patricia Abaho, said he had understood the charge, although he was not allowed to say anything given the gravity of the offence.

Mr Kayiza, however, adjourned the proceedings until January 21, 2026, remanding the priest to Masaka Main Prison.

According to records before the court, Fr Ssekabira,47, and others still at large between 2023 and 2025 at Centenary Bank-Masaka Branch in Masaka District, internationally concealed or disguised the true ownership of Shs500 million, knowing or suspecting such property to be the proceeds of crime. Moments after the court session, Mr Lule told journalists that they had planned to file an application seeking bail for the priest.

“We would wish to have the festivities with the priest, but incidentally, we are remaining with today and tomorrow, but we shall do our best to ensure that we don’t get to the set date of January 21 to have the matter back in court.” He added.

Lule said his client was psychologically tortured by the security agencies that were holding him for 21 days.

“I have had a chance to speak to him [Fr Ssekabira], but he is all frightened and shaking. He is sick, and we have asked the court to order the prison authorities to offer him better treatment. We shall be following up to see how he is progressing given that he has been held incommunicado for three weeks,’ he said. According to Lule, the priest ‘has also revealed to me that he has been held in a dark room since he was abducted, and someone entered and spoke to him three times during that period.”

Rev. Fr. Ssekabira was abducted on December 3, 2025 by UPDF soldiers at one of his offices in Katwe, Masaka City suburb.

He serves as the director of Universal Chastity Education Organisation, which provides counselling services and charity support to HIV-affected needy children, and also the director of Uplift Primary School, both in Masaka. Although UPDF, on December 14, came out and confirmed that he was in their custody, 10 days after concealing details about the abduction, the priest’s fate remained unknown.

In a statement, the UPDF earlier said Fr Ssekabira was detained over his involvement in ‘violent subversive activities’ against the state. The military added that the priest would be produced before a court of law and charged accordingly.

Fr Ssekabira’s court appearance came amid growing concern as to why he had been detained beyond the constitutionally required time of 48 hours without appearing in court.

Many of his followers in Masaka still question the manner of his arrest and the circumstances under which he was detained incommunicado for almost a month.