Table tennis: Rankings crucial at Uganda Open

Over 200 players that turned up for the 2025 Uganda Table Tennis Championships at Kabojja International School in Buziga on the weekend were not only fighting for medals, trophies and prize money, but also points in the national rankings which will guide national team selections.

That’s one of the major reasons even the likes of Jemimah Nakawala, Parvin Nangonzi, Patra Nasirumbi, Judith Mirembe, Patience Anyango, Joseph Sebatindira, who have made records at recent international assignments, did not have the luxury to miss the Uganda Open event.

“This is the first ever Uganda Open where players will earn points for national rankings. So it doesn’t matter whether you have played in France, or wherever, if you miss the Open, you miss the points,” said Uganda Table Tennis president Cyrus Muwanga on day one of the event.

“Without rankings, selecting a team for, say the recent Islamic Games, may require trials of around 200 players, which is quite hard. But with the rankings, we may call only the top ten for trials.”

What’s more, UTTA wants to make the Open the biggest event on the local calendar. Hence,

“We also made this tournament mandatory to all to help our exposed players to share their abilities and inspiration that even others can rise to the international standards, hence the overall growth of the sport,” Muwanga added.

About 16 clubs graced the tournament that was last played nearly 10 years ago.

Due to limited time, UTTA limited the categories to Under 13, Open, team events (men and women), veterans men and women) and doubles. But in subsequent editions, Muwanga promised more age-based categories.

After the highly competitive finals on Sunday, all players who reached the quarterfinal stage and beyond for a share of the Shs8m prize money, courtesy of partners like Lakhani Motors, Sure Pay, SchoolPay, among others.

How SME innovation and blockchain-enabled financing can change Africa

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are a cornerstone of Africa’s economy, accounting for roughly 90% of businesses and providing 80% of employment. Yet, many face barriers such as stringent collateral requirements, long approval timelines, and limited access to traditional financing. Emerging blockchain-powered solutions are now offering more flexible, inclusive ways for SMEs to access capital, manage cash flow, and scale their operations.

As SMEs continue to encounter hurdles such as stringent collateral demands, prolonged approval timelines, and limited traditional financing options, blockchain-powered financial solutions are emerging as flexible and inclusive alternatives that enable entrepreneurs to scale their businesses on their own terms.

Financial innovation is helping break down barriers for small businesses. From crypto-backed lending to tokenised financing and Web3-based investment models, SMEs now have more options to access capital and manage growth efficiently.

Crypto-backed lending

Crypto-backed lending allows entrepreneurs to use digital assets, like Bitcoin or stablecoins, as collateral for business loans without selling their holdings. Blockchain-based verification and automated risk management streamline approvals, reduce collateral thresholds, and provide access to lenders globally. This flexibility helps SMEs manage cash flow, fund projects, and pursue growth while maintaining long-term investment strategies and growth opportunities without disrupting their long-term investment strategies.

Tokenised and venture-based financing

Crypto-focused venture capital is supporting startup growth across fintech, AI, supply-chain management, digital identity, and creative services. In 2025, crypto companies raised over $16 billion in venture funding, up from $13.6 billion in 2024. Token-based investment structures allow founders more flexibility in ownership and governance, while on-chain funding mechanisms enable access to a broader pool of global investors. These transparent, borderless approaches reduce friction and open opportunities for emerging-market entrepreneurs who may previously have lacked access to early-stage capital.

New forms of blockchain-powered financing are also taking shape. Tokenised asset financing enables SMEs to convert real-world assets like inventory, receivables, and equipment into digital tokens that can be sold or used as collateral on global marketplaces, unlocking liquidity with less friction. Similarly, revenue-based financing powered by smart contracts gives businesses a way to raise funds in exchange for a share of future earnings. Payments are automated on the blockchain, creating transparency, reducing administrative burdens, and providing non-dilutive funding tied directly to performance.

Web3 crowdfunding and community building

Entrepreneurs are also turning to Web3 crowdfunding, where token launches, membership NFTs, and decentralised funding pools make it possible to raise capital directly from global supporters. This model not only provides funding but also builds a loyal and engaged community around a business from day one.

Stablecoins and Cross-Border Payments

SMEs engaged in international trade are increasingly adopting stablecoin-based payments, which enable faster settlement, lower foreign-exchange costs, and protection against currency volatility. In Sub-Saharan Africa, stablecoins accounted for 43% of all crypto transaction volume in 2024, highlighting how deeply they are becoming embedded in business operations. Globally, Binance Pay revealed that stablecoins account for over 98% of B2C payments – highlighting their growing role as the preferred payment method.

Blockchain-enabled supply chain finance

The rise of blockchain-based supply chain financing is further strengthening SMEs’ ability to operate and scale. By using tamper-proof on-chain data to verify deliveries, product authenticity, and transaction history, businesses can access more affordable and efficient financing options. This increased transparency reduces lender risk and enhances liquidity for suppliers, distributors, and manufacturers. In 2024, over 60% of Fortune 500 companies reported that they incorporated blockchain into at least one segment of their supply chain operations. Most recently, over 62% of enterprises using blockchain supply chain finance said that the technology improved payment settlement speeds by more than 40%.

‘We believe that ongoing advancements in blockchain adoption and the crypto industry, such as Binance’s expansion across 30+ African countries, will empower SMEs to explore blockchain-powered financial solutions. By integrating with local payment systems and providing flexible, innovative funding options, these initiatives are set to become a key driver of growth and resilience for small businesses across the continent,’ concludes Nomvete.

UPDF soldier escorting minister killed in head-on crash on Kampala-Gulu Highway

A Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) soldier assigned to the escort team of Minister of State for Defence and Veteran Affairs Huda Olele died on the spot Sunday evening after a head-on collision on the Kampala-Gulu Highway in Kalule, Nyimbwa Sub-County, authorities said.

Several other UPDF soldiers travelling in the same convoy were seriously injured in the crash.

Police said the crash happened at around 7:45 pm when a white Fuso Fighter truck (registration UAN 394Z) heading from Kampala toward Luwero District attempted a reckless overtaking manoeuvre near Kalule Trading Centre.

According to ASP Sam Twiineamazima, the Regional Police Spokesperson for Savannah Region, the truck rammed head-on into an oncoming green Toyota Hilux (registration UG 0388D), which was part of the minister’s convoy driving toward Kampala.

He identified the deceased soldier as LCPL Moses Edongoto. Six other army officers and two civilians sustained serious injuries and were rushed to Bombo General Military Hospital for emergency medical care.

ASP Twiineamazima said both vehicles were towed to Bombo Police Station and that preliminary findings point to ‘reckless overtaking by the Fuso truck driver’ as the cause of the fatal crash.

Police said investigations into the incident are ongoing.

Uganda records an average of about 25 deaths from road crashes and murders every day, according to the 2024 annual police crime report.

Case backlog reduction in courts. An alternative view

There is an argument that appointing mission-based or temporary judges under Article 142 of the Constitution is the most effective way of addressing case backlog.

In summary, Article 142 provides that the Chief Justice may advise the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) of the necessity for the appointment of persons eligible to be judges temporarily to act in the capacity of Judge of the High Court or Justice of the Court of Appeal or Supreme Court on a demonstrable need basis.

On the recommendation of the JSC, the President may make such appointments, including persons who have attained retirement age for a specified period or until the appointment is revoked.

Undoubtedly, the current state of 450,124 case load as the time of release of the 2024/2025 Judiciary Report demonstrates the need for extraordinary interventions. Under the mission-based / temporary Judges model, appointments are made for a fixed and limited tenure-typically two or three years.

Proponents contend that this approach is cost-effective, since temporary judges do not create long-term financial obligations such as pensions or retirement benefits. It is also argued that seasoned advocates from private practice would be well-suited for these roles and could return to practice once their temporary appointments lapse.

Pros of temporary (mission-based) judges

Cost efficiency: No long-term employment or pension liabilities for the Judiciary.

Flexibility: Judges can be appointed specifically for backlog-clearing missions and released once the task is done.

Expertise infusion: Experienced advocates bring fresh perspectives and specialised knowledge into the Judiciary.

Cons of temporary judges

Collegiality concerns: After two or three years on the bench, these temporary judges inevitably develop close collegial ties with permanent judges.

Perceptions of bias: On returning to legal practice, their continued interaction with former judicial colleagues may create discomfort, negative perceptions, or suspicions of preferential treatment.

Risk to public trust: Litigants and opposing counsel may question the fairness of proceedings when a former temporary Judge appears before Judges they recently worked alongside.

Institutional discontinuity: Temporary appointments do not build long-term judicial capacity within the system.

Given these concerns, a more sustainable approach to addressing case backlog would be to strengthen the existing judicial structure. I would advocate for increasing the pecuniary jurisdiction of Chief Magistrates to Shs100 million and raising that of Grade One Magistrates to Shs50 million-essentially restoring their jurisdictions to their original value at the time the current ceilings were set.

Alongside this, appointing thirty additional Chief Magistrates and deploying them on dedicated backlog-reduction missions for two to three years, before redeploying them across the country, would have long-term benefits.

This approach creates more permanent jobs, expands judicial capacity nationwide, and brings justice closer to the people.

It could also be complemented by drawing on the experience of retired judges and justices to reinforce efforts at both the High Court, Court of Appeal levels. Unlike 10 years ago, there are a number of them. The majority retired at 65 years.

Together, these measures would address backlog while strengthening the Judiciary, enhancing public trust and the institutional resilience of the Judiciary.

Mr Alex Rezida is a partner at Nangwala, Rezida and Co. Advocates

2026 elections: Chaos, gangs sweep through Gulu during Bobi Wine’s campaign

Ugly scenes of violence played out on Saturday afternoon when some 50 youth stormed the Opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) party rally venue at Awere Sports Ground in Bardege-Layibi Division in Gulu City.

The venue had been prepared to host the last campaign rally of NUP’s presidential candidate, Mr Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine.

The street gangs, who identified themselves as Ghetto Youth and were armed with bottles, stones, and sticks, stormed the venue at around 2:10 pm, went on a rampage, and attacked on sight anyone they found at the venue.

The violence lasted for about 10 minutes before the gangs were overpowered by Bobi Wine’s supporters. At least five people were injured in the fracas.

The marauding gangs also damaged three vehicles, including the public address system belonging to the Opposition leader’s campaign team. One unidentified man was hacked with a machete by the gangs as police watched without taking action.

The gangs also vandalised three motorcycles and later rampaged through Awach Road, Lagara Road, Andrea Olal Road, and Coronation Road, attacking motorists and robbing merchandise from shops as police and the army looked on.

The Ghetto Youth, comprising young men and women, was formed early this year to solicit support for the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party leaders, and have in their ranks notorious members blamed for substance abuse, violent robberies, and house break-ins in Gulu City.

At the same time, a group of boda boda riders donning yellow T-shirts roared at breakneck speed through the major streets in Gulu’s central business district.

The ensuing chaos, theft, and heavy deployment forced traders in Gulu City to close their shops as the gangs attacked anyone on sight.

Despite the violence and mayhem no single suspect was arrested as the gangs retreated. Curiously, both the police and army looked away but kept a close watch on the Bobi Wine supporters.

Just some 500 metres from the scene, at Kaunda Grounds, was the centre of the Gulu Marathon. But the participants remained safe from the goons since they were shielded by heavy security.

Mr Kyagulanyi later at a rally accused the NRM party officials of hiring street gangs and security operatives to block his rally in Gulu City.

Several attempts to get a comment from the local NRM party leaders in Gulu City were futile as none of them picked up or returned our repeated calls by press time.

But Mr Emmanuel Dombo, the NRM party communication director, while speaking on the Capital Gang radio talk show in Kampala, denounced the ugly scenes of violence.

‘What happened in Gulu and Nwoya is very uncalled for. NUP doesn’t have support in the north, and everyone knows that, when you beat them, you give them what to talk about.

“These beatings are not sanctioned by the President; these people think that they are protecting the President, and yet in one way or another, they are killing the support. You can’t beat people in the name of protecting someone. These incidents must be investigated,’ he said.

As Bobi Wine arrived in Gulu City at around 4:40pm, armed security personnel blocked his route with armoured cars, anti-riot vehicles, and double-cabin pick-up trucks belonging to the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).

Bobi Wine was headed to his last campaign rally at Awere Sports Ground after holding a similar one in Awach Town Council, in Gulu District, 20 miles North-East of Gulu City.

The log jam from the standoff lasted about 15 minutes in front of the Bank of Uganda Gulu Regional Offices on the busy Airfield Road in the heart of Gulu City.

Bobi Wine pleaded in vain with the commanders for some 10 minutes before disembarking from his car to walk to the venue as the situation quickly turned chaotic, with Bobi Wine’s civilian bodyguards shielding him from the charging armed police and army personnel.

The stand-off also saw six of Bobi Wine’s supporters injured and vehicles vandalised. Among those injured was Mr Daniel Oyirwoth, alias Dan Magic, one of Bobi Wine’s close allies. Mr Oyirwoth sustained a deep cut on the crown of his head and face after being assaulted.

He looked visibly distressed after being repeatedly lashed with sticks and hit with batons. But Mr Oyirwoth continued the journey on foot with Bobi Wine even as he bled. Bobi Wine, who had abandoned his car, was seen comforting him.

Mr Kyagulanyi and fans then walked and ran on Gulu Avenue before walking through Andrea Olal Road, via Awach Road to the rally venue at Awere Grounds, some 5 kilometres, where he was welcomed by his ecstatic and chanting supporters. Mr Kyagulanyi told the crowds that his life was in danger.

‘My life is in danger. The NRM hired goons to attack my supporters. Some of them were injured,’ Mr Kyagulanyi told his cheering crowd.

He added: ‘Even if IGP Abbas Byakagaba is aware that I should hold a rally here, the police and UPDF do not want me to have one. They want to block me so that I reach here after 6pm.’

Mr Kyagulanyi told his supporters that he will never give up. He also told the security forces that the world is watching them.

‘The international community is seeing what is happening here. The injustice. The double standard,’ he warned.

Mr Kyagulanyi urged Ugandans to vote for a new Uganda on January 15, 2026, so that they have the freedom that they have been yearning for.

Police, UPDF respond

Mr David Ongom Mudong, the Aswa West Region Police spokesperson, said they are investigating the violent incidents.

‘On December 2, Honourable Kyagulanyi Robert, alias Bobi Wine, the National Unity Platform (NUP) party presidential candidate, held his campaign rally at Bar Awere grounds in Gulu City,’ he said on Sunday morning.

Mr Mudong added: ‘He entered Gulu City through the Gulu-Kitgum road via Unyama after reaching the Bank of Uganda junction. He defied the agreed route and decided to use the Main Street on foot, and he had some scuffles with officers as they pleaded with him to use the agreed route.However, he successfully managed to use the Main Street up to his rally venue at around 1647hrs and addressed a gathering of approximately 300 people up to 1743hrs.”

The acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col Chris Magezi, said the army could not allow Mr Kyagulanyi and his fans to disturb the peace of the people while they look on.

He added that only Bobi Wine, just as did four-time Opposition presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye before him, has issues with the security forces.

‘Why is it that the other seven candidates have no problem? He is defiant. He is confrontational. He is trying to copy Dr Besigye, who tried to behave like that for a long time, but it did not serve him very well.’ He called on the Opposition leader to respect the law.

‘What does it take away from their campaign? It is simply that they believe ‘if we are confrontational, we shall grab headlines.’ I think capture global attention,’ Col Magezi stated. He added:’The security forces have a responsibility not just towards the participating political candidates…No one is out of control.’

Bobi Wine timeline in Acholi Sub-region

Last Thursday, NUP presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi campaigned in Oyam and Omoro districts. He arrived at Omoro at about 4pm and was welcomed by hundreds of supporters. He ended his rally before 6pm, the official deadline for campaigns, and proceeded to Gulu City, where he spent the night at Kacoke Madit Hotel.

Friday morning, Mr Kyagulanyi headed to Nwoya District, made a stopover and addressed supporters as his motorcade parked on one side of the road, allowing traffic to flow uninterrupted. But on approaching Anaka Town Council, Nwoya’s biggest town, a police truck blocked the road, forcing Mr Kyagulanyi and his team to go off-road in order to bypass.

Upon arrival at Anaka Town, the NUP team encountered supporters holding posters of President Museveni and wearing NRM T-shirts.

They taunted Mr Kyagulanyi and team, signalling he was not wanted in the area. Mr Kyagulanyi ignored them, but the NRM supporters turned wild when Mr Kyagulanyi began addressing the crowd that had gathered to listen to him.

Police officers who were deployed to the rally remained unbothered as Mr Kyagulanyi condemned them for not restraining the NRM supporters. Police then reluctantly restrained the NRM supporters.

A significant number of unarmed prison wardens were also present. It was unclear what their role was. Among the rowdy NRM supporters was a man clad in attire resembling an army uniform and appeared to be their leader. Mr Kyagulanyi’s campaigns in Nwoya were cut short and he made a U-turn and headed to Amuru District for a rally on Friday.

He was well received in Pabbo Town in Amuru, where he addressed the voters uninterrupted and later headed to Elegu, on the Uganda-South Sudan border.

But UPDF and police personnel blocked him at Atiak Town Council in Amuru District. Mr Kyagulanyi pleaded with them in vain and ended up singing his revolutionary songs and the national anthem as his supporters sang along. Finally at 6pm, police opened the way and Mr Kyagulanyi and his supporters proceeded to Atiak Town where he had planned to spend Friday night. But security personnel again stopped him, forcing him to stop in Adjumani District where he stayed overnight.

On Saturday morning, Mr Kyagulanyi was hosted by Radio Amani, a radio station in Adjumani. He then made a procession through Adjumani Town, attracting a huge crowd. Mr Kyagulanyi held his first rally of the day in Cesia playground in Adjumani Town at about 11am and concluded his rally in Adjumani without any interference by security perseonnel. He proceeded to Gulu City for his second rally of the day. He arrived at 4pm but the army and police blocked all roads leading to Gulu’s city.

At the Bank of Uganda’s Gulu City branch, he encountered several armed UPDF soldiers and police officers, some in armoured cars, on ground, overseen by a Colonel. Confrontation ensued between Mr Kyagulanyi and the security personnel.

He insisted he wanted to access the NUP offices that had been raided on Thursday morning before proceeding to his rally. But security personnel blocked him.

Oil companies to increase gasoline price this week

GASOLINE prices will increase this week by more than P1 per liter, oil companies announced on Monday.

In separate advisories, Seaoil, Jetti, Shell Philippines, Petro Gazz, Caltex, and Cleanfuel said the prices of gasoline would increase by P1.20 per liter on Tuesday, December 9.

The adjustment will take effect beginning 6:00 a.m. except for Cleanfuel which will implement the price hike at 4:01 p.m.

There will be no movement in the prices of kerosene and diesel.

Oil companies adjust prices every week to reflect movements in the world oil market.

The Department of Energy said the global crude oil supply surplus and the geopolitical concerns on Ukraine attack on Russian’s oil infrastructure and the rising tension between US and Venezuela contributed to the local pump price adjustment.

Cops ready for transport strike

THE National Police (PNP) has mobilized sufficient personnel and resources to assist in maintaining peace and order during the three-day transport strike starting on Tuesday.

In a statement on Monday, the acting PNP Chief, Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said police commanders were also instructed to coordinate with local governments and other government agencies for a unified response to cushion the effects of the transport strike.

‘Our personnel will be on the ground not only to secure the protest action but also to conduct assessment on areas that need mobility assets for our kababayan that may be stranded,’ Nartatez said.

This is in line with the directive of President Marcos to guarantee public safety, maintain smooth mobility, and ensure that essential services remain uninterrupted during major public activities such as transport strikes.

‘Our goal is to make sure that the protest action will be done peacefully and orderly similar to the same activities in the past,’ he added.

Nartatez said police officers will be deployed to key transport hubs, main thoroughfares, and affected routes to ensure peace and order.

Police vehicles will also be placed on standby to provide immediate assistance to commuters who may experience delays or difficulty finding transportation.

He assured the public that the PNP remains committed to work closely with transport groups and other stakeholders to prevent disruptions and ensure a peaceful and orderly conduct of the strike.

Transport group Manibela announced a nationwide transport strike from December 9 to 11 to protest what it described as excessive penalties and the slow processing of government documents.

It has indicated the possibility of extending the strike but Nartatez assured that the PNP’s security and assistance measures will remain in place for as long as necessary.

In previous strikes, no untoward incidents were reported due to the close coordination and cooperation between transport groups and authorities.

PSC chief Gregorio hopeful PHL can crack SEAG Top Four

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Patrick ‘Patò’ Gregorio arrived at noon in Thailand on Monday but immediately motored to Pattaya to show his support to the men’s handball team that played Vietnam at the Indoor Athletics Stadium Pattaya.

Asked about the country’s chances in the games that kick off with the opening ceremony at the Rajamangala National Stadium in the capital, he said he’s hoping for a top four finish in the medal tally.

The Philippines hauled 58 golds, 86 silvers and 116 bronze medals for a fifth-place finish behind Vietnam (136-105-114), Thailand (108-96-108), Indonesia (87-80-109) and Cambodia (81-74-127).

‘For me, it’s about finishing better than the last SEA Games,’ Gregorio said. ‘But it’s difficult to set targets because the other countries have also set their own goals-so for me, it’s about the rankings at the end of the day.’

Gregorio sees a strong Team Philippines, but is also glad that that the 1,600-strong delegation is also composed of some of the future stars that would represent the country in major competitions for years to come.

‘But as I’ve said, right from the start when we sent a very, very good delegation, we know exposure is very important, aside from the medal haul-‘let’s prepare for the SEA Games, as we prepare for the Asian Games and as we prepare for the Los Angeles Olympics,” he said. ‘That’s what’s important.in sports, sometimes, it’s the opportunity to compete first.’

Gregorio is looking forward to Tuesday’s opening ceremony at the Rajamangala National Stadium, where the Philippine team will be clad with uniforms designed by Avel Bacudio,’ he said.

Slim Reaper’s 31,000

Reaching 31,000 points means Durant has maintained high output over a very long career. It reflects his sustained scoring ability season after season, his durability, and adaptability which spans multiple teams and eras.

Durant has never been a high-volume volume-shooter just for stats; his scoring often comes from a mix of jumpers, 3s, and efficient midrange shots. That versatility and efficiency help preserve his scoring output even as athleticism naturally declines with age.

Many consider him among the most complete and versatile scorers ever as he can score from outside, mid-range, and near the rim, and his height and length give him advantages even late in his career.

At 37 years old and still productive, he remains a meaningful threat to pass at least some of them, depending on health and how many seasons he continues.

As he climbs further on the all-time scoring list, If Durant stays healthy and continues scoring at a reasonable clip, he could pass those just ahead.

That would further cement his place among NBA all-time greats.

His legacy as GOAT-level scorer as few players have combined scoring volume, efficiency, and longevity like Durant. His 31,000 point mark reinforces arguments that at least in terms of scoring he belongs near the very top.

He’s played for multiple teams and adjusted his game over time, this milestone highlights his ability to evolve rather than rely purely on athleticism.

Many players retire well before accumulating such high totals; Durant’s path shows that elite performance can stretch over nearly two decades which may influence how future stars view career longevity.

Scoring milestones are historic but championships, team success, and impact on the game aren’t guaranteed by scoring alone. Legacy evaluation will always weigh more than just numbers.

At 37, wear and tear catch up. Continued high-level output depends on health, minutes played, and how his role evolves.

Basketball has changed as pace, rules, 3-point emphasis direct comparisons with past generations always carry some era-context nuance.

Durant’s crossing of 31,000 career points is more than a number, it is a testament to his elite skill, consistency, and longevity. It puts him among the most prolific scorers in NBA history and underscores that his game has aged gracefully.

If he maintains health and motivation, he could still rise further on the all-time list and reshape his legacy as not just a scorer, but one of the all-time greats.

Is my ongoing diarrhoea linked to diabetes?

I have lived with diabetes for more than 10 years and have kept it under control using medication. However, for the past two months, I have been experiencing continuous diarrhoea that has not improved, even after taking strong antibiotics such as Clavulin. What could be the cause, and what should I do? Magino

Dear Magino,

Diarrhoea refers to the frequent passage of loose, watery stool, usually three or more times a day. While short-term diarrhoea can sometimes help the body get rid of harmful germs or toxins, persistent diarrhoea may cause serious problems such as dehydration, weakness, and poor nutrition, especially when it lasts for weeks.

Diarrhoea can affect anyone occasionally and is often caused by infections from contaminated food or water, whether from bacteria such as E. coli and typhoid, viruses such as rotavirus, or parasites such as amoeba. Other general causes include poor digestion or absorption of food, conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, and side effects of certain medicines, including antibiotics such as Clavulin.

However, in someone who has had diabetes for a long time, persistent diarrhoea may be linked directly to diabetes itself. This can happen due to diabetic nerve damage (autonomic neuropathy), bacterial overgrowth in the intestines, or poor production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas. In people with type 1 diabetes, conditions such as coeliac disease may also be responsible. In addition, some diabetes medications, especially metformin and gliptins, as well as artificial sweeteners such as sorbitol, are known to cause or worsen diarrhoea.

What is often referred to as diabetic diarrhoea is usually painless. It may occur regularly, alternate with constipation, or disturb sleep by occurring at night. In some cases, it can even lead to difficulty controlling bowel movements. The most important step in treatment is to identify the exact cause. Diarrhoea related to diabetes must be carefully distinguished from infections and other non-diabetic causes that affect both diabetic and non-diabetic patients.

Regardless of the cause, dehydration is a major danger, so it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Probiotics and appropriate dietary adjustments may also help. Depending on the findings, treatment may involve antibiotics for infections, better blood sugar control, adjustment of diabetes medications or the careful use of anti-diarrhoeal medicines under medical supervision.

If diarrhoea has persisted for two months, as in your case, it is essential to seek prompt medical evaluation for proper tests and targeted treatment.