Category: Daily Monitor

Residents along the 8.4-kilometre Kabale-Lake Bunyonyi tourism road are accusing contractors of extending mark stones beyond agreed boundaries, sparking fears of illegal land acquisition and unfair compensation.

The road, launched on June 14 by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa and Works Minister Gen Katumba Wamala, is being built by Egyptian firm Samcrete Egypt Engineers and Contractors. It is expected to take between 18 months and three years to complete.

‘We agreed to the first land measurement, but later the boundary was extended beyond the mark stones, affecting my house which is now at risk of collapsing,’ said Mariam Akacungura, a resident.

She added: ‘I have nowhere to go and I am appealing for government assistance.’

Another landowner, Jeniffer Turinawe, said she bought her land for Shs40 million but was compensated only Shs37 million.

‘The amount given does not reflect the actual value of my property,’ she told Monitor.

Several residents accused officials of making them sign compensation documents without clear explanations.

‘We needed to be sensitized,’ said Agness Sucess, who lost farmland to the project. She said the demolition of houses and loss of agricultural land had left families stranded.

Community Liaison Officer Brian Nicholas Okabaki said Samcrete had cleared bushes and begun works up to five kilometres from Kabale town, but admitted challenges remained.

‘We have encountered unresolved compensation issues. We urge government to expedite payments to avoid delays,’ he said.

Okabaki denied accusations of land grabbing, saying extended pegs were meant to provide sufficient working space.

From the government side, Engineer Alison Abenawe, the Works Ministry’s Kabale station manager, confirmed most residents had been paid but also acknowledged disputes.

‘Some issues have arisen from the contractor going beyond the original boundaries. While this was done to create more space for construction, it has caused distress among residents,’ he said. He assured alignment would be reviewed and landowners’ concerns addressed.

Despite the government’s assurances, residents say compensation and communication remain inadequate.

They are demanding a transparent process that protects livelihoods as the road, intended to boost tourism at Africa’s second deepest lake, progresses.

In the rapidly evolving digital age, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just for tech giants and multinationals with big budgets.

From streamlining workflows to informing key business decisions with deep insights, AI has leveled the playing field for small businesses. It gives them timely business insights, optimised operations, reduced costs, and increased sales, giving the multinationals a run for their money.

Globally, India leads in AI adoption at 92 percent, with gross concerns about job loss. Although there is still no comprehensive data on the adoption rate in Uganda, debates continue over issues like data security and user privacy, with the country yet to come up with an AI policy.

AI is expected to lead to a rise of $15.7 trillion to the global economy, and contribute $1.2 trillion to Africa’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, a rise of 5.6 percent.

Despite this, AI adoption is evident across various sectors, especially with the rise of tech-based business models such as SafeBoda, Jumia, and Rocket Health. Even in small details, it is common to find merchandise dealers with fully set-up WhatsApp business accounts, including a catalog, business hours, and pinned location. Many of these dealers also use chatbots and quick replies to assist customers. This is AI in motion, slowly creeping into our midst.

Customer service

Although this is where the most obvious threats to job loss lie, AI has been widely used in customer service. But for small businesses, here is the honey pot.

Today, companies can handle customer inquiries, address complaints, make recommendations, and issue orders through chatbots, all personalised to suit the multitude of customer needs, quickly and without incurring human labour costs, 24/7.

Zendesk CX Trends Report 2024 revealed that 51 percent of customers prefer interacting with AI over humans for immediate service, and 47 percent feel AI agents can be empathetic when addressing concerns.

John Birungi, a digital marketing professional, notes that there are software tools available to qualify leads, answer frequently asked questions, and direct customers to relevant resources.

‘This would cause increased customer satisfaction, higher engagement rates, improved conversion rates, and stronger customer loyalty,’ he adds.

Sales optimisation

According to Birungi, AI helps sales teams better plan their campaigns by anticipating client needs.

‘Companies get the best of their campaign budgets while fulfilling client needs ably,’ he says. Sharon Piloya, founder of Loyan Logistics, speaks highly about using AI in her sales campaigns.

‘With the right targeting of my sales campaigns from the analytics, I have singlehandedly attracted clients and solved their needs without a heavy budget,’ she says. Piloya notes that she had to spend heavily on campaigns, but the reward pays off in the end.

Operations efficiency

Every business strives to operate efficiently, reduce costs, increase sales, and serve customers diligently, earning their loyalty. With AI, SMEs can automate repetitive, less important tasks to give time for employees to focus on strategic, key tasks that require human creativity.

SMEs encourage innovation in how their employees solve operational bottlenecks. Global data reveals that over 80 percent of enterprises are prioritising AI for higher revenue and operational efficiency, which could heighten their productivity by 40 percent.

Financial management

Gone are the days of bulky and heavy cash books. With AI, small businesses have the platform to handle complex financial analysis and decision-making procedures that used to be a privilege only for multinationals and corporations. For Piloya, she has been able to keep her sales and inventory records and used them to monitor trends, predict and make rational financial decisions on sales, marketing, and inventory management.

Human resources

Today, human resource professionals have heavily turned to AI for certain repetitive tasks in talent acquisition, especially in sorting Curriculum Vitae for shortlisting. Currently, there are AI tools that assist in human resource management.

A Career Builder Survey revealed that 93 percent of employers reported significant time savings and improved efficiency, while 67 percent indicated cost and resource savings.

Data analysis and insights

AI can analyse and process massive datasets at a significantly higher rate and with greater precision than humans, uncovering previously unseen patterns and providing marketers with valuable insights to inform their campaigns.

According to Birungi, tools like Meta for Business and Google Analytics include AI-powered insights and anomaly detection that can help you spot big changes in your website’s performance.

‘Such AI-enabled platforms help in improving marketing strategy, decision-making, providing more in-depth knowledge of consumer behaviour, earlier detection of market trends, and more proactive resolution of problems,’ he adds.

With a simple ‘bakeries near me’ search, customers can find a list of available bakeries within the specific locality. A well-optimised Google business profile and a website, or both, can help small businesses gain a competitive advantage in attracting customers from their local communities.

HARARE. Uganda’s battered pride found a little balm yesterday as the Cricket Cranes cruised past Botswana by eight wickets at Takashinga Cricket Club, wrapping up their group campaign with a much-needed triumph.

The result did not change the fate of their failed World Cup campaign, but it ensured that skipper Riazat Ali Shah’s side carried momentum into the fifth-place semifinals scheduled for Wednesday.

Spin stranglehold

On a slow surface, Uganda’s spinners dictated terms. Veteran Frank Nsubuga (0/13 in 4 overs), playing his first match of the tournament in his 29th year of international duty, bowled with trademark guile while Shah himself struck twice in an incisive two-over spell.

The trio of Henry Ssenyondo (1/12), Alpesh Ramjani (1/14) and left-hander Dinesh Nakrani (2/13) suffocated the Botswana batting as they limped to 81 for 6 in their 20 overs.

‘It was good to get my chance and contribute as I have done over the years,’ said Nsubuga. ‘At 44, I still feel the hunger to perform and I’m happy I delivered for the team.’

Nervy chase

If the bowlers were ruthless, the chase began with jitters. Young left-hander Ronald Lutaaya was run out without facing a ball, while right-hander Robinson Obuya fell lbw for nought, leaving Uganda at 23/2.

But Raghav Dhawan steadied the ship with a stylish unbeaten 54 off 45 balls, striking eight boundaries in partnership with Sumeet Verma (29 off 30)* as Uganda crossed the line in 12.4 overs.

Dhawan, named Player of the Match, praised the bowlers: ‘The spinners set it up for us. When I came in, it was about staying calm. After the heartbreak against Tanzania, this win was about bouncing back.’

Coach and captain speak

Coach Abhay Sharma admitted the victory was more about recovery than redemption:

‘It looks clinical on paper – bowling them out for 81 and chasing inside 13 overs – but it wasn’t flawless. Still, I’m happy the boys lifted themselves after Tanzania. The mood is better, and we carry something positive into the playoffs.’

Skipper Riazat Ali Shah, who also picked 2 for 7, added: ‘It was important to get on the board. Dhawan showed maturity, and the bowlers were excellent. We now want to finish strong in the 5th-place playoff matches.’

ICC T20 WORLD CUP AFRICA QUALIFIER

Result

Botswana 81/6 | Uganda 85/2

Uganda won by 8 wickets

NEXT FIXTURE

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 2

5th Place Semifinal, Harare.

Talking Point

SPIN WEB.

Strength and Weakness. Uganda’s trio of spinners conceded just 39 runs in 12 overs, showing their craft is still the Cranes’ biggest strength. But the early dismissals of Lutaaya and Obuya underlined that Uganda’s batting frailties remain a concern despite Dhawan’s solidity.

Kisoro District Council on Monday unanimously rejected a proposal to allocate public land to Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) for the construction of party offices, a rare setback at the local government level.

The motion, tabled by LC5 Chairperson Abel Bizimana on behalf of the District Executive Committee, sought to grant land near the Resident Senior State Attorney’s office to the NRM following a request from the party’s district chairperson.

‘In consultations held on September 24, 2025, under Minute 06/DEC/2025/2026, the committee recommended granting the land to facilitate the construction,’ Bizimana told councillors during the meeting chaired by Speaker Amos Hakizimana.

But councillors across the political divide pushed back, saying the ruling party should not enjoy special treatment.

‘The NRM should be treated the same way other parties are handled,’ said Nyakinama Sub-County Councillor Emmanuel Ndayisaba, an Independent.

Kirundo Sub-County Councillor Bishubeho Louise warned against setting a precedent of allocating scarce public land to one political organisation.

‘It would be wrong to prioritize public land for NRM offices when land is scarce. The NRM has enough money to hire or buy land for their offices,’ he said.

Louise further suggested that the offices could instead be housed in the Resident District Commissioner’s premises, arguing: ‘Both serve the same interests of the party.’

After heated debate, Speaker Hakizimana dismissed the motion, noting the overwhelming rejection.

Mixed voices within NRM

Not all NRM councillors were united on the issue. Byamugisha Deus, the party’s district publicity secretary and Rubuguri Town Council Councillor, backed Bizimana’s motion.

‘Kisoro district supports the NRM 100 percent. Allocating public land for party offices would show our continued love for the party and President Museveni while reducing costs,’ he said.

But NRM District Treasurer Hashakimana Joachim expressed reservations. ‘The offices are important, but I don’t think they are a priority for the people of Kisoro,’ he noted.

Joachim added that he would instead propose relocating the party’s district offices to a more accessible location.

‘The current office poses challenges for persons with disabilities and the elderly,’ he noted.

The majority of councillors cited the principles of a multiparty system and insisted the NRM’s financial resources made free public land unnecessary.

The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) yesterday unveiled its 2026 manifesto in Buikwe District. Its presidential candidate, Mr Nathan Nandala Mafabi pledged an ambitious economic plan aimed at uplifting rural communities and empowering youth if elected into office.

Launching his campaign in Buikwe District, Mr Mafabi promised to allocate Shs100m to every village across the country as part of a rural development initiative designed to improve livelihoods and reduce poverty.

‘The initiative would create jobs, reduce rural-urban migration, and restore dignity to communities long neglected by government programmes,’ he said.

However, Uganda has over 71,000 villages, meaning the total cost of this plan would be more than Shs7 trillion.

This comes at a time when the country is running on a Shs72 trillion budget and is already in debt by Shs43 trillion. Mr Mafabi also announced a plan to give every fresh university graduate a start-up package of Shs1m to help them set up small businesses. Mr Mafabi who was warmly welcomed by his supporters at Kiyindi Landing Site, also pledged to construct better roads in the area to ease transportation and boost local trade. Mr Mafabi promised to remove the army from the lakes if he is elected, saying the lakes should help people earn a living, not make them suffer. Commenting on the ongoing teachers’ strike, Mr Mafabi promised to introduce an all-encompassing policy that ensures equal pay for all teachers.

Mr Mafabi’s campaign message resonated strongly with the local population, many of whom said they are ready for leadership that prioritises their daily struggles. In Buikwe District, several residents expressed deep frustration with the current state of affairs under the ruling NRM government and called on leaders to prioritise real community issues. The people of Buikwe District continue to grapple with daily hardships caused by poor road infrastructure, struggling public services, and declining livelihoods in key sectors such as education and fishing.

In rural areas like Kiyindi, residents face enormous difficulties accessing schools, markets, and health centres due to dusty, narrow, and often impassable roads, especially during the rainy season. Teachers, many of whom walk long distances to reach under-resourced schools, are burdened by low and unequal pay. In Buikwe, the disparity between science and arts teachers has become a growing source of frustration, with many educators feeling undervalued and demoralised.

Locals speak out

Ms Sharifa Nantongo, a resident of Najja Sub-county, criticised the government’s failure to tarmac the road connecting Kiyindi Landing Site to Lugazi Municipality. She said the promise has appeared in national budgets year after year, but nothing has been done. ‘The NRM government has disappointed us. Every financial year, our road appears in the budget, but it’s never worked on,’ he said. ‘This time, we may not vote based on party loyalty. We want to elect leaders based on what’s in their manifesto.’ Mr Samson Ekalu, from Lugazi II in Najjembe Division, raised concerns over industrial safety, an issue he feels politicians are ignoring. ‘Buikwe has many factories, and industrial accidents happen day and night, yet no one is speaking out, not even Mafabi. Our people are earning very little, and many are losing their lives to these rampant accidents.

The investors are untouchable,” he stated. Meanwhile, Mr Johnson Kafuuma, a resident of UEB Quarters, questioned why Ugandans still struggle with access to electricity despite living near two major hydroelectric dams. ‘We are neighbours to two hydro-power dams, yet we live in darkness. I don’t understand how power is being sold to other countries while our homes remain without it,’ he said. Mr Kafuuma added that today’s political environment is frustrating, as most leaders focus on making promises instead of addressing the critical issues that affect ordinary Ugandans. ‘I’m shocked by the trend of politics today. Politicians brag and campaign, but none are talking about the real problems we face every day,’ he remarked Mr Asuman Makembo, a fisherman and resident of Kiyindi Town, welcomed Mr Mafabi’s idea to remove the army from the lake.

‘Ever since the army was deployed, we’ve been struggling to survive. Our income has dropped, and we live in fear. Mr Mafabi’s plan is giving us hope,’ he said. As the 2026 presidential campaign unfolds, Buikwe residents are urging candidates to address critical challenges affecting the district. Key concerns include rampant land grabbing, which threatens local communities’ ancestral lands. Fishermen on Lake Victoria report being chased away by security forces, disrupting their livelihoods.

The district faces rising industrial fatalities due to poor safety standards in factories, particularly in Lugazi and Njeru. Poor road conditions limit economic activity and access to services, while unfulfilled government promises such as building a vocational institute in memory of the late Kitaka fuel frustration. Health facilities remain under-equipped and understaffed, forcing residents to travel far for care. Additionally, pollution from factories in Njeru municipality is harming nearby communities. Residents demand urgent action and clear plans from presidential hopefuls to resolve these pressing issues.

The US Department of State has announced a life-saving development to bring US-based Gilead Sciences’ breakthrough drug, lenacapavir, to Uganda.

Uganda is one of just ten high-burden HIV countries where the drug will be distributed through the US President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).

The US initiative, which will promote large-scale production and distribution of the medication and catalyze further global investment, has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of lives

In collaboration with the Ugandan Ministry of Health, the United States will introduce lenacapavir in 2026. Taken only twice a year, the drug provides a highly effective and convenient HIV prevention option for individuals at high risk of acquiring the virus. Clinical trials show that more than 99 percent of people on lenacapavir remained HIV negative.

This innovative medication marks a significant advancement in Uganda’s fight against HIV/AIDS, particularly for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. The US government and the Global Fund, of which the US is the largest donor, are co-funding an advanced market commitment to purchase lenacapavir for up to 2 million individuals by 2028 in countries with the highest HIV/AIDS epidemics.

Gilead has agreed to provide the drug at cost and to share its intellectual property with generic manufacturers who can produce it at scale, lowering prices to ensure sustainability by local governments.

US Ambassador William W. Popp said;

‘This medicine is an excellent example of how American leadership drives innovation to save lives. Collaboration between an American company and researchers right here in Uganda led to a medical breakthrough to reduce new HIV infections in the communities that need it most. This exciting development will accelerate our progress toward ending HIV as a public health threat, building a healthier future for America, Uganda, and the world.’

The United States will work closely with the Government of Uganda to develop a rollout plan for the medication.

This article is the second in a three-part series on crypto. The first part unpacked the basics: What digital assets are, how blockchain works, and why concepts like Bitcoin, stablecoins, and tokenisation matter for Uganda-from cheaper remittances to inflation protection and financial inclusion.

This second part picks up where that left off.

Uganda, once a pioneer in the crypto space, has grown increasingly hesitant-whether this reflects justified caution, a deeper ‘crypto clash,’ or mere regulatory apathy remains unclear.

However, both innovators and regulators are now grappling with the challenges and opportunities of this fast-evolving landscape.

The easiest way to picture crypto is through mobile money.

When you receive MTN or Airtel Mobile Money, no cash moves-your balance changes on the company’s internal ledger.

Crypto works the same way, but its ledger is not owned by one company. It is shared across a public blockchain, open to inspection and secured by cryptographic keys-digital locks and signatures that protect your money.

On this blockchain, tokens take different forms: currencies (Bitcoin), assets (investments/property), or stablecoins (digital twins of real money like USDT). That is why crypto is not just ‘internet money.’ It is an asset class worth over $4.4 trillion globally. Uganda’s laws already touch these foundations.

The Electronic Transactions Act, 2011, recognises digital signatures if uniquely linked to a user (Section 18). The National Payment Systems Act, 2020, covers electronic value transfers.

As Robert Kirunda, one of Uganda’s legal minds on the intersection of law, science, and technology, notes: ‘The debate is not whether crypto is real-it already fits concepts Uganda recognises. The issue is how to regulate it.’

Without clear regulations, crypto remains a grey area exposing investors and leaving regulators uncertain. This is not unusual. Mobile money also ran for about years before formal rules on lending and consumer protection emerged in 2013.

The International Monetary Fund echoes the same principle in its research notes on Finance and Technology: ‘strong regulation is essential to harness benefits while mitigating risks.’

Uganda once led. In 2015, Kirunda helped launch Bitreco, the first local Bitcoin exchange. By 2017, momentum crashed when the Finance Ministry warned the public: ‘You’re on your own.’

Kenya, meanwhile, built sandboxes-controlled spaces where innovation continued under regulator oversight. Uganda instead embraced what many call ‘regulatory apathy’-shutting the door rather than learning.

By 2018, the contrast was striking. In its first 90 days, Binance Uganda had processed $7 million in trades, compared to just Shs2 billion ($570,000) on the entire Uganda Securities Exchange at that time.

Regulators noticed, but with no framework, the opportunity fizzled. The message was clear: crypto volumes were already outpacing formal securities.

The clampdown hardened in 2021, when the Bank of Uganda barred licensed payment operators from handling crypto, wiping out billions in monthly transactions.

Yet, as Kirunda argues, ‘Scams have always existed. The solution is awareness, not killing an asset class.’

Courts soon reinforced the freeze. In April 2023, Justice Musa Ssekaana ruled in Silver Kayondo v. Bank of Uganda that crypto was illegal since it was not a recognised payment instrument under the 2020 Act.

Though no law expressly bans it, the ruling entrenched hostility. That leaves innovators squeezed.

As Albert Gitta, head of technology at MTN Mobile Money Uganda, puts it: ‘If somebody does not understand something, it is easy to say, ‘wait a minute.’ But that understanding can take years, while the market is not standing still.’

It is here that Gitta’s broader vision comes in: how to build a system that satisfies regulators while unlocking crypto’s benefits.

Dignity and privacy

Gitta’s dream is a system that is both regulated and flexible-where data is protected, customers feel safe, and crypto’s low-cost benefits are unlocked. Privacy, he argues, is not a side issue but the very foundation of trust.

‘Everybody deserves the benefit of a modern, connected life. Imagine a Ugandan system that becomes the base of a new economic order. A villager doesn’t care whether it’s mobile money or Bitcoin. They just need to know their number and PIN, and they should be able to transact cheaply, securely, and with dignity.’

In his view, the future is a shared platform where banks, fintechs, and mobile operators interconnect-and crypto is just another rail. Customers should not care whether their money moves through a bank, mobile wallet, or blockchain-only that the transaction works.

On this, Gitta and Kirunda converge: ‘bans and circulars don’t stop adoption. They only push it underground and rob Uganda of potential benefits. The smarter path is clear rules, capacity to manage risks, and accountability.’

As Gitta puts it: ‘We need to make sure the regulator is comfortable, and that we are accountable. Yes, we must know who is transacting. But at the same time, we must unlock the opportunities that come with faster, cheaper payment rails.’

Kirunda’s stance remains steady: regulation should begin not with bans, but with understanding, dialogue, and recognition that crypto is already a global asset class.

That raises the bigger question now shaping Uganda’s third wave of crypto: what comes next-especially as geopolitics collides with regulation.

Regulation and power

If Uganda’s first wave of crypto was about discovery, and the second about clashes with regulators, then the third wave is about the future. How to regulate it, balance innovation with protection, and position Uganda in a world where technology choices are shaped by geopolitics.

At the start of 2025, the Bank of Uganda floated the idea of a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). Unlike Bitcoin, issued by anonymous developers, the pitch was that Ugandans could ‘trust’ their Central Bank as issuer. Consultations began in November, followed by further meetings in March.

But momentum slowed when U.S. President Donald Trump declared, ‘As long as I am president, there will never be a CBDC in the U.S.’ His warning revealed a bigger truth: digital currencies are not just about technology-they are about power.

So, will Uganda’s CBDC move forward? Robert Kirunda sees a deeper problem: regulators still assume crypto is ‘too difficult to regulate.’ In reality, he says, it is easier than mobile money.

‘Every transaction on a blockchain is traceable. With tools like Chainalysis, you can follow a token anywhere in the world. The real challenge is not regulation-it is understanding.’

Economists agree that regulation often comes down to a single principle: Know Your Customer (KYC). Major exchanges like Binance or Coinbase already require IDs, facial verification, and bank account linkage.

Yet this creates its own paradox: Exchanges will always comply with government demands over user privacy-just like banks do.

The paradox runs deeper. Ugandans already trust digital platforms such as Netflix, paying for subscriptions via bank cards without asking where servers are located. But with crypto, regulators insist it is ‘too risky.’

Several industry voices in law, finance, and technology reached out for this article suggest a way forward:

Political will: Some argue Uganda needs an executive order to unblock innovation while setting guardrails.

In the Education sphere, universities and law schools should add courses on emerging technologies.

Innovation funds: banks and fintechs like MTN and Airtel should pool resources to support blockchain solutions.

There should also be a Capital markets reform that allows listing of blockchain companies under existing trusted institutions.

As Adam Smith wrote in The Wealth of Nations (1776), ‘governments shouldn’t suffocate enterprise but set fair rules and let people use their skills freely.’

For Uganda, that means fear and bans only stifle growth; clear rules could unlock tools, attract investment, and widen inclusion.

Kirunda says: ‘Gen Z and Gen Alpha don’t care about your penal code. They live on their phones. Whether you like it or not, they will trade crypto. So you help them to do it better and safely.’

That tension-between caution and opportunity-frames Uganda’s current stance, where regulators distance themselves but industry leaders insist the Central Bank is more forward-thinking than many realise.

Uganda’s uneasy middle ground

For all the buzz, Uganda’s official stance on crypto has hardly shifted.

Dr Tumubweinee Twinemanzi, executive director of the National Payment Systems at the Bank of Uganda, says:

‘You are free to do whatever you want with it [crypto] because it has no jurisdiction. We are just saying you won’t have the same protections as you would if you were using a currency issued by the Bank of Uganda. So you do so at your own risk. If you choose to risk and make money, by all means-that is the whole purpose of money. The higher the risk, the higher the reward. Fantastic for you.’

This cautious distance goes back to October 2017, when the Ministry of Finance first warned that cryptocurrencies were unregulated. Two years later, the Bank of Uganda repeated the same message: |Anyone trading in crypto was ‘on their own.’

Twinemanzi insists: ‘Engaging or participating in cryptocurrencies is at your own risk. In other words, should you lose or have problems, don’t come to us crying.’

From the Central Bank’s perspective, this posture reflects its dual responsibility: leaving space for innovation while protecting the public from harm.

But not everyone agrees that the bank is dragging its feet. Reginald Tumusiime, chairperson of the Blockchain Association of Uganda, argues the opposite:

‘There are efforts within the Central Bank to explore the applications of blockchain technology in the entire payment ecosystem.’

The Bank has quietly engaged groups like the country’s Blockchain Association and Fintech umbrella body, studying blockchain beyond speculative trading-especially its potential for improving the payments system.

Tumusiime concedes caution is justified: ‘They owe it to the public to protect your money. Some people have done well with crypto, but it doesn’t mean everyone has had a good story-there are scams out there, and regulators can’t ignore that.’

This duality-loud warnings on one hand, quiet exploration on the other-captures Uganda’s uneasy middle ground. Crypto is neither fully embraced nor banned. Citizens are free to experiment, but without regulatory protection.

For Kirunda, Gitta, and other players, this is both a risk and an opportunity: a risk because uncertainty keeps mainstream institutions on the sidelines, and an opportunity because Uganda can still design a framework that marries innovation with accountability.

Who gets to participate?

As debates on regulation and adoption continue, a practical question looms: Who gets to participate?

By June 2025, Uganda had 34.6 million active mobile money subscribers versus 24 million bank accounts, according to Central Bank data. With a population of 51.3 million, this still leaves millions outside formal digital payments.

Gitta warns that the digital divide cannot be ignored: ‘We still have people who are not participating in mobile money. Now, imagine we are talking crypto. Think about the literacy rates today in Uganda. How is somebody deep down in the village going to understand talk of stablecoins, blockchains, or bitcoins?’

The comparison with mobile money’s early days is clear. What began as airtime recharge later expanded to payments, loans, savings, and virtual cards-growth made possible only through years of demystification and trust-building.

Crypto, Gitta argues, will follow a similar path but with steeper hurdles in devices, connectivity, and literacy.

Devices: Millions still use feature phones, relying on USSD (*165#) for transactions. Smartphones are spreading but unevenly, and without them, crypto apps remain out of reach.

Literacy: Even with devices and connectivity, terms like ‘stablecoin’ or ‘blockchain’ require education.

As Gitta puts it: ‘Our responsibility as telcos and fintechs is not to only bring crypto to the affluent. We need to make sure rural communities with small phones are not left behind. The technologies are available-USSD, SMS, and simple interfaces. We just need to be in the middle, helping to translate complexity into something the common man understands.’

This ‘middle layer,’ in his vision, would handle conversions-cash-in and cash-out of tokens-so villagers need only know their number and PIN.

‘We are governed by the central bank, and we’ve had these conversations with them. For us, our responsibility is to be ready to assure Ugandans that the technology we have in place is future-ready. If a mandate came tomorrow, we would implement it,’ he notes.

Uganda’s crypto journey remains unsettled. Innovation pushes forward, regulators hesitate, and millions of ordinary Ugandans still stand on the sidelines.

Whether this becomes a story of missed chances or managed opportunity will depend on how quickly rules evolve to balance risk with possibility.

This article is the second in a three-part series. The final installment will step back to assess how the East African region is approaching crypto regulation differently-and why those choices could carry both opportunity and danger for Uganda.

What should a country like Uganda do in an environment where trade with the US is becoming more difficult?

The good news for Uganda is that very few Ugandan exports have been directed to the US-only about 2 percent in 2024. This is relatively favourable compared to regional peers; for instance, Kenya has a much higher percentage, while Tanzania falls somewhere in between. Moreover, Uganda’s exports do not directly compete with US production. There is no significant movement in America to produce coffee domestically, which is reassuring.

Another key point to consider, though not specific to Uganda, is the importance of identifying new opportunities. Recent data shows that one of the fastest-growing markets for Ugandan exporters is not the US, Europe, or even China, but India.

Over the last five years, exports to India have increased by an average of 50 percent annually. While we want to continue exporting to the US and hope for that market to grow, we must explore new partnerships and opportunities elsewhere. Countries that can successfully navigate this transition are likely to thrive in the future.

How should Uganda position itself for the huge opportunities in India?

To capitalise on the significant opportunities in India, where trade has been rapidly expanding, Uganda should work on building relationships there. This can be achieved by sending groups of Ugandan businesses, rather than individual companies, as trade envoys to India to explore opportunities and promote Uganda’s interests. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that Uganda has the right supply chains in place.

Many assume that placing an order with a local supplier is straightforward. But exporting in sufficient quantities to new markets requires that legislation, regulations, product standards, and logistics are properly managed. This process may take time, but Uganda has a strong trading history and is poised to remain a successful trading nation. Uganda needs to concentrate on identifying and seizing these new opportunities.

Regarding the impact of the upcoming election season on the economy-specifically concerning government spending and fiscal policy-elections play a significant role in every country.

However, we do not expect much change in our forecasts for public finance in Uganda. Discussions with institutions like the International Monetary Fund about funded programs may become more challenging during this period.

Traditionally, incumbent governments tend to spend more leading up to elections to attract undecided voters, which is a natural political strategy.

Another observation during elections is that investors often adopt a wait-and-see attitude, pausing their investments for several weeks or even months as they assess the situation. This may result in a temporary weakness in the Ugandan shilling-not necessarily due to active bets against Uganda, but because there are fewer incentives for investment during the election period.

Finally, we must consider the behaviour of Ugandans during this time. Will people be more inclined to make significant purchases? Will businesses commit to major investments, or will they take a wait-and-see approach? These factors will influence the economy during the election season.

What are your predictions for Uganda’s economy looking at the current trends and uncertainties?

Currently, we expect the Ugandan economy to grow at about 6.5 percent this year and approximately 6.75 percent next year. A significant growth surge, expected in 2027 as commercial oil production ramps up, could see the economy grow by over 10 percent.

This anticipated growth is exciting and transformative for the country. We are also optimistic about the performance of sectors like agriculture and construction, with the latter benefiting from infrastructure investments. Additionally, there is a strong focus on enhancing agricultural value through manufacturing and agro-processing to capture more value domestically before exporting products.

Do you think the Bank of Uganda’s decision to maintain the Central Bank Rate at 9.75 percent will be effective in controlling inflation while supporting economic growth?

Balancing inflation control with economic growth is challenging. We believe that the current rate is appropriate for managing inflation, which is projected to remain around 4 percent in the near term.

While a slight adjustment to the rate may not drastically change the macroeconomic outlook, we anticipate that a stable interest rate will be necessary for the time being.

How might the tightening of liquidity conditions and high lending rates affect private sector credit growth and overall economic activity?

The credit performance in our economy is driven by two things: one is the interest rate and the other is the availability of finance. There is only so much money in the economy to lend, to move around. So in that space, that money can go to the private sector, the government, or it can go to a mix of those things.

Currently, due to significant government deficits, a large portion of the available savings is directed towards government needs rather than private sector growth. This dynamic creates challenges for private companies seeking credit, as limited financing availability can hinder their expansion and overall economic activity.

What are your thoughts on the Uganda shilling in relation to the forex rate and its trading performance against other major currencies?

The shilling has experienced a remarkable year, showing a 4 percent increase in strength as of early September.

The exchange rate compared to the dollar today is not far off from where we were four or five years ago. As we approach the end of the year, we expect the shilling to weaken slightly against the dollar, with forecasts predicting a low of around 3,600.

Four people have been charged before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court in connection with the death of 35-year-old Ritah Nansubuga, who died after undergoing a caesarean section at Sunset Consultant Clinic in Kampala earlier this month.

The group appeared on Tuesday before Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi and denied charges of manslaughter contrary to sections 170 and 173 of the Penal Code Act, and conspiracy to commit a felony contrary to section 363 of the Penal Code Act.

The accused are Dr. Henry Francis Kadaga, 47, an obstetrician and gynaecologist; Joel Kyowanika, 35, a medical imaging technologist and proprietor of Sunset Consultant Clinic; Hassan Budhugo, 43, an orthopaedic technologist; and businessman Ahamed Lutaaya Kalebu, 59.

According to the charge sheet, the four and others still at large, on September 4, 2025, at Sunset Clinic in Kampala, unlawfully caused the death of Nansubuga through negligence. They are accused of subjecting her to a major surgical procedure in unsuitable premises, with inadequate equipment, unqualified personnel, and poor care, which led to her death.

On the second count, prosecution alleges that the group willfully and unlawfully conspired to commit a felony by negligently conducting a caesarean section in an unfit environment, which resulted in Nansubuga’s death.

Prosecution, led by Ms Grace Amy, told court that investigations are still ongoing and asked for an adjournment regarding Lutaaya.

‘Your worship, investigations in this case are still ongoing and because of this, we seek an adjournment. We also seek criminal summons against Lutaaya, who is not in court, to appear and take plea,’ Ms Amy submitted.

Court records show the case arose from a complaint filed on September 9, 2025, by Ms Naomi Campbell Nambooze, a 36-year-old nursing officer based in Dubai and resident of Kakiri, Wakiso District.

Nambooze reported that her friend Ritah died on September 4 at Sunset Consultant Clinic, located in Mulago II Zone opposite the KCCA mortuary.

According to the case details, Ritah had been attending antenatal reviews in Dubai. She was introduced to Lutaaya by a friend, Hanifah Nakacwa. Lutaaya allegedly posed as a doctor at Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital.

When Ritah returned to Uganda on August 2, 2025, Lutaaya, acting as Public Relations Officer of Sunset Consultant Clinic, reportedly persuaded her to seek delivery services there.

‘On September 2, 2025, Ritah was admitted to Sunset Consultant Clinic. Kyowanika, the clinic’s proprietor, engaged Dr. Kadaga from Mulago Mobile Hospital to attend to her,’ the court documents state.

They add: ‘On September 4, Dr Kadaga performed a caesarean section at the clinic. While a baby boy was successfully delivered, the mother died during the procedure.’

During the session, Magistrate Kayizzi issued criminal summons against Lutaaya to appear. Dr. Kadaga, Kyowanika, and Budhugo were remanded to Luzira Prison until October 8, 2025, when their bail application will be heard.

When Bunyama Primary School opened its gates in 2022, residents of Bunyama Island in Kalangala District celebrated what they thought was the dawn of better education.

Built to accommodate more than 200 children in Bunyama Parish, Bujumba Sub-county, the school was meant to save parents from ferrying their children to Bugala Island, five miles away, in search of learning facilities. Three years later, that promise feels broken. Enrolment has never exceeded 95 pupils. A visit to the school last week revealed only three teachers on duty, handling all classes. Both Baby Class and Primary One learners share a single room, while Primary Two and Three occupy another.

Primary Four and Five are separated by a wooden partition, with only Primary Six enjoying its own space. The entire school has just four classrooms. Primary Five and Six were only introduced this year after a parents-teachers meeting aimed at boosting enrolment. But the effort has not stopped families from putting their children in boats every day to cross to Bugala Island for schooling. ‘More than 30 children cross daily from Kagoonya Landing Site to Bugala. Others are even taken to schools outside Kalangala,’ said Ms Judith Naziwa, the LC3 councillor for women.

The hurdles

According to Bujumba Sub-county records, Bunyama Parish has more than 2,000 residents, including more than 400 children. Yet Bunyama Primary struggles to keep even a quarter of them in class. The only other learning centre on the island is a small private nursery near Kagoonya fishing village, which teachers say also affects enrolment. ‘We receive pupils at the start of term, but after six weeks they disappear when parents migrate to other islands in search of better fish catches,’ complained Mr Joseph Nsubuga, one of the teachers.

‘The long distances children walk also discourage attendance. From landing sites like Kisujju or Kagoonya, pupils trek four to seven kilometres daily through thick forests. Parents fear for their safety,’ he added. Mr Nsubuga believes a boarding section would be a game-changer. ‘If we had a boarding section, children would stay here and wouldn’t miss school even when their parents move away for fishing on distant islands,’ he said. Local leaders argue the school was neglected soon after construction.

‘It has no fence, no security. Even the solar panels were stolen and the water system destroyed by locals, which has worsened the school environment,’ said Mr John Lutalo, the speaker for Bujumba Sub-county. Kalangala District chairperson Rajab Semakula said all government-built schools in the district are designed as day schools, even though they are expected to serve multiple islands. ‘How can children from another island access a school daily? We have repeatedly asked the government to bend the rules and allow Kalangala to have boarding sections in all our schools,’ he said.

Parents’ struggles

For many parents, poverty is the bigger hurdle. ‘I cannot afford the requirements at Bunyama Primary School,’ said Ms Brenda Nakajubi, a mother from Kagoonya fishing village. ‘It’s cheaper for me to send my children to another school, even if it means crossing by boat every day,’ she added. Others fear the journey itself. ‘Some of us cannot risk letting young children walk long distances,’ said Mr Farouk Mulijo.

‘And the standards at Bunyama Primary School are not convincing. That’s why I don’t take my children there,’ he added. Even children question the school’s standards. Cain Ssentumbwe, who once studied at Bunyama Primary School but later transferred to Kibanga Primary on Bugala Island, said poor teaching drove him away. ‘Sometimes teachers would ask the best pupils to teach others. There were not enough textbooks. I lost interest,’ he claimed.

Pupils’ concerns

Maria Naziwa, a Primary Four pupil, recalled dangers on the way to class. ‘We sometimes meet snakes on the paths or even in classrooms. After that, we fear to return. I had to leave the school for another, for safety,’ she said. District Education Officer Emmanuel Nseko said the funding model makes survival harder for island schools. ‘The government allocates capitation grants depending on pupil numbers. A school like Bunyama, with fewer than 100 children, gets about Shs1 million a term, yet operational costs are the same as schools with hundreds of pupils,’ he explained. He urged the government to give special consideration.

‘One sub-county can have seven islands and only one day school. Without tailored funding for island schools, Universal Primary Education will remain a dream here,’ he added.