Category: Daily Monitor

For many of us, the simple act of boiling an egg is a culinary gamble. Despite the tricks; timing the boil, shocking them in ice water, adding baking soda, achieving a consistent, perfect result is harder than it seems. If this sounds familiar, it might be time to consider a dedicated egg cooker. This often-overlooked appliance is a true workhorse that does far more than its name implies. After extensively using one, I can confidently say an egg cooker is one of the most surprisingly useful gadgets in my kitchen.

The ultimate in effortless cooking

The primary appeal of any good egg cooker is its foolproof “set-it-and-forget-it” design. The process is universally simple; add a specific amount of water (usually measured with a provided cup for your desired doneness), place the eggs, and press a button. The machine handles the rest. An auto-shutoff feature ensures eggs are never overcooked, and an audible alert tells you when they are ready. This means you can walk away and focus on other things without worrying about monitoring a pot on the stove. It is perfect for busy mornings or when you are multitasking in the kitchen.

Surprising versatility

While the promise of perfect hard- and soft-boiled eggs is reason enough to buy one, the real value of an egg cooker lies in its versatility. Most models come with a suite of accessories that unlock a wide range of easy meals. With the included trays and bowls, you can typically:

Poach eggs to perfection without the mess of swirling water.

Make individual omelets that steam to a light, fluffy texture.

Whip up scrambled eggs right in a dedicated container.

Steam vegetables for a healthy side dish.

Many advanced models even feature double-tiered cooking, allowing you to steam vegetables while simultaneously poaching eggs, and making a complete meal effortlessly.

A solution for any kitchen

Worried about counter space? Most egg cookers are designed with a small footprint, and their sleek, modern designs are far from an eyesore. Furthermore, clean-up is typically very easy, as all the non-electric components are almost always dishwasher safe. This alleviates the concern of it being just another clunky, hard-to-clean gadget.

An egg cooker is ideal for:

Busy individuals and families who need quick, healthy breakfasts.

Meal preppers looking to cook a large batch of perfect hard-boiled eggs.

Anyone who finds stovetop egg cooking intimidating or inconsistent.

Home cooks who want to expand their easy, quick-cook options without using multiple pans.

When you purchase one, look for a model that includes a poaching tray, an omelet bowl, and a measuring cup. A manufacturer’s warranty is also a plus.

An egg cooker transcends its simple name. It is a versatile, reliable, and incredibly convenient appliance that takes the guesswork out of cooking eggs and more. Most egg cooker cost in the range of Shs56,386 for basic models and Shs150,000, which is a small investment that pays off daily in perfectly cooked food and saved time.

When you ask most investment experts which companies are worth buying on Uganda’s stock market, MTN almost always makes the list.

MTN entered Uganda with a simple belief: everyone deserves the benefits of a modern, connected life, after seeing potential in bridging the gap between those with and without access to digital and financial services.

Its major turning point, however, came in December 2021, when it listed 22.4 billion shares on the Uganda Securities Exchange (USE), becoming the largest public share sale in Uganda’s history, from which it raised Shs535b from more than 20,000 local investors.

This reduced MTN Group’s ownership from 96 to 83.05 percent.

During the Initial Public Offer (IPO), each share sold for Shs200, but only 12.97 percent of the planned 20 percent was taken up.

To fill the gap, MTN launched a second offer in May 2024, pricing shares at Shs170 each.

Investor demand surged, subscriptions hit 230 percent, one of the highest ever on the USE.

By October 2025, MTN’s share price was around Shs294, a gain of 47 percent for IPO buyers and over 70 percent for those who joined in 2024. The steady rise reflects confidence in its future.

The listing raised more than capital; it reshaped Uganda’s investment culture and gave ordinary Ugandans a chance to own part of one of the country’s biggest companies.

Why investors trust MTN

When MTN entered Uganda in 1998, the country had only 6,000 mobile phone users. By mid-2025, that number had risen to about 44.3 million, according to Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).

The growth illustrates how mobile technology has transformed Uganda, though many people still lack access to smartphones and affordable digital services.

Thus, to understand why investors remain loyal to MTN, you must look beyond the share price to its financial discipline.

Early this year, MTN and Stanbic were hit with one-off tax bills after a URA audit. MTN paid Shs110.9b, which cut its half-year profit by 9.7 percent to Shs267b.

Yet, the telecom’s fundamentals remained firm, with a return on equity above 58 percent, meaning MTN earns more than half a shilling for every shilling invested.

That efficiency has made it one of Uganda’s most reliable blue-chip stocks. Financial consultant Gitta Expeditto says MTN’s biggest attraction is not its share price but its dividends.

‘MTN is a dividend-growth company; it increases what it pays shareholders every time,’ he says.

MTN’s cash flow has grown by about 20 percent annually, enabling it to pay dividends three times a year, something rare among Ugandan companies.

It also maintains a solid net profit margin of nearly 20 percent, meaning that for every Shs1,000 earned, about Shs200 remains as profit.

With more than 20 million active customers, MTN continues to generate stable growth.

Even after dividend payouts, it reinvests returns at between 13 and 20 percent, levels higher than most telecoms in developed markets.

A reliable dividend machine

MTN’s dividend policy is central to its appeal. In the last three quarters, it has paid out about 95 percent of its profits as dividends, compared to its usual 79-85 percent.

‘MTN increases its payouts every year,’ Gitta notes. ‘Investors earn returns that beat inflation and enjoy steady cash flow.’

For those who bought shares at Shs170 during the 2024 offer, the dividend yield now exceeds 14 percent, an unusually high return on the USE.

Numbers behind the confidence

MTN’s digital transformation, expanding data and fintech services, has boosted its earnings per share and overall market capitalisation.

Its price-to-book ratio of 5.2x shows that the market values MTN at more than five times its asset value, reflecting its strong brand, loyal customers, and market dominance.

Meanwhile, its price-to-earnings ratio of 10.8x means investors buying at Shs294 are paying about 10 times the company’s profit per share of Shs27.4.

Analysts say investors value consistency in dividend payments, a trait MTN shares with other strong performers like Bank of Baroda and Stanbic.

While MTN’s shares are priced higher than most, much of its worth lies in intangible assets, brand reputation, trust, and scale.

These strengths make investors willing to pay a premium, confident that MTN will continue connecting Uganda and rewarding those who believe in its story.

Uganda’s young environmentalists are stepping up efforts to redefine how the country handles waste, turning garbage into green gold through innovation, while supporting national efforts to cut carbon emissions under the Paris Agreement.

From plastic repurposing to composting, bioenergy, and circular economy hubs, the youth are increasingly becoming central players in climate action, a move that government officials and climate experts say is critical if Uganda is to achieve its new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) targets by 2030.

During the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Youth Stakeholder High-Level Event held in Kampala, Mr Emmanuel Teywa, a climate change officer from the Ministry of Water and Environment, said youth involvement is vital to the success of the country’s updated NDC 3.0, currently being formulated.

‘The youth are key drivers in implementing the NDCs because of their innovation, energy, and ability to scale up solutions,’ Teywa said, adding that Uganda’s NDC 3.0 aims to reduce emissions by 24.7 percent, equivalent to 36.88 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, by 2030.

The waste sector, though contributing a smaller portion of emissions, remains a growing concern due to urbanisation and limited recycling capacity.

‘The emissions from waste are increasing, and this calls for new measures, especially circular economy approaches such as recycling, reusing, and rethinking how we manage materials,’ he said.

As experts, Mr Tenywa said they have seen progress in the energy and agriculture sectors, but the waste sector still lags behind and as a fast-urbanising country, we must ensure that waste becomes an opportunity, not a problem.

‘We want to see youth innovations move from ideas to tangible projects that can be scaled across the country,’ he said.

Mr George Luganda, the climate lead at Green Africa Youth Organisation (GAYO), said youth participation in climate governance is no longer optional, it’s essential for sustainability.

‘As young people, we want to be at the centre of Uganda’s climate solutions and through the waste sector, we can turn plastic and other waste into useful products that provide employment and reduce emissions,’ he said.

According to Luganda, their contribution to the NDCs is through rethinking, reusing, and redesigning waste, making it part of a sustainable circular economy.

He added that the Youth Climate Council, recently established under the Ministry of Water and Environment, aims to serve as a one-stop coordination centre for young people working in climate-related sectors.

‘For long, youth efforts have been disjointed and underreported but we have hope that this council will harmonise youth initiatives and provide a monitoring and reporting tool that tracks real contributions to emission reductions,’ he said.

Mr Dean Tashobya, Uganda’s Chapter lead at the Africa Circular Economy Network, said waste should no longer be seen as a nuisance, but as a valuable resource that can drive green growth.

‘Circular economy means keeping resources at their highest value where there is no waste. Whatever remains from one process becomes a resource for another. It’s about closing the loop and regenerating our natural systems,’ he said.

He cited markets such as Nakawa and Nakasero, where large volumes of organic waste could be converted into animal feeds, compost, or bio-products instead of ending up in landfills such as Kiteezi, which pose health and environmental risks.

‘If that waste is turned into value like bioplastics, fuel briquettes, or black soldier fly farming we not only create jobs for the youth but also cut emissions significantly,’ he added.

Tashobya said partnerships across the value chain from farmers to recyclers and innovators are key to sustaining a circular economy.

‘You cannot work in silos and succeed, we need cooperation between markets, transporters, and waste processors to make sure waste becomes wealth,’ he said.

According to the 2024 Uganda National Census, 70 percent of Uganda’s population is under 30 years old, making youth inclusion central to the country’s climate strategy.

Experts agree that empowering this demographic through technology, financing, and skills development could unlock vast potential for green jobs and innovation.

Mr Luganda said Uganda’s biggest resource is its young people and turning waste into economic value through innovation and recycling can provide jobs, reduce pollution, and help the country meet its climate commitments.

‘Our progress depends on everyone, government, civil society, and especially young innovators, together, we can make waste management a pillar of climate resilience and sustainable development,’ he said.

Mr Luganda added that across Uganda, a quiet revolution is taking shape led not by policy papers alone, but by young people collecting plastic bottles, inventing eco-friendly products, and proving that sustainability and enterprise can coexist.

‘As the world moves toward COP30, Uganda’s youth are not just demanding a seat at the table they’re building it, piece by piece, from recycled wood, plastic, and purpose,’ he said.

key facts

What is NDC 3.0?

The Nationally Determined Contributions represent Uganda’s national action plan under the Paris Agreement, detailing how the country will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change impacts.

The third update NDC 3.0 is currently under development and will guide Uganda’s climate action through 2030.

Key targets

Cut emissions by 24.7 percent (about 36.8 million tonnes of CO2) by 2030. Strengthen resilience in key sectors: energy, agriculture, forestry, and waste management.

Promote gender-responsive and technology-driven climate solutions. Expand green financing and build capacity for youth-led innovations.

How youth contribute

Innovation and technology: Developing recycling apps, waste-to-energy start-ups, and low-carbon designs.

Circular economy projects: Turning plastics, food waste, and e-waste into new products and income sources. Community awareness: Mobilising schools and local communities on waste segregation and tree planting.

A police investigator testifying in the murder trial of businessman Henry Katanga on November 11 told the court that evidence from the scene and the nature of the gunshot wounds did not support claims that the deceased took his own life, contradicting the version initially presented by members of the family.

Detective Sergeant David Beteise, attached to the Jinja Road Police Division and the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), said he was part of the team that responded to a report of an alleged suicide at the businessman’s home in Mbuya on November 2, 2023.

‘My key role in the homicide desk is to investigate criminal cases which are reported and allocated to me,’ Detective Beteise said, adding that he has served in the police for 13 years, with extensive experience in handling homicide cases.

He said on arrival at the scene, the team comprising himself, Detective ASP Bibiana Akongo and other officers was briefed by Detective Ogwanga, who had first been called. They were led into the house by Patricia and George Amanyire, before Charles Otai, who introduced himself as the family doctor, unlocked the master bedroom.

‘Upon entering, I saw the body of a male adult lying on a mattress placed on the ground and covered with a cloth. On the bed were a pistol, a cartridge, ammunition, and a projectile,’ Sgt Beteise testified.

He said Amanyire claimed that Martha and Patricia had instructed them to place the pistol and ammunition on the bed, while Otai said Patricia had earlier taken the pistol and he asked her to return it.

Sgt Beteise said they observed an entry wound on the left side of the head and an exit wound on the right, adding: ‘The entry is always small, then the exit wound is always larger.’ He told the court that the team noticed signs of cleaning at the scene.

‘There was a sign of mopping and blood stains on the ceiling. In the bathroom, there was a bucket of water mixed with blood, a mopping rag with blood, and even the toilet had blood,’ he said. ‘We established that the one mopping was Amanyire,’ he added.

Despite the blood traces, Sgt Bateise said, the room appeared otherwise orderly. Investigators also recovered a sales agreement for the house signed only by A1, Molly Katanga, with the space for the deceased’s signature left blank, an issue the team considered significant. ‘Upon looking at the scene, the alleged case of suicide was ruled out,’ he stated.

Defence lawyer Macdusman Kabega objected, arguing that the witness was expressing an opinion. But Assistant DPP Samali Wakooli said the officer’s long experience qualified him to interpret the scene.

Justice Rosette Comfort Kania allowed the testimony to continue. Detective Beteise explained that most suicide gunshot wounds are found in accessible parts like the ear, cheek, or chest, unlike in this case.

‘It is impractical for someone intending to take their life to look for a complicated point,’ he said. He added that the inconsistent statements, the hurried cleaning, and the blood evidence led investigators to treat the death as a homicide, not suicide.

The case was adjourned to November 24 for further hearing.

Every evening after school, 23-year-old Elvis Kizito can be found mopping and dusting desks at the Daily Monitor Mbale Bureau, a job that has financed his education and kept his dream of completing secondary school.

Kizito, who works part-time as a cleaner at the Monitor offices in Mbale City, is among the 166,402 candidates sitting for the 2025 Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examinations.

He sits his papers at Nkoma Secondary School, where he offers Mathematics, Entrepreneurship, Geography, and ICT. ‘I started cleaning at Daily Monitor offices when I was in Senior Three,’ Kizito says. ‘The little money I earn helps me pay school fees and buy essentials.’

His journey began through Ms Sylvia Namuwenge, an office administrator at the Daily Monitor Mbale Bureau, who offered him a part-time job after noticing his determination. Behind Kizito’s perseverance lies a difficult past.

Born in Mbale and raised by his mother, Ms Eva Akello, after reportedly being rejected by his father’s family, Kizito grew up in hardship. His mother, a cleaner at the Uganda Communications Commission Mbale offices, struggled to raise him and his siblings.

‘Life was never easy,’ Kizito says. Despite numerous setbacks, including family conflict, financial struggles, and eviction, Kizito excelled academically, scoring Aggregate 10 in his Primary Leaving Examinations at North Road Primary School.

His secondary education, however, nearly ended when his mother could no longer afford the fees. After being turned away by his father’s relatives, his mother secured a loan to enrol him at University Link High School, where he earned a half bursary for good performance.

When the Covid-19 lockdown struck, Kizito started a small business, selling pancakes and cassava chips to support his family. Upon reopening, he completed Senior Four, obtaining Aggregate 42, and later joining Nkoma Secondary School for A-Level.

Then came a breakthrough. In early 2023, Ms Sylvia Namuwenge fell ill and went on sick leave. The Daily Monitor Mbale Bureau, impressed by Kizito’s work ethic, trusted him to step in for her for the entire month. ‘That was a blessing,’ Kizito smiles. ‘I added that money to my savings from my chapati stall and used it to join A-Level.’

His local church helps him with part of his school fees, while he continues working at the Daily Monitor office after classes. As he sits for his UACE exams, Kizito’s eyes are fixed on a brighter future.

‘I thank God for the people who have supported me, especially the team at the Daily Monitor Mbale Bureau. They’ve stood with me since Senior Three,’ he says.

Kizito’s mother Eva Akello, says her son is bright and has a strong love for education.

‘Since he is now sitting for Senior Six, I am worried about how I will afford his university tuition. I appeal to well-wishers to come to his aid and support his education. I also thank the Daily Monitor for giving him part-time work.

Kizito is very disciplined; he always prioritises his studies and manages his time wisely.

He is kind and respectful to everyone, which makes him loved by teachers and classmates alike,’Ms Akello says.

Ms Namuwenge commended Kizito’s strong work ethic and humility.

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) is facing public criticism after a printing error on one of this year’s Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) examination papers sparked outrage and online speculation.

The mistake appeared on Tuesday’s Economics Paper 2, which was labelled 2024 instead of 2025. The error prompted UNEB to issue an urgent correction to all examination centers, directing supervisors and head teachers to inform candidates that the paper remained valid.

‘Please take note that the year should read 2025 and not 2024 as indicated on the examination paper. Candidates should proceed with the examination,’ read a statement issued by the Board to field officials. While UNEB officials and some people described the error as minor, the issue quickly snowballed into a social media storm.

Netizens blasted UNEB for what they saw as a careless oversight in an otherwise meticulously prepared process.

On X (formerly Twitter), users questioned how ‘basic oversight could occur in a national examination process known for its strict procedures and layers of verification.’

‘UNEB took 364 days preparing an exam and forgot to change the year after reprinting the same paper of 2024,’ one user, @Hamidu, posted, drawing hundreds of reactions.

‘With students facing immense pressure to perform perfectly, where even a single misplaced decimal can cost marks, how could the exam body afford such a slip-up?’

Another wrote: ‘After a whole year of preparation, @UNEB_UG still printed 2024 on this year’s UACE Economics Paper 2.’

Priscilla, whose handle @rilgal23 suggests is a teacher of literature, claimed that the board had recycled last year’s paper.

‘The board UNEB just brought back the exact economics paper of 2024,’ she wrote, echoing a concern that quickly gained traction among netizens.

By Wednesday evening, the matter was trending, with users sharing memes, sarcastic takes, and even calls for accountability within the examination board.

Some critics demanded disciplinary action against those responsible, arguing that UNEB should hold itself to the same high standards it demands from candidates.

Educationist Gozanga Kaswarra described the incident as a symptom of deeper problems within Uganda’s education system.

He said the error exposes lapses in quality control and professionalism at one of the country’s most critical institutions.

‘This is not just a typo; it can be a reflection of complacency in our education management,’ Gozanga argued.

‘An examination paper is the final product of a long process involving design, moderation, and printing. If such a document reaches candidates with an error, it means several quality assurance layers failed.’

He added that UNEB must strengthen internal checks and ensure accountability at every stage of examination preparation.

‘Attention to detail is not optional in assessment work,’ he said, adding: ‘The board’s credibility depends on accuracy. Once the public loses trust, even small mistakes create lasting damage.’

Responding to the matter, UNEB spokesperson Jennifer Kalule said that the paper was entirely new and the wrong year was a typographical error.

‘You can check last year’s paper. It is totally different from this one. The year was an error,’ Kalule said, adding: ‘We understand the outrage because the public holds us in high regard, and rightly so. UNEB is committed to transparency and excellence, and we are reviewing our processes to ensure this does not happen again.’

Accoroding to Kalule, all exams remain valid and no candidate will be affected by the misprint. All answer scripts will eventually be marked according to standard procedures, according to UNEB.

The life of Francis Mugoga is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. From the rural landscapes of Amusi Village in the eastern district of Bukedea, Mugoga was born to Pastor Silver and Mary Mugoga.

Mugoga’s educational journey was turbulent from the very start. He began his primary education at Mafudu Primary School, Sironko District, before moving to Amusi Primary School. This period coincided with the dictatorial and violent regime of President Idi Amin.

For Mugoga and his classmates, the sound of gunfire became a terrifying normal, and the constant threat of displacement meant living in a perpetual state of fear. Amid this instability and the looming uncertainties of daily life, Mugoga developed a profound and steadfast belief that education was the only reliable ladder he could climb to escape the grip of poverty. This conviction led his parents to relocate him to Nampanga Primary School, Sironko District, a decision that offered a slightly more stable environment for learning.

His secondary school years proved to be a continuation of this “survival of the fittest” era. Widespread insurgency in the Teso Sub-region forced him to flee once again, first shifting to Nkoma High School in Mbale and then spending a term at Manjasi High School in Tororo. Just as he was trying to settle into an academic routine, a new and more personal challenge emerged; his parents could no longer afford to support his schooling, and the responsibility to provide for his own education fell squarely on his young shoulders.

Becoming self-reliant

“This was a truly tough time in my life,” Mugoga recalls. He often had to walk a daunting 13-kilometre journey to and from school each day. To raise money for school fees and basic necessities, he sold whatever he could, including jackfruit and roasted groundnuts. He would travel from his village, Mafudu, all the way to the larger town of Mbale to hawk brooms. He took on any job available, no matter how difficult or humble, including digging latrines for neighbours, selling kerosene, and vending fish at the local Kayembe Trading Centre. While exhausting, these early struggles would later become the cornerstone of his professional career.

Building a career, one job at a time

In 1989, Mugoga secured his first official job as a housekeeper for a teacher at Tororo Girls’ High School, with a monthly salary of a meagre Shs500. Never one to rely on a single income stream, he used his position to create further opportunities. He began selling chewing gum during school parties and also worked as an agent for a courier service called Speed Delivery, delivering parcels to students. Driven by ambition, he later made the bold decision to relocate to the capital city, Kampala. He arrived with little more than a hand-woven palm bag. His break came when he found work at the Gwalimutala Coffee Factory in Kiwenda, Wakiso District.

His initial tasks included sorting coffee beans and carrying heavy bags to various destinations. However, his diligence and strong work ethic did not go unnoticed. His bosses were so impressed that they promoted him to the position of bookkeeper, marking the first time he was entrusted with handling financial records, a skill that would prove invaluable in his future ventures.

A fortunate coincidence then changed his trajectory. The chairperson of the local Parents Teachers Association (PTA) relocated near the coffee factory and, recognising Mugoga’s potential, asked his boss if Mugoga could teach part-time at Bulesa Primary School, Wakiso District. He was assigned to teach Geography, History, and English.

“This moment fundamentally changed everything for me,” Mugoga explains. “It awakened in me a deep-seated calling for mentoring and building people up.”

The teaching role came with free accommodation and a small allowance, which he diligently saved.

He managed to accumulate Shs83,600, which he used to purchase his first plot of land in Mafudu; a 40 by 45 feet property that represented his first major investment in his own future. It was during this period of teaching that he also enrolled for a distance learning certificate program in Tourism, which laid the foundational stone for his lifelong career in the industry.

A decade of humanitarian service

While he was engrossed in his teaching role, another significant door of opportunity opened. In 1990, he joined the international aid organisation Food for the Hungry International (FHI). As one of the first Ugandan staff members, Mugoga’s journey with FHI was defined by a deep sense of purpose, humility, and an unshakable commitment to preserving human dignity. Starting in the relief department, his dedication and leadership abilities saw him rise to the position of Regional Programme Director. In this capacity, he led wide-ranging initiatives that transformed countless lives across the country.

His humanitarian mission extended to some of the most marginalised members of society. He regularly visited Luzira Upper Prison and Kitalya Prison, where he conducted Bible studies and offered crucial relief support among the inmates. Later, he was transferred to manage the Kanyaryeru Resettlement Scheme in Mbarara. This scheme was home to hundreds of families that had been displaced from the Luweero Triangle, a region devastated during the guerrilla war that brought President Museveni to power. Recognising their immense sacrifice, President Museveni had allocated this land to help them rebuild their lives. Mugoga’s role was to lead this rebuilding process.

‘I understood that recovery required more than just food and shelter; it needed infrastructure and opportunity. Beyond education, I championed healthcare and community welfare. Through FHI and partner agencies, I coordinated the construction of the Kanyaryeru Health Centre,’ he recounts.

Advancing his skills

After a dedicated decade with FHI, Mugoga enrolled in courses for Development Studies and Journalism, and also earned a Diploma in Tourism from Ryerson College in Canada. He later consolidated his communication skills by earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication. His early career even included international media experience, working as a cameraman for Rogers Cable TV in Canada. Back in Uganda, he embraced radio broadcasting as a presenter at Power FM Radio.

From volunteer tour guide to entrepreneur

Mugoga’s deep passion for travel, culture, and the natural beauty of Africa evolved into an entrepreneurial venture. In the late 1990s, while still engaged in community work, he began informally organising tours for international volunteers visiting Uganda. With no vehicles of his own, he operated on a shoestring budget, hiring local taxis and negotiating with drivers to transport his clients.

His earnings were modest, often coming mostly from tips, but his commitment to providing authentic, safe, and meaningful travel experiences was absolute. In January 2003, he officially registered his company, Explore Africa Safaris, as a sole proprietorship. He built the company literally from the scratch, navigating a tourism sector that was still recovering from regional insecurities and limited infrastructure.

A vision for Africa

Today, as the executive director of the Tourism Institute of East Africa (TIEA), Mugoga’s vision has expanded beyond his own company to shaping the future of an entire industry. Over the years, his influence and reputation have surpassed national borders, earning him a seat at some of the most prestigious tables across the continent and beyond. He has also cultivated diplomatic relationships, dining with ambassadors from China, Burundi, and South Africa, among others. Furthermore, his deep respect for culture and tradition culminated in his appointment as an official advisor to the King of Bugwere, a role he holds with great honour and humility.

The election fever is sweeping across Uganda as campaigns for the 2026 parliamentary and local government elections enter their third day today. The Electoral Commission (EC) officially kicked off campaigns on Monday, November 10, with 83,597 candidates vying for 45,505 elective positions nationwide.

These include 353 constituency seats, 146 district women seats, and 20 special interest group seats representing persons with disabilities, workers, and older persons.

Of the 2,711 candidates nominated to contest for the 519 parliamentary seats in the 12th Parliament, 2,703 are actively campaigning after eight were declared unopposed.

Across the country, both seasoned politicians and newcomers have hit the campaign trail with renewed energy, promising improved service delivery, economic empowerment, and better livelihoods for Ugandans.

From Jinja to West Nile, Hoima to Masindi, and beyond, rallies, door-to-door drives, and community meetings are in full swing.

Newcomers hit the ground running

In Jinja City, Mr Hussein Muyonjo, alias Swengere, one of the 16 contestants for the Jinja North Division MP seat on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, has taken a door-to-door approach, starting in Mafubira B Ward.

A newcomer to politics, Mr Muyonjo expressed optimism after what he described as a warm reception from voters. ‘I’ll improve service delivery by ensuring education improves, unemployment is addressed, Ugandans are safe, and taxes are manageable,’ he said.

Similarly, Ms Sarah Lwansasula, the NUP candidate for Jinja City Woman MP, launched her campaigns in the city centre, pledging to improve the living conditions of traders at Jinja Central Market.

‘I’ll tackle the issue of too many taxes being charged on you. Just trust me with your vote – everything will be sorted out,’ she told voters.

Meanwhile, Ms Rose Acayo, contesting for the Persons with Disability (PWD) parliamentary slot, pledged to lobby for local production of assistive devices and push for government-paid personal assistants for public servants with severe disabilities.

‘If government can pay political assistants for MPs, then persons with severe disabilities in public offices should also have assistants. That’s what I’ll advocate for,’ she said.

Excitement, tight races in West Nile

In Arua City, campaigns kicked off smoothly across Central, Ayivu West, and Ayivu East Divisions, with no major incidents reported. Supporters of different candidates danced and feasted to mark the start of campaigns.

The EC’s programme harmonisation has helped avoid clashes by allocating different wards to candidates at different times.

In Arua Central Division, Mr Ronald Debo (Independent) told voters in Bazzar Ward that he plans to simplify access to funding under the GROW Project.

‘Women doing salon business or selling foodstuff need access to such funds, but current conditions are too strict. I’ll lobby to make them fair,’ he said.

Former Arua Municipality MP Kassiano Wadri (ANT), now contesting for the Arua Central Division MP seat, pledged to complete unfinished projects such as road networks.

The race for Arua Central has attracted six candidates, Kassiano Wadri (ANT), Ronald Debo (Ind), incumbent Jackson Atima (NRM), Muzaid Khemis, Jackson Obindu (NUP), and Hadad Salim (Ind).

However, some candidates raised concerns over the defacing of posters.

‘We spent a lot of money printing posters, but people are tearing them down. The police and EC should act,’ said Ms Nezma Ocokoru (ANT), who is contesting for Arua Central Division Mayor.

Regional Police Spokesperson Josephine Angucia urged candidates to maintain peace and avoid using abusive language. ‘Supporters should not destroy or deface posters of opponents. Let’s respect democracy,’ she said.

Oil city candidates’ promises

In Hoima City, aspirants launched their campaigns with promises of improved service delivery.

Dr Patrick Mwesigwa Isingoma Obama, MP for Hoima East Division, who is seeking re-election as an Independent, launched his campaign at Hoima East Division Headquarters, pledging to continue ongoing initiatives.

Mr Ronald Kato Rwahwiire (NUP), contesting for Hoima West Division MP, promised to tackle youth unemployment.

‘We have oil here, but our youth are not employed in that sector. We need to bridge that gap,’ he said.

Meanwhile, Princess Diana Jane Mugenyi (NRM), running for Hoima City Woman MP, started her campaigns in Kiduma Ward with a pledge to empower women.

‘I plan to lobby for funds that help women escape poverty,’ she said.

In Masindi District, candidates began their campaigns with enthusiasm.

In Masindi Municipality, incumbent Joab Abwooli Businge (FDC) launched his re-election bid in Karujubu Division, pledging better education, health services, and youth empowerment.

‘Our people need better schools, functional health centres, and opportunities for youth. That’s what I’ve been fighting for,’ he said.

His challenger, Rogers Byamukama (NRM), launched his campaign in Nyangahya Division, promising job creation and infrastructure growth.

‘Masindi needs to grow economically. My mission is to ensure our youth get employment,’ he said.

Mr Steven Wanders (NUP), a journalist, identified lack of clean water and education facilities as key issues.

‘Every division must have a health centre III and a secondary school. My leadership will ensure this becomes reality,’ he said.

Former MP Patrick Paddy Kasumba (Independent) highlighted past achievements, including water projects, and asked voters for another chance.

In Buruli County, incumbent Allan Akugizibwe (NRM) focused his campaign on rural electrification and road improvement.

In Kyaka Central, Kyegegwa District, Mr Amos Bacwa (FDC) launched his campaign promising transformation through education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and anti-corruption efforts.

‘Service delivery is not a privilege; it’s a right. Every citizen of Kyaka Central deserves quality education, clean water, and good roads,’ he said.

Bacwa vowed to support teachers, improve schools, and promote vocational training. He also pledged to establish farmers’ Saccos and make farming profitable through collective marketing.

Economic empowerment in north

In Gulu City, Mr Caesar Lubangakene (NUP) launched his campaign in Agonga Village, Laliya Parish, promising to empower grassroots communities.

‘My campaign is about economic empowerment. For our health, education, and wellbeing to improve, people must have money in their pockets,’ he said.

He faces a tight race against Fr Charles Onen (Ind), Justice Minister Norbert Mao (DP), Tonny Kitara (NRM), Simon Opoka (UPC), and two independents, Charles Odokonyo and Wilfred Opobo.

In Omoro District, Ms Betty Layika, contesting for District Woman MP, condemned intimidation and bribery attempts allegedly targeting her agents.

‘I am being intimidated and targeted. We must not tolerate this,’ she said, pledging to advocate reparations for war victims.

Mr Andrew Okot, running for District Chairperson, promised job creation and better agricultural value addition.

‘Our farmers grow cash crops but lack access to processing facilities. I want to fix that,’ he said.

Western Uganda promises

In Rukungiri District, Security Minister Maj Gen Jim Katugugu Muhwezi, the Rujumbura County MP, launched his campaign at Kyaburere Health Centre III in Bugangari Sub-county.

Accompanied by his wife, Susan Muhwezi, the minister urged voters to keep supporting the NRM. ‘Our manifesto is people-centred and addresses the wellbeing of Ugandans. Kindly vote for the NRM government,’ he said.

He pledged to extend water and electricity to all villages. ‘This is my last term. I’ll ensure every village gets water and power,’ he said.

In Mbarara City North, Mr Moses Nuwagaba (Independent) began a door-to-door campaign focused on service delivery.

In Igara West, Counsel Cohen Kyampene (NRM) promised to lobby for a new health centre III in Kizinda Town Council. Igara East MP Michael Mawanda (NRM) reported smooth campaigns so far, with no major incidents.

Luweero Triangle strategies

In the Greater Luweero area, several candidates have adopted door-to-door campaigns to reach voters who may not attend rallies.

Mr Rogers Sunday Bwanga, contesting for Nakasongola County MP, said the approach helps reach farmers who are often busy.

‘Most voters are in their gardens, so this approach ensures we engage directly,’ he said. Ms Maureen Nakuya, contesting for Luweero Woman MP, said voters in the district prefer personal interaction to mass rallies.

In Nakaseke District, State Minister Joseph Kyofatogabye (NRM) launched his campaign in Butalangu Town, pledging to lobby for better roads and to blend rallies with community outreach.

The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, has unveiled a bold plan to transform Uganda’s agriculture sector through modernization and mechanization.

Speaking at the inauguration of the 6th NARO governing council at Imperial Golf View Hotel in Entebbe on Tuesday, Mr Tumwebaze emphasised the need for precision farming, technology, and research to boost productivity and efficiency.

“The new agriculture is modern and mechanised, with precision enablers at every stage of the value chain,” Tumwebaze said.

He cited Brazil as an example, which has achieved higher coffee yields per hectare, and urged NARO to apply technology to improve Uganda’s agricultural productivity.

Tumwebaze directed the new council to establish a directorate or department of agriculture technologies, focusing on precision farming and modernizing infrastructure.

He emphasised collaboration between small-scale and large-scale farmers, saying, “There is no way you can talk of sustaining a small-scale farmer or making him or her profitable sustainably without building a sustainable linkage, a mutual linkage between this small and large.”

The Minister also stressed the importance of research and development in driving agricultural transformation, noting that NARO should prioritize research that addresses the needs of farmers and the agricultural sector.

He urged the council to work closely with stakeholders to identify key areas that require innovation and investment.

NARO Director General Yona Baguma expressed gratitude for the new governing council, saying it will enable the organization to remain focused on generating innovations to drive agricultural transformation. He highlighted gaps, including a staff shortage of 464, and urged the government to increase funding.

“We have a gap of 464 staff, and this gap is occasioned by an inadequate wage,” Baguma said. “We pray that the government sets aside an increased wage to NARO to be able to get additional human resource to invite vibrant and sustainable and responsive entity to innovate for the purpose of creating impact.”

Baguma emphasised that sustainable and adequate funding is crucial to achieving NARO’s goals, and urged the government to establish an Agricultural Research Trust Fund. “The establishment of this fund will be a game-changer for NARO and the agricultural sector as a whole,” he said.

Dr. William Olaho Mukani, NARO Council Chairperson, emphasised modern farming techniques like AI and drones to boost crop yields and improve food security.

“We need to move away from traditional farming methods and adopt new technologies that can help us increase productivity and reduce poverty,” he said.

The establishment of an Agricultural Research Trust Fund is seen as a critical step towards achieving Uganda’s agricultural transformation agenda.

The new NARO Council of 15 members will serve for the next three years, overseeing policy and research for the organization.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has withdrawn all corruption-related charges against former Makerere University Business School (MUBS) Principal Prof Waswa Balunywa.

Prof Balunywa’s co-accused, Ms Jacqueline Namaganda, has also been set free, bringing to an end a two-month legal battle that followed his controversial reappointment at the helm of the institution.

In a withdrawal form dated November 7, 2025, and signed by former DPP Jane Frances Abodo, prosecution informed the Anti-Corruption Court that it had decided to discontinue proceedings against the duo.

‘This is to inform court that the Director of Public Prosecutions has decided to discontinue proceedings against A1, Professor Waswa Balunywa, and A2, Jacqueline Namaganda, charged with three counts of abuse of office c/s 10(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act Cap 166, and three counts of neglect of duty c/s 101 of the Penal Code Act Cap 128,’ reads part of the withdrawal notice.

When the matter came up for mention, Principal Assistant DPP Caroline Nabaasa presented the formal notice of withdrawal before Grade One Magistrate Christopher Opit, who accordingly discharged the two.

‘The charges are hereby withdrawn, and the accused persons are discharged,’ ruled Magistrate Opit, before ordering the refund of their properties, including cash bail, and the release of their sureties and land title.

The decision marks a dramatic turn in a case that had attracted wide public interest since Prof Balunywa was charged with multiple counts of abuse of office and neglect of duty.

According to the initial charge sheet, the former MUBS Principal was accused of unlawfully recruiting over 100 staff members between 2020 and 2023 without approval from the institution’s Appointments Committee.

The DPP alleged that the appointments, which included 103 academic staff, 17 administrative staff, and 69 support staff, were irregular and contrary to the law governing public service recruitment.

Prof Balunywa, who denied all charges, was later remanded to Luzira Prison in September 2025 pending a ruling on his bail application.

His co-accused, Namaganda, then serving as Acting Director of Human Resource and later Chief Quality Assurance Officer, faced three counts of neglect of duty. She was accused of failing to assess the eligibility of several administrative recruits allegedly appointed without proper qualifications.

The now-withdrawn charges stemmed from controversies surrounding Prof Balunywa’s extended tenure at MUBS. In 2018, when his fifth term as Principal expired, Education Minister Janet Museveni had directed the Education Service Commission to begin searching for his replacement.

But President Museveni later overruled her and ordered Balunywa’s immediate reappointment, citing his contribution to the liberation ideology and administrative experience.

Balunywa’s reappointment, which extended his leadership to May 2023, later came under scrutiny as part of a broader probe into staff recruitment practices at the institution.