Category: Daily Monitor

The Leader of Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi, on Wednesday accused authorities of blocking him from travelling to Kalangala District to oversee his party’s activities during a Woman MP by-election, after ferries he boarded reportedly failed to complete the journey.

Mr Ssenyonyi said he had travelled to Bukakata Landing Site in Masaka intending to cross to Kalangala and support the campaign team of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Irene Nampala.

According to the opposition leader, he spent hours waiting aboard a ferry that failed to depart after what he described as instructions barring his travel to the island district.

‘I’m told there’s been an instruction not to set off because there is no clearance yet for me to proceed to Kalangala, where I’m meant to be one of the supervisors for our candidate Irene Nampala’s team in the by-election,’ Mr Ssenyonyi said on his social media platforms.

He also alleged that his team had received reports of voter bribery and ballot-stuffing at various polling stations, although he did not provide evidence to support the claims.

Mr Ssenyonyi said a second ferry later departed but was ordered to turn back while midway across Lake Victoria.

‘Apparently, the ferries will not move to Kalangala for as long as I’m on board. All other travellers have been stuck since morning,’ he said.

He said he eventually disembarked and returned to Masaka to avoid further inconveniencing other passengers travelling to the islands.

The by-election is being held to replace former Kalangala District Woman MP Hellen Nakimuli, who died in April.

Responding to concerns raised by opposition leaders, Electoral Commission spokesperson Mr Julius Mucunguzi said polling was proceeding peacefully across the district.

‘Everything is calm, and the voting is underway, and as peacefully as you can think. We hope that the situation will remain the way it is, and we urge the various stakeholders to maintain peace during the entire exercise,’ Mr Mucunguzi said.

Five candidates are contesting the seat, including NUP’s Irene Nampala, National Resistance Movement flag bearer Aidah Nabayiga and three independent candidates.

The circumstances surrounding the ferry disruptions were not immediately clear, and authorities had not commented directly on Mr Ssenyonyi’s allegations by press time.

When Vanessa Van Pee and Nathalie Van Pee first envisioned Nile Safari Lodge, they imagined a place where architectural brilliance would harmonise with environmental stewardship, where every beam, every wall, and every system would tell a story of respect for the natural world. Today, that vision has not only earned them recognition as Uganda’s leading sustainable hospitality property, it has also proven that eco-conscious construction is not merely an ethical choice but a shrewd business decision with tangible returns.

Architecture rooted in nature

They understood that a property situated in one of Uganda’s most celebrated protected areas, Murchison Falls National Park, carried an inherent responsibility to preserve and protect the very environment that would sustain it. The structures are built largely from natural materials, including locally inspired thatched roofs that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and eucalyptus poles that are both durable and replenishable. The sisters drew inspiration from nearby communities, ensuring the property feels connected to its surroundings rather than imposed upon them.

“We wanted a design that respected nature,” Nathalie explains. “The materials we use are part of a natural cycle.”

This commitment to natural materials extends beyond aesthetics; it is a practical decision rooted in the understanding that buildings should not deplete the resources they depend upon. Every thatched roof, every wooden beam, and every locally sourced stone represents a conscious choice to minimise environmental impact while maximising authenticity.

The lodge itself has only eight rooms, including a family villa with a private swimming pool and an exclusive banda designed specifically for honeymooners. Each room offers uninterrupted views of the River Nile, allowing guests to wake each morning to the shimmering waters and the distant calls of hippos and birds.

Limiting capacity was a deliberate decision, not merely to cultivate an atmosphere of exclusivity and personalised service, but also to minimise the environmental footprint of the property. The sisters understood from the outset that fewer guests meant less waste, less water consumption, and less strain on the surrounding ecosystem.

“We wanted guests to feel like friends rather than room numbers,” Vanessa says. “We know what they like to eat, what they like to drink, and how they like to spend their time.”

This personalised approach extends to every aspect of the guest experience, from the warm welcome with drumming and fresh juice to the curated excursions and private bush breakfasts that create lasting memories.

Sustainable systems that deliver returns

The sisters operationalised their sustainability vision through significant upfront investments in green technology that would have seemed audacious to many in the hospitality industry. They installed an impressive array of 120 solar panels across the property, harnessing the abundant equatorial sunlight to power much of the lodge’s energy needs. This transition to renewable energy required substantial capital expenditure, but it has dramatically reduced dependence on expensive and environmentally damaging fossil fuels.

The swimming pool, a centrepiece of the lodge’s luxury offering, operates on an innovative saltwater system that eliminates the need for harsh chemicals. This system not only provides a more pleasant swimming experience for guests but also reduces the environmental impact of pool maintenance and lowers ongoing operational costs. Similarly, single-use plastics have been eliminated entirely from the property, replaced with elegant refillable glass bottles and reusable alternatives. Even the paper used at the lodge is recycled, ensuring waste is minimised at every possible juncture.

Water is pumped directly from the River Nile and treated using advanced ultraviolet filtration systems, eliminating the need for chemical treatments while ensuring the highest standards of purity for guests.

This closed-loop approach to water management reflects a broader commitment to resource efficiency that permeates every aspect of the lodge’s operations. The sisters emphasise that their efforts are driven by a desire to leave a positive imprint on the world by respecting the nature that has been so generously offered to them.

“We have to think about future generations and the impact we leave behind,” Nathalie adds.

“Using natural materials and sustainable systems comes with maintenance and extra effort, but we knew from the beginning that this was the right path,” she further explains.

The ROI of going green

The financial returns of their sustainable approach are becoming increasingly clear and compelling, validating the sisters’ initial investment and providing a powerful case study for other hospitality entrepreneurs. First and foremost, the operational cost savings have been substantial.

The solar panels have significantly reduced electricity costs, freeing up capital that can be reinvested in guest experiences and staff development.

The saltwater pool system requires fewer chemicals and less maintenance than traditional chlorinated pools, resulting in lower recurring expenses. Eliminating single-use plastics reduces ongoing supply costs while simultaneously enhancing the property’s environmental credentials.

Beyond operational savings, the sisters have discovered that eco-conscious travellers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable experiences. Many tourists actively seek out facilities with little or negligible environmental footprint, and Nile Safari Lodge’s sustainability credentials give it a competitive edge in the luxury segment. The Poate award has also boosted the lodge’s visibility, attracting more international bookings and strengthening their market position. Recognition from prestigious industry bodies validates their investment and serves as a powerful marketing tool, differentiating Nile Safari Lodge from competitors who have not made similar commitments. The award has opened doors to new partnerships and collaborations, further enhancing the property’s appeal.

Perhaps most importantly, the sisters understand that protecting the environment is ultimately about safeguarding their most valuable asset; the River Nile and its surrounding ecosystem. A degraded environment would diminish the very experience guests come to enjoy. By investing in sustainable construction and operations, the sisters are protecting their long-term commercial viability while simultaneously contributing to conservation efforts.

Staff retention and community goodwill represent another significant return on investment. About 80 percent of the lodge’s staff come from the neighbouring Mubako community, creating strong ties that reduce recruitment costs and foster loyalty. Guests who participate in community visits gain deeper cultural experiences, enhancing their stay and encouraging positive reviews. This virtuous cycle benefits everyone involved.

Building for the Future

The sisters believe hospitality establishments have an opportunity to influence behaviour beyond their properties, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond their immediate surroundings.

“When visitors see that a lodge can operate without single-use plastic or can make conscious environmental choices, it becomes part of the story they take back with them,” Vanessa observes.

This educational aspect of their work is not incidental but intentional; they understand that every guest who experiences sustainable hospitality becomes a potential ambassador for environmental stewardship. The impact extends beyond guests to surrounding communities. Over time, sustainability initiatives at the lodge have inspired broader community involvement, from tree planting and clean-up campaigns to greater awareness of waste management.

“It creates a ripple effect,” the sisters note. “People in the surrounding communities see the importance of keeping the environment clean because they understand visitors appreciate it too.”

This community engagement is an essential part of sustainable tourism, ensuring the benefits of conservation are shared beyond the boundaries of the lodge.

Learning from every guest

One of their most unusual management practices is their insistence on regularly experiencing the lodge as guests, a discipline that requires humility and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Every month, they visit the property and deliberately step into the shoes of paying customers, evaluating every aspect of the experience with fresh eyes.

“We ask ourselves whether the experience is worth what guests pay,” Nathalie says. “Are we meeting international standards? Are we creating something special?”

This regular self-assessment often reveals opportunities for improvement, driving continuous enhancement of the guest experience. The exercise has led to valuable insights and, occasionally, costly lessons. Yet each challenge has reinforced the importance of staying true to their vision.

“You cannot please everyone,” Vanessa says, recalling guests who wondered why the rooms did not have televisions. “Our answer is that the television is the view of the River Nile.”

Rather than competing with urban comforts, it invites visitors to reconnect with nature, to find peace in the simple rhythm of the river and the sounds of the wild.

A blueprint for sustainable hospitality

The Van Pee sisters have demonstrated that sustainable construction is not a charitable expense but a strategic investment with clear financial, environmental, and social returns. Their solar panels, water systems, and natural materials required upfront capital, but they are now delivering returns through reduced operational costs, premium pricing, and brand differentiation. The Poate award has further validated their approach, providing third-party confirmation of their leadership in sustainable hospitality.

As Vanessa reflects on what they have built, she offers a simple yet powerful lesson: ”We have to think about future generations and the impact we leave behind.” For Vanessa and Nathalie Van Pee, that balance is not just good business, it is essential for the future of hospitality in Uganda and beyond.

The Commissioner General of Prisons, Dr Johnson Byabashaija, has announced the promotion of 258 senior officers in the country.

The appointment on promotion announced on June 23 include 20 at the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Prisons, 27 Senior Superintendents of Prisons (SSP), 34 Superintendents of Prisons and 134 Senior Assistant Superintendents of Prisons (SASP).

Accordingly, the Commissioner General also announced the transfer of 14 officers across the country, while 3 were cleared to proceed on accumulated leave pending the decision of the Prisons Authority.

Commissioner General Byabashaija said the promotions were based on dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the Service.

They were encouraged to maintain the highest standard of professionalism and aim higher.

According to the Commissioner General, the promotions are in accordance with articles 172 (3) and 217 of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and Section 10 (C) of the Prisons Act, 2006.

”The Prisons Authority decided at the 46th Meeting held on 30th April 2026 at the Ministry of Internal Affairs to conduct the promotions.” He stated.

Those on transfers and leave take immediate effect without delay, the Commissioner General of Prisons directed.

The latest batch of promotions and reshuffles comes barely two months after the promotion of 4,996 junior officers in April this year.

The Uganda Prisons Service boasts of about 14,300 manpower countrywide.

The Uganda Embassy in France has launched a two-week mobile tourism campaign in Paris, rolling out three branded buses designed to intercept Europe’s biggest travel market before it books elsewhere.

The Embassy officially unveiled the initiative on Tuesday, June 23. The bus panels flash images of mountain gorillas in Bwindi, the snow-capped Rwenzori, the source of the Nile, and the golden savannahs of Kidepo.

The aim is simple: put Uganda in front of the millions of tourists who flock to Paris every summer.

‘Summer in France begins in June, and Paris becomes a magnet. Tourists from every continent pour in to see the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Seine. The Uganda Embassy is borrowing that crowd,’ said Ms Doreen Ruth Amule, Uganda’s Ambassador to France, Spain, and Portugal.

The buses will traverse over 200 square kilometres daily, targeting French-speaking commuters across major European hubs. To bridge awareness and action, each vehicle carries a QR code that links straight to travel information.

‘We want to figure out what really makes it different that France receives a lot of these tourists? How does Spain do it? How does Portugal do it?’ Ms Amule said. ‘So, this is the reason for which we are also positioning ourselves to get a portion of the tourists who come here in millions. And we should be in position to inform them and to be able to attract them to come to Uganda.’

The focus on France, Spain and Portugal is deliberate. France ranks as the world’s top tourism market, Spain second, Portugal eighth. Uganda was once among the least-known destinations in East Africa, pulling barely 2,000 visitors from the region. Through multi-channel branding and partnerships, the mission pushed that to over 7,400. Now the embassy is aiming for 10,000 French tourists alone in the next financial year.

Ambassador Charles Ssentongo, representing the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, called it a cornerstone of Uganda’s economic diplomacy.

‘Coming here to be part of this exciting event is something that’s very good for the nation. As I said, it’s one of the avenues of raising awareness about Uganda as a destination to the French market,’ he said. ‘At the same time, many Europeans who go through here – thousands of millions – are also able to connect with the tour operators and other tourism associations which are based in Europe.’

The Ministry wants more than awareness. The goal is to push Uganda into standard itineraries and holiday packages. Success will be measured not in impressions but in arrivals.

Dr Irene Sekai Nsenza, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to France and UNESCO, said Uganda’s move signals a broader African shift.

‘We’ve come a long way together. I’m also here because I want to celebrate what Uganda has to offer to the world, which most countries don’t have. For example, the chimpanzees that you see here, even in Zimbabwe, we don’t have that,’ she said. ‘And we have to thank the Ambassador of Uganda to France for such a brilliant idea of promoting Ugandan tourism in France.’

Dr Nsenza added: ‘And the local people will benefit a lot more once we have more visitors [coming to Uganda]. Like France has got one of the highest numbers of tourists, particularly now during the summer period.’

The campaign is a joint push by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Finance under Uganda’s ‘tenfold growth strategy,’ with tourism as a primary driver for trade and investment.

Residents have questioned the use of anti-corruption community engagements, commonly known as Barazas, aimed at exposing and investigating corruption among government officials and institutions, as many issues talked about remain unresolved.

Speaking at the Anti-Corruption Baraza held at Booma Grounds in Masindi Town on Tuesday, Mr Wahid Babyesiza Juma, the district councillor representing Labongo sub-county, said although several Barazas have been held by the anti-corruption agencies in the area over the years, many of the concerns raised remain unresolved.

‘I reported a corruption related case to the Office of the Inspector General of Government but since 2024, I have never received any response,’ he said.

He added that, ‘Instead, investigators often engage the accused individuals without adequately addressing complaints submitted by residents,’ he added.

Mr Haruna Irumba, a resident of Kijura South Cell, also expressed frustration over delays in investigations, citing the long-standing bitumen-related case, which he said has remained unresolved for more than a decade.

‘Officials from these anti-corruption agencies need to be more sincere if they want people to believe what they say and what they do. They come to us and we tell them what is happening on the ground but to our surprise they never respond back,’ he said.

Ms Salama Kugonza, the Board Chairperson of Recreation for Development and Peace, a youth-focused non-governmental organization committed to empowering young people living in poverty, said the government’s failure to take action against those who engage in corruption has made many lose hope in the fight against the vice.

In response, the Director of Information and Communications at the Directorate of Ethics and Integrity, Office of the President, Mr Nicholas Abola, said this has been as a result of poor coordination among public servants within the different Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

‘The key issues that we have come across that relates to the work of the directorate of ethics and integrity are the issues of poor coordination among public servants,’ he said.

According to Mr Abola, in many offices of government there is poor coordination and when they come before the public, they fail to answer in unison and the public may not trust in whatever they do.

He mentioned some of the key issues the public raised, with others pointing at the need to review some of the laws that enable anti-corruption agencies to fight corruption.

President Museveni has appointed Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs in charge of Regional Cooperation, as acting Minister of Foreign Affairs following the vacancy of the portfolio.

In a letter dated June 22, Museveni invoked his powers under Article 99(1) of the Constitution to appoint Kasolo to temporarily head the ministry.

‘In exercise of the powers vested in the President under Article 99(1) of the Constitution, I hereby appoint you as acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in the absence of a substantive Minister,’ the letter reads.

The Foreign Affairs ministry and three other ministerial positions remain vacant after nominees were found to hold dual citizenship, contrary to restrictions on certain public offices under Ugandan law.

Article 15(7) of the 1995 Constitution allows Parliament to prescribe public offices that cannot be held by persons who are citizens of another country.

Under Section 19D and the Fifth Schedule of the Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control Act, cabinet and other ministerial positions are classified as restricted offices, meaning holders must have sole allegiance to Uganda.

The issue came to prominence during the vetting of President Museveni’s Cabinet for the 2026-2031 term.

Dr Lawrence Muganga, who had been nominated as State Minister for Internal Affairs, was rejected by Parliament’s Appointments Committee after failing to provide satisfactory evidence that he had renounced his Canadian and Rwandan citizenship.

Other nominees affected by citizenship queries included Ambassador Adonia Ayebare, who had been nominated as Minister of Foreign Affairs; Calvin Echodu, nominated as State Minister for International Affairs; and Shartsi Kutesa Musherure, nominated as State Minister for Finance in charge of Microfinance.

Kasolo’s appointment is intended to ensure continuity at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as government considers a substantive appointment.

The letter was copied to Vice President Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, the Head of Public Service and the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Heat shimmered off the tarmac in Lira City on Tuesday as hundreds of widows from across the country stepped onto the street, refusing to let age, grief, or the weather keep them indoors.

It was the 2026 Provincial Commemoration of National Widows’ Day. And these mothers, who have walked through the valley of the shadow of death, came to be seen.

The energetic-looking women started marching from Lira Central Police Station. Row by row, gomesi of different colours moved through the Lango principal trade centre – royal blue, gold, red, white, green – a river of cloth and courage. They walked all the way to Uhuru Bar, feet steady despite the scorching sun.

But this was not a quiet procession. In their hands they held placards, the paint bold against the plywood: ‘Do not oppress the widows and widowers.’ ‘Widowhood has no age; Respect all seasons of grief.’

The messages were for land grabbers, for in-laws who seize property, for neighbours who whisper, for leaders who forget, and for anyone who thinks widowhood means silence.

At Uhuru Bar, the widows boarded three buses and headed to All Saints University of Lango ground, Lira City East Division, where the celebrations peaked with leaders sharing key messages.

The theme of the celebrations was dubbed: ‘Justice, dignity and economic power for widows.’

Bishop Alfred Olwa of Lango Diocese, who was the main celebrant, said every human life is created by God with a specific purpose, rather than being a matter of random chance.

Bishop Olwa contrasted a purposeful life with the Ugandan concept of living like a ‘wild cat’- an aimless existence ‘to whom it may concern.’

To fulfill this divine design, he encouraged the widows to maintain an active lifestyle through continuous farming, learning, service, prayer, and building relationships.

‘Pray every day even when you don’t feel like you want to pray. Read God’s word daily, join a fellowship or a prayer group. Save something regularly, however small, and avoid unnecessary debt,’ said the Anglican bishop, advising that widows should seek advice before selling land or major properties.

Bishop Olwa added: ‘Build strong relationships with trustworthy Christians. A trustworthy relationship is built, it doesn’t come by miracle. And teach your children and grandchildren to fear God. Take care of your health and keep hope alive.’

Dr Sr Grace Mary Akiror, Commissioner on the governing board of the Uganda AIDS Commission, said widows should count themselves lucky despite their state of widowhood.

‘God knows you and is ready to give you extraordinary strength like he did to Naomi. When all their husbands died, Ruth sets a great example by sticking with her mother-in-law who knew God personally and was granted favour,’ she said.

‘Do not give up on yourself. No one can ever replace you as a woman. You were purposefully created for such a season as this.’

According to Dr Akiror, women have been granted great wisdom to stand together in different ministries like counseling and supporting each other to succeed together.

‘I encourage each one of you to belong to a Christian group for support. Above all, the government of Uganda has put some programmes in place,’ she said.

Rev Barbara T. Mugisha, Provincial Coordinator at the Church of Uganda Directorate of Mission and Outreach, said it is high time leaders rose up and highlighted the plight of the marginalised widows.

‘Widows have been mistreated. They have been segregated. They have been discriminated against. They deserve our voice. They deserve dignity, justice and support,’ she said.

Enid Atuhaire Origumisiriza, Kabale Woman Member of Parliament, who was the guest speaker at the event, said widows should not suffer any form of injustices like property grabbing, discrimination or exclusion from economic activities and opportunities.

However, the reality in Uganda tells a different story. ‘According to research, more than one-third of widows in some regions of Uganda, including here in Lango Sub-region, have experienced first attempts to seize their land and property after the death of their husbands,’ said the legislator.

Mr Francis Ocira, program manager at the Redeem International Lira Field Office, said their organisation’s mission is to protect the land and property rights of widows and orphans.

By partnering with Ugandan government structures, the non-for-profit organisation ensures that legal protections are enforced and that vulnerable families can live safely on their ancestral land.

‘When a complaint is received, the organisation collaborates closely with the police to ensure thorough investigations and with the Director of Public Prosecutions to bring cases to court,’ said Mr Ocira.

This partnership extends to the local government and the judiciary to ensure that crimes against widows and orphans are met with formal legal consequences. Beyond legal aid, the organisation provides basic psychosocial support and counseling, utilising a referral network for cases that fall outside their specific criteria.

By focusing on prosecution as a means of deterrence and highlighting the necessity of proper land documentation, Mr Ocira and his team work to ensure that widows and orphans are not just victims of circumstance, but protected citizens with secure futures.

The High Court Commercial Division has ordered foam mattress manufacturer, Power Foam (U) Ltd, to pay over Shs74.3 million (US$20,075), to chemical supplier Trust Ventures (U) Ltd for unpaid supplies delivered nearly a decade ago.

In a judgment delivered by Justice Stephen Mubiru on Tuesday, the court found that Power Foam breached a supply agreement under which Trust Ventures supplied chemicals used in the manufacture of foam mattresses but was not fully paid for the deliveries.

The dispute stemmed from a business relationship that began in 2015, with Trust Ventures supplying polyether polyols and toluene diisocyanate, TDI, to Power Foam on credit.

According to court records, the supplier delivered chemicals worth US$30,060 in June 2016, in addition to an earlier outstanding debt of US$11,202, bringing the total amount owed to US$41,262. While Power Foam made payments totaling US$21,187, a balance of US$20,075 remained unpaid despite repeated demands.

Power Foam denied owing the money and argued that all supplies had been paid for. The company also disputed receiving some of the goods reflected in a June 4, 2016 invoice and contended that the arrangement was unenforceable because there was no formal written contract.

However, Justice Mubiru rejected the arguments, holding that a binding contract can be established through a combination of invoices, delivery notes, payment records and the conduct of the parties.

‘A legally binding contract can be inferred or pieced together from a collection of related commercial documents, provided that the necessary elements of a contract are present,’ the judge said.

The court noted that Power Foam had made partial payments toward the disputed invoice and later participated in reconciliation meetings that confirmed the outstanding debt.

‘By making a voluntary partial payment, the defendant validated the underlying transaction and acknowledged that the debt is owed,’ Justice Mubiru ruled.

The judge further held that the company could not deny receiving goods after making payments against the same invoice.

‘A debtor cannot blow hot and cold by treating a contract as valid enough to make a partial payment on it, and then claim it is entirely void when it is time to pay the remaining balance,’ he said.

The court found that the parties had operated under an oral agreement supported by delivery notes, invoices and payment records, with invoices becoming payable within one month after delivery.

Justice Mubiru held that Power Foam breached the agreement by failing to settle the outstanding balance despite repeatedly acknowledging the debt in emails and payment undertakings.

As a result, the court entered judgment in favour of Trust Venturs and awarded the company Shs74.3 million, US$20,075, together with interest at 10 per cent per annum from August 25, 2017 until payment in full.

The judge, however, declined to award special damages and general damages sought by the supplier. Trust Venturs had argued that Power Foam’s delayed payments forced it to incur penalties from its own supplier and interest on borrowed funds.

The court found that those losses were too remote because there was no evidence that Power Foam had been informed of the supplier’s financing arrangements or potential penalties at the time the contract was made. Justice Mubiru also dismissed the claim for general damages, holding that the award of interest sufficiently compensated Trust Venturs for being deprived of the use of its money.

Power Foam was further ordered to pay the costs of the suit.

Health experts have raised concern over the persistent stigma surrounding sickle cell disease in Uganda, revealing that some parents abandon families, hide affected children, or turn to harmful misconceptions instead of seeking medical care.

The concerns were raised on Friday, June 19, during the launch of the Rooted Life Foundation in Rubaga Division, Kampala, coinciding with World Sickle Cell Day.

The foundation, founded by former Mityana Woman MP Ms Joyce Bagala, seeks to promote awareness, screening, advocacy, and support for individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease.

Speaking at the event, Dr Henry Ddungu, a consultant haematologist and oncologist at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), said stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to effective prevention and treatment, despite growing medical knowledge about the disease.

‘Families hide their children or conceal a diagnosis for fear of being shunned by society,’ Dr Ddungu said. ‘The visible and debilitating nature of the disease often leads to negative perceptions, affecting patients’ mental health, social integration, and even employment opportunities.’

He cited cases where patients had lost jobs because of frequent hospital visits, and others whose parents rejected prescribed treatment due to misconceptions.

‘I have seen families refuse medicines such as hydroxyurea because of fear and misinformation. Some even claim their children are allergic to it without trying it. Yet when they eventually accept treatment, many return and say it has worked,’ he said.

Dr Ddungu noted that sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder affecting haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. The disease causes red blood cells to become rigid and crescent-shaped, restricting blood flow and leading to severe pain, recurrent infections, and progressive organ damage.

Globally, sickle cell disease affects an estimated 7.7 million people, a figure that has increased by more than 40 percent since 2000. The condition is estimated to cause over 375,000 deaths annually.

Sub-Saharan Africa bears the greatest burden.

‘More than 500,000 babies are born with sickle cell disease in Africa every year, and between 50 and 90 percent of them die before reaching adulthood,’ he said.

Uganda remains one of the countries most affected by the condition. According to findings from the Uganda Sickle Cell Surveillance Study, the prevalence of the sickle cell trait stands at 13.3 percent, while the disease prevalence is about 1.3 percent.

‘In northern Uganda, one in every five people carries the sickle cell gene,’ Dr Ddungu said. ‘Every year, up to 20,000 babies are born with sickle cell anaemia in Uganda, and between 30 and 40 percent die before their fifth birthday. It remains one of the leading causes of admission in paediatric wards.’

He attributed the continued burden to inadequate public awareness, limited healthcare infrastructure, shortages of specialised health workers, and widespread stigma.

Dr Emmanuel Ssekasanvu, a consultant physician and nephrologist, said cultural beliefs and misconceptions continue to fuel discrimination against affected families.

‘Previously, many communities associated such illnesses with witchcraft or misfortune,’ he said. ‘When children died, families rarely investigated the actual cause. Instead, they blamed curses or bad luck.’

According to Dr Ssekasanvu, women often bear the heaviest burden when a child is born with sickle cell disease.

‘The tendency in some families is for men to flee when a woman gives birth to children with a genetic condition. The woman cannot run away from her children, so she carries the responsibility alone,’ he said.

He added that many mothers and their relatives are unfairly blamed for bringing ‘misfortune’ into families, despite the fact that sickle cell disease is inherited from both parents.

‘Sickle cell is a genetic disease. Somewhere in the family line, there is a carrier. A child develops sickle cell disease when one carrier parent has a child with another carrier parent,’ he explained.

The experts emphasised the importance of genotype screening before marriage and childbearing as one of the most effective prevention measures.

The Ministry of Health also acknowledged the urgent need for stronger awareness campaigns, particularly among young people.

Mr Richard Kabanda, the Commissioner for Health Promotion, Education and Strategic Communication at the Ministry of Health and chief guest at the event, said Uganda’s youthful population should be at the centre of prevention efforts.

‘We need to rethink how we create awareness about sickle cell disease,’ he said. ‘About 70 percent of Uganda’s population is below 25 years. These are the young people we should be targeting because they are making decisions that will shape future families.’

Mr Kabanda noted that awareness gaps, inadequate health infrastructure, and a shortage of specialists continue to hamper efforts to tackle the disease.

‘We still do not have enough specialists, nurses, and doctors trained in sickle cell management. Government alone cannot champion every aspect of prevention. We need non-health actors and community organisations to join the effort,’ he said.

For Ms Bagala, the launch of the Rooted Life Foundation was inspired by personal experience after sickle cell disease affected her family.

‘When sickle cell disease entered my family’s life, it brought challenges that no parent can ever fully prepare for,’ she said. ‘It taught us about vulnerability, courage, and resilience. But perhaps the most painful lesson was realising how little many people know about this disease.’

She said widespread ignorance continues to expose families to stigma and isolation, prompting her to establish the foundation.

‘Our roots are advocacy and hope,’ she said. ‘We are committed to raising awareness, promoting screening, supporting affected families, and advocating for improved healthcare outcomes.’

Ms Bagala said the foundation envisions a future where every parent understands the importance of knowing their genotype, every child receives timely care and support, and no family faces the journey alone.

Dr Ddungu welcomed the establishment of the foundation, describing it as a timely intervention in the fight against sickle cell disease.

He also highlighted the Ministry of Health’s nationwide mandatory newborn screening programme, which aims to ensure early diagnosis and treatment for affected children.

‘Combined with awareness, access to treatment, and community support, we can significantly reduce the suffering and deaths caused by sickle cell disease in Uganda,’ he said.

For nearly two decades, Paula Mugisa has been experimenting, failing, learning, teaching, and building businesses, both for herself and for others. What began as a personal pursuit of entrepreneurship gradually evolved into a broader mission focused on staff education, learning design, and entrepreneurship development in Uganda. Today, she is known as the founder of Teesa Advisory, an entrepreneurship educator, business coach, author, and learning designer. But behind those titles lies a journey marked by difficult decisions, failed ventures, reinvention, and a growing conviction that Uganda’s future will be built by people willing to invest their knowledge and energy at home. The decision to walk away from a scholarship worth approximately Shs500 million was not the beginning of that story. It was simply the latest chapter.

The gift of freedom

Mugisa grew up in a single-parent household after the loss of her father. As the youngest of five children, she was raised by a mother who believed deeply in responsibility and personal accountability.

‘If you could justify your idea, you could try it,’ Mugisa recalls. ‘We were allowed to fail, but we were also expected to learn from those experiences.’

That mindset would shape many of the decisions that followed. At 17, she found her way to Lubowa, sat examinations, secured admission to a university in the United States, and travelled alone to pursue a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Music. After one year at university, Mugisa believed she had learnt enough to return home and start a business. Like many young entrepreneurs, she had confidence, ambition, and a desire to create opportunities for others. What she lacked was experience. Her first major venture was a commercial laundry business. She started the business with a friend and travelled to Dubai and China herself to secure the machines and have them shipped to Uganda. Instead, the business collapsed. It would not be the last failure. Over the years, she would experiment with multiple ventures, including Oyster mushroom farming, import and export businesses, consulting, and financing initiatives like money lending and boda boda financing (something she would never recommend anyone to do.) Some worked for a period. Others did not.

Looking back, Mugisa sees those years differently.

‘Failure is a poor teacher if you refuse to reflect. But if you pay attention, it rapidly increases your wisdom and can teach you things success never will.’

Returning to learn

Several years later, Mugisa returned to formal education, completing her studies with a BSc in Business Enterprise in the United Kingdom. Like many Africans who study abroad, she was exposed to environments that encouraged questioning, experimentation, and critical thinking. She acquired funds from the University of Buckingham and won an award at the University of Oxford, UK for a project that she developed from a growing interest in how Ugandan entrepreneurs can learn, refine their ideas, and grow their innovations. When graduation approached, and scared to return home to economic uncertainty, she chose to remain abroad. She explored different employment opportunities and after many rejections, she was forced to return home. At the time, it felt like a disappointment.

When good ideas meet hard ground

One of Mugisa’s earliest attempts to contribute after returning home involved a project she had developed for the Ugandan entrepreneurs rooted in the education sector.

‘At the time, I thought a good idea was enough. What I had not yet learnt was that transformative ideas require founders with the strength, conviction, experience, and resilience to carry them through resistance.’

I had used my savings to tailor the project specifically for the Ugandan education system.

‘I reached out to the Ministry of Education at the time with an idea. The coordinator looked at me and said, ‘Young lady, why don’t we make you an intern? You can help us when we need someone to run errands. Use your energy to serve tea, snacks, and run errands,'” she recounts.

Unable to find a home for her ideas, she got a job instead and that is how she ended up at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving as a Third Secretary at the Consular Desk. The role provided stability, but over time, she realised she was being drawn back toward entrepreneurship and education. After less than two years, she resigned and founded Teesa. The name came from her mother and reflects the idea of people coming together to discuss, learn, and solve problems collectively. By then, Mugisa had experienced enough entrepreneurial setbacks to understand that many founders like her, were struggling with challenges that extended far beyond access to capital. They lacked guidance, community, structure, and practical knowledge. She wanted to create a space where entrepreneurs who had failed could come together, talk honestly, learn from one another, and rebuild.

From entrepreneur to educator

As Teesa grew, Mugisa found herself increasingly drawn toward teaching rather than traditional consulting. That work eventually led to the creation of the Tutandike programme in 2020 with a small unit. The programme-helped participants explore business ideas, customer acquisition, branding, operations, administration, and growth. What started with a few dozen participants eventually reached thousands of Ugandans.

A new mission

Over time, Mugisa became increasingly interested in workforce development, learning design, and how education can help people build meaningful livelihoods. Yet despite the visible growth of her work, she found herself exhausted. She had spent years helping others grow. Now she needed space to grow herself.

The Shs500m scholarship

That opportunity arrived through the Fulbright Scholarship worth approximately $140,000 (about Shs508m). One of Teesa’s partners was the American Center, where she learnt about the Fulbright Scholarship. Mugisa was selected to pursue a Master’s degree in Learning, Design and Technology at the University of Georgia. She wanted to better understand how learning experiences are designed so she could create stronger systems for entrepreneurs and learners across Uganda and Africa. For her, the scholarship represented a chance to sharpen the tools she would eventually bring back home.

The hardest choice

When Mugisa left for the United States in August 2025, she believed her daughter would eventually join her. Professionally, things were going well. Academically, she was thriving. But the question she found herself wrestling with was simple. Could she continue building a future that excluded her daughter? After multiple visa applications and appeals, that never happened. Her daughter’s visa application was denied in October 2025. An internal appeal in November was denied too. A second application in December was also denied.

“My family had prayed. We were certain she would get the visa after two rejections.”

When preparing for the final interview, Mugisa asked herself a difficult question: What if she is denied again?

On January 12, 2026, her daughter’s visa application was rejected once more.

The explanation given stated that there was insufficient evidence to demonstrate strong reasons for returning to Uganda. The choice before her was simple but painful: Finish the scholarship and leave her daughter behind. Or return home and walk away from the scholarship, the prestige, the opportunity, and the research.

‘I chose my daughter.’

Knowledge matters most when it returns to serve

Today, Mugisa does not present her story as a blueprint for others to copy. Instead, she sees it as evidence that true success is rarely linear and is often self-defined. Success is not a one size fits all but something we each determine for ourselves.

‘The lesson I keep coming back to is that some callings require surrender. Sometimes the path is not choosing what benefits you most; it is choosing what allows you to serve others most faithfully. We need more people willing to build, teach, mentor, and create solutions even when the environment is difficult. Every generation benefits from men and women who were willing to sacrifice something for those who came after them. Some gave up comfort. Some gave up wealth. Some gave up opportunities. If we want a different future for our people, somebody has to be willing to build it, and somebody has to stay engaged long enough to plant trees whose shade they may never sit under. Hope is not found in complaining about what is broken. Hope is found in building.’