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This year’s World Teachers’ Day, which was observed on October 5, was celebrated under the theme ‘Recasting teaching as a collaborative profession,’ which underscores that teaching thrives not in isolation but through shared responsibility, peer learning, and professional solidarity.

Collaboration among educators strengthens schools, enriches learning, and ensures that students benefit from a more innovative and effective teaching environment.

Digital technology is a major enabler of collaboration. Through online platforms, virtual communities, and collaborative tools, teachers can connect across schools and regions, share resources, and solve challenges together.

Yet, disparities in access to devices, connectivity, and digital skills limit the full potential of these tools. Cooperatives also strengthen collaboration, empowering teachers to pool resources, access affordable credit, and plan for professional and personal growth. Financial collaboration builds solidarity and ensures teachers can invest in their development while contributing to education transformation.

At Uganda Professional Science Teachers Union (UPSTU), we have taken significant steps to recast teaching as a collaborative profession. Through our initiatives such as the UPSTU Science Innovation Projects Competition and the ProDev Hour Programme, we are fostering an environment of collective learning, innovation and sharing of experiences.

Our cooperative, UPSTU Members’ Sacco has also proven to be a valuable platform for fostering collaboration among members, through which, teachers have been able to access affordable credit, plan for their futures, and support their professional growth.

We urge government, school leaders, teacher unions, and educators to invest in professional development, digital infrastructure, and cooperative engagement to strengthen a truly collaborative teaching profession. Together, we can build a resilient, inclusive, and innovative education system.

A conflict has emerged between pharmacy owners and the Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU) over a new resolution setting a minimum professional fee of Shs2m per month for pharmacists.

Pharmacy owners, under the Association of Pharmacy Owners in Uganda, have declared the resolution unlawful and vowed not to comply, citing violations of the country’s Employment Act.

PSU, the statutory professional body for pharmacists established under an Act of Parliament, announced the resolution in a notice dated September 30. The notice stated that the decision to implement a minimum net monthly pay of Shs2m per pharmacist was passed during PSU’s Annual General Meeting on September 26 in Kampala.

PSU Secretary Dr Stephen Lutoti said the move aims to ensure fair compensation for pharmacists’ professional services, in line with Article 40 of Uganda’s Constitution and the Pharmacy and Drugs Act (Cap 309). ‘…the PSU resolved that, effective immediately, the minimum standard professional fee payable to pharmacists shall be two million Uganda shillings (Shs2,000,000) as net monthly pay per pharmacy practice setting,’ he said.

However, the Association of Pharmacy Owners president, Mr Deo Kalikumutima, argued that PSU has overstepped its legal mandate.

In an October 1 letter addressed to PSU, Kalikumutima said: ‘The powers granted to PSU under the law do not extend to setting a minimum wage for pharmacists or compelling employers to comply. Only the Government of Uganda has the authority to enforce a minimum wage through legislation.’

He emphasised that the Employment Act allows employers and employees to negotiate employment terms, as long as they conform to existing laws. He described PSU’s directive as an “illegality” and warned that pharmacy owners would not comply.

‘The law governing Contracts of Service in Uganda is the Employment Act (Cap 226), and there is no provision for a minimum wage therein,’ the letter stated.

‘Nor is there provision for a third party, other than the employer and employee, to determine the salary of the employee.’ Pharmacy owners also argue that the PSU resolution infringes on the autonomy of private businesses and could strain the financial viability of pharmacies.

Why is it important for commercial banks to value small scale enterprises?

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) form the backbone of any economy. In Uganda, as in many developing markets, SMEs and micro-businesses are the true drivers of economic growth. This is because they are significant players in the supply and distribution chains of large corporates. For instance, these enterprises will bulk up farm produce from farmers such as grain, coffee, milk and sell these to the processors.

From a distribution perspective, they will distribute the finished goods from the large manufacturers through the value chain that may or may not go through a stockist and retailer to the final consumer. Many enterprises also engage in international trade, and contribute to foreign exchange earnings.

They provide employment and absorb a significant portion of Uganda’s youth workforce and improve on their living standards. From an SME perspective, we have over a million SMEs in Uganda. Each of these SMEs provides direct or indirect employment to millions of people. On average, each adult in Uganda has 7 to 9 dependents; thus, when a business closes, the ripple effect reaches many people. So, that segment is at the heart of any economy. It drives Uganda’s economy.

Our role is to support these enterprises across sectors like agribusiness, energy, manufacturing, education, logistics, and infrastructure. We also collaborate with community-based financial institutions such as SACCOs and cooperatives, which play a crucial role in reaching underserved areas and providing financial services to the last mile.

How do you view the state of Commercial Banking in East Africa?

Commercial banking in East Africa is experiencing robust growth, driven by strong economic fundamentals and regional development. The region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) exceeds $240 billion, with growth rates averaging above 5.5 percent, supported by key sectors such as agriculture, oil and gas, and infrastructure development.

The East African Community (EAC), comprising a population of over 300 million people, presents a vast and evolving market with increasing demand for food, energy, transport, education, and healthcare services.

This dynamic environment still attracts significant foreign direct investment across member states, including Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan, further fueling economic expansion.

The interconnected nature of the region and its demographic momentum offer immense opportunities not only for commercial banks but also for businesses and investors seeking to tap into the growth across multiple sectors.

As the region matures, commercial banking benefits substantially from the expanding financial needs of individuals, enterprises, and governments alike.

Stanbic is a continental bank; with specific reference to the East African region, how active is the bank’s operations in the region?

Stanbic is deeply embedded across East Africa, with a strong operational presence in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and South Sudan. This regional footprint enables us to provide seamless, cross-border banking solutions tailored to the needs of clients operating across multiple markets, ranging from multinational corporations to SMEs.

Our ability to support regional trade and investment flows is a key differentiator, ensuring continuity in service delivery and helping businesses manage their operations efficiently across borders.

East Africa is a highly integrated economic zone. With Kenya and Tanzania providing access to the Indian Ocean, they serve as vital gateways for the import of raw materials and essential goods such as fuel and for the export of products from landlocked countries like Uganda, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the DRC. The interdependence of these economies is such that regional shocks in one country can ripple across others, underscoring the importance of a unified banking partner.

This is why Standard Bank’s presence across the region is so critical. We are positioned to facilitate secure, efficient, and scalable financial solutions that support the ambitions of our clients and the broader economic integration of East Africa.

There’s been a noticeable rise in personal loans over the past year. What’s driving this?

The growth in personal loans is indicative of a broader trend in retail banking, driven by increasing financial inclusion and greater access to credit. Personal loans, along with trade loans and communication loans, have become some of the fastest-growing segments in banking.

That said, the commercial banking side of the business, particularly corporate lending, is still integral to our strategy. For example, a grain processor may need financing to build silos and processing lines, but for their business to succeed, they need a reliable supply of raw materials. This is where supporting smallholder farmers comes in.

By helping these farmers, often through their SACCOs, VSLAs or producer cooperatives, we create a more robust ecosystem for the processor. This ensures that every link in the supply chain is supported, which benefits both the businesses and the wider economy.

Year in-year year out, people complain about the high interest rates in banks. Why is this so?

Interest rates in any market are influenced by several factors, including the cost of funds, the level of risk, and the economic environment. It is important to recognise that lending rates are not universal; they vary across different financial institutions based on their cost structures and risk appetites.

At Stanbic, we work with partners like SACCOs to provide funding at subsidised rates.If we were to lend to these institutions at our standard rates, they would, in turn, lend at even higher rates, which would defeat the purpose of our intervention. We also consider the credit risk of borrowers. For example, a client who pays their loans on time will receive better terms than one who defaults, as the cost of collection for a defaulter is higher.

Over the years, high operational cost remains a disturbing factor in commercial banking, what is your view on this?

Operational costs are indeed a challenge, and they are something we continuously work to manage. At Stanbic, we are investing heavily in digitising our processes to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

However, we are also mindful of not leaving any of our customers behind. While digital transformation is crucial, it’s equally important that we provide accessible services to those who may not be fully comfortable with digital platforms.

Striking this balance is key to ensuring that we maintain high service standards while improving our cost structures. As we continue to innovate and streamline operations, we are confident that these improvements will create value for both our customers and the bank.

Uganda’s Electoral Commission (EC) on Tuesday met campaign agents of presidential candidates and senior police officials to iron out emerging disputes and ensure the ongoing presidential campaigns proceed peacefully ahead of the January 2026 polls.

The meeting, chaired by EC Chairman Justice Simon Byabakama at the Commission’s headquarters in Kampala, came amid growing complaints from opposition camps about security interference in campaign activities across the country.

‘We convened a meeting of all agents of the candidates currently undertaking presidential campaigns, together with the police, to discuss the progress of the campaign process so far, to hear any issues or complaints that the candidates may have, and to agree on the way forward,’ said EC spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi.

He said the talks focused on promoting harmony, compliance with electoral laws, and respect for the agreed campaign programme.

‘Our objective is to ensure that the process is peaceful, follows electoral laws, abides by the campaign programme that was harmonized, and ensures that the entire exercise is conducted in a tranquil atmosphere,’ he added.

According to Mucunguzi, since campaigns kicked off on September 29, the overall environment has been largely peaceful and in line with EC guidelines.

However, some candidate representatives raised grievances over how police have handled campaign movements, particularly with regard to accessing venues and enforcing route restrictions.

Some agents reportedly complained about being directed by police to use specific routes against their will, which Police defended as measures necessary to maintain law and order and ensure the safety of both candidates and their supporters.

The engagement followed days of tension, with the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) and the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) accusing security agencies of deliberately obstructing their campaign activities in parts of the Busoga sub-region.

Police and opposition candidates have often clashed over access to venues and processions, a recurring flashpoint since previous elections.

Last month, the EC warned the Uganda Police Force against blocking presidential candidates from reaching approved venues, saying such actions had fueled clashes between security officers, candidates and supporters during the 2021 campaign period.

Eight candidates have been cleared for the January 2026 presidential race, including incumbent President Museveni of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), who is seeking a seventh 5-year term in office. His main challenger is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, also known as Bobi Wine, of the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Other contenders include Nathan Nandala Mafabi (FDC), Gen Mugisha Muntu (Alliance for National Transformation), Robert Kasibante (National Peasants Party), Joseph Mabirizi (Conservative Party), Kabinga Bulira (Revolutionary People’s Party), and Mubarak Munyagwa Sserunga (Common Man’s Party).

‘The mandate of the Electoral Commission is to ensure that campaigns are organized and conducted in an atmosphere of peace,” Mucunguzi emphasized.

Thirty-three-year-old Kevin Ajibo, a resident of Olep Village in Ochero Town Council, Kaberamaido District, wakes up every day feeling the weight of the world on her shoulders. Despondent, confused, widowed, and landless, her struggles exemplify the challenges faced by many Ugandan women.

Five years ago, following the death and burial of her husband, Ms Ajibo’s in-laws evicted her from her matrimonial home, claiming it belonged to their deceased brother and that customarily they were the legitimate heirs. The entire community backed her in-laws. She, however, refused to give up the fight. With assistance from her local LC1, the matter was reported to police, who referred her to the NGO Redeem International.

The organisation provided legal aid, and this year the Soroti High Court ruled in her favour. Today, Ms Ajibo is attempting to rebuild her home and her life. Her experience mirrors that of many women dispossessed of land due to customary practices, compounded by the long delays courts take to dispose of land cases. The Justice Benjamin Odoki Constitutional Commission report highlighted that land is a vital natural resource and a common heritage unmatched by any other.

‘Ownership of land by the individual, family or community confers real or potential wealth, social prestige and a sense of economic security. Population growth continues to put a great deal of pressure on land, and hence the need to look at the land issue very carefully,’ the report reads in part.

During the Odoki consultations, concerns raised included land grabbing by the rich and powerful, fear of foreigners taking over land, excessive centralisation of land administration, and corruption in land offices, with the process of acquiring land titles riddled with malpractices at every stage.

The Constituent Assembly that debated the Constitution ultimately settled on four land tenure systems: customary, governed by certain groups under local norms; leasehold, which is time-bound under specific conditions; freehold, ownership in perpetuity; and mailo, in which a registered owner holds title forever, but tenants have protected user rights.

Article 237 of the Constitution vests ownership of all land ‘to the citizens of Uganda and shall vest in them in accordance with the land tenure systems provided.’ Thirty years on, nearly all the problems highlighted by the Odoki Commission persist. The land question remains unsettled, particularly in Buganda Sub-region, where mailo tenure dominates, and increasingly in northern and north-eastern Uganda, where customary tenure applies.

Colonial roots

Before 1894, when present-day Uganda became a British protectorate, land rights in different cultural polities were governed through unwritten customary norms passed orally across generations. Consequently, the colonial administration implemented three tenure systems: freehold, leasehold, and mailo in Buganda, where land was allocated in square-mile blocks.

Outside Buganda, the 1903 Order in Council declared all land crown land, while customary land ownership was recognised within certain limitations. The 1962 Independence Constitution established a federal system, under which Buganda’s land was administered by the Buganda Land Board, and mailo lands were accountable to the Administrator General and Parliament.

Following the 1966 crisis, the 1967 Constitution maintained private mailo land but hinted at future reforms. In 1975, President Amin’s Land Reform Decree declared all land public, vested in the state, and administered by the Uganda Land Commission. By the time the 1995 Constitution was drafted, land was a highly polarising issue. Nonetheless, the new supreme law introduced sweeping reforms.

Dr Rose Nakayi, a senior lecturer at Makerere University School of Law, argues that the Constituent Assembly ‘seem to have adopted an approach which accommodates all tenures to allow them to naturally evolve, with the expectation that some may over time fall through the fissures if no longer relevant.’

‘What we see today are legal and other means in pursuit of a different kind of land tenure system, seemingly towards uniformity. Maybe more engagement with this matter would have given a clearer campus,’ she says.

Ms Carol Kayanja, the programme associate at the NGO Uganda Community Based Association for Women And Children Welfare(UCOBAC), which is leading the Stand for Her Land Campaign, argues that while the Constitution’s provisions have been domesticated into other laws such as the Land Act, the country is still struggling with land disputes.

‘However, the framers of the Constitution could have envisaged what lay ahead. At that point, my assumption would have been that they would have addressed the question of who are the people of Uganda, how do they organise, how do they relate with each other, and how can we enhance that relationship in terms of development and how can that inform the relationship especially on mailo,’ she says.

She adds that although the Constitution confers equal rights to men and women in ownership of land and property, ‘the country is witnessing a lot of injustices as courts take a long time to dispose of cases and selective application of the law amid lack of information and empowerment of people on their rights.’

An unending headache

Land offices and courts are rife with corruption. Other challenges include absentee landlords, insecure tenant rights, evictions, and conflicts over land across the country. According to the Ministry of Lands, Central Uganda accounts for more than 80 percent of land disputes due to the mailo tenure system. Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao concurs that ‘the land question is far from settled, which undoubtedly will be part of the proposed Constitution review.’

‘We have learned to our detriment that having land purely in the hands of the people can actually sabotage development. Now, when the government is not strong on development issues, it cannot invoke those clauses about determining land use,’ Mr Mao says.

‘Ideally, even if land belongs to the people, planning-but the government seems too weak to enforce planning codes. So we have chaos in the arena of land. In the last 30 years we have had an alarming rate of landlessness. It has led to a surge in rural-urban migration, congested cities, slums, etc,’ he adds.

Dr Doreen Kobusingye, a facilitator at the National Land Coalition, an umbrella organisation of 40 local and regional NGOs, said the 1995 Constitution addressed most concerns surrounding the land question, but weak institutions such as district land boards and courts exacerbate problems.

‘Most of the problems we have in the country are as a result of failing to resolve the impasse on the mailo tenure system,’ Dr Kobusingye said.

‘The other problem was introduced by the Land Act of 1998, which introduced the conversion of customary land to freehold. For instance, in most parts of Western Uganda land is owned under individual customary tenure, but we don’t hear many problems. But where the bundles of rights of certain groups are not defined, such as in the north and north- east, land is becoming a big question,’ she adds.

Wherever there is a brewing land conflict, women and other vulnerable groups such as the elderly, widows, youth, and persons with disabilities are disproportionately affected.

‘Whereas the 1995 Constitution talks of equality of women and men, most land is owned by men. Women own approximately 16 percent of land. Even with the Succession Act (2023), that regulates inheritance of immovable property of a deceased person, some communities and parents still prefer males to females, on top of other social norms that impede women’s ownership of land and property,’ Dr Kobusingye explains.

Both Ms Kayanja and Dr Kobusingye argue that proposed reforms must address recurring issues, particularly under mailo land tenure, by streamlining landlord-tenant rights and resolving disputes over conversion of customary land to freehold. Meanwhile, public land held by central or local governments is also under threat.

In an era where savvy investors are looking to optimise their portfolios, unit trusts have emerged as a compelling choice. These investment vehicles not only provide cost-effective access to the bustling fixed income and stock markets but have also gained traction in Uganda’s financial landscape.

Among these, the UAP Umbrella Trust Fund stands out as a powerful asset, helping investors outpace inflation while ensuring security and convenience. Imagine investing borrowed money for essential expenses, such as school fees. If navigated wisely-where the loan interest rate is lower than the returns from your chosen fund and the investor exercises discipline, the outcome can be positive.

This article dives into the world of unit trusts, offering a vital guide for families and savvy savers in Uganda, where traditional banking solutions often fall short and astute investing can lead to both financial growth and peace of mind.

Unit trusts are gaining traction as a practical means of wealth accumulation in Uganda, particularly for short-term objectives such as education financing. They offer yields that outperform standard bank interest rates and are subject to regulatory oversight. They are also designed with beginners in mind.

As the financial landscape transforms, unit trusts stand as a beacon of oversight and quick investment access.

According to Isaac Simbwa, a global markets dealer, institutional banking, corporate and investment banking at Absa Bank, the allure of unit trusts lies in their ability to diversify risk while tapping into the expertise of professional fund managers.

‘Unit trusts pool resources from multiple investors with a shared goal, building a portfolio of diverse financial instruments, ranging from equities to bonds and cash deposits,’ he explains.

For those weighing unit trust options, Absa features three distinct offerings: the UAP Money Market Fund, the UAP Balanced Fund, and the UAP Umbrella Trust Fund. Each fund is crafted to meet different investment goals, underscoring the importance of aligning choices with personal financial objectives.

When diving deep into unit trusts, consider your investment timeline: Are your goals short-term or long-term? The balance between immediate liquidity, prospective returns, and risk tolerance is crucial.

‘If you aim to save for a child’s upcoming school fees within three months, unit trusts or treasury bills could be the right fit, ensuring your capital remains safeguarded while earning reliable interest.

Meanwhile, for those eyeing long-term wealth accumulation, the bond market may provide more enticing returns-outpacing unit trusts by 300 to 400 basis points over five years,’ he adds.

Evaluating diverse asset classes is imperative. An investor may notice subtle differences in returns-while one asset class yields 12 percent, another might shine at 12.5 percent or 12.1 percent.

Right investment

Simbwa emphasizes that selecting the right investment goes beyond mere interest rates. It is about aligning with one’s risk appetite and investment ambitions.

For those focused on cash management, utilising a unit trust can be a strategic way to build capital over a year.

Simbwa adds: ‘For wealth seekers, diving into the bond market may unlock higher yields and leverage the compounding interest effect and the liquidity that numerous banks offer, allowing cash-out in mere hours-is a considerable advantage in urgent situations.’

The decision rests on understanding your investment goals. Pose the right questions: ‘Are you preparing for immediate expenses, or are you cultivating a nest egg for the future?’ he asks.

Different investment vehicles resonate with unique individuals based on their financial aspirations.

No one size fits all

In the realm of Collective Investment Schemes (CIS), no one-size-fits-all solution exists, Simbwa notes.

‘In the vast ocean of investment opportunities, no single unit trust or asset class dominates. Each investment vehicle is tailored with specific objectives in mind, addressing a variety of risk profiles and investment horizons. For example, a parent budgeting for educational costs may opt for a three-year bond, where a long-term investor might favour a 20-year bond to enrich capital growth,’ he explains.

As you navigate your investment journey, keep sight of the ambitions that drive your choices.

‘By aligning these aspirations with the available asset options, you will be better positioned to pinpoint which unit trust aligns most closely with your financial goals,’ he elaborates.

Mr Sanjay Rughani, chief executive officer of Standard Chartered Bank, emphasizes that when considering returns, it is important to assess not only the financial aspect but also your comfort level with the associated risk.

He notes that the Standard Chartered product called Shillingi offers an attractive rate, which currently stands at 12.5 percent.

‘This rate applies when you lock in your funds; even if you invest for just three days, you will receive returns based on the duration your money is held,’ Sanjay notes.

Mr Richard Patrick Byarugaba, board chair of Old Mutual Investment Group (OMIG), highlights that unit trusts are becoming increasingly popular as they can serve both as a consistent source of daily earnings and as a means of building long-term passive income.

As a financial services strategist and personal transformation coach, Byarugaba emphasizes the potential of unit trusts to transform investment strategies in Uganda.

He recognises the untapped potential of collective investments and collective savings, noting that the fastest-growing sector in Uganda is indeed in this area.

Byarugaba pointed out the prevalence of savings societies in towns across Uganda, indicating a strong local commitment to collective saving initiatives.

Growth of unit trusts

During Old Mutual Investment Group Uganda’s 2025 annual general meeting, Mr Zac Kisesi, managing director of Old Mutual Investment Group Uganda, shared impressive growth figures for their unit trusts.

Just a year prior, total investments in Old Mutual’s unit trust products stood at approximately Shs2.1 trillion. This has risen to around Shs2.8 trillion.

In terms of dollar-denominated unit trusts, they have increased from about $24 million to $47 million, largely due to enhanced customer experience and the dedication of their investment advisors.

This growth reflects a significant advancement in financial inclusion in Uganda, with a remarkable 67 percent increase in total unit holders-from 30,165 to 50,416,’ he notes.

Kisesi expressed pride in the fact that more than 20,000 new investors joined Old Mutual’s unit trusts in just one year, underscoring the growing awareness and accessibility of investment solutions available to Ugandans.

The financial results were equally encouraging. OMIG’s chief financial officer, Mr John Golooba, reported a 43 percent increase in total assets under management, amounting to Shs2.407 trillion.

Each of their funds performed admirably, with the Umbrella Fund yielding 11.77 percent, the Money Market Fund returning 11.28 percent, and the Balanced Fund achieving a return of 12.64 percent, all surpassing their respective benchmarks.

Notably, the Dollar Fund more than tripled in value to $39.22 million, with a net return of 5.03 percent, credited to a strategic reallocation towards fixed income and longer-dated government bonds.

Given the current economic climate, characterised by rising interest rates driven by the government’s domestic financing needs, OMIG recalibrated its portfolios to focus on higher-yielding long-term bonds. For instance, bond exposure in the Umbrella Fund grew significantly, and the allocation to tenors above 10 years rose to 47.4 percent.

Comparing returns of unit trusts vs traditional methods

In contrast to traditional savings methods, such as those offered by the National Social Security Fund (NSSF), which recently announced the successful growth of its voluntary savings scheme, unit trusts appear to offer more attractive returns.

NSSF has seen 32,000 members contributing Shs21 billion in just seven months through its Smart Life Flexi portfolio, which attracts micro-savers from the informal sector.

While NSSF reports a focus on accessibility and cutting administrative costs through digitisation to attract savers, the tangible returns seen in unit trusts-especially with their performance over the past year-suggest that for those seeking better investment outcomes, unit trusts could be a more favourable option.

Mr Patrick Ayota, NSSF’s managing director, acknowledges the rapid uptake of their voluntary savings scheme and the positive shift in saving behaviours among Uganda’s population.

However, the growth and performance of unit trusts indicate that they may be the smarter choice for investment, especially for those looking to maximise returns and grow wealth over time.

While both unit trusts and traditional savings methods play essential roles in personal finance, for those aiming for higher returns, investing in unit trusts with a reputable firm might present a more lucrative opportunity.

The world has lost a towering figure of compassion, science, and conservation. Dame Jane Goodall (1934-2025), the legendary primatologist and conservationist, leaves behind not just a compelling body of research, but an enduring legacy-a moral compass for humanity in an age of glaring ecological peril.

A bastion of conservation indeed! Goodall’s name is inseparable from the forests of Africa, where she revolutionised our understanding of primates, chimpanzees-in particular. Reflecting on Goodall’s legacy, I am inclined to the credence that beyond Gombe in Tanzania, Uganda held a special place in her journey.

It was there, on the shores of Lake Victoria, that Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary became a living emblem of her philosophy – that every life matters, that restoration is possible, and that conservation must be woven together with community.

When she returned to Ngamba in 2023 to mark its 25th anniversary, Goodall stood not just as a scientist but as a witness to resilience – of chimpanzees given new life, of Ugandan conservationists rising to safeguard ecosystems, and of young people inspired by her steadfast belief that hope lies in collective action.

Through her partnership with Ugandan institutions and leaders, she demonstrated that protecting wildlife could never be detached from uplifting human dignity and livelihoods. Her global legacy is irrefutably profound.

Goodall’s patient observations at Gombe shattered entrenched scientific dogmas, proving that chimpanzees use tools, express emotions, grieve, and celebrate. In them, she saw not ‘specimens’, but individuals with distinct personalities – a truth that forever altered how science speaks about animals.

Yet Goodall’s impact was never confined to the scientific community. Through the Roots and Shoots programme, she mobilised millions of young people around the world to act for animals, people, and the environment.

In Uganda, as elsewhere, countless youth like me, found in her message a source of agency: that no action is too small, and no voice too insignificant to contribute to a more just, greener and sustainable world. Her death compels us to confront the unfinished work she leaves behind.

Uganda’s forests are still shrinking, wildlife remains endangered, and the climate crisis is intensifying. If we are to truly honour Jane Goodall, it must not be with words alone but with deeds! We must expand sanctuaries, champion local stewards of the natural world, and weave conservation into the very fabric of education and development policy.

We must teach present and future generations, that nature is not a mere resource to exploit, but a heritage to steward. We ought to rethink our anthropocentric approaches to development, and the environment.

Goodall showed us that courage, empathy, and science could walk hand in hand.

She showed us that a voice – with steadfastness and conviction – can awaken the conscience of the world. I should love, ultimately, to add that the responsibility now rests with us, to ensure her flame does not dim, but burns brighter in our collective pursuit of harmony with nature-between people and planet. Her voice may be silent, but her call to action resounds louder than ever!

The Electoral Commission (EC) has issued strict guidelines that must be met by individuals and organisations seeking accreditation to observe the 2026 General Election. Mr Julius Mucunguzi, the EC spokesperson, said several applications have already been received and that only those meeting the set criteria will be cleared to monitor the polls.

‘Successful applicants shall be required to abide by the laws of the Republic of Uganda, remain non-partisan, and comply with the election observer guidelines and Code of Conduct to be issued by the Electoral Commission,’ Mr Mucunguzi said last week.

‘Organisations and institutions must also provide the Commission with names of individuals to be accredited, meet all their operational expenses, and submit a comprehensive report at the end of the election exercise,’ he added. In addition, applicants must demonstrate prior experience in election observation. Mr Mucunguzi said the Commission is still reviewing and verifying applications, and that successful applicants will be notified and issued with formal guidelines.

‘The Commission is the one that requested applications. When the accreditation process is concluded, the successful applicants will be informed. Whoever goes through must follow the guidelines issued by the Commission. Only successful applicants will receive them,’ he said.

Clearance mode

Justice Simon Byabakama Mugenyi, the EC chairperson, noted that accredited organisations will receive written clearance, identification tags, and relevant information to facilitate their observation work. Both local and international observers will take part to enhance transparency in the electoral process.

‘For transparency purposes, the Electoral Commission will accredit international and national observers to monitor the various electoral activities. We are committed to ensuring transparent, free, and fair elections through a comprehensive accreditation process,’ Justice Byabakama said.

The Electoral Commission Act, Cap 176, Section 16 (1), provides for the accreditation of representatives from political parties, civil society organisations, and other registered entities or individuals to observe electoral activities. This legal provision aims to guarantee credible and transparent elections through independent observation.

In the 2021 General Election, the Commission accredited 2,184 stationary observers deployed at the sub-county level and 270 roving observers across all 146 districts. The number of observers for the 2026 elections is yet to be disclosed. Currently, the EC is implementing the Roadmap for the 2026 General Election, which includes presidential, parliamentary, and local government council elections.

Presidential campaigns began on September 29, with candidates traversing the country to solicit support. According to Mr Mucunguzi, campaigns have so far been peaceful.

‘No major incidents have been reported. We urge everyone involved in the campaigns to follow the law, respect guidelines issued by the Commission and Police, avoid hate speech, and refrain from violence. Peaceful conduct applies to everyone,’ he said.

The government has blamed Uganda’s frequent power blackouts on an overload of the national grid, saying the infrastructure left behind by Umeme -the country’s former power distributor- is inadequate to meet current demand.

Addressing journalists at the Uganda Media Centre in Kampala on Tuesday, energy minister Ruth Naknabirwa Ssentamu, said Umeme stopped investing in infrastructure about three years ago when government informed the company that its concession would not be renewed after its expiry early this year year.

According to the minister, Uganda has witnessed increased demand for electricity due to high paced industrialization and more homes newly connected to the national grid.

‘Growth annually is estimated at 10 % because people are free to get connected. People are constructing, industries are also being connected. Small and medium enterprises are being encouraged by Uganda Electricity Company Limited (UEDCL), to get access to electricity and so we are seeing this 10 % annual growth in electricity demand, which is very good,’ she explained.

Nankabirwa also explained that the decision not to invest in upgrades were taken by government to manage the buyout costs, which would have been higher if new investments were put in.

‘Investment was controlled by the regulator during the time of Umeme because we wanted to end up with an affordable buyout amount,’ she said.

‘So, you constrain Umeme from investing into the system like rehabilitating the infrastructure. But UEDCL, which is waiting to take over, is also constrained from investing in a network where they have not received the license to operate.and so the conversation was really constraining us from doing something,’ she added.

On Tuesday, Nankabirwa hailed UEDCL for ‘making a bold move to upgrade the power distribution network and improving the associated infrastructure.’

She said that since taking responsibility from Umeme, UEDCL has upgraded several substations – including Kakiri, whose capacity doubled from 10 to 20 megawatts; Kaba, expanded from 2.5 to 5 megawatts; and Masaka Central, which increased from 5 to 7 megawatts.

‘I hope that the people of Masaka very soon enjoy more stable power, provided that the lines are not vandalized. As you stabilize power, the distribution network gets vandalized and you have to look for money to inject. So you move four steps ahead, one step backwards,’ she told journalists.

Meanwhile, Nankabirwa highlighted that UEDCL has since late April 2025 replaced 206 transformers that were faulty, connected 140,000 new customers, taking the total number of consumers to more than 2.4 million.

She however said the upgrades and expansions have come at a cost of inconveniences to the power consumers characterized by power blackouts.

‘I want to repeat that Ugandans will continue to experience consequential inconveniences until all the system been fully upgraded. We can’t run away from this. We need stable power. We need to work on that transformer which was mounted in 1994. Those substations which are very old are operating under overload,’ she maintained.

She added: ‘My call to them is to bear with us. These consequential inconveniences will continue but I want to assure you that they will not be forever. We are still in the transition period. A concession that took 20 years, you don’t expect you in this year to take three months to correct everything.’

With an ambitious goal to collect Shs37.2 trillion in domestic tax revenue for the current fiscal year 2025/2026, about 60 percent of the national budget, the government, through the Ministry of

Finance, and Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) came up with ax changes to support Ugandan entrepreneurs, among which are Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Most nations in the world, including Uganda, rely on taxes to raise the funds to cover their national spending needs and government may not meet the benchmarks required to fund the country’s financial allocation if tax compliance is persistently low.

Data released by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics in June 2025 categorised SMEs, with businesses with fewer than 30 workers as small, and those between 30 and 100 workers as medium and these, generate roughly 70 percent of Uganda’s Gross Domestic Product and account for 99.6 percent of all enterprises.

SMEs are becoming more significant in Uganda and many other developing nations, particularly when it comes to tackling the issues of job creation, economic growth, and alleviating poverty.

However, many SMEs locally encounter significant obstacles when it comes to fulfilling their tax compliance responsibilities.

SME’s tax compliance challenges among others include maintaining proper records, undertaking tax planning, hiring professionals to complete and file returns, and gaining enough knowledge to allow these obligations to be correctly done. The costs incurred in the performance of these activities are usually significant.

With the recent tax changes such as Nil Stamp Duty on Agreements, Memorandums, Mortgage Deeds, and Mortgage of a Crop among others, SMEs could stand to benefit from reduced legal and transaction costs as this removes a core barrier to registering key documents like contracts and loan agreements.

Additionally, easier loan collateralisation with mortgage deeds and crop mortgages free from stamp duty, smallholder farmers and agribusiness SMEs can pledge land or produce more affordably thus broadening access to agricultural finance. Importantly, this will boost formal business growth as cost savings make formalisation more attractive, encouraging informal traders to adopt structural legal agreements and participate in the formal economy.

Use of National Identification Numbers as Tax Identification Numbers (TIN) regardless of whether one is engaged in economic activity. This simplifies tax registration as SMEs and informal businesses can use alternative identification to obtain a TIN thus lowering the barriers to tax compliance. This will further encourage formalisation as more informal businesses may be incentivised to register and comply with tax regulations, granting them access to government programmes, financial services, and markets.

Revision of Penal Tax for non-compliance with the Electronic Fiscal Receipting and Invoicing System (EFRIS). This softer penal regime gives SMEs time to adapt to EFRIS requirements without facing harsh fines and shifts URA’s posture from punishment to guidance while encouraging compliance through support rather than fear.

This incentive improves cash flow through relief for resource-strapped SMEs as many struggles with digital adoption and record keeping. These softened penalties offer a learning curve without immediate financial consequences, thus reducing disruptions to their operations and liquidity.

Push for digital commerce: EFRIS helps create a transparent and real-time record of business transactions, benefitting SMEs through better bookkeeping, easier access to credit and improved inventory and sales management.

If 2025/2026 amendments are effectively communicated and complemented by capacity-building efforts (such as registration drives in collaboration with URA and local governments, legal aid services to draft formal agreements and mortgage documents, and digital skills workshops focused on tax compliance and EFRIS tools, Uganda’s SME sector could experience accelerated formalisation, higher tax morale, greater investment attractiveness and stronger integration into regional and global supply chains.