Ebong Michael

Oyam, Uganda | Oyam North County NRM flag bearer for Member of Parliament Willy Omodo Omodo Kagere has appealed to voters in Oyam North to make full use of his presence in both government and cultural leadership, as he seeks to represent the constituency in Uganda’s next Parliament. Addressing a community gathering in Otwal, Lango Cultural Institution speaker said his vision for Oyam North 2026-2031 is rooted in consistent engagement with the electorate. He told residents that effective leadership “must be present, must listen, and must respond” to the needs of the people. Omodo pointed to new bursary opportunities offered through the Lango Cultural Institution for vocational and nursing training, describing them as part of a broader push to expand educational access for young people. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to support farmers entering coffee-growing programmes, arguing that agriculture remains central to economic transformation in Oyam North. NRM Party elder Emor Milton Peter, who attended the meeting, encouraged voters to consider experience and dependability as they head towards the 2026 polls. He said Omodo’s public record, particularly within cultural leadership, demonstrates a capacity to deliver beyond campaign promises. NRM Women leaders in Otwal voiced similar sentiments, Teddy Aciobwona, Chairperson of the NRM Women’s League in the area, described Omodo as “a tested and trusted” candidate with the organisational strength needed to return the constituency to the NRM fold. Some residents say his work on the ground is already shaping political opinion, Tom Angol, a local voter, told our reporter that Omodo’s visibility and his victory in the NRM primaries have raised expectations that he could offer a more hands-on style of representation if elected. At the heart of Omodo’s campaign in Otwal is a focus on cultural heritage, education, and agricultural growth, priorities that clearly strike a chord with many voters. With the 2026–2031 parliamentary race in Oyam North gaining momentum, the spotlight is on a question the candidate himself keeps asking: What can a community achieve when its leader is truly present and actively engaged? Source The post Cultural Speaker Turned Politician: Omodo Omodo Pushes Development Agenda as Oyam North Decides 2026 appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Oyam, Uganda | A new education survey has revealed a deepening literacy crisis in Oyam District, northern Uganda, where the vast majority of children in lower primary school are unable to read a simple story in their local language, Leblango. The study, carried out by the Foundation for Inclusive Community Help (FICH) in partnership with Uwezo Uganda, assessed thousands of pupils between Primary Three and Primary Five across 25 government-aided schools. According to the results, released in September 2025, only 5.4% could read and comprehend a Primary Two–level passage. The findings are particularly stark among Primary Three pupils, the age group expected to learn mainly through the local language under Uganda’s thematic curriculum. Just 1.4% demonstrated the ability to read at the expected level. Local language instruction was introduced nationwide more than a decade ago to improve early grade learning. But Oyam District Inspector of Schools, Janet Achol, says many of the teachers once trained in the thematic approach have since retired, leaving a significant skills gap. “Those who were trained are no longer in the system,” she told the dissemination meeting. “And even when some are transferred to new schools, they abandon the approach. Without sufficient knowledge, it’s difficult for teachers to prepare and deliver lessons effectively.” The Resident District Commissioner, James Shilaku, attributed part of the problem to corruption in teacher recruitment. “Best performing candidates during interviews are left out,” he said. “The jobs are sold, and the people who get them are often not good classroom teachers.” His comments echo long-standing concerns over staffing practices in several districts across Uganda. The district’s inspector of schools, Benson Ongom, said poor inspection routines, low teacher morale, and inadequate preparation have further undermined learning outcomes. Despite the bleak results, the survey found that many schools possess libraries and other facilities. However, the report noted that these resources are rarely used effectively. Education officials and development partners are now urging the government to invest in retraining teachers, particularly in local language instruction, which they argue should also be strengthened at teacher-training colleges. “Local language is important even up to university level,” Ms. Achol said. “Teachers studying for diplomas should be better prepared to teach it.” The RDC called for greater collaboration among the district’s education office, inspectors, and head teachers, warning that disjointed leadership continues to frustrate progress. Once affected by conflict and displacement, Oyam has made strides in rebuilding schools and expanding access to education. But the latest findings suggest that thousands of children are passing through the system without acquiring the most basic literacy skills. FICH says that unless the district acts urgently, the learning crisis risks entrenching long-term educational and economic inequalities, affecting a generation that may struggle to read, write, and compete in a fast-changing world. Source The post Oyam District Battles Silent Crisis as 95% of P3–P5 Pupils Fail to Read Basic Leblango Text appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | A wave of defections from Uganda’s oldest political party, Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), has given the ruling NRM’s parliamentary candidate Sam Engola fresh momentum as he launched his first campaign rally on Monday in Amach Subcounty, Erute South. More than 150 UPC officials and supporters announced they are backing Engola and President Yoweri Museveni in the January 2026 elections, in a constituency long considered represented by a member of parliament from UPC. Engola Sam, a Senior Presidential Advisor on Lango Affairs, former MP and Minister, is seeking to reclaim the Erute South seat from incumbent Jonathan Odur (UPC), who has represented the constituency for a decade. Many of the defectors accused Odur of poor representation and disconnection from the communities. Among those switching allegiance was Okori David, UPC Chairperson for Amach Subcounty, who said he had endured years of unreturned calls while grappling with water shortages and other local challenges. NRM’s Amach Subcounty Chairperson Ogwang Tonny criticised Odur as a politician who “sits outside where the national cake is shared and opposes government programmes,” urging voters to send Engola to Parliament to “tap development” for a constituency he said has suffered neglect. Other UPC members, including Alili Joe and Vincent Ogwang, also declared support for Engola at the rally held in Onyakede. The NRM leadership in Lira District echoed the call for change, Jacob Ocen (Lira City NRM Publicity Secretary), speaking on behalf of NRM District Chairperson Agnes Linda Auma, said the constituency had previously “elected a leader who speaks much but lobbies nothing,” appealing to residents to vote for Museveni, Engola, and other NRM flagbearers on 15 January 2026. Former Ambassador Lolo Abura also attended, announcing he had reconciled with Engola after years of political and personal differences. Businessman Robert Okodia, head of Engola’s task force, told supporters the constituency needed “a bus tire, not a pickup tire,” in reference to what he described as underperforming past leaders. Long-time NRM supporter Geoffrey Etwop pledged to bring five Caterpillar graders to rehabilitate roads if Engola is elected, and promised to begin work on the Odit Swamp Bridge in February 2026. Etwop also credited Engola with resolving a past land dispute with NEMA when he accompanied him to the agency’s headquarters in Kampala. In his address, Engola thanked defecting UPC supporters and promised to improve education standards in Erute South, which he said had declined since he left Parliament. He cited government approval of 2.4 billion shillings for electrification across the constituency, saying increased power access would boost youth employment and trading centre growth. Engola also highlighted his past support to students, claiming he offered scholarships to more than 400 learners during earlier terms in Parliament and an additional 10 this year. He criticised Odur as “talkative in Parliament but inactive in the constituency,” urging voters to choose leaders aligned with the NRM government’s development agenda. He said the Parish Development Model, which currently allocates one million shillings per beneficiary, would soon rise to two million. With UPC leaders crossing over and NRM structures mobilising behind Engola, the Erute South race appears set for a highly competitive contest. Engola ended his rally calling on supporters to vote for President Museveni, himself, and all NRM candidates in the January polls. Source The post UPC Collapse Fuels Engola’s Comeback; NRM Criticises Odur for “Noise Without Lobbying” appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | Journalists in the Lango Sub-region have condemned what they describe as an alarming rise in targeted attacks, threats, and intimidation by political supporters during the ongoing campaign period in Lira City. The outcry follows the violent assault of Bob Oyuku Ojok, a news anchor and programme host at UNITY FM, who was attacked on Thursday while covering the campaign rally of Hon. Betty Amongi Ongom, the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) candidate for Lira City Woman MP. According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened at St. Benedict Playground in Lela Apeta at about 4pm, when a group of people wearing UPC party colours confronted the journalist, accused him of supporting an opposing candidate, confiscated and destroyed his phone, beat him, and chased him for several metres. He escaped and sought safety at Ireda Police Outpost, where he recorded a statement. Senior journalists and media workers say the attack is part of a growing pattern of hostility targeted at reporters covering political events in Lira City. Those who have reported threats include: Hudson Apunyo, Senior Journalist, reporters from QFM, reporters from UNITY FM and several others who declined to be named over safety concerns. Some supporters have reportedly vowed to “beat up” journalists they believe are biased, forcing media houses to reconsider sending reporters to certain campaign venues. “This climate of intimidation is worsening by the day. Some of our colleagues now fear covering specific candidates,” one reporter told the Daily Monitor. Media practitioners argue that the attacks violate Article 29 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of the press, and Electoral Commission (EC) guidelines, which provide journalists unrestricted access to campaign activities. They now want the Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ-U) to investigate the assault on Oyuku Ojok and provide legal support to affected reporters. They are also urging the Electoral Commission to act against campaign agents who obstruct media work, and calling on Uganda Police Force to fast-track investigations and ensure accountability. In a letter addressed to the UPC Party President, senior journalist Hudson Apunyo expressed concern over what he termed a “pattern of violence” linked to individuals associated with the party. He cited earlier incidents, including the 2016 attack on Joel Milton Aliro and colleagues at Alpha Hotel, allegedly by UPC youth travelling in tipper trucks, and the 2021 assault on journalist Sam Brunos Aliga of Voice of Lango, who was ambushed and beaten on his way to work. “These repeated incidents create fear and undermine public trust in political institutions,” Apunyo wrote. He asked UPC to condemn the November 20 attack, instruct its campaign teams to respect media freedom, and cooperate with police investigations. Journalists warn that continued hostility endangers media workers and denies the public access to balanced and timely information during a crucial election season. “We serve all candidates equally. Violence against journalists is violence against the public’s right to know,” Apunyo said. They are appealing to political parties, candidates, and supporters across Lango to embrace peaceful campaigns and ensure journalists operate without fear. Source

By Walter Okello Brussels, Belgium | Sam Ogwal ,the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)’s specila envoy has challenged young leaders from the Horn of Africa region to take the lead in driving sustainable development in their respective countries. Speaking at the official opening of a high-level youth engagement meeting held in Brussels, Belgium, Ogwal urged the participants to devise practical strategies for integrating youth-led initiatives into national development agendas across member states of the Greater Horn of Africa. “Youth remain the poorest demographic in most Horn of Africa countries, yet they are the most energetic and innovative segment of our population,” Ogwal stated. This energy, if properly harnessed, can propel our nations to greater heights through youth-championed development projects. “How can we effectively integrate development initiatives that are designed and driven by young people into the mainstream policies of our member states?” Ogwal asked. The IGAD special envoy also raised serious concerns about the systematic exclusion of youth from electoral and decision-making processes in several countries in the region. “Young people must be allowed to actively participate in democratic elections in their countries. No one should be permitted to silence or shut down their voices,” he stressed. Ogwal noted that many youth in Horn of Africa countries continue to suffer the devastating effects of prolonged conflict and insecurity. He cited recent attacks on homes in parts of Uganda as a stark reminder of the urgent need to place youth at the centre of peace-building and security initiatives.Putting Youth at the Forefront Ogwal, who is also a parliamentary aspirant seeking to unseat incumbent Moroto County MP Samuel Okwir Odwee in the upcoming elections, emphasized that youth should be positioned at the forefront of national priorities. “We must deliberately place young people at the centre of everything – from policy formulation to implementation – and allow them to champion the change we all desire,” he uttered. The Brussels meeting brought together youth leaders, Women and representatives from countries across the Greater Horn of Africa to deliberate on common challenges facing young people, including unemployment, insecurity, political exclusion, and limited access to economic opportunities, and to propose actionable solutions. Source

Apac, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has described the late former Paramount Chief of Lango, Wonyaci Yosam Odur Ebii, as a patriotic and steadfast cultural leader whose influence shaped both the identity and development agenda of the Lango sub-region for over two decades. The President’s condolence message, delivered by Vice President Jesca Alupo, was read to mourners gathered at Teboke Primary School in Apac District during the state-recognised funeral ceremony. President Museveni praised the late Chief’s leadership, noting that Odur Ebii—who ascended to the throne in 2003—guided the cultural institution with dignity, stability, and a commitment to preserving Lango heritage. “Wonyaci Odur Ebii was one of the most patriotic leaders Uganda has had,” the President said in the statement. He commended the role played by cultural institutions in strengthening national identity and reiterated government’s position on protecting traditional structures as custodians of values that define African civilisation. Museveni urged the current leadership of the Lango Cultural Institution to maintain unity, safeguard cultural norms, and build on the late Chief’s legacy. The President extended UGX 10 million as a condolence contribution to the bereaved family. In her address, Vice President Alupo highlighted the late Paramount Chief’s strategic lobbying around education and regional development. She said Odur routinely engaged the Ministry of Education on the need for a public university in Lango, presenting structured arguments that later influenced government decisions leading to the establishment of Lira University. Alupo noted that Odur’s advocacy on health services also shaped ongoing interventions at Lira University Teaching Hospital, calling for continued improvement of service delivery to meet public expectations. Beyond paying tribute, the Vice President used the platform to encourage cultural leaders to resolve internal disputes that have characterised the institution in recent years. She said unity within cultural structures is essential for effective communication with government, community mobilisation, and long-term development planning. “When leadership speaks with one voice, the region moves forward faster,” she noted. The late Odur Ebii is credited with guiding the cultural institution through a period of reorganisation, re-establishing traditional norms, and fostering collaboration across cultural, religious, and administrative structures. Mourners included political leaders, cultural representatives, and delegations from across Northern Uganda, underscoring his influence beyond Lango. President Museveni’s message closed with an appeal for continued respect for cultural authority and a prayer for the late Chief’s peaceful rest. Former Wonyaci Yosam Odur Ebii was born in 1926 and passed away two weeks ago from Lira University Teaching Hospital at the age of 99. Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira University has appealed to President Yoweri Museveni to fund the tarmacking of its 26-kilometre internal road network, as leaders praised the institution’s growth and urged stronger emphasis on practical skills during its 7th graduation ceremony held on Friday. Vice President Jessica Alupo, who represented President Museveni at the event, called on universities and tertiary institutions to prioritise science, technology, and employable skills, noting that graduates must be prepared for a rapidly changing global economy driven by innovation. She said the NRM government remains committed to expanding science-based education and highlighted ongoing efforts to ensure every parish has a primary school, every sub-county a secondary school, and every district a technical institution. She added that the expansion of public universities across regions reflects government’s intention to widen access to higher education. Alupo commended Lira University for offering courses that meet labour market needs, arguing that unemployment among young graduates can be reduced if institutions teach programmes aligned to private-sector demands. he noted that Uganda’s public service has only 469,000 positions, meaning most graduates must look to the private sector for opportunities. She said government has created a favourable environment for investment, leading to more industries that can absorb graduates and support the country’s industrialisation agenda. Turning to the graduands, Alupo congratulated them but advised them to avoid reckless behaviour such as drunkenness, sexual promiscuity and extravagant spending. She reminded them that both the government and their parents had made significant sacrifices to support their education and said she was confident Lira University graduates would form a workforce capable of driving Uganda’s socio-economic transformation. Chancellor Justice Dr. Benjamin Joses Odoki praised President Museveni for supporting the university’s infrastructural development over the past decade. He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to delivering quality higher education, research and community-centred innovations. He added that reports show Lira University graduates continue to offer effective and efficient service in their workplaces. The Minister for Higher Education, Dr. John Chrysostom Muyingo, in remarks delivered by Geoffrey Onyango from the ministry, applauded the university for implementing its planned activities and maintaining steady progress despite financial and operational challenges. He said the ministry appreciates the management’s efforts to ensure smooth execution of academic programmes. Lira University remains one of the few institutions in the country that hand over transcripts and certificates on graduation day, allowing graduates to compete immediately in the job market. Vice Chancellor Prof. Jasper Ogwal-Okeng thanked President Museveni for his continued support towards the university’s infrastructure but appealed for additional funding to construct student halls of residence and staff housing. He also requested the government to tarmac the university’s 26km road network, saying the development would ease movement and support the institution’s long-term expansion. Prof. Ogwal thanked parents, staff and students for their contribution to the successful organisation of the event and congratulated the graduands for their resilience and commitment to academic excellence. A total of 454 students — 256 males and 198 females — graduated from the faculties of Education, Medicine, Nursing and Midwifery, Management Sciences, and Computing and Information Sciences. Source

Kole, Uganda | Tension has been growing in Olipa Village, Alito Sub-county, after the head teacher of Olipa Primary School allegedly withdrew more than Sh10 million meant for school activities and vanished for over a month—forcing parents and leaders to petition police for action. Police say Mr Atim Simon Peter, the long-serving head teacher, accessed the school’s account at Stanbic Bank, Lira Branch, on October 2, 2025, and withdrew Sh10,200,000 just days after the money—Sh10,243,333—had been credited to the account. The funds were meant to support key school operations, according to minutes from a staff meeting held earlier that day. But instead, Mr Atim allegedly disappeared immediately after the withdrawal, leaving teachers, parents and learners in confusion. His disappearance prompted Mr Omara James Leo, the School Management Committee (SMC) chairperson, to file a complaint on October 15. The case was first registered at Alito Town Council Police Station before being transferred to Kole Central Police Station. For weeks, community members said they feared the case would stall. Some had begun expressing frustration that a public servant entrusted with children’s welfare could “walk away with school money” without immediate consequences. North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema confirmed the arrest and said investigators had been following leads quietly. “A case of embezzlement was registered and statements from all concerned parties were recorded,” SP Okema said. “The suspect was located and arrested on November 20, and is now in custody as investigations continue.” Parents who spoke to this newspaper said the arrest brings some relief, although many want the money returned and internal controls at the school strengthened. Police are now compiling the case file for submission to the Resident State Attorney, who will advise on possible charges. Mr Atim has not yet issued a statement regarding the allegations. Source

Lira, Uganda | FM journalist Bob Oyuku Ojok was reportedly assaulted on Thursday, November 20, 2025, while covering a political rally in Boke Ward, Lira City. Eyewitnesses said the attack involved a group of individuals alleged to be Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) supporters, who physically touched and harassed him as he performed his reporting duties. At the time of reporting, North Kyoga Police had not issued a statement regarding the incident. However, several civil society actors, fellow journalists, and media outlets across the region have condemned the attack, calling it an attempt to intimidate the press and silence independent reporting. “Assaults on journalists undermine democracy and prevent citizens from accessing information. This act is entirely unacceptable,” said Unity FM in a statement. Other media practitioners in the Lango sub-region also voiced their condemnation, emphasizing that journalists must be able to work without fear of harassment or violence. Dokolo Post joined the outcry, reaffirming the need to protect press freedom and respect journalists’ safety. Unity FM management said it is treating the incident with the utmost seriousness and pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities to ensure justice. The station reaffirmed its commitment to impartial, professional reporting and extended full support to Bob Oyuku Ojok during his recovery. “We urge all political actors and their supporters to respect the role of journalists in a democratic society. Violence against media workers must end immediately,” said Kenneth Opio, Station Manager at Unity FM. The incident has reignited discussions about the safety of journalists in northern Uganda, with calls for urgent measures to ensure reporters can perform their duties without fear of intimidation or physical harm. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | During a campaign rally on Thursday in Agwata Town Council, Dokolo North County MP NRM flagbearer 2026-2031, Joseph Jones Ogwal Omara said he would work closely with local councillors to establish a dedicated budget for flood victims. He noted that the proposal, once adopted by both the district council and Parliament, would strengthen emergency response mechanisms in the event of future natural disasters. Ogwal also urged the electorate to remain cautious of individuals seeking votes despite having failed to deliver on previous mandates when they held public office. In a separate address, Dokolo District Woman MP NRM flagbearer Janet Rose Adongo Elau reaffirmed that health would be central to her manifesto. She said she would lobby for the upgrading of health centres across the district to improve service delivery. The NRM candidates have recently enjoyed heightened visibility and support, with many voters crediting the party’s organisation and campaign message. Several elders, including Nelson Owodo, Benard Etin, and Jaspher Angulu of Kachung Eastern, Central, and Western Wards, publicly expressed their confidence in Ogwal, Adongo, and LCV Chairperson hopeful seeking reelection James Otto Apili, describing the trio as leaders with “clear and transformative agendas.” They pledged to back them fully in the 2026 general elections. At the Agwata rally, voters from various categories, youth, women, men, and the elderly declared unified support for the NRM ticket “from top to bottom.” Those endorsed include Ogwal Jones Omara for MP Dokolo North, Janet Rose Adongo Elau for Woman Member of Parliament, and James Otto Apili for District Chairperson. The show of unity signals growing momentum for the ruling party in Dokolo as the 2026 polls draw closer. Source