Ebong Michael

Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District has begun a new drive to strengthen community protection systems after FIDA-Uganda launched the Spotlight 2.0 project during an inception meeting held at MM Hotel on November 13, 2025. The project, funded through UNDP, focuses on expanding legal aid, improving community awareness and strengthening support for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). It also aims to boost Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) services in the district. FIDA-Uganda Project Officer Adur Lisa said the organisation’s immediate priority is to ensure that vulnerable residents—especially women and children—are able to access justice without being held back by financial limitations. She noted that many cases go unreported due to fear, stigma and lack of support. Adur said the Spotlight 2.0 program will work directly with communities, local leaders and service providers to close these gaps through sensitisation, training and legal support. District leaders welcomed the initiative, saying it arrives at a time when many families are battling rising cases of domestic abuse. Deputy CAO James Ingoi said stronger collaboration between development partners and district departments is essential for changing the situation on the ground. LCV Chairperson Francis Abola said the district continues to register worrying levels of GBV and called the project an important boost to local prevention and response efforts. Resident District Commissioner Erick Masiga challenged FIDA-Uganda to remain fully engaged throughout the implementation period, saying communities expect practical solutions, not promises. The district leadership pledged to work hand in hand with FIDA-Uganda to ensure local households benefit directly from the Spotlight 2.0 interventions. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Senior leaders of Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) have pledged unity and total support for all party flagbearers in Dokolo District as the 2026 general elections approach. The leaders said their collective goal was to strengthen the party’s influence and ensure smooth coordination between local leaders and the central government. During a mobilisation meeting on Thursday in Adok Subcounty, NRM Subcounty Chairperson Okori David said he is committed to ensuring overwhelming support for all NRM candidates in the area. He urged residents to avoid propaganda and focus on building the party’s reputation. Okori noted that Joseph Jones Ogwal, the NRM flagbearer for Dokolo North Constituency, had a well-defined and realistic agenda that reflected the people’s needs. The LCIII Chairperson for Adok Subcounty, Ogwali Rubby, said the NRM had this time fielded strong and credible candidates capable of delivering results. She remarked that Ogwal had demonstrated patience and consistency in his political journey, having begun preparing for leadership as early as 2016. Rubby added that Ogwal had supported youth development through sports and community work, including the purchase of a mowing machine that helped in clearing bushes around schools, a contribution he said greatly benefited Adok residents. Dokolo District NRM Chairperson Geoffrey Opio Ekong explained that his mission in the area is to mobilise support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and other NRM flagbearers such as Ogwal, Janet Adongo Elau, and James Otto Apili. He said his team had come to engage the people with leaders who could identify and provide practical solutions to community problems. Ekong added that the district needs representatives who could maintain a good working relationship with the president to attract development rather than politicians who spent time criticising government programmes. He observed that many residents, including the elderly, persons with disabilities, and unemployed youth, depended on government interventions and needed leaders who could advocate for them. NRM Woman MP flagbearer Janet Rose Adongo Elau said her decision to contest was driven by a desire to represent the people’s voice before President Museveni, recalling that the NRM flag was handed to her in broad daylight by the President himself. She stressed that electing only NRM candidates would make it easier to coordinate with the district chairperson and the area MP in implementing development programmes. Dokolo North MP flagbearer Joseph Jones Ogwal said that once elected, he would focus on representing the people’s concerns in Parliament. He noted that development efforts would be more effective because the entire leadership team would belong to the same party. Ogwal announced that the long-awaited Adok Seed Secondary School project was already in the pipeline, with the contractor confirmed and a groundbreaking ceremony planned for December. He said he had already secured land to establish an adult and youth skilling centre and procured sewing machines for young girls to train in tailoring. Ogwal also promised to support 5 students to train as doctors and 30 others as nurses from the constituency. He said he would work closely with women’s groups to enhance their financial capacity and called for affirmative action to grant university admission points to students from Lango, arguing that the region had long suffered from past insurgencies. Ogwal further pledged to advocate for improved access to clean water and electricity across the constituency and to push for legislation that empowers cultural leaders to manage customary land. He said the NRM manifesto already provided a strong framework for wealth creation, infrastructure, and education and that his mission is to translate those promises into real change for the people. Dokolo District LCV Chairperson James Otto Apili, who is seeking re-election on the NRM ticket, said he had worked to rehabilitate roads across Adok and the entire district, improving farmers’ access to markets. He noted that he is lobbying for the upgrading of Amulakere Health Centre and proposed the division of Adok Subcounty into two units to enhance service delivery due to its large size. Apili added that he would continue to promote women’s economic empowerment to ensure that every household benefits from government initiatives. The rally in Adok Subcounty is viewed as a major show of unity for the NRM in Dokolo District, with local leaders expressing optimism that the party would secure an overwhelming victory for President Museveni and all its flagbearers in the 2026 general elections. Source

Oyam, Uganda | Support for parliamentary aspirant Samuel Junior Engola Okello continues to grow in Oyam North as residents rally behind his campaign message, “Independency Is Not Inability.” The slogan, now widely embraced across Ngai, Iceme, and Oyam Town Council, emphasizes leadership built on courage, ability, and accountability rather than political affiliation. During a rally in Ngai Sub-county, Engola said his decision to contest independently is a demonstration of confidence and readiness to serve his people without compromise. He explained that being independent does not mean weakness, but rather the freedom to make decisions that benefit the constituency. Residents say his message has reignited trust and hope among voters. Tonny Ocen, a resident of Acut Parish, said Engola represents a new generation of leaders who believe in service guided by responsibility and vision. He added that Engola’s approach reflects the values his late father stood for — integrity, unity, and community development. Frasidy Ayo, a youth from Akuca, said their support for Engola is based on ability and trust, describing him as a leader capable of lifting Oyam North with dignity and purpose. With growing grassroots endorsement, Samuel Junior Engola Okello’s campaign is gaining momentum as he positions himself as a strong contender for the 12th Parliament (2026–2031), offering a message of independence, strength, and renewed leadership for Oyam North. Source

Soroti, Uganda | Soroti City Authority has unveiled a Shs40 billion budget for the Financial Year 2026/2027, with officials warning that inadequate funding and lack of equipment continue to affect service delivery and urban development. The budget was presented during a conference held on November 12, 2025, at the Soroti City Council Hall, bringing together council members, technical officers, and partners from organisations such as AIC, TASO, TEDDO, Centenary Bank, and Housing Finance Bank. Acting City Planner Andrew Iteba said the budget will guide the next five-year development plan, with a significant boost from the Uganda Support to Municipal Infrastructure Development (USMID) grant, which contributes Shs13 billion. “This year’s city budget is Shs27 billion, but with the USMID grant, the total rises to Shs40 billion,” Iteba said. “Most of the funds will go toward infrastructure development, particularly roads, street lighting, and other city facilities.” The city plans to undertake several projects in FY2026/27, including: Construction of a modern abattoir in Akisim Development of markets in Pamba and Kichinjaji 9.5km of roadworks across divisions Construction of Aliabu Road and installation of traffic lights Development of a children’s park in Akisim Construction of a taxi and bus terminal, council hall, and stadium fencing Upgrading of Princess Diana Health Centre IV Purchase of road equipment, renovation of teachers’ houses, and restoration of Agora Wetland Iteba said the city aims to promote participatory planning by involving communities in identifying priorities and aligning them with the Vision 2040 and NDP III frameworks. Deputy Town Clerk Joseph Mwesigwa said the purpose of the conference was to agree on priorities and prepare the Budget Framework Paper for submission to the Ministry of Finance. “When we do things the right way, the government appreciates our efforts,” he said. Mayor Joshua Edogu commended the cooperation between departments and partners, saying the city’s focus this year is on commercial agriculture, industrialization, and digital expansion. He, however, said the lack of equipment and operational funding remains a major constraint. “We still hire road equipment from other districts, which increases costs and delays projects,” Edogu said. He also cited other challenges such as non-implementation of council resolutions, arrears, limited office space, and transport shortages. Edogu thanked the central government for donating three double-cabin pickups and supporting programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), under which Shs7 billion has been disbursed in Soroti. Deputy Resident City Commissioner Clare Ayipo urged the city leadership to raise more local revenue and act with the responsibility expected of a city administration. “We need to work hard to ensure our revenue sources increase because we are a city,” she said. “We should not act like a municipality.” Ayipo also advised departments to promote commercial agriculture, enforce physical planning regulations, and curb wetland encroachment. Soroti City, which attained city status in 2020, continues to face challenges of underfunding, limited staffing, and equipment shortages that hinder effective service delivery. Officials say the new budget is designed to strengthen urban infrastructure, create jobs, and promote local economic growth despite the resource constraints. Source

Amuria, Uganda | The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) Secretariat has reinstated State Minister for Works Musa Francis Ecweru as the party’s District Chairperson for Amuria, days after he officially withdrew his independent candidature from the 2026 parliamentary race for Amuria County. The development, confirmed in an official communication signed by NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong, marks a significant political turnaround for the long-serving minister who had earlier fallen out with the party following a disputed primary election. In a letter dated November 8, 2025, Todwong acknowledged receipt of Ecweru’s written notice confirming his withdrawal from the race and reaffirming his support for the NRM flag bearers. “I write to acknowledge the receipt of your letter dated 7th November 2025, in which you stated that you have withdrawn your candidature for the Member of Parliament, Amuria County, on an independent ticket and are now working to support the NRM flag bearers,” reads part of the letter. “In view of the above, I write to permit you to resume your work as the NRM District Chairman for Amuria District.” Copies of the letter were circulated to the District Executive Committee (DEC) and key directors at the NRM Secretariat, including Legal Affairs, Administration and Finance, confirming the official nature of the reinstatement. While addressing journalists and party leaders in Amuria Town, Ecweru expressed gratitude to the NRM leadership for restoring his position and pledged renewed commitment to building the party’s structures at the grassroots. “Indeed, we had handed over because I was independent, and there was no way I could administer the day-to-day running of party activities while standing outside the party line,” he said. “Now that it is not the case, we are going to resume and make sure the party does its work very well.” He described his withdrawal from the parliamentary contest as a gesture of loyalty, discipline and respect for the party’s internal mechanisms. “I wish all the NRM candidates the best in the elections,” he added. “I thank all those who have been wishing me well and continue to wish me well. I also wish the country peaceful elections come January 15, 2026.” The Amuria District Vice Chairperson, Okello, who had been acting in Ecweru’s place, officially handed back the chairmanship during a brief ceremony witnessed by local leaders. Ecweru’s reinstatement followed his official withdrawal from the Amuria County parliamentary race, in which he had been duly nominated to contest as an independent candidate after losing the NRM primaries in July 2025. Speaking to journalists earlier, the minister said he took the decision after consultations with President Yoweri Museveni and senior NRM officials. “After engaging my key agents and supporters, and consulting with the party leadership, including Mzee, the chairperson of our party, I reflected deeply and came to the conclusion that it is important to withdraw my candidature,” he said. He maintained that the NRM primaries were “mismanaged,” alleging voter irregularities that denied thousands of his supporters a chance to vote. “Withdrawing does not mean I endorse what happened,” he clarified. “I don’t endorse election rigging or abuse of the democratic process. But in the interest of party harmony and cohesion, and following the guidance of my leaders, I am stepping down.” Following his withdrawal, Ecweru redirected his political efforts toward mobilising support for President Museveni’s re-election. “As I step down, I am calling on all my supporters, agents, and well-wishers to expend all their energy on ensuring that President Museveni wins,” he said. “The winning of President Museveni guarantees the stability of Uganda and the progress we have achieved.” He also urged his supporters to deliver a decisive victory for the ruling party in Amuria. “My prayer is that President Museveni wins Amuria at 100 per cent,” he said. “If we can deliver that victory, Amuria will become the best-performing district in his tally.” Political analysts in Teso say the minister’s decision could help mend divisions that emerged after the NRM primaries and strengthen the party’s base ahead of the 2026 general elections. Ecweru, who has represented Amuria County in Parliament for over 20 years and held several ministerial portfolios, described his move as a “redirection of energy toward unity and stability.” “This is not the end,” he said. “It is a redirection of energy toward the stability and prosperity of Uganda. My heart remains with the people of Amuria, and my commitment remains with the vision of His Excellency President Museveni.” Source

Dokolo, Uganda | NRM Flagbearer for Dokolo North County, Joseph Jones Ogwal, expressed concern that the majority of students admitted to Lira University are from outside the Lango Subregion, despite the institution having been established to primarily benefit the people of Lango. Bata Town Council voters focus on Joseph Jones Ogwal and Janet Rose Adongo Elau’s campaign speech, with NRM posters reflecting their message. Ogwal attributed the situation to the low academic performance of learners in the region, which he said is a lingering effect of past insurgencies. He pledged to advocate for affirmative action through a quarter system, where one additional point would be given to students from regions affected by historical conflicts, such as Lango, to improve their chances of accessing higher education. He told the gathering that many young people in the area are being left behind by the education system, emphasizing the need for deliberate government policies to ensure fairness and inclusion. Unveiling his campaign manifesto for the 2026–2031 term, Ogwal outlined priorities focusing on education, health, women empowerment, and youth development. He committed himself to training five doctors and thirty nurses from within Dokolo North to strengthen the health workforce and pledged to follow up on a government ambulance designated for the community to ensure it is delivered and operational. He said land had already been secured for the construction of an Adult Learning Centre in Bata Town Council to promote literacy and skill development among adults and youth. Ogwal also revealed that ten sewing machines had been acquired to support teenage girls in learning tailoring and becoming self-reliant. In addition, he promised to support women’s groups across the constituency and advocate for a law protecting customary land under the authority of cultural leaders. Ogwal urged voters in Dokolo North to cast their votes for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Janet Rose Adongo Elau for District Woman MP, James Otto Apili for District LC V Chairperson, and all NRM candidates, saying that development could best be achieved when the leadership at all levels is united under one political direction. Geoffrey Opio Ekong, Dokolo District NRM Chairperson, encouraged residents to vote for NRM leaders from the grassroots up to the national level, arguing that opposition politicians lacked direct links to the President and are therefore unable to effectively attract development projects to their areas. Janet Rose Adongo Elau, NRM Flagbearer for Dokolo District Woman MP, said that the current opposition representative had failed to amplify the voices of the people in Parliament. She advised the electorate not to be swayed by temporary handouts from rival candidates but to elect leaders who could effectively lobby and engage government structures for tangible results. Meanwhile, Shaban Ocen, NRM Flagbearer for Bata Town Council LCIII Chairperson, criticized previous leaders for neglecting their voters after being elected, saying they had failed to deliver on the trust given to them by the people. The campaign team, led by Ogwal and Adongo, traversed four venues within Bata Town Council on the opening day of their campaign trail on Tuesday, November 11. Ogwal’s message, which aligns closely with President Museveni’s national development agenda, centers on expanding educational opportunities, improving health services, empowering women and youth, and preserving cultural heritage in Dokolo North. Source

Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Uganda has voiced firm support for a proposal by the United Republic of Tanzania to have Kiswahili recognised as an official language of the General Conference of UNESCO, saying the initiative will strengthen Africa’s cultural identity and enhance inclusive global communication. Uganda’s position was delivered by Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, the country’s Envoy to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, during the 43rd Session of the UNESCO General Conference currently taking place in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. In her address to delegates and representatives from around the world, Ambassador Amule described Tanzania’s proposal as “constructive, forward-looking, and reflective of Africa’s growing voice in multilateral forums.” “The Republic of Uganda fully associates itself with this important initiative, recognising the significance of Kiswahili as a language of unity, identity, and wider communication across Africa,” she said. “With over 200 million speakers, Kiswahili serves as a vital bridge between diverse peoples – promoting regional and international cooperation, mutual understanding and cultural exchange.” Ambassador Amule further noted that Kiswahili’s existing status as an official language of both the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU) affirms its importance in advancing continental integration and the Pan-African vision of unity in diversity. She added that adopting Kiswahili at UNESCO would align perfectly with the organisation’s broader mission to promote linguistic diversity, cultural inclusion and the free exchange of ideas. “This proposal is not merely symbolic,” she said. “It has practical significance in ensuring that millions of Africans can better participate in UNESCO’s programmes and deliberations through a language that connects them culturally and historically.” Uganda’s statement also expressed gratitude to member states that have already endorsed the initiative, calling it “a milestone for Africa’s cultural representation and intellectual contribution to the world stage.” The move comes amid growing momentum across Africa to elevate Kiswahili as a continental and global language. In 2022, the United Nations declared July 7 as World Kiswahili Language Day, marking the first time an African language received such recognition at the UN level. Kiswahili, which originated along the East African coast, is spoken widely across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Rwanda, Burundi, and parts of southern Africa. It has evolved into one of the most unifying linguistic symbols on the continent. In a related development, Uganda also congratulated Mr. Khaled Ahmed El-Enany Ali Ezz upon his installation as Director-General Elect of UNESCO during the same General Conference session. Ambassador Amule extended Uganda’s warm congratulations and pledged the country’s cooperation and support throughout his tenure. “The Republic of Uganda congratulates Mr Khaled El-Enany upon his installation as Director-General Elect of UNESCO and reiterates her pledge of cooperation and support for a successful term of office,” she said. She reaffirmed Uganda’s commitment, as a new member of the UNESCO Executive Board, to contributing to the implementation of programmes adopted by the General Conference and engaging in constructive dialogue with the Director-General to further the organisation’s global mission. “Uganda remains committed to the values and objectives of UNESCO and will continue to play an active role in advancing education, culture, science and communication for sustainable development,” she added. Mr. El-Enany, an Egyptian scholar and former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, was elected to lead UNESCO following the completion of Ms. Audrey Azoulay’s term. His appointment has been widely welcomed by African and Arab nations as a testament to the continent’s increasing influence within the global body. Uganda’s participation in this year’s General Conference highlights its growing diplomatic engagement within multilateral organisations and its support for African-led initiatives that promote cultural identity, education and unity on the world stage. Source

Otuke, Uganda | Nearly half of teenage girls in Northern Uganda are affected by early marriage and teenage pregnancy, according to newly released statistics highlighting a deepening crisis in the region. The findings were revealed on Monday, November 10, 2025, during a community dialogue organized by Fountain of Life Uganda with support from Girls First Fund, as part of activities marking eight years of Girls Not Brides Uganda’s campaign to end child marriage and teenage pregnancy. The dialogue, held at Otuke Business Centre, was convened under the theme: “The Cost of Inaction in Addressing the Root Causes of Child Marriage and Teenage Pregnancy in Uganda.” The event brought together teachers, pupils from Orum and Adwari Primary Schools, Otuke District officials, cultural actors, women leaders, parents, and members of Girls Not Brides Uganda from across Northern Uganda, all united in seeking solutions to what stakeholders described as a pressing social emergency. According to presentations at the dialogue, Lango Sub-region alone accounts for 22% of all early marriage and teenage pregnancy cases recorded nationally. Speaking at the event, Mrs. Molly Akello Bella, Coordinator of Fountain of Life Uganda, said the situation requires coordinated community involvement. “The numbers in Lango are worrying. We need cultural leaders, parents, and policy implementers to work together if we are to protect the girl child,” Akello said. In the Acholi Sub-region, the situation is equally severe. Geoffrey Ochan of Vision for Children & Youth Forum revealed that over 16,000 teenage pregnancies were recorded across Gulu, Amuru, Nwoya, Agago, Lamwo, Pader, and Kitgum districts in 2025 alone. “The prolonged effects of the Lord’s Resistance Army conflict, poverty, and limited access to reproductive health information continue to expose girls to exploitation,” Ochan noted. He cited limited guidance at home, economic pressures, and harmful cultural norms among key contributors. Representing Child Fund, Irene Naiga urged parents to provide emotional support to their daughters rather than pushing them into early marriage in search of financial relief. The Senior Community Development Office (SCDO), represented by Moses Adyeny, also raised concern over the high cases in Otuke District, revealing 1,223 cases of teenage pregnancies recorded between January and October 2025. He pointed to lack of parental supervision, early marriage traditions, and attendance of unsupervised night events as contributing risks. Meanwhile, Patrick Ochero, Senior Education Officer Otuke, recommended comprehensive sexuality education, increased parental engagement, and retention of girls in school as sustainable preventive measures. The District Education Officer (DEO), Lucy Acheng, called on senior women teachers to intensify mentorship programs for girls, particularly on menstrual health management, and encouraged headteachers to budget for girl-focused support activities. The event concluded with a strong call for collaborative efforts among parents, cultural institutions, district leadership, schools, and civil society organizations to address the root causes of child marriage and teenage pregnancy and safeguard the future of girls in Northern Uganda. Source

Oyam, Uganda | Willy Omodo Omodo Kagere has officially launched his campaign in Obanga Ngeo Parish, Acaba Subcounty, with a message characterized by calm confidence and a focus on service over spectacle. Speaking during the launch, Omodo said the overwhelming trust expressed during the NRM party primaries was a clear testament to the people’s belief in his leadership. He added that his campaign is anchored on practical service delivery, accountability, and continuity of tested leadership rather than empty promises or political showmanship. The event attracted strong endorsements from National Resistance Movement (NRM) leaders and respected community members. Leone Omara, the NRM Chairperson for Obanga Ngeo Parish, pledged his full support, applauding Omodo for his composed, strategic, and people-centered approach to leadership. Similarly, Tonny Otyek, the NRM Chairperson for Acaba Subcounty, affirmed that Hon. Omodo’s popularity in Oyam North was already evident and that his message of unity and progress continued to resonate strongly across the constituency. From the grassroots, local resident Opio Peter of Atula Tum Village expressed his confidence in Omodo’s leadership, describing him as a humble and respectful leader whose quiet strength and consistent service had earned him the trust of the community. Adding to the strategic direction of the campaign, Martine Abila, Omodo’s political assistant, said he would lead message coordination and mobilization efforts. Abila noted that Omodo’s campaign is distinguished by sharp planning, deep grassroots networks, and the involvement of community elders and structured party teams. Source

Lira, Uganda | Catechists across Lira Diocese have been called upon to rekindle the life of Small Christian Communities and to journey together with all the faithful in the spirit of Synodality, as the Church emphasizes communion, participation, and mission. The appeal was made by the Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, during the recent Diocesan Day of Prayer for Departed Pastoral Agents. The annual event brings together catechists, clergy, and the faithful to honour those who dedicated their lives to God and the Church. Bishop Wanok reminded catechists that the Church is inherently Synodal, a community where all members walk together in faith, leaving no one behind. He underscored that Christian life begins in the family and urged catechists to encourage couples, starting at the chapel level, to receive the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony. He emphasized the importance of participation in the life of the Church, noting that baptism calls all Christians to evangelize, teach the Word of God to both the young and old, and guide believers toward the sacraments that unite the faithful. Addressing Christians from Dokolo Parish who had come to pass through the Door of Mercy, Bishop Wanok encouraged them to listen to God’s voice rather than their own and urged catechists to return to their communities to teach the faithful how to live in the spirit of Synodality. During the celebration, Rev. Deacon Isaac welcomed the faithful from Dokolo Parish, explaining that the Catholic Church exists in three parts, the Pilgrim Church on earth, the Church in Purgatory, and the Victorious Church in heaven. He encouraged prayers for souls in Purgatory while highlighting that the righteous are safely in God’s hands. In his remarks, Vicar General Monsignor Innocent Valente Opio commended the Bishop for celebrating the Mass and lauded the Dokolo team for their large turnout at the Door of Mercy. Drawing a parallel between catechists and infantry soldiers on the frontlines, he urged them to remain nonpartisan during the election period and to set exemplary standards in all their work. The day began with catechists from Lira Diocese’s six deaneries gathering for prayers and reflections under the spirit of Synodality. They later convened for a plenary session, sharing insights and passing resolutions aimed at strengthening pastoral work in the Diocese. The event concluded with a renewed commitment from catechists to deepen their role as pastoral agents, working hand in hand with the clergy to nurture faith, strengthen Christian families, and sustain the spirit of communion within their communities. # Lira Diocese News Agency Source