Ebong Michael

Kampala, Uganda | Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) has intensified its efforts to enhance revenue collection and strengthen service delivery through the acquisition of 18 new vehicles worth UGX 2.4 billion. The fleet, comprising 17 seven-seater wagons and one 14-seater van, was procured with funding from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development (MoFPED) and will be distributed across the Authority’s five city divisions. According to KCCA, the new vehicles will improve field operations by enabling staff to reach more businesses, register new taxpayers, conduct assessments, and follow up on compliance, ensuring that all revenue due to the city is collected efficiently. Speaking at City Hall, KCCA Executive Director Hajjat Sharifah Buzeki commended the Government of Uganda, under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for the continued support towards urban transformation. She said the gesture reflected government’s commitment to Kampala and underscored the city’s importance as Uganda’s business hub. She further noted that KCCA was determined to utilise the resources efficiently to enhance revenue collection and improve service delivery. KCCA reported a strong performance in the 2024/2025 Financial Year, having collected UGX 127 billion against a target of UGX 120 billion. Buzeki stated that their focus extended beyond merely achieving revenue targets, emphasising that the Authority was working to make revenue collection more efficient, responsive, and impactful. She added that every effort invested in mobilising resources represented an investment in the city’s future. Out of the new fleet, ten vehicles will be allocated to the five divisions, two per division, while six vehicles and the 14-seater van will remain at City Hall to support property valuation and follow-up operations. KCCA Director of Revenue Robert Nowere stressed the importance of mobility in effective revenue mobilisation. He said that revenue collection relied heavily on field operations, and with the new vehicles, the Authority’s teams would be better equipped to conduct assessments, register new taxpayers, sensitise residents about their tax obligations, and ensure compliance across the city. The Authority reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, stating that all collected revenue is remitted to the Consolidated Fund, which finances infrastructure and service delivery projects such as roads, drainage, sanitation, and urban development. With the expanded fleet and renewed focus on field engagement, KCCA expressed optimism about not only meeting its revenue targets but also improving service delivery for Kampala residents. Buzeki concluded that revenue remained the engine driving the city’s development, noting that improving mobilisation systems amounted to a direct investment in the future of Kampala and its people. Source

Otuke, Uganda | Madam Lucy Acheng, Education Officer for Otuke District, has called on students at Okwang Vocational and Technical Institute to uphold discipline, focus on their studies, and avoid retaking examinations. She made the remarks during the Institute’s annual Guild Handover Ceremony held on Friday, highlighting the importance of academic diligence and personal responsibility. The ceremony marked the official transition of student leadership, with outgoing Guild President Alele Harry Mark handing over to Okello Daniel, who will lead the student body for the 2026/2027 academic year. The event was presided over by Principal Kabagambe Fred and attended by faculty, staff, and local education officials. During his farewell address, Alele reflected on his tenure, highlighting achievements in student welfare, academic advocacy, and the promotion of co-curricular activities that enhanced campus life. Incoming President Okello pledged to continue building on his predecessor’s work, focusing on inclusivity, academic excellence, and innovative student programs. He encouraged unity among students and emphasized the importance of active engagement in institutional activities to foster personal growth and community impact. Principal Kabagambe urged students to maintain good conduct within the community and to pursue education diligently. He also reminded students about government scholarships available to support those who may face financial challenges, stressing that commitment and focus are key to academic success. Acheng reinforced the message, emphasizing the significance of discipline, hard work, and avoiding “retake” opportunities. She encouraged the new student leaders to foster a culture of excellence, responsibility, and accountability among their peers. Lukolito Godfrey, Dean of the Institute, encouraged outgoing leaders to continue pursuing leadership roles beyond their tenure and advised students nearing graduation to celebrate their achievements responsibly. Former Chairperson of the Board of Governors, Ojok Okello Paul, reminded new leaders to ensure smooth institutional operations, maintain stability, and uphold the Institute’s long-standing strike-free record. Founded in 2010 following a pledge by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni at Barlegi State Lodge, Okwang Vocational and Technical Institute aims to equip students with practical skills to reduce unemployment and contribute to national development. Currently the only vocational and technical institute in Otuke District, Okwang has an enrollment of 196 students and offers courses including: National Certificate in Building & Construction National Certificate in Automotive Mechanics National Certificate in Fashion and Garment Design Hairdressing National Certificate in Agriculture National Certificate in Shoe Making and Leather Production National Certificate in Woodwork Technology The Guild Handover Ceremony highlighted the Institute’s commitment to nurturing disciplined, skilled, and visionary student leaders who can contribute meaningfully to their communities while excelling academically. Source

Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Uganda has secured a seat on the UNESCO Executive Boardafter polling 172 votes, thesecond-highest in AfricabehindZimbabwe (175)and ahead ofZambia, during the43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Centre H.E Doreen R. Amule The results, officially displayed at the UNESCO General Conference venue, placed Uganda among thetop six African countrieselected underGroup V(a), alongside Zimbabwe, Zambia, Cameroon, Ethiopia, and Equatorial Guinea. Other winning countries across groups includeLuxembourg, Norway, Türkiye (Group I); Ukraine, Romania, Republic of Moldova (Group II); Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Jamaica, Haiti, Uruguay, Bolivia, and Guyana (Group III); Malaysia, India, Kyrgyzstan, China, Thailand, and Japan (Group IV); andMorocco, Jordan, and Egypt (Group V(b)). Election results The newly elected Executive Board will serve afour-year term (2025–2029), shaping UNESCO’s global policy directions, approving programs, and overseeing administrative and budgetary matters. Uganda’s strong performance highlights its growing credibility and influence within UNESCO and the wider international community. In an interview, Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, Uganda’s Envoy to France and Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, said the victory was “a clear endorsement of Uganda’s leadership and commitment to international cooperation.” She credited the success to Uganda’s strong ties across Africa and beyond, built through reciprocal support and active participation in UNESCO activities. Uganda will now play a key role in committees that guide education, science, and cultural policy, allowing the country to lobby for projects, attract funding, and influence decisions that benefit national development. “This opportunity allows Uganda to showcase its rich culture and strengthen education and science for sustainable growth,” Ambassador Amule noted. Uganda’s four-year term will focus on implementing UNESCO programs and representing African interests. The country also stands to benefit from new partnerships and funding, including the potential to host UNESCO regional and global conferences. Ambassador Amule called on local schools, universities, and cultural organizations to actively participate in UNESCO programs. Source

Lira, Uganda | Local leaders and health workers from Barapwo and Ober communities in Lira City have commended the Enhancing Integration of Adolescent Family Planning and Post-Abortion Care (CAFFP-PAC) project for significantly raising awareness about adolescent sexual and reproductive health. During a two-day dissemination workshop held on 3rd and 4th November 2025 at Barapwo Health Centre III, participants, including local government officials, health workers, Local Council chairpersons, and adolescents, praised the project’s role in addressing long-standing barriers to family planning and post-abortion care in northern Uganda. Angole Jimmy, the Deputy Town Clerk of Lira City West Division, together with several community leaders, said the CAFFP-PAC initiative had “opened the eyes of both stakeholders and young people” by creating an open dialogue around issues that were previously considered taboo. Participants identified several challenges affecting adolescent reproductive health, including negative community attitudes, fear of side effects from contraceptive use, stigma towards young people seeking family planning services, and limited knowledge about available options. Dr. Maxson Kenneth Anyolitho, the Project Coordinator and Co-Investigator, explained that CAFFP-PAC uses a citizen science and gender-transformative approach to improve access to and utilisation of reproductive health services among adolescents and underserved groups in the region. He noted that teenage pregnancy rates remain alarming, with 24% of Ugandan girls becoming pregnant by age 19, and the figure rising to 26.7% in Lira. Only 20% of adolescents accessed family planning services in 2023, while 39.8% experienced unsafe abortions, of which just 42% received post-abortion care. Dr. Anyolitho said Uganda’s National Adolescent Health Strategy and Health Service Standards call for the integration of adolescent-friendly services, including family planning and post-abortion care, into all primary healthcare facilities. The three-year CAFFP-PAC project seeks to assess baseline knowledge, attitudes, and practices around family planning and post-abortion care; identify barriers to service access; co-design integrated interventions within primary healthcare facilities; and evaluate their effectiveness. According to Dr. Anyolitho, the initiative aims to enhance adolescent knowledge, improve community attitudes, and expand access to reproductive health services. Expected outcomes include reduced teenage pregnancy and unsafe abortions, as well as empowered and health-conscious adolescents. The study covers six primary healthcare facilities, two Health Centre IVs and four Health Centre IIIs, across urban and rural settings, chosen for their high rates of teenage pregnancy and unmet reproductive health needs. The project’s study population includes adolescents aged 10–19, their parents or caregivers, and local leaders, including religious, cultural, and political figures. The CAFFP-PAC project is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), a Canadian public corporation. It is implemented by Lira University in partnership with GLOFORD Uganda, Reproductive Health Uganda (RHU), University of Calgary (Canada), and Lira District Local Government. Dr. Anyolitho acknowledged the contribution of Associate Prof. Dr. Bernard Omech (Principal Investigator), Dr. Morris Chris Ongom, Mr. Edmonton Acheka, Dr. Murara Odette, Dr. Amir Kabunga, Associate Prof. Judith Akello Abal, and Dr. Samson Udho for their roles in advancing the project’s mission. He also praised the involvement of Lira City and District leadership, adolescents, and other stakeholders, noting that their collaboration has been instrumental in promoting sustainable adolescent health outcomes in northern Uganda. Source

Oyam, Uganda | WOUGNET has launched a new digital inclusion project in Oyam District to provide free internet access and digital skills to underserved communities. The initiative, called Enhancing Digital Inclusion in Northern Uganda, is piloting a rural broadband model that connects schools, hospitals, markets, and farmers’ groups. Peter Ongom, the project officer, said the team is setting up Digital Empowerment Centres with free computers and distributing smartphones to help locals access online services. “We’re targeting key places like hospitals, schools, market centres, and farmers’ cooperatives,” Ongom said. “We want people to have the tools and skills to use the internet effectively.” The first digital literacy training was held in Oyam Town Council. It introduced participants to basic digital technologies, device components, and communication infrastructure. Community members expressed appreciation for the training, Dorothy Achola, chairperson of Ajuri Oil Seed Farmers Cooperative, said the session helped her understand how digital tools can improve farming and marketing. Ronald Omara, a youth from Oyam Town Council, said the project will help students do research without buying data bundles. Evelyn Akello, also from Ajuri Cooperative, added that free internet will help farmers reach wider markets and access farm inputs more easily. WOUGNET plans to continue training and expand the project to more areas in the district. Source

Apac, Uganda | Calls for unity and development among the people of Lango dominated the burial ceremony of the late Rose Ogwang, wife to Canon Richard Ogwang Odyero, held in Ibuje, Apac District. Representing the Paramount Chief of Lango, Eng. Dr. Michael Moses Odongo Okune, his Prime Minister, Professor Willy Okullo, delivered a message urging the Lango community to reconcile past divisions and work collectively for the region’s development. He emphasized that unity is essential for implementing government programmes and achieving long-term progress. The Government Chief Whip, Denis Hamson Obua conveyed condolences from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to Canon Ogwang Odyero and his family. He recognized Canon Ogwang’s long-standing service and loyalty to the NRM government. On behalf of the President, Obua contributed UGX 10 million to support the family during their time of grief. The Rt Rev. Bishop Julius Ceaser Nina, of the Diocese of West Lango, praised Canon Ogwang for his resilience and faith amid the loss of his wife. He reassured the family of the church’s continued prayers and support, describing the late Rose Ogwang as a devoted Christian and pillar of the Mothers Union. In a moment that resonated with mourners, Kwania District LCV Chairperson, Geoffrey Ogwal Adyebo called for an end to divisive politics in Lango. He urged citizens to make voting decisions based on a candidate’s ability to deliver development rather than political affiliation, stressing that focusing on progress over party lines would advance the region’s prosperity. Other leaders present included Lira City Mayor Sam Atul, Apac Woman MP Betty Engola, and Kwania County MP Tonny Ayo, who joined hundreds of mourners in paying their respects to the late Rose Ogwang. Bishop Alfred Olwa comforted the mourners with a message drawn from 1 Thessalonians 4:13, reminding them to find hope in the resurrection and eternal life through Christ. In a lighthearted moment, he appealed to Nebbi RDC Robert Abak, humorously referred to as the “Rain Controller” of the Ogora clan, to ensure clear weather for the burial service. Canon Ogwang, the widower, also serves as the clan head of the Ogora. Bishop Emeritus Alfred Acur Okodi described the late Rose Ogwang as a compassionate and dedicated woman who worked tirelessly to advance the church and community. He recalled her instrumental role in strengthening the West Lango Diocese and expressed deep sorrow over her passing after a long illness. Born on 25 December 1962, Rose Ogwang devoted her life to education and community service. She began her studies at Amuda Primary School (1971–1977) and later trained as a teacher at Ngora BKC (1978–1979). Her teaching career spanned several schools, including Ambalal Primary School, VH Public School, and Ibuje Primary School, before she transitioned into medical work to continue serving her community. She passed away on 29 October 2025, leaving behind a legacy of faith, love, and dedication. She is survived by her husband, Canon Richard Ogwang Odyero, a respected servant of God, clan head of the Ogora, and former Resident District Commissioner who served in various districts across Uganda. RIP Rose Ogwang Source

Otuke | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership in Otuke District has renewed its call for unity and mass mobilisation ahead of the 2026 general elections, pledging firm support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The meeting, held on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Town Side Guest House in Otuke Town Council, was presided over by Julius Achon Bua, who is also the Member of Parliament for Otuke County and the NRM District Chairperson for Otuke, alongside Susan Abeja Okello, the Woman MP for the district. During the gathering, NRM flags were raised to symbolise renewed solidarity and the revival of party structures across Otuke’s sub-counties, including Okwongo, Olilim, Adwari, Okwang, and Barjobi. Achon said the initiative aims to restore discipline and cohesion among members, which he described as essential for delivering victory for President Museveni and the NRM in 2026. “We are rebuilding our party from the grassroots up. Our goal is unity, stability, and full mobilisation for President Museveni. The NRM in Otuke must speak with one voice,” Achon said. He urged party leaders to end internal wrangles and intimidation, warning that disunity only weakens the NRM’s image and hampers service delivery. Abeja, who joined Achon in rallying members, said the NRM’s strength lies in grassroots structures, and called for collective effort in voter mobilisation ahead of next year’s elections. “Let us coordinate closely and ensure that every household in Otuke votes for President Museveni and the NRM flagbearers. Unity and teamwork will secure our victory,” Abeja said. Barjobi Sub-county Chairperson Daniel Ojok Aruca hailed Achon for taking a proactive leadership role in reconciling members and bridging gaps between the different party camps. “Seeing our leaders—Achon, Abeja, and others—working together gives confidence to the supporters. This is what the people of Otuke have been waiting for,” Ojok said. Party leaders Simon Obong Opio from Adwari and Betty Angom from Otuke Town Council echoed similar views, saying the meeting rekindled the party’s strength and restored trust among members. Resident District Commissioner Erick Masiga commended the district NRM chairperson for steering unity, saying strong coordination at local level will be key in mobilising votes for President Museveni. “Otuke is now ready to mobilise. Let us remain focused, disciplined, and loyal to the NRM’s vision under President Museveni,” Masiga said. The leaders resolved to roll out similar mobilisation and reconciliation meetings across all sub-counties in the district as part of efforts to strengthen the NRM’s grassroots base ahead of the 2026 general elections. Source

Otuke District | The push for digital transformation in local governance has gained momentum in Otuke District following the delivery of new ICT equipment from the Ministry of Local Government. The district on Thursday, November 6, 2025, received five consignments of computers, laptops, and printers to be distributed to newly created town councils – Okwongo, Olilim, Adwari, Okwang, and Barjobi. The support is part of a nationwide initiative by the Ministry of Local Government to strengthen data management and service delivery across local governments. Speaking during the handover at the District Council Hall, Susan Abeja Okello, the Woman MP for Otuke District, said the ICT boost was secured through her persistent lobbying efforts. “We are embracing technology to make local governments more efficient. These computers will help town councils manage records better, communicate faster, and plan effectively,” Abeja said. She also reassured residents that the ambulance she donated to the district remains in good working condition and available for emergencies. Ismael Opio, councillor for Ogor Sub-county, who represented the LCV Chairperson, described the equipment as a game changer for the new town councils. “With these computers, our local governments will no longer rely on manual record keeping. This is a step towards modern administration,” he said. The Chief Administrative Officer, Joseph Lomongin, hailed both the ministry and the Woman MP for their continued support, noting that the computers would ease service delivery if properly managed. “These machines must be maintained and used responsibly. We expect each town council to budget for their upkeep under operations and maintenance,” Lomongin advised. In Okwongo Town Council, Chairperson John Bosco Olwit Da Gama  welcomed the development, saying it would revive office operations that had been crippled by lack of working computers. “Our old computers had all broken down. This donation has come at the right time,” Olwit said, while calling for additional laptops to support field work. The Ministry of Local Government has supplied desktop computers to all districts in Uganda under its ongoing digitalisation programme designed to promote efficient governance and data-driven decision-making at the local level. Source

Kampala, Uganda | Uganda will host the 2027 International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) Global Conference, a major international event expected to attract more than 600 aviation professionals from 132 countries. The confirmation was delivered by the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, through the Uganda Civil Aviation Authority’s Deputy Director General, Ms. Olive Birungi Lumonya, during the 36th IFATCA Africa and Middle East Regional Meeting, held from 3–5 November 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Uganda won the bid to host the event during the 2025 IFATCA Global Conference in Abu Dhabi, further cementing its position as a growing player in the global aviation industry. Ms. Lumonya, speaking on behalf of the Minister, noted that the theme of the regional meeting, “Policy Leadership for a Safer Sky: Advancing Strategic Human Capital Development in Air Traffic Management,” served as a reminder that, even with increasing automation and technological advancement, human expertise continues to be the foundation of aviation safety. She explained that Uganda is investing heavily in human resource development through training programmes for air traffic controllers, the acquisition of modern navigation systems, and regional collaboration. She added that the government was also improving aviation infrastructure, enhancing search and rescue operations, and strengthening partnerships to align Uganda’s aviation sector with global standards. Gen. Katumba, who serves as the patron of the Uganda Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (UGATCA), was praised for offering consistent guidance and mentorship to the association’s members. His leadership and experience in governance and transport management were said to have greatly contributed to the sector’s growth and readiness to host such a global conference. The 2027 IFATCA Global Conference is expected to elevate Uganda’s profile as a regional aviation hub and provide opportunities for knowledge exchange, professional networking, and tourism development. For over six decades, IFATCA has represented the interests of air traffic controllers across the world, promoting professionalism, cooperation, and the highest standards of aviation safety. Uganda’s selection to host the 2027 global conference marks a significant milestone in the country’s aviation journey and reflects international confidence in its capabilities. Source

Lira City | The Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC) has expressed growing concern over the increasing number of fraudulent and inconsistent human rights complaints, after dismissing two separate cases filed against the Attorney General for lack of credible evidence. The Commission, sitting in Lira City under the chairpersonship of Mariam Fauzat Wangadya, found that the complaints were built on false statements and deliberate attempts to mislead the tribunal. The two cases – one involving an alleged police killing in Dokolo District and another over alleged torture by prison warders in Lira – were thrown out after witnesses contradicted their earlier testimonies and failed to substantiate their claims. In the first case, Tonny Odongo, a resident of Acanako Village in Lira District, accused prison officers of torturing him while he was serving a sentence at Lira Main Prison. He alleged that while working in a privately owned cassava garden in Boke, two inmates escaped, prompting officers to open fire. Odongo maintained that he did not attempt to flee, yet he was tied to a tree and beaten by the warders, leaving him with serious injuries. However, the tribunal noted glaring inconsistencies in his account. In a statement recorded in 2014, Odongo had admitted that he was among the escapees, claiming he was persuaded by another inmate to flee. During the hearing, he disowned this statement and accused the recording officer of distorting his words. He also denied ever paying a bribe of Shs150,000 to a prison officer to avoid being formally charged with escape, even though this claim appeared in his earlier testimony. The tribunal further dismissed his claim that he was admitted to Lira University Hospital for treatment, noting that there was no record of such hospitalization in the Commission’s files. In the second case, Gumex Okwanga alleged that his brother’s son, Richard Okweny, was shot and killed by police officers after being detained at Dokolo Police Station. But UHRC investigations found that Okwanga was not the biological father of the deceased, and that the case lacked credible supporting evidence. The Commission also observed that the murder charge initially filed against the accused officer, identified as Owani, had been reduced to manslaughter and later dismissed by court due to insufficient evidence. Chairperson Wangadya said the Commission could not rely on fabricated statements and conflicting testimonies, emphasizing that the tribunal’s duty is to uphold truth and justice, not to entertain falsehoods. The Director for Complaints, Investigations and Legal Services, Pauline Nansamba Mutumba, said the Commission continues to face challenges in verifying the authenticity of complaints. She noted that some cases have taken more than 16 years to resolve because of limited resources, although recent government support has enabled tribunal sessions in five regions, resulting in the disposal of about 65 cases so far. Mutumba attributed the inconsistencies observed in many testimonies to the background of complainants, some of whom have prior criminal records or personal reasons for altering their statements. She explained that certain individuals feel embarrassed about their past conduct and later retract their admissions during hearings, making it difficult for the tribunal to determine the truth. She added that forgery and fabricated evidence have become a growing concern for the Commission. According to her, both complainants and investigators must take extra caution to ensure every document and testimony is thoroughly verified before being presented to the tribunal. Source