Ebong Michael

Lira, Uganda | The Paramount Chief of Lango, Won Nyaci Eng. Dr. Moses Michael Odongo Okune, has encouraged Lango students from Kubis Aviation College in Entebbe to remain focused on their studies and prepare for a future shaped by technological innovation in the aviation sector. The students, who visited the Won Nyaci at his residence in Lira City East, were applauded for their commitment to pursuing a professional field that aligns with global trends in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and automation. During the interaction, HRH. Dr. Eng. Odongo Okune emphasized the importance of education as a foundation for development and innovation. He advised the students to take their training seriously, remain disciplined, and position themselves for the growing opportunities in the aviation industry driven by AI. He also urged them to remain proud of their Lango identity, love their culture, and represent their community positively wherever they go. Won Nyaci noted that the future of aviation will depend on young professionals who combine technical knowledge with integrity and cultural awareness. He said that Lango’s development will rely on a new generation of educated and responsible citizens ready to contribute to national and global progress. The visiting students expressed appreciation for the Won Nyaci’s guidance and encouragement, describing the meeting as both inspiring and motivating. They pledged to work hard and carry forward the cultural values of Lango as they pursue their dreams in aviation. Source

By Benard Opio Aka Bhendril Hopio We are just back from two dramatic days of nominations for Members of Parliament across the country. The Electoral Commission has confirmed a total of 519 elective positions up for grabs including 353 directly elected MPs, 146 district and city woman representatives, and 20 seats for special interest groups representing Older Persons, Persons with Disabilities, Workers, and Youths. A few candidates have already been declared unopposed, guaranteeing their places in Uganda’s 12th Parliament even before voting begins. They include Speaker Anita Annet Among (Bukedea Woman MP), Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa (Ruhinda North, Mitooma), Lillian Paparu Obiale (Arua Woman MP), and Ruth Rujoki Mushabe (Kiruhura Woman MP) and others keeps on dropping. Their unopposed victories may symbolize political dominance, but elsewhere in the country, the real competition is not about ideas it seems to be about cash. While the process was generally peaceful and colourful, what unfolded across the country has left many people reflecting deeply on the nature of our politics. As the dust settles and the campaign season takes on, one question lingers in my mind: Are we still choosing leaders based on their ideas, or are we simply selling our votes to the highest bidder? During the nomination days, I witnessed the kind of spending that makes one wonder whether elections in Uganda have become an auction. Lorries, buses, and even boda bodas were hired to ferry supporters to rallies. Bouncers were on standby to control the crowds, loud music blared through expensive sound systems, and branded T-shirts flooded every trading center. The energy was high, but beneath it all, money was flowing like water. It is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish between a political campaign and a financial transaction. In almost every district, candidates are digging deep into their pockets to impress voters, not with their manifestos, but with handouts. For many politicians, it’s no longer about convincing the electorate through debate or policy. It’s about buying visibility, buying loyalty, and in many cases, buying silence. But here is the problem: once these candidates finally win, what do we expect from them? Having spent millions or even billions on campaigns, the natural temptation is to recover that money first. That means the first years in office may be spent chasing contracts, cutting corners, or engaging in deals that benefit the individual, not the voter. As Ugandans, we must also take a fair share of the blame. We have nurtured a culture that values instant reward over long-term progress. When a politician approaches us, the first question many ask is, “What have you brought for us?” Instead of, “What is your plan for our community?” This mindset has trapped us in a cycle of poverty and poor leadership. Politicians now move around with envelopes of money instead of policy documents because that’s what we seem to understand best. It’s heartbreaking to see that political discourse has been replaced with price tags. Instead of rallies where ideas are debated, we now have concerts of noise, freebies, and false promises. Instead of manifestos, we get T-shirts and small tokens. Unless we change this mindset, the future of Uganda’s democracy will remain uncertain. We must start demanding issues, not items. We must reward integrity, not extravagance. The power to change lies with us, the voters. When the campaigns heat up and candidates come knocking, let’s ask the right questions: What will you do for our schools? For our health centers? For our farmers and youth? That is the only way we shall elect leaders who serve, not sellers who buy. Source

Oyam, Uganda | The race for Oyam County South has gained new momentum after Odong Godfrey officially declared his candidacy for Member of Parliament under the Democratic Front party. His return to politics marks a renewed effort to challenge established political figures and introduce a campaign driven by community service and national values. Odong, who previously contested as an independent in the 2021 general elections, said his decision to run is based on a commitment to public service rather than political gain. He stated that his campaign would promote unity, transparency, and accountability in leadership. He added that his objective is to represent the people of Oyam County South in the 12th Parliament with dignity and honesty. He urged fellow candidates and supporters to avoid divisive politics, calling for an issue-based campaign focused on development. He reminded political actors that communities must continue to coexist peacefully after elections and, therefore, should refrain from spreading hatred or propaganda. Odong is currently the head of Regional Tour and Travel UG Ltd, a company he founded in 2010. His professional background spans leadership roles in both government and the private sector, which he says has equipped him with the experience needed to deliver effective representation. His campaign is expected to focus on economic empowerment, infrastructure development, youth employment, and improved public service delivery. Local observers have noted that his message of unity may appeal to voters seeking stability and development-oriented leadership. The Electoral Commission is expected to announce the official campaign period in early November, ahead of the 2026 general elections. As preparations intensify, Odong’s candidacy has begun to attract attention across Oyam County South, with early indications of growing public support for his call for peaceful and inclusive politics. Source

Kampala, Uganda | The State House Anti-Corruption Court has remanded Ateng Francis, former Principal Assistant Secretary at the Lira Ministry of Lands Zonal Office, to Luzira Prison until November 7, 2025, pending sentencing after being convicted on 11 counts of land fraud. Chief Magistrate Rachel Nakyazze found Ateng guilty of illegally facilitating the sale of Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) land located along Mukwano Road in Lira District. The charges included abuse of office, fraudulent procurement of a certificate of title, forgery, uttering false documents, and conspiracy to commit a felony. According to prosecution led by Senior State Attorney Viola Tusingwire from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Ateng conspired with Ocen Joseph, a Lira businessman, to unlawfully transfer prime public land comprised in FRV 2020 Folio 13, Plots 42–50, Mukwano Road. Ocen, who earlier pleaded guilty to personating a public officer, was sentenced to two years in prison after entering a plea bargain and later testified against Ateng. Court heard that Ocen falsely presented himself as Kateba Charles, the Managing Director of URC, and signed documents used in the illegal land transaction. Evidence presented showed that Ateng irregularly processed a special certificate of title, enabling the fraudulent transfer of the land. Prosecution witnesses including a handwriting expert, URC officials, and Ateng’s subordinate Okello Robert testified that Okello was instructed to upload the forged documents into the Uganda National Land Information System. In her ruling, Chief Magistrate Nakyazze stated that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt and that Ateng was guilty on all counts. She therefore convicted him and remanded him to Luzira Prison until November 7, 2025, when he will be sentenced. The magistrate also reminded the convict of his right to appeal. The convicted counts include Abuse of Office, Fraudulent Procurement of a Certificate of Title, Forgery (Counts 5–10), Uttering False Documents, and Conspiracy to Commit a Felony. A third suspect, Ogangi Walter, a businessman from Kiwanga–Goma Division in Mukono Municipality, remains at large. Ateng, who concealed his face from cameras with a mask and hat as he left court, was whisked off to Luzira Prison under tight security. He will return to the Anti-Corruption Court on November 7, 2025, for sentencing. The State House Anti-Corruption Unit in collaboration with the ODPP handled the investigation and prosecution of the case. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | The Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) has introduced a new system aimed at promoting the sustainable use, development, and management of water resources across Uganda, officials have announced. The initiative, unveiled at a district advocacy meeting on 21 October 2025 at Dokolo District Council Hall, seeks to improve access to safe water and sanitation facilities in rural and peri-urban communities while supporting the country’s broader environmental and development goals. Martin Nkurumongi, a senior officer in the ministry, said the programme aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan and the country’s nationally determined contributions on environmental sustainability. He explained that private companies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) would be contracted to operate and maintain water systems in communities outside urban areas and areas served by the National Water and Sewerage Corporation. He added that the service providers would be responsible for the day-to-day management, maintenance, and timely repairs of water facilities, including boreholes and community water points. Funds for maintenance would be collected by water users’ committees in each community and channelled directly to the contracted service providers to ensure a steady flow of resources for upkeep. Nkurumongi emphasized that this approach would ensure accountability, reduce downtime of water sources, and guarantee communities uninterrupted access to clean water. The engagement of service providers would be formalised through contracts with the District Water Authority or Water Service Board, Nkurumongi said, explaining that the framework is designed to improve efficiency, professionalise water management, and reduce reliance on political figures for repairs. Dokolo District Vice Chairperson Tonny Odongo Ocen welcomed the programme, noting that it would provide a long-awaited solution to water management challenges in rural communities. He observed that through the involvement of service providers, water points in villages would be properly maintained, reducing the burden on local politicians to address daily water issues. District Water Officer Quinto Opio also expressed appreciation for the initiative, stating that it would help sustain boreholes and other community water facilities. He indicated that the programme would cover the entire Lango subregion. The Ministry of Water and Environment’s initiative represents a significant shift from community-managed volunteer models to professionally managed water service delivery. By ensuring systematic maintenance and accountability, the programme is expected to provide reliable water access, improve hygiene and sanitation, and contribute to the socio-economic development of Uganda’s rural communities. Source

Otuke, Uganda | Education stakeholders in Otuke District have concluded a two-week Education Baraza with a strong appeal to teachers and parents to double their efforts in restoring the learning time lost during the recent teachers’ industrial action. The final session, held at Olilim Church of Uganda in Olilim Town Council, drew participants from across the education spectrum – headteachers, parents, School Management Committee members, PTA leaders, local leaders, and politicians. Francis Otyama, LCIII Chairperson of Olilim Sub-County and aspiring LCV Chairperson for Otuke, expressed concern over the low value many parents place on education. He urged them to take an active role in their children’s academic progress, noting that community transformation begins with education. CLO George Alado cautioned Local Council leaders against mediating defilement cases, insisting such matters must be handled by the relevant authorities to ensure justice and child safety. Franchise Ocen, Chairperson of the Church of Uganda CCT Otuke, encouraged teachers to teach with dedication, saying effective classroom performance directly contributes to career growth and the district’s overall success. Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Denis Kiptum emphasized teamwork and mutual respect among teachers, parents, and school administrators to achieve meaningful progress in the education sector. Otuke LCV Chairperson Francis Abola called on teachers to recover lost instructional time, stressing that education remains the most powerful tool for development. He urged parents to invest in their children’s future, describing education as the pride of every progressive family. Assistant RDC Isaac Opio Opeo challenged headteachers to aim for excellence in performance and ensure transparent use of UPE funds. He also encouraged all stakeholders to support community programs in education, health, and local development. The two-week Education Baraza, held across all 14 sub-counties in Otuke District, was designed to strengthen community participation in education, address barriers to learning, and promote accountability in schools. Source

Jinja, Uganda | The Catholic Church in Uganda has announced that the late Rt. Rev. Charles Martin Wamika, Bishop of Jinja Diocese, will be laid to rest on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, at Jinja Cathedral, concluding a week-long programme of mourning and liturgical ceremonies across the country. According to the official schedule issued by the Diocese of Jinja and the Uganda Episcopal Conference:● Friday, 24 October 2025 – Requiem Mass at Rubaga Cathedral in Kampala, followed by the transfer of the body to Eastern Uganda.● Saturday, 25 October – Vigil and public Mass at Nyangole Cathedral in Tororo.● Sunday, 26 October – Mass at Budaka Parish, his home district.● Monday, 27 October – Final vigil and viewing at Iganga Parish Cathedral.● Tuesday, 28 October – Funeral Mass and burial at Jinja Cathedral, presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Obbo and attended by all Catholic bishops in Uganda. Bishop Wamika, aged 72, passed away on Wednesday after a period of illness, according to the official statement from the Diocese of Jinja. Born in Budaka District, Bishop Wamika became the first Ugandan to lead the Diocese of Jinja, succeeding Dutch missionary Bishop Joseph Willigers. He began his education at St. Peter’s Claver Primary School and entered St. Pius X Minor Seminary in Nagongera in 1964. He pursued philosophical studies at Alokolum National Seminary in Gulu and completed his theology at St. Mary’s National Major Seminary, Ggaba. He was ordained to the priesthood with a deep commitment to evangelisation and was later appointed Bishop of Jinja, a position he held with distinction until his death. Bishop Wamika is remembered for expanding Catholic education and promoting moral formation in schools, strengthening Catholic healthcare services, and rural outreach programmes, championing youth apostolate and lay leadership, promoting interfaith cooperation and peacebuilding in the Busoga region, advancing pastoral ministry and increasing the number of active parishes. He became widely respected among the Catholic faithful for his humility, spiritual discipline, and advocacy for social justice and community transformation. The Uganda Episcopal Conference described him as “a shepherd of vision and compassion,” while local clergy called him “a guardian of the Catholic faith and a father to the vulnerable.” Established in 1966, the Diocese of Jinja is a major Catholic centre in Eastern Uganda covering ten districts, including Jinja, Kamuli, Iganga, Bugiri, Kaliro, Buyende, Namutumba, Luuka, Mayuge, and Namayingo. The diocese traces its Christian heritage to missionary efforts by the White Fathers and Mill Hill Missionaries in the late 19th century. Under Bishop Wamika’s leadership, the diocese experienced pastoral growth and remained a beacon of Catholic evangelisation. May Bishop Charles Martin Wamika rest in eternal peace. Source

By Ambrose Ogwang Kmpala, Uganda | dfcu Bank has announced a strategic partnership with MANTRAC Uganda, the official Caterpillar equipment dealer, aimed at providing businesses with affordable and flexible financing for high-performance machinery and power systems. The collaboration targets Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), contractors, and large corporates operating in construction, agriculture, mining, logistics, and manufacturing, offering them a pathway to acquire world-class equipment and expand operational capacity. Through the partnership, dfcu Bank customers will have access to MANTRAC’s full range of Caterpillar machinery, including wheel loaders, excavators, motor graders, tractors, articulated dump trucks, mining machinery, warehousing equipment, and power generation systems. These assets are crucial for Uganda’s infrastructure development, industrial growth, and economic expansion. dfcu Bank will provide up to 90% financing for the purchase of new machinery, requiring customers to contribute a 10% down payment. The bank will also offer repayment periods of up to 60 months, competitive interest rates, and a fast loan approval process within 0 to 30 days. The financing structure is designed to support both large enterprises and SMEs, enabling them to scale operations efficiently without the heavy upfront costs typically associated with acquiring heavy machinery. Beyond financing, customers purchasing equipment through the partnership will benefit from MANTRAC Uganda’s extended warranty of 24 months or 4,000 hours, after-sales service, operator training, and tracking devices for asset monitoring. These services are aimed at ensuring safety, reliability, and optimal performance, enabling businesses to maximise the return on their investments. Speaking about the partnership, Kate K. Kiiza, Executive Director and Chief of Corporate and Institutional Banking at dfcu Bank, said the collaboration aligns with the bank’s mission to “transform lives and businesses in Uganda” by providing innovative financing solutions. She emphasised that the partnership would bridge a longstanding gap in access to modern machinery and support sectors that drive Uganda’s economic development. The partnership is expected to enhance productivity in key sectors and promote economic development by lowering barriers to asset acquisition. Companies involved in construction, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics will be able to expand operations, increase efficiency, and contribute to job creation and national infrastructure development. Customers can access a wide variety of Caterpillar machinery and power systems through MANTRAC Uganda, including:● Construction machinery: wheel loaders, excavators, motor graders, articulated dump trucks, tractors● Mining equipment: durable machines designed for challenging environments● Power systems: generators and backup solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional use● Warehousing solutions: material handling and storage equipment to improve logistics efficiency This partnership forms part of dfcu Bank’s Vehicle and Asset Financing (VAF) product, which aims to enable businesses to acquire productive assets with minimal upfront costs. Source

Lira, Uganda | A transformative partnership aimed at accelerating digital agriculture and youth employment in Uganda has been launched following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Digi Farmer, powered by Agrosahas International, and Maarifasasa. The agreement, sealed during a ceremony in Lira, sets out an ambitious roadmap to train 2,000 young Ugandans as Digital Field Agents and onboard one million farmers onto a digital agriculture ecosystem over the next three years. The programme will begin in the Lango sub-region before scaling nationwide. Officials from both organisations described the initiative as a major leap toward integrating technology into agriculture while tackling youth unemployment. They said the partnership will improve productivity, financial inclusion, and market access for farmers. Maarifasasa CEO Robert Bob Okello said the collaboration directly aligns with his organisation’s mission to unlock employment opportunities for young people across Africa through technology. He noted that the programme would position the youth as frontline digital agents powering agricultural transformation. He explained that the trained agents will connect farmers to the Digi Farmer platform, where they will access satellite-based soil testing, crop recommendations, weather intelligence, market prices, and digital financial services including instant payments and agricultural loans. Representing Agrosahas International, Priyanka Sarocle said the partnership combines Digi Farmer’s technological infrastructure with Maarifasasa’s expertise in youth skilling to establish a scalable and sustainable model for digital agriculture. She noted that the collaboration is designed to build a bridge of inclusion, ensuring that farmers in rural areas benefit from technology even without smartphones or internet access. Under the programme, each youth agent will earn income for every registered farmer and additional rewards when farmers access credit facilities or other digital services. Agents will be equipped with tablets to facilitate onboarding through a QR code system, ensuring accessibility for farmers with limited digital literacy. Training is expected to begin in early November, with applications for interested youth already open. The initiative will initially focus on northern Uganda, where Digi Farmer is already working with over 30,000 farmers before expanding to other regions. With plans to scale up to 2,000 active field agents within two years, officials believe the programme will boost agricultural productivity, enhance data-driven decision-making, and build a more resilient and inclusive farming economy. The partnership is being hailed as a milestone in Uganda’s journey toward a digitally empowered agricultural sector, one that creates jobs for the youth, drives financial inclusion for farmers, and leverages technology to build a smarter, more connected agricultural value chain. Source

Katakwi, Uganda | Uganda has strengthened its counter-terrorism capabilities with the graduation of 459 police officers who completed a four-month intensive Basic Counter-Terrorism Induction and Combat Riders Course at the Police Training School in Ollilim, Katakwi District. The pass-out ceremony for Intake 01/2025 was presided over by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Abas Byakagaba. The specialised training focused on counter-terrorism tactics, rapid response mechanisms, intelligence handling, and combat mobility aimed at equipping officers with the operational capability to counter emerging extremist threats within Uganda and across the region. In his address, the IGP underscored the gravity of their new responsibilities, stating that the officers were now an essential part of Uganda’s frontline defence against terrorism. He stressed that protecting the country was not a matter of choice but a national duty that required discipline, teamwork, and dedication. He noted that national and regional stability depend on the commitment of security forces to ongoing training and operational readiness, urging the officers to approach their roles with professionalism and passion. Byakagaba further pointed out that terrorism remained a dynamic threat requiring constant vigilance and adaptability from the police force. He called on the graduates to uphold the highest ethical standards and remain committed to safeguarding citizens and national institutions. The ceremony was attended by senior police leadership, including the Director of Human Resource Development AIGP Moses Kafeero, Director of Counter-Terrorism AIGP Wasswa David Ssengendo, and Director of Logistics and Engineering AIGP James Apora. According to police authorities, the newly trained officers will be deployed across strategic locations to reinforce existing counter-terrorism units, conduct high-risk operations, and support intelligence-led interventions. Source