Ebong Michael

Lira, Uganda | The Lango Cultural Institution, led by His Royal Highness, the Won Nyaci Me Lango, Eng. Michael Moses Odongo-Okune, has paid tribute to Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, remembering him as a statesman who championed unity, peace, and Pan-African ideals. Odinga’s life was defined by his commitment to reconciliation and peaceful leadership. He consistently prioritized national unity and the welfare of citizens over partisan politics and played a key role across Africa in mediating political conflicts and fostering dialogue. His recent bid for the African Union Commission Chairmanship underscored his dedication to continental institutions and democracy. The Lango community highlighted Odinga’s historical ties to Uganda. His family contributed to the country’s liberation during the Iddi Amin era. In recognition of these bonds, Won Nyaci Me Lango invited him as an honored guest to the Coronation Ceremony, reflecting shared values and enduring friendship. The institution extended condolences to Mama Aidah Odinga, the Odinga family, the Luo community, and the people of Kenya, noting that while his passing leaves a void, his legacy as a unifier and Pan-African leader will inspire generations. Source

Kitgum, Uganga | The government has intensified efforts to promote agro-industrialization with a new Shs60 billion cassava processing plant set to be established in Acholibur, Kitgum District. The proposed factory, fully funded through a special donation by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, will be implemented under the stewardship of the Gulu Catholic Archdiocese. The project aims to transform cassava production in Northern Uganda by adding value to one of the region’s most widely grown crops. Presidential Envoy and Project Supervisor, Col. Dr. John Francis Ongia Ongia, carried out a due diligence and verification visit to Lucon Cell, Acumu Ward in Acholibur Town Council along the Kitgum Road to assess the suitability of the land earmarked for the factory’s construction. Dr. Col. Ongia said the plant will sit on 25 acres and will process cassava into ethanol, industrial starch, and other value-added products. The ethanol output is expected to supply the oil blending facility currently under construction in Busia District, linking agricultural production to Uganda’s fast-growing industrial sector. During his field inspection, Dr. Col. Ongia evaluated land suitability, community preparedness, infrastructure access, and environmental concerns to ensure smooth and sustainable implementation of the project. Local leaders and residents expressed strong support for the initiative, citing its potential to create jobs, boost incomes, and open up new market opportunities for cassava farmers across Northern Uganda. Upon completion, the cassava factory is expected to create hundreds of direct and indirect employment opportunities, provide a steady market for farmers, and stimulate rural development through the growth of supporting sectors such as transport, storage, and small-scale trade. Dr. Col. Ongia commended the Gulu Catholic Archdiocese for its proactive leadership in overseeing the project, describing the initiative as a “major milestone” in advancing industrialization, job creation, and community empowerment in Northern Uganda. The project aligns with the government’s broader goals under the Parish Development Model and Vision 2040, both of which emphasize value addition and inclusive economic transformation. Source

Lira, Uganda | The Regional Police Commander (RPC) for North Kyoga, SSP Doka Rashid, has officially received a brand new patrol vehicle, registration number UP 03341, designated for Ogur Central Police Station (CPS) in Lira District. The vehicle was handed over this morning at the Regional Police Headquarters in Erute after a team led by IP Otuba Solomon from the Police Fleet Management Department under the Directorate of Logistics and Engineering delivered it to the region. According to police, the vehicle is expected to significantly enhance operational efficiency and response time in handling crime and emergencies across Lira District, which has faced logistical challenges since its creation. In a statement, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region, expressed gratitude to the top leadership of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) for fulfilling its promise to strengthen operational capacity at the district level. SP Okema said that the new patrol vehicle will greatly improve crime management and emergency response in Lira District. He expressed appreciation to the leadership of the Uganda Police Force (UPF) for their support, noting that it enables commanders to deliver effective policing within their respective areas of responsibility. The new vehicle brings to three the number of patrol cars recently distributed in the region, following earlier allocations to Otuku and Kole districts. SP Okema urged unit commanders to ensure proper command, control, and maintenance of the vehicles to guarantee sustainability and accountability. Source

Oyam, Uganda | Oyam District leaders have urged Kejatu Quality Services Ltd, the contractor selected to implement a UGX 3.18 billion Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) infrastructure project, to uphold community safety and adhere strictly to project guidelines during the nine-month construction period. The initiative, funded by the European Union and managed by the Ministry of Water and Environment through the Water and Sanitation Development Facility – North (WSDF-N), aims to improve learning environments in the district by constructing classrooms, dormitories, staff houses, toilets, and girls’ changing rooms. Recently, officials from WSDF-North and local stakeholders formally handed over project sites to Kejatu Quality Services Ltd. The works fall under Lot B, covering schools across Minakulu Town Council, Kamdini, and Aber Subcounties. Beneficiary schools include Abdullah Anyuru Memorial College, Minakulu Primary School, Dr. Oryang Secondary School, Adel Primary School, Atapara Secondary School, Atapara West Primary School, and Amati Primary School. Christ Ongom, Vice Chairperson LCV of Oyam, cautioned the contractor against misusing project funds or diverting them to other districts, stressing that financial indiscipline could delay the project and undermine its overall integrity. Francis Behangana, Deputy Resident District Commissioner of Oyam, warned the contractor and technical teams against engaging in inappropriate relationships with students or married women in the community, stating that any misconduct would be met with legal action. Brian Ogutu, LC5 Councilor for Aber Sub-County and Secretary for Works and Technical Services, encouraged the contractor to prioritize employing local labor and sourcing construction materials from within Oyam District to boost the local economy and create job opportunities. Parents and community members welcomed the project. Alfred Otoo, a parent at Minakulu Primary School, described the infrastructure improvements as “timely and essential,” emphasizing that the new facilities would enhance both accommodation and sanitation for learners. Responding to the concerns, James Olwal, Director of Kejatu Quality Services Ltd, pledged to execute the project responsibly, ensuring it would not negatively impact learners or surrounding communities. The WASH project in Oyam is part of a broader regional effort in Northern Uganda to enhance educational infrastructure, promote hygiene, and create safe learning environments, contributing to the sustainable development of schools and communities. Source

Lira, Uganda | The Judiciary of Uganda is planning a major initiative to promote Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Plea Bargaining, involving religious and cultural leaders to help resolve disputes, reduce court backlog, and ease prison congestion. The programme came out at Lira Main Prison on Wednesday during an ADR and Plea Bargaining session, which followed a similar session held in Gulu City on Tuesday. It aims to educate inmates on plea bargaining, a process that allows victims and accused persons to negotiate sentences before cases reach the courts. Acting Registrar of ADR, Nanteza Zulaika, said the initiative was introduced because most disputes in Uganda, over 90%, are resolved outside formal courts, while only 10% reach judicial proceedings. She explained that ADR provides a faster, cheaper, and more participatory justice mechanism, noting that 80% of inmates who participated in previous sessions successfully reached agreements. The programme also seeks to reduce congestion in prisons by redirecting convicted inmates to prison farms. The three-day Plea Bargaining Camp draws inmates from across the Lango subregion, including Lira, Oyam, Kole, Apac, Alebtong, Amolatar, and Dokolo. A total of 231 inmates are enrolled, with over 60 plea agreements already signed. The high turnout was credited to sensitisation efforts led by Deputy Registrar Godfrey Kaweesa in partnership with the Judicial Training Institute (JTI). Justice Prof. Andrew Khaukha, the Judiciary’s Focal Judge for ADR, officiated the launch on behalf of Acting Principal Judge Lady Justice Okuo Jane Kajuga. He emphasized the Judiciary’s commitment to making justice accessible, announcing plans to introduce an Alternative Justice System to bridge formal and informal mechanisms. Lady Justice Margaret Apiny, Head of Lira High Court Circuit, urged inmates to actively participate in plea bargaining, highlighting that negotiated agreements could lead to earlier release and facilitate rehabilitation. Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions, Margaret Nakigudde, explained that the initiative fosters reconciliation between offenders and victims, expedites case disposal, and alleviates prison congestion. Prisons Officer Emmanuel Busajja welcomed the Judiciary’s efforts, stressing that the programme would improve timely delivery of justice while reducing overcrowding in detention facilities. Bishop Sanctus Lino Wanok of Lira Diocese delivered a spiritual message describing the initiative as a sign of peace. He called on inmates to accept responsibility for their actions, seek forgiveness, and embrace rehabilitation. He urged judges to exercise fairness and compassion, reminding attendees that God’s kindness is meant to lead people to repentance. Following the launch, Justice Khaukha, Lady Justice Apiny, and Lady Justice Sarah Birungi Kalibala commenced court sessions, with the camp expected to conclude with over 100 convictions. Officials believe this will significantly reduce the proportion of remand prisoners, improve court efficiency, and promote reconciliation. The programme was attended by senior judiciary officials, including HW Prossy Katushabe, Registrar of the High Court; HW Esther Nasambu, Judicial Training Institute; and Chief Magistrates from the region. Source

By Haron Okwir Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District officials have launched a two-week “Education Baraza” to end teacher absenteeism and ensure pupils return to classrooms. The first meeting was held at Okwang Primary School, Okwang Town Council, with headteachers, parents, political leaders, and other stakeholders in attendance. Speaking on behalf of the District Education Officer, Patrick Ochero said the Baraza aims to improve academic performance, address education challenges, and gather feedback from parents and the community. Chief Administrative Officer Lomongin Joseph warned that teachers absent for 15 days without reason should not be paid and urged parents to support schools through government programs such as PDM. He also cautioned teachers against taking multiple loans, which contributes to absenteeism, and encouraged SACCOs as an alternative. Kamara George Oyang, representing the LCV Chairperson, said the ongoing industrial action harms pupils, causing early pregnancies and increased crime. He urged headteachers to convince teachers to return to class. RDC Erick Masiga called on all stakeholders to ensure schools operate smoothly, reminding teachers not to send pupils home over unpaid fees. He also encouraged salary earners to engage in additional income-generating activities and use government programs to improve financial stability. While teaching has stalled in some schools, others have resumed after headteachers’ interventions. Parents appealed for higher teacher salaries to motivate a return to classrooms, particularly during the promotional term. The Baraza will continue across Otuke District over the next two weeks, covering Barjobi, Okwongo, Adwari, Otuke, Orum, Ogor, Ogwete, and Olilimi sub-counties. Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira University’s Appointments Board has reiterated its commitment to maintaining a merit-based recruitment system that prioritises competence, integrity, and professionalism. The Board says this approach is key to strengthening productivity, efficiency, and accountability across the institution. The resolution was made during the 7th meeting of the Appointments Board of the 3rd Council held at the Public Health Board Room on Tuesday. The Chairperson, Bosco Onyik, said the Board would continue appointing reputable and self-driven officers to enhance performance within the university. He noted that recruiting competent and dedicated personnel enables effective management and improves overall institutional productivity. The University Council Chairperson, David Geoffrey Opio Okello, commended the board for upholding professionalism and integrity. He said the members were individuals of experience and high reputation who understood the importance of ensuring that only qualified persons are appointed to serve the university. Opio Okello, a retired Deputy Governor at Bank of Uganda, advised the university management to develop clear recruitment strategies, structured training and development programmes, proper budget allocations, and succession plans for key positions. He said these measures would enhance continuity, motivation, and stability within the workforce. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng explained that the university management continues to promote a positive work environment and encourage strategic decision-making. He said such efforts contribute significantly to the university’s success and its competitiveness within Uganda’s higher education sector. Board member Dr. Robert Omara urged the university to produce an Annual Staff Recruitment Plan to guide future appointments and manage the wage implications involved. He said the plan should include an analysis of the current workforce, projections for future staffing needs, and a gap assessment to identify areas that require strengthening. Nellie Florence Okullo emphasised that effective human resource planning ensures the recruitment of the right talent for academic and administrative roles. She said attracting new employees and keeping existing ones engaged would help the university achieve its strategic goals. Meanwhile, Dr. Florence Ebila, a senior lecturer at Makerere University, said continuous staff training and development equip employees to handle new challenges and increase adaptability in a changing work environment. The meeting discussed and agreed on several key resolutions to improve recruitment standards, enhance accountability, and align staffing policies with the university’s long-term vision. Other members of the Appointments Board present were Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Okaka Opio Dokotum, Dicken Frederick Odongo, and University Secretary Augustine Oyang Atubo. Source

Lira, Uganda | Uganda’s Ministry of Health has launched a national initiative to scale up the prevention and management of sickle cell disease, with Lira Regional Referral Hospital (LRRH) receiving 200,000 doses of hydroxyurea to boost treatment and care for patients. The donation, made by Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation in partnership with Baylor College of Medicine Children’s Foundation Uganda, was coordinated by Dr. Angella Mirembe Nanteza, Project Coordinator of the SCALE Programme. The launch event took place on Tuesday, 14 October, at Lira Mayor’s Garden and attracted health experts, cultural leaders, and government officials. Dr. Andrew Odur, Director of LRRH, said the hospital has conducted sickle cell screening in 12 out of 22 learning institutions across the Lango Subregion, testing 7,500 learners within the past month. He revealed that the facility currently attends to 1,500 sickle cell patients, of whom 70 % (900) are on hydroxyurea treatment. Dr. Odur expressed concern that the number of cases may rise due to expanded testing, urging community and religious leaders to promote routine screening alongside HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis B testing. During the event, Lango Muslim Supreme Council Interim District Khadi, Shaikh Ibrahim Okello shared his personal ordeal, revealing that he lost ten children from two marriages to sickle cell disease. He appealed for a steady supply of hydroxyurea to government health facilities, saying the high cost of treatment had left him financially devastated. Ruth Nakanja Mukiibi, Executive Director of the Sickle Cell Association Uganda, called for greater community sensitisation about the disease and wider access to testing services at lower-level health facilities. Sharing her experience as a mother of three, one sickler, one carrier, and one unaffected, she urged the government and stakeholders to work together to strengthen community-based prevention programmes. Lira City Deputy Mayor, Her Worship Rebecca Alwedo Ogole attributed the rise in sickle cell cases in the region to intermarriages among closely related clans, saying that the fight against the disease must be a shared community responsibility rather than a burden on health workers alone. Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, said Uganda ranks among the top five countries globally affected by sickle cell disease, with an estimated 20,000 children born with the condition every year. He said locally manufactured testing kits will enhance early diagnosis and improve accessibility across health facilities. Lira City Resident Commissioner Lawrence Egole praised Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero for championing the national fight against sickle cell disease and urged the public to fully utilise available services at LRRH. Representing the Lango Paramount Chief, Clan Chief (Awitong) Geoffrey Ocen Abia, who also serves as the State Minister for Health at Lango Cultural Institution, urged the Ministry of Health to involve cultural leaders in mobilisation efforts. He pledged to table a cabinet proposal within the institution to make sickle cell testing mandatory before marriage. In her keynote address, Minister of Health Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero described sickle cell disease as “a painful, financially draining condition that cuts across all tribes, religions, and ethnicities.” She commended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his leadership and support towards nationwide surveys and interventions against the disease. Dr. Aceng said the regions of Buganda, Acholi, and Lango remain the most affected, and since 2023, the Ministry has run a treatment and screening programme at LRRH. The launch, she noted, marked the expansion of the initiative to other health facilities across the region to bring services closer to communities. She announced the establishment of four complementary programmes at LRRH, a Sickle Cell Wellness Clinic, Sepsis Management Unit, and a multi-sectoral taskforce involving cultural leaders, people with disabilities, and legal experts who will develop a national law mandating pre-marital sickle cell testing. Dr. Aceng revealed that LRRH delivers about 40 babies daily, straining existing maternal wards, and called for expansion of maternity infrastructure. She emphasised that sickle cell patients must take hydroxyurea daily to prevent crises and announced plans to set up a local hydroxyurea manufacturing plant to ensure a continuous supply. According to the Ministry of Health, the Lango Subregion currently records the highest prevalence of sickle cell disease in Uganda, underscoring the urgency of sustained community engagement and early testing. Source

Lira, Uganda | Police in Lira City Central Division have commenced investigations into a suspected case of child stealing after a one-month-old baby was allegedly taken by an unknown woman during a fellowship at Mayor’s Garden over the weekend. The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at around 5:00 p.m., and was later reported to police on Sunday afternoon by the child’s mother, Atim Gloria, 32, a resident of Starch Factory Cell in Lira City East Division. According to preliminary findings, Atim had gone to Mayor’s Garden to attend a fellowship. While at the venue, she was approached by a woman who offered to help carry her baby so she could freely participate in the worship session. Atim handed over her one-month-and-thirteen-day-old child, identified as Opio Job, to the woman. However, upon returning to retrieve her baby, the woman was nowhere to be seen. Efforts by Atim and other participants to trace her were unsuccessful. Announcements made over the public address system at the venue also yielded no results, prompting the mother to report the matter to police the next day. Police officers visited the scene, recorded statements from witnesses, and confirmed that the baby had been seen at the event before disappearing. Authorities have since launched a manhunt for the suspect and plan to circulate the information on local radio stations to aid in her arrest. North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, confirmed the incident and said a case file of child stealing has been opened at Lira City Central Division. He noted that efforts are ongoing to trace the suspect and recover the child. Okema appealed to members of the public with any information regarding the suspect’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station, adding that child stealing is a serious crime that will be dealt with firmly under the law. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Shock gripped residents of Dokolo Town on Monday morning after a man posing as an official from the Inspector General of Government (IGG) office robbed a petrol station of six million shillings in a daring daylight incident. The robbery took place at around 9:00 a.m. at Dokolo Oil Company Limited, located in the heart of Dokolo Town. According to company officials, the suspect entered the premises confidently, introducing himself as an IGG auditor on an inspection visit. John Baptist Okello Okello, Managing Director of the company and Chairperson of Dokolo District Service Commission, confirmed that the suspect managed to gain access to the manager’s office in full view of the security guard and pump attendants before stealing the cash. Okello explained that the man’s professional demeanor and claim of being an auditor made it difficult for staff to suspect any wrongdoing. He said the incident was immediately reported to Dokolo Central Police Station, which has since launched investigations into the case. The petrol station’s manager, Benard Olila, said he became the target of the robbery moments after welcoming the supposed IGG official. Upon entering his office, the man suddenly drew a pistol, ordered him to remain silent, and tied him up using masking tape. Olila recounted that the assailant threatened to shoot him if he raised an alarm. The suspect then took approximately UGX 6 million from the office and locked him inside before fleeing the scene. Police were later alerted by staff members who found the manager restrained and traumatized. Dokolo District Police Commander (DPC) Patience Baganzi confirmed the incident and said statements had been recorded from witnesses, including the security guard and pump attendants. She described the robbery as “a calculated and audacious crime” and assured the public that investigations were underway to track down the suspect. Baganzi advised business owners to improve security at their establishments by installing CCTV surveillance systems and ensuring strict verification of individuals claiming to be government officials. The incident has sparked concern among local business operators in Dokolo, who say such crimes undermine public trust and threaten business stability in the district. Police have not yet made any arrests, but efforts to identify and apprehend the suspect are ongoing. Source