Ebong Michael

Wakiso, Uganda | The Church of Uganda has announced the election of Rev. Canon Associate Prof. Dr. Grace Lubaale as the 4th Bishop of Busoga Diocese, marking a new chapter in the diocese’s leadership. The decision was reached by the House of Bishops sitting on 7th October, 2025 at Lweza Training and Conference Centre on Tuesday. Dr. Lubaale will be consecrated and enthroned on December 14, 2025, at Christ’s Cathedral Bugembe in Jinja. A native of Bugombya Zone, Butansi Parish, Kamuli District, Dr. Lubaale was born on October 9, 1978, and gave his life to Christ in December 1994. His journey in ministry began in the Diocese of Kampala, where he was ordained a Deacon in 2008 and a Priest in 2009. In November 2024, he was installed as Canon of Education and Training at All Saints’ Cathedral Kampala. Beyond the pulpit, Dr. Lubaale is a scholar with extensive credentials – he holds a PhD in Development Studies, MA in Theology, MA in Development Studies, and a BA with Education. He is married to Clare Louise Atuheirwe, and together they have four children. In a related development, the Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, The Most Rev. Dr. Stephen Samuel Kaziimba Mugalu, commissioned the Provincial Tribunal to oversee internal church disputes. The Tribunal is chaired by Canon Naboth Muhairwe, with members including Bishop Prof. Fred Sheldon Mwesigwa, Bishop Onesimus Asiimwe, Bishop Pons Awinjo Ozelle, Bishop James Bukomeko, Bishop George Turyasingura, and Bishop John Wilson Nandaah. Justice Hellen Obura represents the laity, while The Very Rev. Canon Dr. Rebecca Nyegenye represents the clergy. The team underwent orientation led by Justice Mike Chibita of the Supreme Court before their commissioning. Source

Kwania, Uganda | Police in Kwania District have arrested 12 suspects in an intelligence-led operation targeting criminal gangs accused of assaulting and robbing residents in Aduku Sub-county. The operation was conducted on October 5, 2025, at about 8:00 a.m. following a surge in complaints from the public about night attacks, robberies, and cases of housebreaking. It was commanded by the District Police Commander as part of efforts to restore security in the area. Those arrested have been identified as Waca Abel (19), Otucu George (17), Ogang Zadock (19), Okullo Isaac (16), Ogwal Sam (17), Okabo Innocent (19), Omoka Augustine (17), Angweo Jonathan (17), Ocen Amos (15), Ogwang Paul (16), Ogwal Hendry (17), and Wacha Fred (32). Police said several suspected stolen items and sharp tools believed to have been used to injure victims were recovered during the operation. All suspects are being detained at Kwania Central Police Station as investigations continue. Their statements are being recorded and will be submitted to the Resident State Attorney for legal review and possible prosecution. North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, said the operation was in response to persistent reports of violent robberies and assaults within local trading centers. He noted that intelligence-led deployments have proven effective in identifying criminal elements and restoring calm in several parts of the region. He urged residents and local leaders to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely information about criminal activity in their communities. Police have since increased surveillance and patrols in the district as part of an ongoing campaign to curb rising incidents of street crime and night robberies. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Parents of The Grace Nursery and Primary School have adopted new measures to enhance learning standards, promote digital skills, and ease the financial burden on families with many children. The resolutions were made during the school’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Friday, 3 October, at the school premises in Agwata Town Council, Dokolo District. One of the main decisions reached was to introduce computer lessons beginning next academic year for Primary Five pupils. Although some parents had suggested the program start from Primary Four, most agreed that learners in Primary Five were better prepared to handle computer studies effectively. The meeting also approved a bursary initiative to support parents with several children, especially those with five or more pupils enrolled at the school. The plan aims to make education more accessible and reduce the risk of school dropouts caused by financial hardship. It was further resolved that educational tours for Primary Six and Seven learners would continue as usual, given their importance in supplementing classroom learning and promoting exposure. During discussions, one of the parents, Anyait Jane, commended the school’s positive influence on her children’s academic progress. She explained that one of her children, who previously performed poorly, had greatly improved since joining The Grace Nursery and Primary School and was now performing well in secondary school. She noted that she had found school to be among the best schools in Northern Uganda and intended to continue sending her other children there. Rev. Haggard Emuny from Adok Anglican Church, who represented the Archdeacon at the meeting, urged parents and teachers to work closely in nurturing children both spiritually and academically. He emphasized the biblical importance of raising children in a disciplined and faith-based environment. The meeting was chaired by Geoffrey Opio Ekong, the PTA Chairperson and NRM District Chairperson for Dokolo, who highlighted the school’s consistent record of producing quality learners making a positive impact in their communities. He noted that the election of new PTA officials would be the next priority to strengthen the school’s governance and leadership structures. Deputy Director Caroline Adongo expressed gratitude to parents for their continued trust and cooperation, promising improved results in the forthcoming academic term. The school director assured parents that management was fully committed to implementing all resolutions made during the meeting, pledging to uphold the standards that have made the institution reputable. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment among parents, teachers, and school administrators to sustain The Grace Nursery and Primary School’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and moral integrity in Dokolo District. Source

By Denis Omiji Dokolo, Uganda | The Grace Agwata Nursery and Primary School is taking steps to equip its pupils with the skills needed to thrive in a technology-driven world, following a parents’ assembly that approved the introduction of computer lessons and a new bursary program. Starting next academic year, Primary Five pupils will receive computer lessons, giving them early exposure to digital tools. Parents agreed to begin lessons at upper primary to ensure students first consolidate foundational knowledge before expanding to younger classes. The assembly also endorsed a bursary scheme for families with multiple children, particularly those with five or more enrolled pupils. The program aims to make quality education more accessible to large families and encourage higher attendance and participation. Geoffrey Opio Ekong, PTA Chairperson and NRM District Chairperson for Dokolo, said the decisions reflect the school’s commitment to producing disciplined and high-performing pupils. He emphasized that active parental participation has been central to the school’s success. Representing the Adok Anglican Archdeaconry, Rev. Haggard Emuny praised the collaboration between parents and teachers, stressing that preparing children for the future requires combined academic and moral guidance. Parents shared success stories, including Anyait Jane, who said her previously struggling child made remarkable academic progress after joining The Grace Agwata. Deputy Director Caroline Adongo assured parents that management is committed to implementing all resolutions while maintaining high academic standards. Plans to elect new PTA leaders are also underway to strengthen governance and ensure continuity in the school’s initiatives. The Grace Nursery and Primary School Agwata with these measures, is positioning itself as a center for digital literacy and future-ready education in Northern Uganda. Source

Mbale, Uganda | At least three people were seriously injured on Sunday after a Kakise Bus Company coach lost control and crashed into a building along Kumi Road in Mbale City. The bus, registration number UBB 226H, was travelling from Kampala to Soroti when it veered off the road and slammed into Mbale General Clinic, causing extensive damage to the facility. The accident also left a car belonging to Mr. James Bwire, popularly known as Mbabazi, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner for Mbale, and several motorcycles badly damaged. Eyewitnesses said the bus driver was attempting to find space to park for loading and offloading passengers when he lost control of the vehicle. The bus reportedly swerved off the road and ploughed into the building before stopping. Emergency responders and police officers quickly arrived at the scene to assist the injured and control traffic along the busy stretch of Kumi Road. The victims were later rushed to Mbale Regional Referral Hospital for medical attention. Authorities said preliminary findings point to reckless driving and mechanical failure as possible causes of the crash. Investigations are ongoing. Source

Lira,Uganda | The five-day Divine Mercy Crusade, held from 1 to 5 October 2025 at the Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Ordination Grounds in Lira, ended on a spiritual high with a Holy Mass led by Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, Bishop of Lira Diocese. The annual event, which drew thousands of pilgrims from across northern Uganda and beyond, focused on prayer, repentance, and the renewal of faith under the theme of God’s mercy. Participants described the crusade as a life-changing encounter that strengthened their spiritual journey and deepened their devotion to Christ. In his homily, Bishop Wanok described Divine Mercy Week as a sacred time filled with God’s blessings, urging the faithful to meditate on God’s compassion through the Eucharist. He explained that the Lord comes to believers in the Eucharist, inviting them to see Him through the bread and wine, where He conceals His full glory so that they may receive Him with reverence. The Bishop reminded the congregation that true faith must be transformative, noting that God seeks a spark of belief and trust in every heart-faith that allows Him to renew lives. Drawing from the prophet Habakkuk’s lament about injustice and suffering, Bishop Wanok said the troubles facing the world today-wars, killings, hunger, and division-stem from humanity’s failure to follow God’s will. He urged the faithful to respond to God’s mercy by becoming instruments of peace, working to soften hardened hearts, heal divisions, and restore harmony within families and communities. Reflecting on the Gospel, the Bishop encouraged Christians to rediscover the kind of faith that can transform lives and overcome personal weaknesses. He challenged the faithful to use their faith to overcome anger, evil thoughts, and bad habits, saying that God desires His people to have authority over negativity so that His image may shine through their actions. As the Church commemorated the Feast of St. Faustina Kowalska, on 5 October, Bishop Wanok highlighted her humility and devotion to prayer, calling on Christians to seek spiritual renewal through the Blessed Sacrament. He emphasized that the Eucharist remains at the heart of the Catholic identity, representing Christ Himself made present among believers. Speaking on behalf of the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Odwongo, the Curate of Uganda Martyrs Cathedral, expressed appreciation to all pilgrims and participants for their dedication and sacrifice. He also thanked Bishop Wanok for his pastoral leadership and presence throughout the week. The event was organised by the Divine Mercy Devotion Team in collaboration with the Uganda Martyrs Cathedral Parish. It brought together several priests, including Rev. Fr. Moses Owani (Spiritual Director of Divine Mercy), Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Opio (Parish Priest of Uganda Martyrs Cathedral), Rev. Fr. Morris Otyang (Spiritual Director of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal), and Rev. Fr. Paul Okoth from the Archdiocese of Tororo, who served as the main facilitator. The crusade concluded with calls for continued reflection, prayer, and acts of compassion in daily life. Many faithful said they were inspired to strengthen their faith and promote peace within their families and communities. Looking toward future spiritual events, the 2025 Divine Mercy Crusade is being remembered as a profound testament to the strength of faith and the timeless power of God’s mercy to bring hope and unity in a world facing turmoil. Lira Diocese News Agency Source

Kwania, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has promised that the Government of Uganda will construct new health centres and schools in sub-counties across Kwania District that currently lack these essential facilities. The President made the remarks on Friday while addressing a rally at Kwania Boma Grounds during his third day of campaign meetings in the Lango Sub-region. Museveni said the initiative, to be implemented through the Ministries of Health and Education, is part of his broader plan to improve access to public services in rural communities. He explained that in his next term of office, government will establish a new Health Centre III in Ayabi Town Council, upgrade Aninolola Health Centre II in Inomo Sub-county to Health Centre III, and elevate Nambieso Health Centre III to Health Centre IV level. He said the planned facilities will be constructed during the 2026/2031 financial year and will be fully equipped with essential drugs and medical staff to serve residents effectively. Museveni added that the intervention is intended to strengthen healthcare delivery and ensure that citizens do not have to travel long distances to seek medical attention. On education, the President said the government will construct seven new secondary schools in seven sub-counties and 20 new primary schools in 20 parishes across Kwania District. He said this will help address the education infrastructure gap and improve learning outcomes for children in the area. The President also revealed plans to introduce a new funding scheme for fishing communities across the country. The fund, he said, will help fishermen acquire recommended fishing gear and promote sustainable fishing practices, while enabling them to generate more income and eradicate poverty within their households. Meanwhile, Kwania District NRM Chairperson, Shadam Abilib, pledged that the district will deliver overwhelming support for President Museveni and other NRM flag bearers in the 2026 general election, targeting 90 percent of the vote. Kwania District LCV Chairperson, Alex Geoffrey Ogwal Adyebo, who subscribes to the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), also declared his support for Museveni’s candidature. He said Kwania has registered significant progress in infrastructure, health, and education under the NRM government, adding that he supports the continuity of the current leadership to consolidate development gains. Source

By Denis Omiji Kaberamaido, Uganda | Tragedy struck on Sunday evening in Aperkira Sub-county, Kaberamaido District, when lightning killed three people who had gathered for a village saving meeting inside St. Michael Awiri Chapel. The deceased were identified as Ezekiel Obong, a 12-year-old pupil of Aperkira Primary School; Milda Aligo, aged 22; and Catherine Adiro, aged 72. All were residents of Awirec Village, Abirabira Parish, in Aperkira Sub-county. According to Daniel Esatu, the father of the deceased pupil, the tragic incident occurred at around 3:45 PM while members of the local savings group were meeting inside the chapel. He said the lightning struck suddenly during the gathering, killing the three instantly. Esatu said his family was still in shock over the loss of his son, who had gone to church for the savings meeting and never returned home. He added that local authorities and police officers from Aperkira Police Station were immediately notified after the incident. The bodies of Catherine Adiro and Milda Aligo were later taken to Kaberamaido Hospital for post-mortem examination, while the body of young Ezekiel Obong was handed over to the family for burial arrangements. Esatu noted that no other people sustained injuries, as the lightning appeared to have directly struck only the three victims. Attempts by the Dokolo Post to reach the LC1 Chairperson of Awirec Village and other local leaders for comment were unsuccessful, as their phone lines were unreachable by press time. Source

Kyotera, Uganda | One police officer has died and three others sustained serious injuries following a fatal road crash that occurred at around 4:00 AM this morning at Kasanvu along the Mutukula-Kyotera Road. The crash involved a police Land Cruiser (UP 2914 T) and a Mercedes-Benz trailer (T824 DXF/T529 EFJ). According to eyewitness accounts, the trailer, which was reportedly speeding, lost control and rammed into the stationary police vehicle that had parked near a checkpoint with officers on board. The heavy truck overturned and came to rest on top of the police vehicle. Police confirmed that the driver of the Land Cruiser died on the spot, while three other officers sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby health facility for treatment. Preliminary findings indicate that the trailer was being driven by the turn-man while the main driver was resting at the time of the crash. The turn-man has since been apprehended, while efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest the main driver, who remains on the run. Authorities condemned the growing habit of allowing untrained turn-men to operate heavy trucks, warning that such negligence endangers the lives of road users. Police urged all motorists, particularly truck drivers, to adhere to speed limits at all times, not only when law enforcement is present. They also called for increased caution during night hours when visibility is reduced and advised drivers to stop the risky practice of on-the-job training for turn-men. The police extended condolences to the family of the deceased officer and wished the injured officers a speedy recovery. Source

Arua, Uganda | The ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has adjusted its campaign schedule in the Lango Sub-region, postponing President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s planned rallies in Lira City, Lira District, and Kole District due to official state duties. NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong said the changes were necessitated by the President’s state engagements. He explained that the rallies earlier scheduled for Monday would be rescheduled, with new dates to be communicated in due course. Todwong, however, confirmed that campaigns in Oyam District and Pakwach District will proceed as planned on Tuesday morning and afternoon, respectively. Addressing journalists after a meeting with district task forces in West Nile on Saturday, Todwong appealed to supporters to remain patient and understanding, noting that the President’s dual role as both national leader and presidential candidate often requires adjustments to campaign plans. He said Museveni had an unavoidable engagement on Monday but would resume his campaign trail the following day. Todwong described the ongoing NRM campaigns as successful, saying the support across the country has been massive and encouraging. He revealed that the party has decentralized its campaign coordination to ensure wider grassroots involvement, with district chairpersons leading task forces, supported by subcounty, parish, and village structures. On the question of internal unity, Todwong acknowledged that while some aspirants who lost in the party primaries were initially reluctant to support flag bearers, many have since reconciled and joined the campaign efforts. He emphasized that the NRM remains larger than individual ambitions and that the focus is now on consolidating support for victory. He further disclosed that the NRM’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) had resolved to standardize all campaign branding nationwide. Under the new directive, all party candidates are required to include the official presidential portrait on their posters as a mark of unity and consistency in messaging. Todwong dismissed the idea that large crowds necessarily determine political strength, noting that the true test of support will be revealed on election day. Source