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Otuke, Uganda | A major fundraising campaign has been launched to support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence in Otuke District, with organisers warning that hundreds of women, girls and children still require urgent assistance decades after the violence that scarred communities in the region. The initiative, known as the Healing and Restoration Fundraising Drive, is being led by Facilitation for Peace and Development (FAPAD) as an extension of the ongoing STOP STIGMA project, which focuses on survivors of sexual abuse linked to past cattle raids and armed conflicts. According to Ruth Abwot, a social worker with FAPAD, more than 600 survivors have been documented across Ogor, Ogwete, Adwari and Okwang subcounties, but only 60 women have received direct support over the past three years because of limited funding. She explained that many survivors had lived with silent trauma for years and that some were raising children born of war while also dealing with identity challenges, custody disputes, and discrimination. Abwot noted that others continued to face long-term health complications and economic hardship arising from the violence they endured. The STOP STIGMA programme, an acronym for Scarification, Torment, Ostracisation, and Profiling of silent trauma, has provided psychosocial counselling, medical treatment, legal aid and income-generating activities for survivors. The project also works with clan leaders to promote reintegration, gender sensitivity, and progressive cultural norms. Research conducted by FAPAD between 2017 and 2021 indicated that the legacies of conflict-related sexual violence in Otuke remain widespread, with children born of these violations reportedly facing social rejection, documentation challenges and limited access to education. The new fundraising drive aims to support at least 20 additional survivors while advocating for rehabilitation and economic empowerment for survivors to be integrated into Otuke’s District Development Plan. District leaders, including medical partners led by Dr. James Olum of Orum Health Centre IV has expressed strong support for the campaign, although organisers say significant funding gaps persist. The fundraising dinner will take place tomorrow, Friday 12 December 2025, at Pacific Grand Hotel in Lira City, beginning at 3:30 pm. FAPAD is appealing to development partners, residents, leaders, and well-wishers to attend or contribute remotely. The organisation has emphasised that every contribution, whether in person or from afar, will make a difference to the recovery of the affected women. FAPAD says it hopes the event will not only raise the necessary funds but also change public attitudes and draw renewed attention to survivors who have lived with silence, discrimination, and neglect for decades. Source The post New Findings Prompt FAPAD to Expand Support for Otuke’s Conflict-Related Sexual Violence Survivors Ahead of Friday Lira Fundraising Dinner appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Soroti, Uganda | NRM parliamentary aspirant David Calvin Echodu on Wednesday vowed to “reset and reorganise” service delivery in Soroti City West, saying the constituency has suffered years of stagnation caused by leadership wrangles, poor coordination and unfulfilled pledges. Speaking during a well-attended rally in Orwadai Ward, Echodu told residents that the division cannot continue “circling around the same problems” while other parts of the region advance. “For too long, Soroti City West has been stuck. Roads are still dusty, schools are struggling, and youth unemployment keeps rising,” he said. “We need a serious reset. My campaign is about breaking this cycle and bringing back disciplined, structured leadership.” Residents in Orwadai listed a catalogue of concerns: unmaintained community access roads, limited clean water points, overcrowded public schools and poor waste management. Many expressed frustration over what they described as inconsistent and politically charged leadership in the city. “This division votes every cycle, but what changes?” asked Patrick Ayienda, a boda boda rider. “We need someone who follows up government programmes, not leaders who disappear after elections.” Echodu said these complaints reflect years of disconnection between local leaders and national ministries. He promised to prioritise regular engagement with the electorate and persistent lobbying for government projects. The rally gained momentum with the arrival of Rt. Lt. Gen. Peter Elwelu, the former Deputy CDF, who endorsed Echodu as the most capable candidate to steer the division out of its current challenges. “I have listened to many leaders in Teso, and I can tell you Echodu understands the responsibility that comes with leadership,” Elwelu said. “He is organised, he is focused, and he believes in unity—not the politics of division we have seen here.” Elwelu urged voters to elect leaders who can meaningfully engage with central government, saying development cannot come through “constant confrontation and disorganisation.” The Soroti City West seat has attracted several contenders, including incumbent MP Jonathan Ebwalu (FDC), independent candidate Patrick Anoku and a National Unity Platform (NUP) hopeful. Analysts say the constituency’s mixed voting patterns make it a politically unpredictable battleground. NRM strategists argue that Echodu’s campaign has gained early traction because it focuses on tangible community concerns rather than party rhetoric. Local NRM leaders, including Soroti City Chairperson John Enomu, urged residents to give Echodu a chance, insisting that changing leadership could unlock stalled development projects. “People here want roads, want water systems improved, want their children in better schools,” Enomu said. “Echodu has the discipline, the contacts and the approach needed to deliver.” Youth groups, market vendors and women’s groups in Orwadai also pledged support, citing his accessibility and community engagement record. Echodu closed his address with a plea for residents to move away from personality politics and demand practical plans from all candidates. “Soroti City West must stop voting based on excitement,” he said. “Let us ask: who can follow up hospital upgrades? Who can secure road funding? Who can defend our interests in Parliament? That is what matters.” Campaign activities continue this week across the remaining wards, with candidates intensifying grassroots mobilization as the race tightens. Source The post Echodu Promises to ‘Reset’ Soroti City West as Residents Decry Years of Stalled Progress appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Gulu, Uganda | The Police in Gulu City have issued a clarification regarding the death of Otim Leon Joshua, a 16-year-old student and resident of Customs Corner Cell, Bardeg Layibi Division, following misinformation circulating on social media. According to preliminary findings, Otim left home on 06 December 2025 at around 5:00pm, informing his mother that he was heading to town. When he failed to return, the family waited through the night. At approximately 5:00am, two boda boda riders brought him home in critical condition after he had allegedly been badly beaten and left unconscious at Lailong. The riders also revealed to the mother the identities of the individuals suspected of assaulting her son. Police investigations indicate that Otim was accused of stealing a mobile phone at around 4:00am, leading to the mob attack. The mother rushed him to St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor, where he was admitted, but despite medical intervention, Otim succumbed to his injuries on 09 December 2025 at around midday. A police team subsequently visited the hospital, documented the scene, and recorded statements from key witnesses, including the mother and the boda boda riders. Further inquiries revealed that the deceased was a student at Exel High School in Mukono, who had returned home for holidays. Investigations have since established that Otim was assaulted by four individuals who are currently on the run. Security agencies have launched a manhunt to bring the suspects to book. Police also dismissed circulating claims linking Otim’s death to a confrontation involving security personnel and Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi, describing these allegations as false, misleading, and irresponsible. “The truth is that Otim Leon Joshua died as a result of injuries sustained from an assault by individuals who suspected him of theft,” the statement reads. The Police have assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and pledged to ensure that the perpetrators are apprehended and justice is served. Source The post Police Clarify Circumstances Surrounding Death of 16-Year-Old Otim Leon Joshua appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Kampala, Uganda | The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) has confirmed the appointment of Dan Obote, popularly known as Kagere, as the new Chairperson of the FUFA Technical Committee for the 2025–2027 term. Obote, who currently represents the Northern Region Football Association as a FUFA Executive Committee Member, was appointed by FUFA President Eng. Moses Magogo Hassim following the 35th FUFA Executive Committee meeting held on Thursday, 2nd October 2025. The FUFA Technical Committee is tasked with overseeing the country’s football technical development, including coaching structures, youth programs, and strategic growth initiatives. Obote’s leadership is expected to strengthen FUFA’s technical direction and enhance grassroots and elite football development nationwide. In the appointment letter, FUFA stated: “Following consultations with football stakeholders, you have been appointed by the FUFA President to serve as the Chairperson of the FUFA Technical Committee, with immediate effect, for a period of two years (2025–2027).” A former Uganda Cranes and SC Villa midfield maestro, Obote brings extensive experience both on and off the pitch. Football stakeholders have welcomed his appointment, noting that his playing background and administrative insight equip him to drive meaningful technical reforms and elevate the standards of Ugandan football. Obote’s tenure will focus on youth development, coaching advancement, and the implementation of strategic programs aimed at producing competitive players and teams at both national and regional levels. Source The post Dan Obote Appointed Chairperson of FUFA Technical Committee appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Soroti, Uganda | Thousands of residents on Tuesday turned out to welcome David Calvin Echodu, NRM flag bearer and parliamentary aspirant for Soroti City West, as he officially launched his door-to-door campaign. The display of support, marked by a sea of yellow party colours, highlighted the ruling party’s strong mobilisation capacity in one of the city’s most politically engaged constituencies. Echodu began his campaign trail at Opuyo, moving through several wards before concluding at Pamba Primary School. Residents lined the streets, waved NRM flags, and chanted slogans, while many business activities temporarily paused to accommodate the procession. Supporters, including youth groups and local opinion leaders, accompanied the candidate, singing campaign songs and pledging their votes. Addressing the media, Echodu thanked residents for their reception and outlined his campaign priorities: service delivery, youth empowerment, and improved livelihoods. He emphasized the importance of direct household engagement to understand constituents’ concerns at the grassroots. “This campaign is about listening, learning, and working together to shape the future of Soroti City West. I promise effective representation, transparency, and development-oriented leadership,” Echodu said. Residents praised Echodu’s long-standing involvement in community initiatives, describing him as accessible, responsive, and committed to local development. Sarah Akurut, a businesswoman in Pamba, said: “We have seen Echodu working with the community for years. He listens and understands our challenges. Today, we are showing him our full support.” Youth groups also pledged to mobilize peers to vote for Echodu, highlighting unemployment and limited opportunities as issues he is well-placed to address. Political observers noted the turnout could indicate a highly competitive and dynamic campaign ahead. Echodu called for peaceful and disciplined campaigning, urging supporters to remain focused on development issues and community engagement. The candidate is expected to continue door-to-door visits across Soroti City West throughout the week. Source The post Echodu Launches Door-to-Door Campaign Amid Massive Turnout in Soroti City West appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Oyam, Uganda | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) leadership in Oyam District has renewed its commitment to pushing President Yoweri Museveni’s message of unity, peace, and socio-economic transformation to every household ahead of the 2026 general elections. During a mobilization meeting with leaders from Bario and Barr parishes in Abok Sub-county, the NRM Administrative Secretary, Isaac Bismack Olang, reminded structures that the party’s strength lies in its ability to organize at the grassroots. He noted that while national policy guides the direction, the real work of winning support happens in villages. “Our task is to translate the President’s vision into practical action in homes, farms, and trading centres. Mobilization must start with the people closest to us,” Olang told party leaders. Oyam District NRM Chairperson, Bosco Onyik Ogwal, reaffirmed the district’s readiness to reinforce the President’s agenda of service delivery and transformation. He urged leaders to uphold discipline, unity, and teamwork as the election season draws nearer. “We must remain one family. Our strength is in our structures, and our responsibility is to deliver results,” Onyik said. Delivering the President’s message, Hon. Willy Omodo Omodo Kagere, the NRM flag bearer for Oyam North Constituency, called on leaders to champion peace and stability, guide households into the money economy, and recognize ongoing government investments—such as Lira University and Akibua Stadium—as signs of national progress. He emphasized the President’s directive on improving social services through free education, expanded safe-water coverage, better healthcare, and the fight against corruption. “Reject voter bribery, reject intimidation, and stay focused on the NRM vision that seeks to transform our communities and secure Uganda’s future,” Omodo Omodo told the gathering. As a gesture of appreciation, each of the 63 NRM village leaders received UGX 10,000, an NRM yellow T-shirt, a soda, and campaign flyers summarizing the President’s development message. Local leaders including Moses Awany, an elder from Aweki A Village, Agness Akello of Abalot Village in Bario Parish, and youth representative Anger Ambrose, welcomed the engagement and pledged to “preach the true gospel” of the ruling party in their communities. “We are grateful that the President remembers us at the village level. We shall continue mobilizing and supporting NRM candidates at all levels,” Awany said. The meeting ended with leaders making a joint pledge to strengthen communication channels and ensure that the President’s message is not only received, but meaningfully acted upon across Oyam District. Source The post Oyam NRM Leaders Promise Grassroots Delivery of President Museveni’s Message appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Dokolo, Uganda | NRM flagbearer for Dokolo North County, Joseph Jones Ogwal, has criticised National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine for what he described as efforts to undermine the Parish Development Model (PDM). Ogwal told residents of Aburcero Parish in Amwoma Subcounty on Monday that Kyagulanyi is misleading Ugandans about the programme, which he insists is already transforming livelihoods. He said he would push for increased PDM funding and lobby for longer repayment periods, arguing that the initiative remained a central pillar of wealth creation in rural communities. Addressing supporters, Ogwal appealed for 100% support for President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and all NRM flagbearers, saying coordinated political backing would make it easier for Dokolo North to secure key government projects. Ogwal revealed that President Museveni had promised the tarmacking of the Dokolo–Bata–Abako–Aloi 43km road. He pledged to champion electricity extension to every village, upgrade local roads, and support women’s and youth groups. Ogwal also committed to lobbying for a district hospital, proposing either Amwoma Health Centre III or Adwoki Health Centre III as potential sites. On education, he promised to train five doctors and 30 nurses from the constituency during the next parliament while expanding scholarships for P.7 leavers and improving school performance. He disclosed that land had already been secured for a youth and adult learning centre. Ogwal outlined the four key roles of an MP, consultation, budgeting, monitoring, and championing local development, and vowed to support legislation giving cultural leaders authority to issue land permits in order to reduce land conflicts. Patrick Olet Otto, Aburcero Parish NRM Chairperson, said residents had previously elected a leader who “turned his back” on them once in Parliament. He praised Ogwal’s presentation before President Museveni at Lango College, where Ogwal requested mobilisation tools such as bicycles, motorcycles, and vehicles for grassroots NRM chairpersons. Okwany Robert, the male coordinator for Amwoma Subcounty, said he had never backed a losing candidate and urged residents not to “waste time” supporting anyone other than Ogwal. Olum Richard, NRM Chairperson for Amwoma Subcounty, thanked voters for choosing Ogwal in the primaries and encouraged them to emulate Dokolo South Constituency, where he said development has been consistent under the current leadership of MP Felix Okot. LCIII Chairperson for Amwoma Subcounty, Odur Geoffrey promised to work with Ogwal to upgrade Amwoma Health Centre III and asked for fuel support to open an access road linking Yoo-leng to Awero-wot. Source The post Ogwal Slams Bobi Wine’s ‘Anti-PDM’ Campaign, Says NUP Leader Is Misleading Ugandans as He Urges Dokolo People to Back Museveni 100% appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Soroti, Uganda | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) is set to officially launch David Calvin Echodu’s parliamentary campaigns for Soroti City West Division on Tuesday, an event that has renewed public debate on development challenges facing one of the city’s fastest-growing areas. The campaign will be launched at Pamba Primary School, following weeks of low-key mobilisation and community consultations. Speaking to journalists at Soroti Hotel on Monday, John Enomu, the Soroti City NRM Chairperson, said the preparations were complete and the party expects a strong turnout. “Tomorrow is an important day for Soroti City West. Echodu has shown commitment to the people through years of community work, even before expressing interest in elective politics,” Enomu said. Residents interviewed in Pamba, Orwadai and Camp Swahili told this publication that they expect the campaign season to sharpen focus on key service delivery issues, including access to clean water, unemployment among youth, poor drainage, and the state of community access roads. At the centre of the campaign launch is Echodu’s record of involvement in local development activities, which Enomu said has earned the candidate goodwill across several wards. “People know the work he has been doing in the division. That is why we are confident his message will resonate with residents,” he added. However, the launch comes at a time when concerns about internal cohesion within the ruling party are emerging. Enomu issued a stern warning to NRM leaders who are quietly backing independent candidates, saying such actions undermine the party’s structures. “If you are an NRM leader and you are supporting independents, you must step down. You cannot hold a party position and campaign against the official flag bearer,” he said. He also dismissed rumours circulating in some parts of the division suggesting that Echodu had stepped aside from the race due to national duties tied to his position on the NRM Central Executive Committee (CEC). “That information is misleading. Echodu will be at Pamba tomorrow to launch his campaign,” he stated. Enomu said Echodu’s national assignments would not interfere with the campaign trail, adding that the candidate would move to Orwadai Ward the day after the launch before proceeding to other wards in the division. Tuesday’s rally is expected to begin at 1pm, with speeches from NRM leaders, community representatives and the candidate, marking the start of an intensive campaign stretch across Soroti City West. Source The post Echodu’s Campaign Launch Sparks Fresh Debate on Development Priorities in Soroti City West appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Dokolo, Uganda | Police in Dokolo District are investigating a road accident in which two people were killed and six others seriously injured when a truck carrying a local football team overturned on Sunday evening. The crash happened at about 20:30 local time on 7 December 2025 at Arudabiro Cell in Northern Ward, Dokolo Town Council, along the Bata–Dokolo road. According to police, the driver lost control of the vehicle at a hilly section before it veered off the road and overturned. The Isuzu truck, registration number UBA 111R, was being driven by 28-year-old Okori Brain Pius, a resident of Agebo B Cell in Agwata Town Council. The vehicle was transporting footballers from Adwoki and Agwata, who were returning from a competition at Abako Primary School in Alebtong District. Police said two adult men died instantly, while five other men and a juvenile sustained serious injuries. The bodies of the deceased were taken to Dokolo Health Centre IV for post-mortem examination, and the injured were admitted to the same facility for treatment. The scene was documented by officers from the Dokolo Traffic Department, and the truck was later towed to Dokolo Central Police Station pending inspection by the Inspectorate of Vehicles. The driver has been detained as inquiries continue. Regional police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema said the names of the victims would be released once they are fully verified. Source The post Two Dead, Six Hurt After Football Team Truck Overturns on Return Journey in Dokolo appeared first on Dokolo Post.

Lira, Uganda | Joseph Jones Ogwal Omara, NRM flagbearer and candidate for MP, Dokolo North Constituency (2026–2031), has urged the party to equip its leaders with vehicles, motorcycles, and bicycles to enhance grassroots mobilization across Lango Sub-Region. Ogwal made the call on Sunday during a meeting at Lango College organized by the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for district and city chairpersons, sub-county leaders, and village-level flagbearers. He explained that vehicles for district, division, and city chairpersons, motorcycles for sub-county leaders, and bicycles for village and parish chairpersons would greatly enhance the efficiency of mobilization work, enabling party officials to effectively engage voters in support of NRM candidates and President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni. The meeting brought together leaders at all levels, including LC1 flagbearers, village and parish chairpersons, LC3 and sub-county chairpersons, LCV candidates, MPs, and administrative officials. During the event, Opio Samuel Acuti, current MP for Kole North and NRM parliamentary candidate, emphasized the importance of voter support for NRM candidates and President Museveni. He cautioned voters against supporting independent or opposition candidates, stressing that backing the party is crucial for development in the region. Former Lands, Housing, and Urban Development Minister Sam Engole, contesting for Erute South under NRM, highlighted the need for unity and active mobilization at the village and parish levels. He noted that opposition members have limited influence in parliament and that overreliance on their speeches would not advance development in the districts. The NRM leadership stressed that coordinated grassroots engagement is key to the party’s success in the 2026 elections. The Office of the NRM Presidential Flagbearer, alongside the 2nd National Vice Chairperson (Female) and the NRM Vice Chairperson for Northern Uganda, said a formal announcement on follow-up actions from the meeting will be issued later. Source The post Ogwal Omara Calls on NRM to Provide Transport for Leaders to Strengthen Mobilization appeared first on Dokolo Post.