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Kumi, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has challenged leaders and residents of Kumi District to prioritize household wealth creation over demands for new districts, town councils, or tarmacked roads, describing personal economic productivity as the true driver of sustainable development. Addressing a large crowd at Kumi Wiggins Secondary School grounds during his campaign tour in Teso sub-region, Museveni cautioned that many Ugandans mistakenly equate development with government projects while neglecting household-level economic growth. He noted that people often demand new districts, town councils, or tarmac roads without realizing that at the end of the day, these do not directly address the persistent poverty at home. He emphasized that when families return home at night, the poverty they live with continues to affect them, with children lacking sugar, meat, paraffin, electricity, and clothes – the real problems that need attention. Museveni explained that while government is responsible for development projects such as roads, schools, and hospitals, wealth creation is a personal responsibility. He clarified that development and infrastructure are collective responsibilities, but wealth or poverty at the household level depends on individuals taking initiative. This is why the NRM emphasizes wealth creation through programs such as Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and the Parish Development Model (PDM). He urged Ugandans to actively seek income-generating opportunities to transform their households and communities, noting that development without wealth creation is meaningless. He highlighted that money, which drives development, comes from taxes, and if households are poor, they cannot contribute to national revenue, undermining overall progress. The President announced plans to strengthen wealth creation programs, including 15 million shillings in loans for leaders to invest, as well as targeted funds for religious institutions, cultural leaders, fishing communities, and unemployed university graduates. On education, Museveni reaffirmed his commitment to free and quality education, recalling the introduction of Universal Primary Education (UPE) in 1996, while expressing concern that mismanagement by some leaders and head teachers had frustrated its objectives. He said this prompted the creation of Presidential Skilling Hubs, designed to equip young people with practical skills to earn a living. His remarks followed a request from Kumi District NRM Chairperson, Christine Amongin Aporu, for new administrative units, including Kanyum District, Mukongoro County, and Atutur Town Council. While acknowledging her concerns, Museveni urged that wealth creation should take precedence over administrative expansion. He also announced development initiatives for Kumi, including electricity extension to ten sub-counties, upgrading six Health Centre IIs to IIIs, and constructing new health facilities in Kanapa, Mukongoro, and Kanyum. Museveni concluded by urging residents to take charge of their economic futures, stressing that Uganda’s progress depends on the prosperity of individual households. He said that when families focus on generating income and improving their livelihoods, broader national development will follow, creating a more sustainable path out of poverty for everyone. Source

Ngora, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, on the fifth day of his tour of the Teso sub-region, has pledged to expand access to healthcare services in Ngora District through the upgrade and construction of new health facilities. He said the initiative aligns with the government’s broader plan to improve the welfare of rural Ugandans and deliver better social services closer to the people. While addressing residents in Ngora, the President announced that Opot and Atoot Health Centre IIs will be upgraded to Health Centre IIIs, while new Health Centre IIIs will be constructed in Ngora Sub-county, Agirigiroi, and Morukakise sub-counties. He emphasized that these health upgrades would bring essential services nearer to the people and reaffirmed that improved health and education infrastructure remain central to the NRM’s vision of a prosperous and healthy Uganda. Museveni explained that the NRM government’s 2026 manifesto is founded on the peace and development achieved over the past four decades, noting that it focuses on consolidating socio-economic transformation. He reminded the people of Teso of the peace and stability they now enjoy, contrasting it with the difficult years of insurgency and the painful memories of Mukura in Ngora District. He said the region is now peaceful, developing, and ready to take advantage of new government programs. During the event, Ngora District Chairperson Mike Odongo presented the district’s major development priorities directly to the President. He outlined key demands such as the tarmacking of the Kumi–Ngora–Brooks Corner–Serere–Kagwara Road, the upgrading of Ngora Health Centre IV to hospital status, and the establishment of a government vocational training institute in the district. Odongo also urged the government to take over and support community schools, explaining that this would improve the quality of education and reduce the financial burden on parents. He further appealed for the expansion of the Parish Development Model (PDM), suggesting that its funding be doubled to accelerate poverty reduction and enterprise development at the household level. Odongo expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his directive on cattle compensation, saying that the plan to give each household five heads of cattle had renewed confidence and hope among the people of Ngora. The NRM Vice Chairman for Eastern Region, David Calvin Echodu, who led the mobilization efforts in Teso, commended the President for his consistent engagement with local communities and responsiveness to their needs. He said the President’s interactions with local leaders demonstrated a government that listens and acts on the concerns of its people. Echodu encouraged the residents of Teso to continue supporting the NRM’s agenda of peace, unity, and productivity, emphasizing that true wealth and transformation begin with hard work and self-reliance at the household level. In neighbouring Kumi District, NRM mobilizers led by Samuel Otuba, a former parliamentary aspirant, also thanked residents for turning up in large numbers to welcome the President. They said the overwhelming turnout reflected the people’s faith in President Museveni’s leadership and their commitment to the NRM’s transformation message. The mobilizers added that the rallies were not merely political gatherings but opportunities for citizens to engage with the President’s message of unity, peace, and hard work – the core values shaping Uganda’s next phase of national transformation. President Museveni’s ongoing tour of Teso is part of his nationwide campaign programme aimed at assessing progress in government initiatives, promoting wealth creation, and reinforcing the NRM’s 2026 transformation agenda. Source

Samarkand, Uzbekistan | Uganda, under the leadership of Ambassador Doreen Ruth Amule, Head of the Uganda Embassy in Paris, France, has drawn international attention at the 43rd UNESCO General Conference by adopting a carefully calibrated stance on Ukraine-related resolutions. In a formal request to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kampala, Amb. Amule sought guidance on how Uganda should vote on key draft resolutions, including UNESCO’s emergency assistance programme for Ukraine and the follow-up on the situation in Crimea. Following instructions from the Ministry, Uganda will abstain from both votes, signaling a neutral and measured approach in a highly polarized global debate. Permanent Secretary Elly Kafeero Kamahungye explained that the decision to abstain reflects Uganda’s commitment to principled diplomacy, allowing the country to engage constructively in international affairs without taking sides in conflicts that do not directly involve it. At the same time, Uganda will actively vote in favour of resolutions supporting UNRWA’s educational initiatives in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, demonstrating the country’s continued focus on humanitarian assistance and education in regions affected by conflict. Analysts say Amb. Amule’s proactive engagement underscores Uganda’s growing influence in multilateral forums, positioning the country as a balanced and responsible actor on the world stage. By combining strategic neutrality with support for humanitarian priorities, Uganda is enhancing its diplomatic credibility and projecting itself as a thoughtful global player. Experts note that Uganda’s approach at UNESCO signals a new era of diplomacy, where principled non-alignment and targeted support for global development initiatives strengthen the country’s international profile. Source

Oyam, Uganda | The Uganda Police Force, through its Directorate of Police Health Services, has officially commissioned a new Police Health Centre II at Oyam Police Barracks in Oyam District. The facility, located in Nursing Quarter Cell, Teduka Ward, Oyam Town Council, was commissioned on 3rd November 2025 by the Deputy Director of Police Health Services, SCP Dr. Emmanuel Nuwamanya, who served as the Guest of Honour. He was accompanied by the Regional Police Commander for North Kyoga, SSP Doka Rashid, and several senior officers. The event was attended by key district leaders, including Oyam LC5 Chairperson Dilla Walter Benson, Deputy CAO Ojedra Joel, Assistant District Health Officer Akello, Oyam Town Council Mayor, Deputy DISO Adam Jeffer Elias, LC1 Chairperson for Nursing Quarter Cell Hon. Ato Mirriam, and Oyam DPC SP Okongo Francis, among others. In his address, Dr. Nuwamanya commended SSP Doka Rashid for his initiative and dedication in ensuring the renovation and establishment of the health facility using quarterly imprest funds that would otherwise have been returned to the treasury. He also lauded the support and cooperation from the Oyam District leadership and the political wing that made the project a success. He outlined the key roles of Police Health Officers, which include offering general health care services, providing health education to Police officers and surrounding communities, handling medical examinations and treatment for suspects in custody, coordinating with health partners, and referring complicated cases to higher-level facilities. Dr. Nuwamanya pledged that the Police management would continue upgrading Police Health Centres across the country and promised to equip the Oyam Health Centre II with additional medical supplies and equipment. He also assured the public that Police Health Officers are disciplined professionals who work under strict command and that any cases of theft or misuse of government drugs would not be tolerated. On behalf of the district leadership, the LC5 Chairperson and Deputy CAO thanked the Inspector General of Police and the Directorate of Police Health Services for bringing health services closer to Police personnel and the community. SSP Doka Rashid, the RPC North Kyoga, emphasized that the new facility will serve both Police officers and community members, who will receive treatment free of charge. The newly commissioned Oyam Police Health Centre II will offer a range of services, including treatment of minor illnesses, preventive and promotive health care, basic laboratory and diagnostic services, and referral of patients needing advanced medical attention. Source

Soroti, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has unveiled a new Special Fund under the Parish Development Model (PDM) to support unemployed university graduates and religious leaders, urging the youth to shift their mindset from job-seeking to job creation. Addressing residents of Soroti, Museveni said the initiative will enable graduates who have been jobless for more than two years to access affordable credit and start income-generating enterprises. He explained that the government’s focus is now on empowering citizens to become economically independent, emphasizing that educated youth must use their knowledge to innovate and generate employment for themselves and others. Museveni said the government is creating a fund that will allow university graduates who have been jobless for over two years to borrow and start meaningful projects. He added that religious leaders and fishermen would also receive support of about fifteen million shillings under the PDM. The President noted that the new fund is part of broader reforms under the PDM to uplift Ugandans from subsistence to commercial productivity through targeted financing at the parish level. He said the NRM government wants every capable Ugandan to participate in wealth creation, pointing out that graduates already possess the skills and ideas they need, but lack access to capital. Museveni also revealed that religious leaders will benefit from the scheme to strengthen their role in community development and promote economic transformation within their congregations. While commending the people of Teso for their resilience, the President expressed disappointment that Soroti City had not shown overwhelming support for the NRM despite the government’s visible achievements in infrastructure and social services. He appealed to the residents of Soroti to look beyond political differences and focus on working together for the region’s transformation. Museveni said unity and cooperation would enable the people of Teso to fully benefit from government programs like the PDM and achieve sustainable economic progress. Source

Serere, Uganda | The National Resistance Movement (NRM) Vice Chairman for Eastern Region, David Calvin Echodu, has called on President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to review existing fishing policies and rehabilitate the National Semi-Arid Resources Research Institute (NASARI) in Serere District, saying these measures will boost livelihoods and economic productivity in the Teso sub-region. Echodu made the appeal on Monday while welcoming President Museveni at a massive campaign rally at Serere District Headquarters. Thousands of NRM supporters thronged the venue, waving party flags and cheering as the President continued his mobilization tour across Teso. He highlighted that current fishing regulations have left many local fishermen struggling to earn a living, as they cannot meet the stringent requirements imposed by enforcement agencies. “…Many of the fishermen can’t afford the big boats and standard fishing nets required by the authorities. I therefore appeal to government to support them in acquiring the necessary equipment and review the policies to make them more inclusive and practical…,” Echodu said. The NRM Vice Chairman acknowledged government efforts to curb illegal fishing but noted that implementation has adversely affected small-scale fishermen. He urged interventions such as credit facilities, cooperative societies, and subsidized fishing gear to help communities sustain livelihoods without engaging in illegal practices. Echodu also called on the President to prioritize the rehabilitation and re-equipping of NASARI, describing it as a strategic agricultural research center that once promoted innovation and productivity in Uganda’s semi-arid areas. “…Revamping NASARI and providing more funding will not only boost research and training but also empower farmers with modern technologies for improved productivity. This will support wealth creation and the Parish Development Model objectives…,” he said. President Museveni, addressing the gathering, commended Echodu for mobilizing the people and raising key community concerns. The President promised to look into the issues raised, reaffirming government’s commitment to supporting fishermen and reviving critical agricultural institutions. The Serere rally marked another milestone in Museveni’s campaign trail across the Teso sub-region as he consolidates NRM’s support ahead of the 2026 general elections. Source

Lira, Uganda | The management of Lira Sqoop, a leading digital news platform in Northern Uganda, has issued a strong disclaimer distancing itself from a false article circulating on social media that falsely linked the outlet to a controversial story. The disputed post, titled “Chaotic Dr. Aceng and Her Team Reject to Pay Bygon Company UGX 59M for Damages Caused at Tipper Stage During Her Nomination Rally,” has been widely shared across WhatsApp groups and social media pages with names resembling the legitimate brand. In an official statement on Monday, Lira Sqoop said it had no involvement in creating or publishing the article and condemned the use of its name to spread misinformation. The management emphasized the platform’s commitment to ethical journalism, factual reporting, and political neutrality. The outlet clarified that it categorically disassociates itself from the misleading article and reiterated that it does not operate under the names Lira Scooper, Lira City Scoop, or Lira City Eye. It urged the public to verify news content through its official communication channels, which include Facebook (Lira Sqoop), X (Lira Sqoop Uganda), YouTube (Lira Sqoop Archives), and its website (www.lirasqoop.com). The management also stated that it takes responsibility only for content published on these official platforms and warned against relying on unverified sources such as WhatsApp forwards, blogs, or other online posts. Furthermore, Lira Sqoop reaffirmed its political independence, noting that it has no affiliations with any political party or politician. The statement added that individuals or groups wishing to have political events covered should extend formal invitations through the outlet’s official channels. Members of the public were encouraged to submit complaints, feedback, and credible news tips via email at info@lirasqoop.com or by calling 0773 605 843. Source

Kole, Uganda | Police in North Kyoga Region, in coordination with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), have launched investigations into a fatal shooting incident that occurred on Saturday night, 2nd November 2025, in Akalo Town Council, Kole District. According to the North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the incident happened at around 8:30 p.m. along the Lira–Kwania Highway. It involved a UPDF soldier, No. 290075 Private Koboi Samson, aged 27, attached to the 103 Battalion in Lira Barracks. Preliminary police findings indicate that the deceased, Olwit Santo, aged 27, a peasant farmer from Akek Cell, Western Ward ‘B’, Akalo Town Council, together with an unidentified accomplice, allegedly attempted to forcibly disarm the soldier of his rifle. A violent struggle reportedly ensued, during which the officer, acting in self-defense and fearing the loss of his weapon, discharged his firearm, fatally shooting Olwit. A stray bullet also struck Elem Allan, aged 19, a resident of Dibadi Village, Akalo Parish, who sustained an injury on the right side of his ribs. He was rushed to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for treatment. Police officers from Kole Central Police Station and Akalo Town Council Police Post swiftly responded to the scene, led by the District Police Commander. The area was cordoned off, and forensic teams documented the scene. The body of the deceased was later taken to Lira Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examination. SP Okema confirmed that Pte. Koboi Samson was arrested and handed over to the UPDF authorities at Lira Military Barracks for internal disciplinary review and further management as investigations continue. The officer is under review while police continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The police extended condolences to the bereaved family and wished a quick recovery to the injured victim. Source

Soroti, Uganda | The NRM Eastern Region Chairperson and Soroti City West MP aspirant, David Calvin Echodu, has appealed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni to focus government attention on transforming Soroti City into a modern industrial hub and to support the development of key social facilities in the region. Speaking during President Museveni’s rally in Soroti City on Monday on  his fourth day of campaigns in the Teso Sub-region, Echodu praised the President for the peace and stability ushered in by the NRM government but said Soroti still lags behind other regional cities in investment and industrialization. “…Your Excellency, Soroti City has only two factories in our industrial park. Our ability for value addition on cassava, simsim, groundnuts, grains, and cattle remains low…,” Echodu said. “…We need more support to attract investors and develop the sports and education sectors…” Echodu appealed to the government to rehabilitate Oligoi Football Stadium, a key sports facility in the region, and to support the ongoing consultations with investors to turn it into a regional sports hub. He also revealed plans by local leaders and partners to construct a modern golf course and establish a Science University in Soroti City on UBC land in Dakabela, saying all arrangements with American investors and government agencies were in the final stages. “…With your continued guidance and support, we are ready to make Soroti a modern city. Even our youth are beginning to invest at home…,” he told the President. Echodu thanked Museveni for reinstating the NUSAF program, which he said had previously transformed livelihoods and education across Teso. He also commended the Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) initiative for turning Teso into a major fruit-growing region, citing the Soroti Fruit Factory as a cornerstone for local economic transformation. He urged the government to encourage more investors from Kampala to set up industries in Teso to create jobs and enhance rural incomes. On agriculture, Echodu welcomed the President’s proposal to give five cattle per household, calling it a “symbol of hope” for rebuilding Teso’s cattle-based economy that was devastated by past raids and conflicts. In his remarks, President Museveni praised the people of Teso for their resilience and contribution to the country’s stability, recalling that it was in Teso that his forces defeated key rebel groups during the liberation struggles. “…Teso is where we defeated the rebels. It is where we first used gunships in Amuria to crush the rebel group. That victory gave us peace in the whole country…,” he said. Museveni highlighted NRM’s seven key contributions to Uganda, emphasizing peace, unity, infrastructure, and socio-economic transformation. He said NRM’s foundation is built on patriotism and pan-Africanism, not sectarian politics. The President outlined several projects completed under NRM in Teso, including major road networks connecting Tororo, Katine, Otuboi, Dokolo, Moroto, and Kumi, as well as expansion of electricity to nearly all sub-counties in Soroti. He revealed that 73% of Soroti District’s villages now have access to clean water, and irrigation schemes have been established to boost agricultural production throughout the year. Museveni also announced plans to upgrade health facilities in the district, including: Upgrading Kamuda Health Centre III to Health Centre IV; Upgrading Aukot, Awaliwal, Lale, and Ochokichan Health Centres II to Health Centre III; and Constructing a new Health Centre III in Tubur Sub-county. He cautioned leaders to ensure equal distribution of government primary schools across parishes to guarantee balanced education access. Echodu assured the President of unwavering support from Teso, emphasizing that the region stands firmly with NRM to protect the gains made over the years. “…Your Excellency, under your visionary leadership, Teso has changed. There is peace, stability, and economic recovery. With your continued strategic guidance, NRM is full of new energy, and the sky is the limit…,” Echodu said. The rally ended with chants of “NRM Oyee, Museveni Oyee!” echoing across Soroti City as thousands of supporters cheered the President. Museveni’s visit to Soroti marked the fourth day of his campaign in the Teso Sub-region as he continues to deliver his 2026 manifesto to the people. Source

Soroti, Uganda | A new wave of unity is emerging within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Eastern Uganda as Flight Captain Mike Mukula and David Calvin Echodu pledged to work together to strengthen the party’s support ahead of the 2026 general elections. The show of solidarity came during President Yoweri Museveni’s rally in Soroti City, where Echodu, the NRM Regional Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda and aspirant for Soroti City West Division MP, praised the President’s contribution to peace, security, and development in the Teso sub-region. Echodu told the gathering that Soroti has transitioned from being an opposition hub to an NRM stronghold, crediting the transformation to Museveni’s steady leadership. “…Your Excellency, Soroti is no longer a centre of opposition – it is becoming an NRM base. This is the beginning of a new chapter for Soroti City and Soroti District…,” Echodu declared. He also revealed plans to establish a first-class golf club in Soroti City, aimed at attracting investors and promoting tourism in the region. “…Golf is a rich man’s business. Once we have a top-class golf facility here, investors will come and develop this place…,” he said, adding that the project will complement efforts to revamp the Soroti Industrial Park. As Echodu concluded his remarks, Flight Captain Mukula stepped forward to greet him, and the two leaders shared a moment of camaraderie – a gesture that drew applause from the crowd. Mukula, the former NRM Regional Vice Chairman for Eastern Uganda, agreed to work hand in hand with Echodu to mobilize votes for President Museveni and consolidate party unity across the region. Their public reconciliation is seen by many as a significant boost for the NRM’s mobilization drive in Teso, signaling a united front ahead of the 2026 elections. Source