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Lira, Uganda | Lira University Teaching Hospital, in partnership with its Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery and the Center for International Reproductive Health Training (CIRHT), has organised a three-day Maternal and Child Health Camp to provide free medical services to mothers and children. The camp, scheduled from 15th to 17th October 2025, aims to expand access to healthcare services, particularly for underserved populations in the Lango sub-region and surrounding communities. Assoc. Prof. Tom Richard Okello, Clinical Hospital Director, explained that the initiative would offer crucial health screenings and early interventions while empowering the community with knowledge on maternal and child health. He noted that the camp targets the needs of underserved populations, especially those in remote areas, by providing essential care and treatments that strengthen the local healthcare system. Anna Grace Auma, Dean of the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery and Senior Lecturer at CIRHT, stated that the camp brings services directly to communities that often struggle to access timely or specialized care. She highlighted that early detection of health issues in mothers and children enables more effective interventions. The camp will provide free services including cervical cancer screening, fertility and infertility consultations, fistula and prolapse screening, antenatal and postnatal care, family planning and post-abortion care, immunization, nutritional assessment and malnutrition screening, HIV/AIDS counselling and testing, and general gynaecological surgeries. A lab technician will demonstrate the use of medical equipment and explain how various laboratory investigations are conducted, giving patients a better understanding of their care. Auma also emphasized that the camp provides a platform to inform the community about health issues, promote healthier behaviours, and build trust between the community and healthcare providers. She added that the hospital staff are prepared to provide care with dignity and compassion, ensuring that patients receive quality services and report high satisfaction. The camp represents a significant effort to improve maternal and child health, enhance reproductive healthcare access, and strengthen the overall healthcare delivery system in the Lango subregion. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Police in Dokolo District have launched an investigation following a daring burglary in which unidentified thieves broke into Oscom Uganda, an agent banking outlet, and stole millions of shillings in cash and equipment. The incident happened on the night of 12th October 2025, along the Dokolo–Alebtong Road, and was discovered the following morning at about 7:00 am. when an employee arrived for work and found the door open. According to the territorial police in Dokolo, the criminals gained entry into the premises by breaking the door and later damaged the safe that contained the money. Early findings indicate that approximately UGX 68 million was stolen, along with teller machines and banking accessories used for services under major institutions, including Centenary Bank, DFCU, Post Bank, and Stanbic Bank. Police said the outlet had no CCTV cameras and was not protected by armed guards, though two watchmen were employed, one stationed behind and another in front of the building. Investigations revealed that the watchman assigned to the front of the outlet was absent that night. A joint team of detectives from Dokolo Central Police Station visited the scene, where they recovered, breaking implements believed to have been used during the break-in. A subsequent search in the nearby bushes around Angwecebange Primary School led to the recovery of a teller machine and coins abandoned by the suspects. Dokolo District Police Commander, Patience Baganzi, confirmed the incident, saying three suspects had been arrested and exhibits recovered. She said investigations were progressing to establish the identities of all those involved and to recover the stolen funds. The Regional Police Spokesperson for North Kyoga, SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, appealed to the public to share any information that could lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects. He further advised the business community to install CCTV cameras and strengthen security at their workplaces to deter such crimes. The Chairperson of Dokolo Business Association, Abel Ekol, said business owners continue to face challenges with security, particularly during night hours. He urged traders to employ trained security guards and emphasized the need for additional police manpower in the area. Fellow businessman Michael Obwor expressed disappointment with the level of vigilance among security personnel, questioning why thefts continue despite the presence of police patrols and trained dogs meant to track suspects. The owner of the outlet, Oscar Okello, who was in Kampala at the time of the incident, described the burglary as a major setback to his business operations. He said the loss was devastating, especially at a time when many small enterprises are still struggling to recover from post-pandemic financial challenges. Police have maintained that investigations are ongoing, with efforts focused on tracking down all individuals linked to the crime and recovering the stolen property. Source

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By Haron Okwir Otuke, Uganda | Otuke District has ushered in a new Uganda National Students Association (UNSA) leadership, with education stakeholders urging the students to use the platform responsibly while prioritising their studies. The elections, held at Okwang Technical Institute, attracted delegates from various schools across the district. Although some institutions such as Orum SS and Mary Asumpta Girls SS did not participate, the exercise was described as competitive and successful. Speakers at the event stressed that while leadership equips students with skills for the future, academic performance remains the most important qualification. The District Education Officer, Madam Lucy Acheng, said the new leaders must hold regular meetings to strengthen coordination but warned them against neglecting books. District Coordinator John Kennedy Meri echoed similar sentiments, urging both outgoing and incoming leaders to concentrate on teamwork while keeping academics first. “…The certificate they get from leadership is good, but the one they are studying for will help them more…,” he said. Outgoing president Enyang Walter encouraged the new team to complete unfinished projects such as tree planting and setting up a district signpost, while also consolidating gains made under his tenure, including the establishment of a debating competition. The new president pledged to focus on improving communication among schools and making the association more vibrant in Otuke. Patron leaders, such as Janet Atim Arach of Okwang SS, reminded the students that leadership is a calling and asked them to be exemplary. Source

Oyam, Uganda | More than 200 patients at St. John XXIII Hospital Aber in Oyam District has received Independence Day donations from the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) leadership in Oyam South Constituency. The UPC team, led by Oyam South parliamentary flag bearer Geoffrey Owili, visited the hospital on 9th October as part of Uganda’s 63rd Independence anniversary celebrations. The donations included sugar, soap, and basins, which were distributed to patients in maternity and surgical wards. Supporters from Aber, Kamdini, Ocini, Minakulu, Myene, and Loro Subcounties also participated in cleaning the hospital compound and its surroundings in a community service exercise aimed at promoting hygiene and solidarity with the patients. Kamdini Subcounty UPC Chairperson Quinto Obong said the initiative was intended to share with those in need and to demonstrate the party’s long-standing values of unity, compassion, and community service. Owili explained that the activity reflected the UPC’s founding principles of social responsibility and care for the vulnerable. He said the visit was meant to help patients feel included in the Independence Day celebrations and to remind Ugandans of the party’s contribution to the nation’s liberation in 1962. He further noted that the cleanup exercise symbolized the party’s appreciation for health workers who continue to serve under difficult conditions. Eugene Oscar Odur, the Human Resource Officer at St. Pope John XXIII Hospital Aber appreciated the UPC leadership for their gesture of goodwill. He said the visit demonstrated community solidarity and had motivated both patients and staff on such a special occasion. A patient from Bala Subcounty in Kole District, Babra Akullu, expressed gratitude for the donation, saying it had reduced her burden and made her feel cared for during her recovery. The hospital visit was one of several community outreach activities organized by the Uganda People’s Congress in Oyam South to commemorate Uganda’s Independence Day under the theme “Building a United and Prosperous Uganda. Source

Lira, Uganda | More than 2,800 students from Lira University and other tertiary institutions in Lira City have completed Patriotism Training, an initiative designed to strengthen national unity, discipline, and civic responsibility among Uganda’s youth. The graduation ceremony, held on 7th October 2025 at Lira University Main Campus, saw 2,865 students formally passed out as patriots. The trainees were drawn from four universities and nine tertiary institutions, including medical and technical schools. Lira City Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Lawrence Egole praised President Yoweri Museveni for introducing the Patriotism Training Programme in schools and higher institutions of learning. He said the initiative had reinforced national pride and prepared young citizens to play a meaningful role in Uganda’s transformation. Egole emphasized that patriotism formed the moral foundation of a stable and united nation, fostering loyalty, hard work, and love for the country. He explained that the government had invested in building patriotism among students because they represented the country’s future leadership and workforce. He further noted that through the training, students learned Uganda’s history, understood its national symbols, and appreciated the importance of unity and cultural heritage. He added that the programme encouraged discipline and selfless service while inspiring learners to become agents of positive change in their communities. Lira University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng commended the RCC’s office for coordinating the training and ensuring that it benefited institutions across the city. He said the programme had promoted character formation, leadership development, and civic engagement among students. Prof. Ogwal Okeng observed that students who underwent the training were better prepared to uphold values such as honesty, integrity, and teamwork—qualities he described as essential for national development. He stressed that patriotic students were motivated to serve their nation with dedication and purpose, adding that the programme nurtured discipline and leadership critical to Uganda’s progress. Lira University Dean of Students, Emma Aceng, said the patriotism programme had helped to strengthen unity and cooperation among students from different ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds. She explained that it promoted social cohesion by encouraging tolerance, mutual respect, and a shared national identity. Aceng added that the training had also helped students to become responsible citizens who respected laws, protected public property, and contributed to community and national development initiatives. She expressed appreciation to the university management for supporting the programme and hosting the ceremony, describing it as a milestone in nurturing a generation of students committed to peace, progress, and national service. The Patriotism Training Programme, initiated by the Office of the President, continues to be implemented in schools and universities across Uganda to instil discipline, civic duty, and national values among young people. Source

Otuke, Uganda | A young IT professional from the Lango Subregion, Sedrick Otolo, captured President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s attention during a meeting on Tuesday, October 7, 2025 at Baralegi State Lodge in Otuke District after passionately appealing for the establishment of an Innovation Hub in Northern Uganda. Otolo told the President that he has spent the last four years pursuing the idea of a regional innovation centre that would help young people develop and showcase their technological skills. He said the hub would provide a space for training, collaboration, and creativity, reducing the need for innovators to travel to Kampala to access facilities. His message drew loud applause from journalists and local leaders attending the engagement, who commended his courage and vision for youth empowerment. Otolo also asked the government to find ways of supporting talented youths who may not be fluent in English but have exceptional technical skills. He said such young people often go unnoticed despite their potential to contribute to national development. President Museveni, visibly impressed by the presentation, praised Otolo for thinking beyond himself and speaking on behalf of the youth. He said the government remains committed to promoting innovation and pledged to meet Otolo personally at State House to discuss the proposal in detail. Otolo is part of a group of young innovators from the Lango Subregion who are promoting digital literacy, mentorship, and community-based technology projects. Their initiatives have helped hundreds of youths gain practical ICT skills and confidence to pursue their ideas. The meeting at Baralegi is being seen as a major breakthrough for young innovators in Northern Uganda and a sign that their voices are beginning to influence national policy on science and technology. Source

Otuke, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has ordered the Ministry of Works and Transport to immediately start upgrading the Lira–Abim road to tarmac. Otuke East MP Julius Acon Bua confirmed the directive, saying he received communication from Government Chief Whip Denis Hamson Obua and Speaker of Parliament Anita Among following a Cabinet meeting chaired by the President. He said Mr Museveni instructed Works Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala to begin work without delay. Acon said the order followed the President’s recent rallies in Alebtong and Otuke, where residents demanded that the road be upgraded. He noted that the Lira–Abim road is a key route linking districts in the Lango sub-region, and its poor condition has affected trade, health services, and transport. He said the upgrade will open up the region for investment and ease movement of goods and people. He commended Lango MPs and district leaders for consistently pushing for the road’s rehabilitation, saying their efforts had paid off. Otuke Business Community Chairperson Lwoch Martin said the President’s decision will help revive trade in the area. He said business has been greatly affected by the poor road network, with traders taking up to two days to travel from Otuke to Lira. He added that some transporters have abandoned the route because of the bad road, increasing the cost of doing business. Lwoch urged the Ministry of Works to implement the order quickly, saying a tarmac road will boost trade and revenue collection. Orum Sub-county LC III Chairperson Bosco Okullu said the poor road has pushed transport fares from Shs10,000 to Shs20,000 and made ambulance movements difficult. He said many lives have been lost due to delays in reaching Lira hospitals. Okullu said the road upgrade will improve access to health and education services and support economic growth in Otuke and neighbouring districts. Source

Dokolo, Uganda | Iguli Girls Secondary School, one of the two girls’ schools in Dokolo District, is grappling with critical infrastructure shortages as candidates prepare for the 2025 national examinations. On Tuesday, October 7, the school dedicated 74 candidates, 57 in Senior Four and 17 in Senior Six, to God ahead of their Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE) and Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) exams. Headteacher Apili Anna said the school lacks key facilities, including a science laboratory, library, computer laboratory, fence, and administration block. She appealed for government intervention and urged NRM flagbearer Joseph Jones Ogwal, who attended the ceremony, to advocate for the school if elected MP for Dokolo North in 2026. Apili noted that Ogwal had previously donated UGX 500,000 to support the school’s sports activities at both district and national levels. She emphasized that the development of any nation rests on educating the girl child, describing girls’ education as the cornerstone of sustainable growth. NRM parliamentary flagbearer Joseph Jones Ogwal commended the peaceful environment created by the government, saying it now allows learners to focus on academics without the fear of insecurity that affected the region during the Lord’s Resistance Army insurgency. He said there is no excuse for students not to excel under such stability. Ogwal pledged to make Iguli Girls Secondary School a pilot centre for his Girl Child Empowerment Programme and to train five doctors and thirty nurses during his 2026–2031 term as MP to build a critical mass of health professionals in the community. He expressed concern about the rise in teenage pregnancies, saying many girls aged 14 were becoming mothers and vowed to promote equal education opportunities for both genders. He said education remains the most effective tool for ending poverty and gender inequality. Erechu Lameck Tonny, Dokolo District Inspector of Schools, urged parents to remain committed to paying school fees and supporting their children’s education beyond O’ and A’levels. He reminded students that success requires effort, discipline, and consistency. Rev. Fr. Francis Elvis Ojok, the Chairperson Board of Governors, said the school continues to operate peacefully despite a recent drop in enrolment caused by teacher disputes. He explained that some teachers who were transferred had lured students to other schools but maintained that Iguli Girls remains among the best-performing institutions in the district. Fr. Ojok urged parents to seek accurate information directly from the school rather than relying on rumours. He also noted that no student has ever been reported pregnant since he began serving as Board Chair. The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has scheduled the 2025 UCE examinations to begin with a briefing on October 10, marking the second year of assessment under the Competency-Based Curriculum, while the UACE examinations will commence with a briefing on November 7, serving as the final stage of the 2025 academic calendar. Source

Oyam, Uganda | President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has approved the creation of Aber District, to be carved out of Oyam District, in a move aimed at improving service delivery and bringing government services closer to the people. The announcement was made on Tuesday, 7 October, during the President’s campaign rally at Oyam Boma Grounds as part of the NRM 2026 campaign trail. President Museveni said that the government had received repeated requests from Oyam residents and leaders to split the district, which is among the largest in Northern Uganda. He explained that the decision was taken to enhance efficiency and promote equitable access to public services. He noted that the government would handle both the issue of creating Aber District and improving the roads, adding that if resources permitted, both projects would proceed simultaneously; otherwise, priority would be given to roads. In a rare gesture, the president asked the crowd to decide whether the government should prioritize the Bobi–Loro road upgrade or the creation of Aber District. The residents overwhelmingly opted for the new district, where he then told them that their choice would be respected and assured them that while the district would be created, the road project would not be abandoned. Bosco Onyike Ogwal, NRM chairperson for Oyam District, said the district’s vastness had made it difficult to deliver services effectively. He explained that Oyam, with more than 1,000 villages, is the largest district in Northern Uganda and second only to Wakiso nationwide. He stressed that it was no longer practical for one administrative unit to serve such a large population and that creating Aber District was a necessary step toward improving access to government services. Willy Omodo Omodo, the NRM flag bearer for Oyam North Constituency, also supported the creation of the new district. He pointed out that Oyam North alone has 674 villages, more than the entire district of Alebtong, which has around 600. He wondered why the area had not yet benefited from the government’s decentralization policy when other regions had already received new districts. Crispus Ayena Odongo said the creation of Aber District represented a restoration of dignity for the people, describing it as long-overdue recognition for their patience and struggle. He emphasized that the new district was not merely a geographical boundary but a symbol of justice and development. Normmy Otyeno, Speaker of the Oyam District Council, said the local government welcomed the decision with enthusiasm and readiness to support its implementation. He expressed optimism that Aber District would promote unity, create employment opportunities, and stimulate growth, especially among young people. Conny Atoo, a female councillor representing Oyam Town Council, said the establishment of the new district would enhance access to education, health, and other social services while addressing unemployment challenges faced by the youth. During his address, President Museveni commended Oyam District for its strong performance under the Parish Development Model (PDM), noting that it ranked first in Northern Uganda and fourth nationally in implementation. He said that Shs 15.26 billion had already been disbursed to 15,358 beneficiary households across 74 parishes. Out of 110,658 households, he added, more than half had been in the subsistence economy but were now transitioning into the money economy through the PDM. On education, the President reported that Oyam currently has 109 government and 160 private primary schools, as well as 10 government and 10 private secondary schools. He pledged that, under the new government term, every parish would have a government primary school, and every subcounty would have a government secondary school. Source