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Oyam, Uganda | More than 30 young men in Oyam District are earning a living by ferrying passengers across Akot Swamp, a hazardous yet vital waterway linking Oyam Town Council and Iceme Subcounty. The swamp, located between Akotcwe village in Aberabwot B Parish and settlements in Barokok and Aluta cells, serves as the shortest and most affordable route for residents. Passengers pay between UGX 500 and UGX 3,000 depending on the load, far cheaper than alternative routes, which are longer and costlier. For many locals, the crossing is the only practical way to reach markets, health facilities, and the district’s administrative offices. The job, however, exposes the youth to multiple risks, Daniel Okello, 26, who has been operating a boat for eight years, said the trade had enabled him to support his family but that conditions remained harsh. He explained that they lacked sanitation facilities, were often underpaid by clients, faced threats from aquatic animals, and sometimes endured harassment from groups such as the so-called “Bankok boys.” Bonny Okech, Vice Chairperson of the Akot Swamp Boat Sailors, described the trade as little more than a struggle to survive. He warned that a growing number of school-age boys were abandoning their education to join the business, stressing that as a leader, he could not tolerate dropouts joining the work since their future needed to be protected. Okech further appealed for government and political leaders to intervene, saying that the construction of a bridge across Akot Swamp would ease travel and improve access to essential services such as Anyeke Health Centre IV and the district headquarters. Despite the dangers, some of the boatmen viewed the work as a stepping stone to greater opportunities. Richard Okello, another sailor, said the trade had transformed their lives, noting that they were now investing in livestock and had started a savings group to strengthen their financial position. For now, the young sailors continue their daily routine across the swamp, balancing the risks of the trade against the pressing need to earn a living. Source

Lira, Uganda | Local governments across Uganda must submit their Budget Framework Papers for the 2026/27 financial year by 14 November 2025, in line with the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA) Cap 171 and existing grant guidelines. Local Government Leaders at Margaritha Palace Hotel for MoFPED FY 2026/27 Budget Consultative Meeting The directive was issued on Monday 15 September 2025 by Hellen Jenny Owechi, Commissioner IT & Performance Audit in the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED), while representing Finance Minister Matia Kasaija at a local government budget consultative workshop at Margaritha Palace Hotel in Lira City. The meeting, held under the theme “Full Monetisation of Uganda’s Economy through Commercial Agriculture, Industrialisation, Expanding and Broadening Services, Digital Transformation and Market Access”, followed the National Budget Conference at Speke Resort Munyonyo on 11 September, which officially launched the 2026/27 budget preparation process as guided by Article 155 of the Constitution and Section 12 of the PFMA. Owechi called on districts to complete their Local Government Development Plans (LGDPs) by 31 March 2026 to enable timely budget releases. She stressed the role of accounting officers in ensuring political leaders are fully engaged in the preparation and execution process. She revealed that while 25 votes had submitted final development plans aligned with the fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) by March 2025, most institutions remain behind schedule, with 18 yet to even initiate drafting. The 2026/27 budget is the second year of NDP IV implementation, the first plan to deliver the Tenfold Growth Strategy, and the final plan aligned to Agenda 2030 of the Sustainable Development Goals. It will also be the first to operationalise the ruling party’s 2026/27–2030/31 manifesto. The workshop brought forward several concerns from local government representatives. Kotido Municipality Mayor Irar Peter Abrahams noted that the UGX 1 billion annual road grant often goes unutilised due to lack of road maintenance equipment. He urged MoFPED to address the issue and called for economic empowerment of all District Service Commission members to curb corruption during recruitment. Dokolo District Speaker Joel Opota Okuma also expressed concern over future breakdowns of road machinery, pointing to the absence of a maintenance budget. Apac District Planner Agunsi Benedict said grant allocations should reflect road network sizes, citing Oyam District’s 500km of roads compared with Apac’s 300km, despite both receiving equal funding. He also flagged inadequate staffing in hospitals, dilapidated infrastructure, and insufficient vehicles for departmental heads. Alebtong District LCV Chairperson David Kennedy Odongo highlighted Uganda’s high accident rates, linking them to poor physical planning. He questioned government’s commitment to increasing allocations to local governments, warning that service delivery would remain stagnant without reform. Assistant Commissioner Budget Policy and Evaluation Department MOFPED, Joseph Oloo Majanga, said the consultations aimed to capture challenges and views from district leaders before finalising the 2026/27 budget. He explained that the engagements also reviewed programme grant guidelines and funding dissemination processes. The Lira City meeting drew participants from Otuke, Dokolo, Alebtong, Lira, Kole, Kotido, and Apac districts, including RDCs, CAOs, speakers, and district chairpersons. Similar consultative sessions will be held in Jinja and Mbale to cover Uganda’s four traditional regions. However, eight local governments, Bugweri, Butebo, Buvuma, Gomba, Kalungu, Kiboga, Luuka, and Lugazi Municipality, remain without draft LGDP IVs, raising concerns over their readiness for the upcoming financial year as Uganda prepares for National Planning Authority  (NPA) Vision 2040. Source

Alebtong, Uganda | The Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Alebtong, Mathias Lutwama, has released findings from a district-wide inspection of schools, highlighting both progress and persistent challenges in the education sector. He was accompanied by Assistant RDC, Okello Jimmy, during the Monday 15 September 2025 field visit. Ogogoro Primary School recorded a total enrolment of 1,765 pupils, which the RDC described as a positive reflection of government’s commitment to universal education. However, the school is staffed by only 12 teachers, raising concerns over workload and the pupil–teacher ratio. Lutwama noted that the available teachers are well skilled in delivering the new curriculum introduced by the Ministry of Education. The RDC’s team also warned that teenage pregnancies remain a serious obstacle to girls’ education in the area, calling for stronger interventions to protect learners. At Alebtong Primary School, the RDC commended the successful adoption of Early Grade Reading (EGR) and Early Grade Mathematics (EGM) programmes, in line with national policy. He further praised parents for voluntarily contributing to pupil feeding, describing the initiative as a sign of collective responsibility in education. However, sanitation and hygiene were identified as major weaknesses. Lutwama urged the administration to undertake systematic reviews to improve conditions within the school environment. Akibua Comprehensive Secondary School, which currently has 452 students, was recognised for strong academic standards and student discipline. The RDC cited the government’s recent decision to raise the capitation grant per secondary student to UGX 50,000 as an opportunity for schools to mobilise more learners in support of national human capital development goals. At Aloi Secondary School, where 510 students are enrolled, teachers were found to be 85% compliant with the Education Management and Information System (EMIS) requirements. The RDC recommended that the Ministry of Education provide more updated curriculum materials to the school library. He also pointed to competence-based tests and extra lessons as critical tools for improving academic performance. In summing up the inspection, Deputy RDC Lutwama applauded the government’s continued investment in education and thanked President Yoweri Museveni for what he termed the “patriotic execution of the NRM manifesto,” which he said has strengthened the foundation of universal education across Alebtong and Uganda at large. Source

Kaberamido, Uganda | Police in Kaberamaido District are holding a 50-year-old man accused of killing his 18-year-old son following a domestic dispute over food. The incident, which occurred on September 10, 2025, in Olabo village, Kamuk Parish, Kaberamaido Sub-county, left residents in shock after what police described as an avoidable tragedy. According to the District Police Commander, SP David Otabong, the altercation began when the deceased, identified as Ebwalu Joseph, returned home late at night and asked his mother for food. She reportedly told him there was nothing left, since his father had consumed all the fish caught from the lake earlier in the day. This sparked a confrontation between father and son, during which the suspect allegedly picked up a hoe and fatally assaulted his child. The suspect is currently detained at Kaberamaido Central Police Station as investigations continue. Police confirmed that the case has been registered under CRB/36/11/09/2025, and once inquiries are complete, the file will be forwarded to the Resident State Attorney for legal advice. If convicted, the suspect will face murder charges, which under Uganda’s Penal Code Act carry a maximum penalty of death. Police have assured the public that justice will be pursued, while the community continues to grapple with the loss of a young life in a dispute that authorities say could have been avoided. Source

Lira, Uganda | The Bishop of Lira Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sanctus Lino Wanok, has appointed Rev. Fr. Dr. Polycarp Opio as the new Vicar for the Clergy of Lira Diocese. Fr. Dr. Opio, who has been serving as Chairperson of the Lira Diocesan Priests Association (LIDIPA), takes over from the late Monsignor Ponsiano Okalo, who passed away in July 2025. The appointment was announced by Bishop Wanok on Monday, September 15, 2025, during the climax of the Curia meeting held at St. Daniel Comboni Diocesan Boardroom, Barogole. As Vicar for the Clergy, Fr. Dr. Opio will support the Bishop in matters concerning the life and ministry of priests. His role will include offering pastoral care and accompaniment to clergy, coordinating ongoing formation and capacity building, promoting fraternity and unity among priests, and presenting their concerns before the Bishop and the diocesan Curia. Fr. Dr. Opio holds a Doctorate in Moral Theology from Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski University (UKSW) in Warsaw, Poland, which he obtained in January 2024. He also serves as the National Director of Ugandan Catholics Online (UCO). In his message, Bishop Wanok urged the faithful to pray for the newly appointed Vicar for the Clergy so that he may faithfully and fruitfully carry out the pastoral responsibilities entrusted to him. #LDNA Source

By HAron Okwir Otuke, Uganda | The Archdeacon of Orum Archdeaconry, Ven. Rev. Capt. Apollo Owikene, has cautioned students in Otuke District against bad behavior that undermines their education and future. Rev. Owikene made the remarks on Friday, September 12, while addressing over 345 students, parents, and religious leaders at St. Paul Church of Uganda, Orum headquarters. The gathering drew participants from Otuke Town Council, Orum Sub-county, Olilim Sub-county, and neighboring areas as students prepared to return to school on Monday. He warned students against engaging in strikes, noting that such actions only invite expulsions from school. He urged teachers and administrators to listen to students’ concerns rather than ignoring them. The Archdeacon also raised concern about lifestyles among youth, including indecent dressing, drug abuse, and excessive alcohol consumption. He condemned teenage pregnancies, urging girls to remain vigilant and calling on parents to openly engage their children about its dangers. Rev. Owikene appealed to parents, political leaders, civil servants, and religious leaders to join forces in addressing the rising problem of school dropout, which he attributed to early pregnancies and failure by some parents to pay school fees. Meanwhile, James Angura of St. Paul C.O.U urged students to obey their parents, teachers, and religious leaders, citing Ephesians 6:1-3. He emphasized that indiscipline only leads to a wasted life, with many youths engaging in reckless behavior that results in premature deaths. Retired head teacher and church elder, Charles Awio Otim, encouraged students to prioritize learning, stressing that they represent the future leadership of the country. Source

Alebtong, Uganda | As Uganda marks 81 years of President Yoweri Museveni’s life, communities in Alebtong District have received significant financial support under his Emyooga programme, a government initiative designed to strengthen parish-based associations and promote household income generation. According to Mathias Lutwama, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner for Alebtong, various Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) have so far accessed funding ranging from 50 million to 100 million shillings, depending on performance and impact. Seventeen SACCOs in Ajuri and Moroto constituencies have already received 50 million shillings per group. These include; Ajuri Women Entrepreneurs, Moroto Fishermen, Ajuri Welders, Moroto Market Vendors, Ajuri Boda Boda Riders, Moroto Salon Operators, Moroto Persons with Disabilities, Ajuri Carpenters, Ajuri Market Vendors, Moroto Restaurant Owners, Ajuri Fishermen, Moroto Carpenters, Moroto Journalists, Ajuri Youth Leaders, Ajuri Persons with Disabilities, Ajuri Women Entrepreneurs (second allocation), Moroto Veterans and Widows. Two SACCOs composed of local leaders have benefited at a higher level, each receiving 70 million shillings: Moroto and Ajuri Local Leaders. The Moroto Women Entrepreneurs SACCO, which has been ranked the best-performing group in the entire Lango subregion, received 100 million shillings, making it the single largest beneficiary in the district. Lutwama commended the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Members of Parliament – Denis Hamson Obua (Ajuri Constituency) amd Samuel Okwir Odwee (Moroto Constituency) for their role in mobilising and organising communities around the programme. He stressed that their coordination has been instrumental in ensuring that parish-based associations are functional and responsive to government support. The district has now set its focus on strengthening the institutional capacity of newly formed parish-based associations eager to join the Emyooga programme. Lutwama said this would ensure sustainability and expand opportunities for more households to benefit. The Emyooga initiative, introduced under the NRM manifesto, targets specialised enterprise groups such as welders, carpenters, market vendors, youth leaders, and persons with disabilities. It aims to tackle unemployment, increase household incomes, and encourage a culture of saving and investment. Source

Kaberamido, Uganda | Kaberamido District Council has approved the list of six students admitted to public universities under the District Quota System Scheme for the 2025/2026 academic year. The approval was made during a council meeting held on Friday, chaired by District Speaker James Eisu. The beneficiaries include Eyetu Rafeal and Ochen Felix, both from Midland High School, who were admitted to Makerere University to pursue Bachelor of Computer Science. Others admitted at Makerere are Erupu Benjamin from Kaberamido SS, who will study Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, and Amuge Jane from St. Thomas Girls SS, who will pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Education. At Kyambogo University, the beneficiaries are Mpaire Allan from Midland High School, admitted to Bachelor of Vocational Studies in Art and Design in Education, and Ameso Phoebe from St. Thomas Girls SS, admitted to Bachelor of Business Administration. Damelie Ajubu, the Secretary for Education and Health, applauded the administration of Midland High School, St. Thomas Girls SS, and Kaberamido SS for producing competent candidates who secured government sponsorship. She also urged the beneficiaries to work hard while at university and excel in their academic journey. Fredrick Oboi, the Secretary for Finance and Administration and councillor for Okike Sub-county, encouraged parents to prioritize schools within the district if they want their children to benefit from government sponsorship. Simon Ekwanyu, the councillor representing persons with disabilities, called on government to introduce a special education grant for children with disabilities. In the same sitting, the council approved a supplementary budget of Shs165 million towards the completion of Swagere Seed Secondary School in Ochero Sub-county. Source

Lira, Uganda | The territorial police in Lira City Central Police Station have arrested 31 suspects in an intelligence-led operation conducted on the night of September 12, 2025. According to North Kyoga Regional Police spokesperson SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the operation targeted crime-prone areas including Kitgum stage, Lira Taxi Park, Camp Swahili, Ipito Aweno (Pipe), and the surroundings of Lira Main Market. Police recovered house-breaking implements, dangerous weapons allegedly used in robberies, narcotic substances such as opium, and aviation fuel. Okema explained that all suspects are currently detained at Lira CPS where screening is underway, and those found culpable will be investigated and charged accordingly. He further noted that the mop-up operation is part of ongoing efforts to ensure a crime-free society in Lira City and will be extended to other districts across the North Kyoga region. Source

Lira, Uganda | Uganda’s agriculture sector is set for a major transformation after Syova Seed Uganda Ltd officially launched its latest sunflower hybrid, AGSUN 8251, at Good News Hotel in Lira City on Friday September 12, 2025. The hybrid, designed to withstand drought, resist pests, and deliver higher oil content, is expected to improve yields and strengthen farmers’ incomes across the country. During the launch, Lira City Agricultural Officer Denis O. Ocaha urged cooperatives and input dealers to supply only certified seeds, warning that counterfeit inputs undermine farmers’ efforts and threaten national food security. Government representative Alip Patrick echoed this message, describing seeds as the foundation of agriculture. He cautioned dealers against illegal imports, insisting that only seed shipments with official permits would be allowed into the country. Alip outlined a series of strict measures aimed at cleaning up the seed industry and protecting farmers; ● Mandatory testing – All seeds distributed by NGOs and development partners must undergo laboratory verification before being sold or donated. ● Ban on open market sales – Seeds and agrochemicals will no longer be sold in informal markets, with dealers required to obtain licenses or face penalties. ● Improved packaging – Seed companies, including Syova and Mukano, were urged to enhance packaging standards to protect quality, with concerns raised over the use of cheaper bags that compromise seed integrity. Alip also praised local agro-dealer Susan for her strong stance against counterfeit suppliers, presenting her as an example for others in the sector. A follow-up meeting to finalize regulatory frameworks will be held on September 18, 2025. Expected participants include Lira City leaders, Mayor Sam Atul, representatives from SeedCo (Kenya), Syova Seed Ltd, the judiciary, the police, the army, and other security organs. The government confirmed that enforcement will be accompanied by a campaign to strengthen agricultural advisory services, acknowledging that only 180 extension workers currently serve nationwide, far fewer than needed to support farmers adopting modern technologies. The AGSUN 8251 hybrid is seen as a breakthrough for sunflower production in Uganda. Its key features include high drought tolerance, increased oil content, and resistance to common pests. Agricultural experts believe widespread adoption will boost food security, create more income opportunities, and help Uganda progress towards its agricultural modernization goals. Officials stressed that the partnership between government agencies, seed companies, and farmers will be critical in ensuring the success of the new variety and the elimination of counterfeit seeds from the market. Source