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Kumi, Uganda | The Government of Uganda has pledged to develop the Nyero Rock Paintings site in Kumi District into a major education study centre for schools and institutions across the country. The commitment was revealed by Kokoi Diana Rose, the Assistant Conservator of Nyero Rock Paintings, while addressing pupils of Kwera Lake View Nursery and Primary School from Dokolo District during their study tour at the historical site on Friday. Kokoi explained that the Nyero Rock Paintings are a significant historical and geographical site believed to have been first settled by early humans during the Stone Age period, between 1,000 and 3,000 years ago. She noted that the centre currently receives both local and international tourists as well as learners from across Uganda. She further encouraged schools to begin organising study tours to Nyero Rock Paintings, which fall under the Ministry of Tourism. The pupils also visited the Soroti Flying School and the Soroti Regional Museum as part of their educational trip. Isaac Alunyu, a Primary Six pupil at Kwera Lake View Nursery and Primary School, said he had learnt a lot from the trip, including lessons about early man and meteorology, which he believes will greatly enhance his academic journey. The school’s headteacher, Bonny Ojok, welcomed the Ministry’s plan and observed that the knowledge acquired during the trip would positively impact the learners’ performance. He advised parents to support study tours, saying they provide learners with practical experiences that complement classroom knowledge and improve academic outcomes. The government says the transformation of Nyero Rock Paintings into a study centre is part of efforts to preserve Uganda’s cultural heritage while promoting education and tourism. Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira University has received medical equipment valued at $150,000 (approximately UGX 600 million) from Seeding Labs, a Boston-based non-profit organisation that supports scientific research and training in developing countries. The consignment is expected to strengthen teaching, research, and clinical services at the Faculty of Medicine and the University Teaching Hospital. The Acting Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Dr. Olwa Francis, who received the shipment on 19 August 2025, said the equipment would play a critical role in improving the quality of medical training and research at the university. The grant was secured in 2023 by Dr. Nakaziba Rebecca from the Pharmacology Department, who applied to Seeding Labs on behalf of the institution. She explained that the consignment, which included high-tech tools such as Pharmaceutical High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) machines, a Perinatal Clinical Research Centre (PRCR), and safety hoods, had arrived at the port of Mombasa on 11 May 2025 before being transported to Lira. Dr. Nakaziba noted that the donation was intended to support teaching and research in low-resource institutions. She added that the equipment was expected to enhance the capacity of both students and staff, enabling them to undertake advanced research projects and improve the university’s contribution to the health sector. Vice Chancellor Prof. Jasper Ogwal Okeng commended Seeding Labs for its continued commitment to supporting higher education and healthcare in developing countries. He pointed out that the equipment would allow university scientists to expand research, innovate in health care, and train the next generation of medical professionals. Prof. Ogwal Okeng further observed that access to modern laboratory technology would help the university teaching hospital to improve the quality of care. He said the donated tools would enable lecturers and students to conduct research in different fields and address local health challenges. He also highlighted that the consignment would provide opportunities for students and researchers to gain hands-on training, practical experience, and essential skills vital for professional development. He emphasised that this exposure would prepare graduates to contribute more effectively to their communities and to the wider health system. Seeding Labs, which has donated similar equipment to other institutions across the world, says its mission is to bridge the technology gap in scientific research and education by supporting under-resourced universities. Source

Kole, Uganda | Kole North is gearing up for a competitive parliamentary race in the 2026 general elections after former NRM aspirant Patrick Awongo Ogwal announced he will run as an independent, following his defeat in the party’s primaries to incumbent MP Dr. Samuel Opio Acuti. Awongo, who picked nomination forms on Wednesday, claimed that the NRM primary results had been manipulated to favour the incumbent. He insisted, however, that the ultimate decision would be made by the electorate during the general election scheduled for January next year. Although launching an independent campaign, Awongo stressed that he remains aligned with the NRM and intends to continue supporting the party unless it formally disowns him. He outlined that his campaign will focus on improving access to quality education, strengthening healthcare services, promoting modern agricultural practices to support farmers, and ensuring effective representation for the people of Kole North. Awongo also highlighted that his decision to run as an independent is driven by a desire to give constituents a genuine choice, reflecting concerns from the community about internal party processes and ensuring that the voice of the people is respected. Political analysts suggest that Awongo’s entry as an independent could turn the race into one of the most closely watched contests in Lango Subregion. The Electoral Commission of Uganda has officially opened nominations for candidates aspiring to represent constituencies in Uganda’s 2025-2026 Parliament. Prospective MPs must be at least 18 years old and possess a minimum of an A’ Level education or its equivalent. Each candidate is required to present the support of at least 10 registered voters from their constituency and pay a nomination fee of UGX 3,000,000. Public officers intending to contest are expected to resign by 17 July 2025 ahead of the nomination period, which is scheduled for 15–16 October 2025 at the designated Gazetted District Nomination Centers across the country. Source

Oyam, Uganda | A new Health Centre III has been commissioned in Iceme Subcounty, Oyam District, in a bid to expand access to healthcare services in rural areas. Official Handover of the Facility The facility, constructed by Buildmast Engineering Ltd at a cost of UGX 1.8 billion under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers (UGIFT) programme, was officially handed over to Oyam District Local Government on Wednesday, 20 August 2025. The in-charge of Okwir Health Centre III, Adupa Tobby, revealed that the facility began operations on 1 July 2024 under a tent with only three staff working in difficult conditions. He said the centre has since operated with seven staff, three technical and four support workers, well below the Ministry of Health’s recommended staffing levels. The unit currently lacks essential personnel such as a laboratory technician and midwives. Adupa also confirmed that the facility has yet to receive medical supplies from the National Medical Stores and has been relying on borrowed drugs from neighbouring health units. Chairperson of the Health Management Committee, Peter Agang, praised the local community for donating land for the project and said the collaboration between staff and the contractor had been smooth. He asked the district to prioritise the provision of water and electricity to the health centre. Community members expressed relief that the facility would reduce long journeys previously made to access medical services, saying that the absence of a nearby health unit had led to preventable deaths, especially among expectant mothers. They pledged to donate more land should expansion be needed. Oyam District Senior Engineer Robert Owiny confirmed that construction had been completed in full despite delays. The first phase included two staff houses, a maternity block, a four-stance drainable pit latrine, a placenta pit, and a medical waste pit. A similar package of works was also delivered at Acokara Health Centre III in Otwal Subcounty at the same cost of UGX 1.8 billion under the same contractor. Additional works were executed under separate contracts, including an UGX 850 million outpatient block, a twin staff house, line latrines, fencing and paved walkways by Sany Ventures Company Ltd, and a UGX 360 million triplet staff house by Alliance Technical Service Ltd. Assistant District Health Officer Caroline Agaro admitted that staffing gaps remain but pledged that more health workers would be deployed by the end of September this year. She urged existing staff to deliver maximum care, utilise the new facilities, and reside in the quarters provided. She also announced that the centre would begin receiving medical supplies directly from National Medical Stores during this financial year. Agaro added that efforts were underway to secure a land title for the facility. During the handover, contractor Romeo Muhangi of Buildmast Engineering Ltd presented the facility to Resident District Commissioner (RDC) James Shilaku, who cautioned staff against extorting patients or stealing drugs. Oyam LCV Chairperson, Benson Walter Dila Oyuku, described Okwir as a hard-to-reach area separated from Oyam Town Council by a large swamp and called on government to construct a bridge through the Smart Agriculture project. He said the district had already allocated funds for piped water to serve both the facility and the local community and confirmed that solar power installation would be implemented this financial year ahead of rural electrification. RDC Shilaku applauded the district leadership for prioritising healthcare, saying the new facility would significantly improve service delivery in Iceme Subcounty. Oyam District now has a total of 17 Health Centre IIIs, including the newly commissioned Okwir and Acokara Health Centres, aimed at expanding health coverage and reducing maternal and child mortality in the district. Source

Apac, Uganda | Speaking on behalf of Apac RDC Andrew Onyuk at the burial of UPDF recruit Dono Solomon, Jonal Okot, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner (ARDC) of Apac, called on young people not to be discouraged from joining the armed forces despite the tragic death of the recruit during a recent exercise. Okot described Dono as a hero and patriot, noting that he had appeared healthy and fit on the recruitment day, motivated by a strong desire to serve his country. He encouraged the family to take heart, reminding them that life and death are in God’s hands. Okot also urged young people not to fear joining the armed forces due to such incidents and emphasized the importance of education, stating that academic qualifications remain a key requirement for anyone aspiring to join the forces in the future. Alfred Jawaso Engim, LC III Chairperson of Ibuje Town Council, extended his condolences to the family and revealed that Dono had been involved in a motorcycle accident prior to the recruitment exercise. Medical examinations, including X-rays, had shown internal injuries and bleeding, and he had been advised to avoid heavy physical activity. Engim Jawaso added that the post-mortem results indicated Dono sustained internal tears from his previous injuries during the run, which led to severe bleeding and ultimately caused his death. He cautioned mourners against spreading rumors linking Dono’s death to the UPDF, emphasizing that it was the pre-existing injuries that led to the tragedy, not the recruitment exercise itself. Dono Solomon was laid to rest today in his ancestral home in Miciri B, Aberidwogo Ward, Ibuje Town Council, Apac District, with family, friends, and local leaders attending the funeral. Source

Lira, Uganda | The Territorial Police in Lira City East Division are investigating a disturbing incident involving a 15-year-old Primary Six pupil from Ireda Lumumba Cell, Ireda Ward, who was allegedly forced to consume human faeces and assaulted by two suspects, Otim Walter and his wife, identified only as Collin, at their residence on July 29, 2025. According to police reports, the victim visited a salon in the area to get a haircut. After completing the service, she inquired about a nearby facility for a short call and was directed by the salon owner, identified as Ongom, to an area behind the salon near the suspects’ home. As the victim was returning to the salon to pay for the service, she was allegedly confronted by Collin, who began beating her with a wire retrieved from her house. The situation escalated when Otim Walter the husband, returned from a trip and joined his wife in the assault. The couple reportedly threatened to kill the victim with a panga if she did not consume the faeces, forcing her to comply out of fear for her life. SP Jimmy Patrick Okema, Public Relations Officer for North Kyoga Region, stated that this is a very unfortunate and barbaric incident, emphasizing that the police condemn this act in the strongest terms and are committed to investigating the matter thoroughly. He added that the case file will be compiled and submitted to the Resident City State Attorney (RCSA) for perusal and legal advice. The police are pursuing charges under Section 154 of the Penal Code Act, which addresses negligent acts likely to spread disease. Authorities have called on the public to report similar incidents promptly to ensure swift action against such acts. The investigation is ongoing, and the police urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in delivering justice for the victim. Source

Otuke, Uganda | The territorial police in Otuke District are currently holding a suspect identified as Ongu Calvin in connection with the brutal murder of his grandfather, Ongu John, aged 76. The tragic incident occurred on the evening of Monday, 18th August 2025, at around 6:00 PM in Teokango Village, Anepkide Parish, Olilim Sub-County, Otuke District. According to a report registered at Olilim Sub-County Police Station on 19th August 2025 by a concerned resident, Owume Francis (32), the suspect attacked his grandfather following a domestic disagreement. It is alleged that the deceased had received a village loan of UGX 500,000 on 17th August. The following day, the suspect reportedly demanded UGX 10,000 to buy a new pair of shoes. Upon refusal, a scuffle ensued, during which the suspect allegedly stabbed the deceased with a knife. The victim was rushed to a nearby clinic but was pronounced dead shortly after. The suspect was apprehended by members of the community and handed over to police. A murder case was immediately registered at Olilim Sub-County Police Station. Police officers from Otuke Central Police Station (CPS) visited and thoroughly examined the crime scene. A knife suspected to be the murder weapon was recovered and has been exhibited as evidence. Statements from relevant witnesses have also been recorded. A postmortem examination was conducted, and the deceased’s body has since been handed over to the family for burial arrangements. SP Patrick Jimmy Okema, the Public Relations Officer for the North Kyoga Region, described the incident as very unfortunate and expressed concern over the increasing trend among youth to expect free things. He urged young people in the community to develop a strong work ethic and take personal responsibility instead of resorting to violence when denied material support. He further assured the public that the matter is being thoroughly investigated, and the case file will be compiled and submitted to the Resident Chief State Attorney (RCSA) for perusal and legal advice. Source

Mukono, Uganda | A group of armed men launched a coordinated string of robberies across parts of Mukono and Wakiso Districts in the early hours of Sunday, leaving residents in fear and prompting a swift response from local security forces. The attacks began at around 03:00 EAT on 27 July 2025, when the assailants, armed with pangas (machetes), descended on villages in Goma Division, Mukono District. According to police reports, the group first struck Nabweru in Mukono before extending their rampage through Kyaliwajjala and Sonde in Wakiso District. They later targeted Seeta Town in Mukono in what authorities believe was a well-coordinated operation. One of the suspects, during interrogation, admitted to the sequence of attacks and revealed the group’s movement between districts. The gang is believed to have used motorcycles to navigate between targeted locations. On their return journey to Nabweru, the robbers carried out an additional attack near Namanve Industrial Park along the Kampala–Jinja Highway. It was at this point that local boda-boda riders began pursuing the suspects, eventually alerting officers at the nearby Coca-Cola Police Post in Namanve. Security personnel responded promptly, and the search led them to an isolated spot behind KAWACOM Company within the industrial zone. During the confrontation, one of the robbers, identified as Nsubuga, attempted to hack a police officer with a panga. In response, the officer shot and incapacitated him. Nsubuga sustained gunshot wounds to the waist and leg and was later taken to the hospital for treatment. Two other suspects, Asimwe Stephen, 26, and Musinga Musa, 22, were arrested at the scene. A motorcycle bearing registration number UGG 597Y was recovered, along with three pangas found in Asimwe’s possession. Police also seized three smartphones suspected to have been stolen during the attacks. The Uganda Police Force commended the vigilance of the boda-boda riders whose timely intervention contributed to the suspects’ apprehension. Investigations are ongoing to establish whether the group is linked to other recent violent incidents reported in the central region. Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity, stressing that community cooperation remains critical in fighting organised crime. Source

By Haron Okwir Otuke, Uganda | In a strategic show of party unity and support, National Resistance Movement (NRM) delegates from Otuke District have officially endorsed the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Annet Among, for the position of Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) on the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC). The endorsement was made on Sunday, July 27, 2025, during a high-level delegates’ meeting held at Town Side Hotel in Otuke Town Council. Party leaders, Members of Parliament, and district delegates pledged their unwavering support for Speaker Among’s bid for one of the most influential positions within the ruling party. Delivering remarks on behalf of Otuke District NRM Chairperson Julius Achon Bua, the District General Secretary, Simon Obong Opio, rallied delegates to back Speaker Among and highlighted key development appeals from the district. He urged the Speaker to advocate for the tarmacking of the Lira–Aloi–Otuke–Abim–Kotido road and prioritized the upgrade of health centres from HC II to HC III. Julius Achon Bua, in his message, also requested that Orum Health Centre IV be elevated to hospital status, with proper equipment and adequate staffing, including the recruitment of doctors to improve healthcare service delivery in the sub-region. In a show of solidarity, Omoro County MP Andrew Ojok Oulanyah praised Speaker Among as a “true leader” who listens to and cares for all citizens equally. His sentiments were echoed by Buyamba County MP Gyaviira Semwanga, who commended Among’s bold stance against lesbianism a decision he said was rooted in African values and culture, despite attracting criticism from Western actors. Otuke Assistant Resident District Commissioner, Isaac Opio Opeo, described Among as a unifying leader who has consistently shown strong support for grassroots development. He also applauded Julius Achon Bua for his ongoing efforts in wealth creation through community-based programs that align with the NRM’s development agenda. The meeting concluded with a unified pledge from all delegates in attendance to fully support Anita Annet Among’s candidature, citing her exemplary leadership, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to national service. The endorsement adds significant momentum to Among’s campaign as the NRM prepares for its upcoming internal elections ahead of the 2026 general polls. Source

Lira, Uganda | Lira City West are through to the finals of the 2025 Dwog Pacu Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 win over Erute North in a semi-final showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats at the UTC Ground. Odongo Aron was the hero of the day, netting a clinical brace that secured victory for City West and extinguished Erute North’s hopes of making it to the final. The electrifying clash saw Aron put Lira City West ahead early, only for Morish Ogwal of Erute North to level the score before halftime. As the second half kicked off with the scoreboard reading 1-1, both teams returned to the pitch with renewed energy and tactical intent. The crowd, buzzing with anticipation, witnessed Aron rise to the occasion once again in the 75th minute, firing home the winner that sent Lira City West into celebration mode. Despite a late push from Erute North, Lira City West held their ground, showcasing defensive discipline and composure under pressure to seal the win. The victory means Lira City West will now face Kioga Constituency in the highly anticipated final set for August 3rd at the UTC Ground. The 2025 edition of the Dwog Pacu Cup has drawn massive attention from the Lango sub-region, with the tournament not only highlighting raw football talent but also promoting a green agenda under the “Plant More Trees” campaign a dual celebration of sport and sustainability. Source