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HAPPY& APPRECIATIVE: Bugiri MPs hail Speaker Among’s influence for Busoga development amid regionalism concerns

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Members of Parliament Solomon Silwany (Bukhooli Central) and Asuman Basalirwa (Bugiri Municipality) have publicly lauded Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, attributing a significant surge in development projects within the Busoga sub-region to her ascent to top national leadership positions. The commendations, however, sparked an immediate clarification from the Speaker, who emphasized her national mandate.

The MPs pointed to the recent government decision to reopen Busoga University and the Parliamentary approval of a US$20 million (approximately UGX70.38 billion) loan for the rehabilitation of Bugiri General Hospital as key examples of development under Speaker Among’s watch.

Among currently holds prominent roles as Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) on the Central Executive Committee of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). She is also the District Woman MP for Bukedea district in Teso sub region.

“This is the second big achievement we are getting in Busoga under your leadership,” said MP Silwany during a parliamentary session on Thursday, 11th September 2025.

“You remember very well the issue of Busoga University was sorted by yourself. Yesterday, Bugiri Hospital came and was passed in this house, and I know more things are coming. We are very proud of you Right Honourable Speaker, as Busoga and as Members of Parliament from Busoga.”

Silwany added a broader appeal for unity, stating, “I know you are going to take care of all the interests of all the other regions so that we move in unison.”

Adding a controversial dimension to the commendations, Asuman Basalirwa, a prominent MP, and President of JEEMA, an opposition political party, asserted that Speaker Among “has all the rights to favour Busoga because she is actually part of Busoga.” Basalirwa was referencing Speaker Among’s marriage to Eng. Moses Magogo, the area MP for Budiope East, who hails from the Busoga sub-region.

However, Speaker Among swiftly interjected, clarifying her national mandate. “What I do, I do for all other regions,” she affirmed, emphasizing her role as a leader for the entire nation, not just one specific region.

Leveraging the discussion, MP Silwany also urged Parliament to prioritize funding for hospitals and health centres in the upcoming budgeting cycle. “I saw the happiness and the celebration the people of Bugiri had yesterday. It means that when you touch the health [sector], you are touching the lives of Ugandans,” he stressed, highlighting the tangible impact of health infrastructure on communities.

The exchange underscores the complex interplay between regional representation, national leadership, and the allocation of development resources, while also affirming the administration’s focus on health sector development across the country.

DILAPIDATED HEALTH FACILITIES: Speaker Anita Among calls for immediate refurbishment of Kamuli Hospital as Bugiri loan triggers nationwide demands

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The recent parliamentary approval of a USD20 million loan for the extensive upgrade of Bugiri General Hospital has triggered a wave of demands from across the country, with Speaker of Parliament Anita Among revealing that her office has been inundated with petitions for similar interventions in other dilapidated health facilities.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Parliament authorized the government to borrow USD20 million from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) to finance the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital.

However, the approval has opened a floodgate of requests from various leaders, prompting Speaker Among to advocate for a more comprehensive approach from the Ministry of Health.

“Upon the approval of the loan for upgrading of Bugiri hospital yesterday, I have received a number of petitions requesting that all their hospitals should be looked at,” Speaker Among stated.

She emphasized the urgent need for a systematic review of the country’s health infrastructure, urging the Ministry of Health to take a holistic view. “I think the Ministry of Health needs to comprehensively look at the hospitals which are in a dilapidated state. The petition I received this morning was from Soroti hospital but to leave Soroti alone, there are other so many hospitals that need to be looked at so that we see how we can be able to work on a number of hospitals,” she added.

Among specifically highlighted the critical condition of Kamuli Hospital, recommending it for immediate refurbishment. “If you look at Kamuli hospital, they call it Mulago, that hospital receives patients from Buyende, from everywhere. That hospital in Kamuli should actually also be worked on with all requisite needs,” she stressed, underscoring its pivotal role in serving a wide catchment area.

In a related appeal, the Speaker also called upon the government to consider deploying health workers, particularly midwives and gynaecologists, to private hospitals that are providing essential services. Citing her own 200-bed hospital in Bukedea, where women give birth for free, she noted the need for government to supplement her medical team to enhance service delivery.

Meanwhile, Charles Ayume, the Member of Parliament for Koboko Municipality, urged Ugandans not to “demonise” the government for prevailing shortfalls in the health sector. He revealed that significant advancements are on the horizon, including a major heart treatment facility soon to be established in Nakawa West, the constituency represented by the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, which he stated would be one of the largest in Africa.

LEADER OF OPPOSITION: Ssenyonyi challenges govt on USD20M Bugiri Hospital loan, calls for nationwide health sector overhaul

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Following parliamentary approval of a USD20 million loan for the rehabilitation and expansion of Bugiri General Hospital, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Joel Ssenyonyi has issued a stern challenge to the government, demanding timely disbursement and full utilisation of the funds. He further called for a comprehensive overhaul of all health facilities across the nation.

The loan, authorised by Parliament on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, is sourced from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) and is intended for the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of the ‘very sick’ Bugiri hospital, as described by Ssenyonyi.

Speaking after the approval, Ssenyonyi voiced significant concerns about the government’s track record with borrowed funds and project implementation. “Parliament gave a green light for these USD20 Million to be gotten to rehabilitate Bugiri Hospital because that Hospital is very sick, that is for sure,” Ssenyonyi stated. “I am hoping that the excitement for the people of Bugiri will not be momentary. For many reasons. You know, many times, we borrow money and it remains undisbursed. I hope this won’t be the case because as of end of last year, in our country’s record books, we had UGX16.4 Trillion undisbursed loans.”

His remarks underscored a broader issue of financial accountability and project efficiency, highlighting the potential for much-needed funds to remain dormant while critical healthcare infrastructure deteriorates.

Beyond the immediate focus on Bugiri, the LoP broadened his demands, urging the government to undertake a “comprehensive check and conduct a complete overhaul on all health facilities in the country.” This call highlights systemic issues within the national healthcare infrastructure, suggesting that many other hospitals face similar, if not worse, conditions and are in dire need of intervention.

Ssenyonyi’s remarks came as several other legislators echoed similar sentiments, requesting that hospitals in their respective constituencies also receive much-needed rehabilitation and attention, mirroring the plans for Bugiri General Hospital. The collective call from Members of Parliament reflects a widespread concern over the state of public health facilities across Uganda.

The approval of the BADEA loan for Bugiri represents a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, but Ssenyonyi’s intervention underscores the critical need for accountability, efficient execution, and a broader strategic vision for improving Uganda’s health sector to ensure that the borrowed funds translate into tangible, lasting improvements for citizens.

MOMENTUM HIGH: Busoga Youth Council mobilizes for Kyabazinga’s 11th Coronation with service, green initiatives

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The Busoga Kingdom Youth Council is spearheading a series of impactful community and environmental initiatives as part of the Coronation Week festivities, building momentum towards the 11th anniversary of Kyabazinga Isebantu William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope Kadhumbula IV.

The celebrations are set to culminate on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters in Bugembe.

Yafesi Gasemba, Chairperson of the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council, expressed profound appreciation for the dedication shown by young people in these activities. “Allow me to extend heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for the commitment and energy you continue to show towards the Coronation Week activities,” Gasemba stated.

On Tuesday, the youth council demonstrated its commitment to public service through an extensive communal activity at Jinja Main Hospital. Volunteers engaged in promoting cleanliness and good sanitation, leaving a visible and positive impact.

“Today, Tuesday, we once again demonstrated the spirit of unity and service through the wonderful communal activity at Jinja Main Hospital, where together we promoted cleanliness and good sanitation for the benefit of our people,” Gasemba noted. “Your participation has left a lasting impact and is a true reflection of the values we uphold as the young people of Busoga.”

Looking forward, the youth council has outlined a comprehensive schedule of activities aimed at community betterment and environmental conservation. These include xpanded Sanitation Drives: The initiative to promote cleanliness and sanitation will extend to various other hospitals across Jinja, ensuring improved health environments for patients and staff; Malaria Prevention Campaign: As part of their health outreach, the youth will donate mosquito nets to individuals encountered during their community engagements, aiming to curb the spread of malaria; Extensive Tree Planting: A significant environmental effort is underway to plant trees at hospitals, schools, churches, mosques, and various district and division offices. “We want Busoga to be green as a sign of nature conservation,” Gasemba emphasized, highlighting a commitment to a sustainable future.

Youth Empowerment Campfire is a special event planned to bring together Busoga’s youth. This gathering will serve as a platform for educational discussions on critical social issues, including early childhood pregnancy prevention and the protection of the girl child.

These activities are all leading up to the grand 11th coronation anniversary of Isebantu William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope Kadhumbula IV, which will be celebrated with pomp and tradition.

Gasemba reflected on the Kyabazinga’s eleven-year reign, noting the significant strides made in youth development. “In the eleven years, the youth have attained education through the Kyabazinga bursaries,” he highlighted.

Furthermore, he noted a growing understanding and respect for cultural values among the younger generation, attributing this to the monarch’s leadership and the kingdom’s educational initiatives.

Urging continued enthusiasm, Gasemba concluded, “As we continue with the programs lined up for the week, let us keep the momentum high, remembering that all these efforts are building towards the grand Coronation Anniversary on Saturday, September 13. Thank you for your dedication, teamwork, and love for Busoga. Together, we are making this Coronation Week truly memorable.”

UNLAWFUL DRILLING: Remanded Waiswa Mufumbiro alleges political persecution facilitated by rival Michael Kabaziguruka following his arrest and remand to prison

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Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, the Deputy Spokesperson of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been remanded to Luzira prison on charges he vehemently denies, calling his incarceration “political persecution” allegedly facilitated by a fellow opposition politician and electoral rival, Michael Kabaziguruka.

Speaking to journalists from his holding cell at Kawempe Magistrate’s Court, Mufumbiro, who is vying for the Nakawa East Member of Parliament seat, accused Kabaziguruka of being a “security operative” and orchestrating his arrest.

“Last night, they were convincing me to stop supporting Bobi Wine. And I told them that is out of my order,” Mufumbiro stated. “I also want to tell the country that my arrest was facilitated by Kabaziguruka Michael, the person I am contesting against. He works for security. He is a security operative, and he is aware of whatever is happening to me.”

Mufumbiro has been remanded alongside Saudah Madaada, a popular NUP member, and seven others, including Eddie Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, and Tasi Calvin (Bobi Giant). The group faces charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offences.

Grade One Magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe remanded Mufumbiro and his co-accused to Luzira prison until September 29th, when they can apply for bail.

The accusations against Kabaziguruka, a member of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) and also an aspirant for the Nakawa East parliamentary seat, intensify the political rivalry in the constituency.

In 2016, Kabaziguruka, then under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), successfully contested and won the Nakawa Division parliamentary seat, defeating the then Attorney General Fred Ruhindi.

The National Unity Platform has strongly condemned the arrests and subsequent remand of its members. In a statement, NUP described the actions as a “gross rights violation.”

“We strongly condemn the gross rights violations by the criminal regime and the hostile manner in which our comrades are brutally roughed up and unjustly detained,” the NUP statement read.

“The blatant misuse of the courts of law to silence the dissent of course projects a regime thriving on borrowed time. Very soon it is the oppressed Ugandans that will have the final laugh.”

The allegations of political persecution and the involvement of a rival opposition figure in Mufumbiro’s arrest are likely to stir further debate and tension within Uganda’s political landscape, particularly as general elections draw closer.

UPDATE: Bugabula through, Bukooli Bugiri exit as Butembe change home

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Wednesday 10th September Results

Bugabula 1-0 Bukooli Bugiri

Bugabula became the first team to qualify for the quarterfinals of the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup after edging Bukooli Bugiri 1-0 on Wednesday evening at Kamuli Municipal Stadium.

The decisive goal came from striker Edgar Magombe, who has now scored twice in this year’s competition. Wearing shirt number 9, Magombe also netted in the opener against the same Bukooli Bugiri at Hindocha Primary School playground, underlining his importance to Bugabula’s campaign.

With this result, coach Ronald Lukungu’s side tops Bukowe Group on nine points from three games, having scored five goals and yet to concede. Goalkeeper Reagan Mudusu, defender David Balondemu, and midfielder Michael Kimuli have been central to Bugabula’s solid run. They still have one more group fixture against Luuka on September 24, but their place in the last eight is already sealed. Bugabula continues its consistent record of reaching the knockouts since the post-Covid return in 2022.

For Bukooli Bugiri, defeat confirmed their elimination, joining Bunhole Bunhanumba among teams yet to register a point. Their slim mathematical chance would require Bugabula to beat Luuka and for them to defeat Luuka by at least eight goals—an almost impossible task.

In other developments, Butembe officially changed their home ground to Mafubira Primary School (Kavule playground) for Match 25 against Bukooli Namayingo, though the date and kickoff time remain unchanged. The move was confirmed by the Tournament Organizing Committee. Butembe patron Edrine Lufafa had earlier hinted at shifting venues to spread the spirit of the competition across the chiefdom while promoting the theme of “Abasaadha n’empango” meaning “Men as pillars in preventing teenage pregnancy and early marriages,” championed by UNAIDS and Busoga Kingdom.

Action continues today in Kagulu Group as Buzaya host Bunha at Lwanyana Primary School. With all three teams—Bulamogi, Bunha, and Buzaya—locked on two points from two matches, a victory for any side could spark their quarterfinal hopes.

Remaining fixtures in Kagulu Group

Sept 11: Buzaya vs Bunha

Sept 18: Bunha vs Bulamogi

Sept 25: Bulamogi vs Buzaya

CULTURE & POLITICS: Nambeshe accuses gender ministry of fueling Bamasaba cultural rift, warns of petition

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The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development stands accused of actively fueling a deepening rift within the Bamasaba Cultural Institution, according to Opposition Chief Whip John Baptist Nambeshe.

Nambeshe, who also serves as the Manjiya Member of Parliament, announced that the Bamasaba community plans to petition Speaker Anita Among, putting the Ministry “on notice” for alleged interference.

His strong remarks were made during a parliamentary session where legislators were congratulating the Tooro Kingdom on its 30th coronation anniversary. Speaking passionately, Nambeshe highlighted a growing division within the cultural leadership, attributing it directly to the Ministry’s actions.

“The Bamasaba are soon paying you a courtesy call with a petition putting the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development on notice for meddling in the affairs of the kingdom,” Nambeshe stated during the session.

He elaborated on the nature of the conflict, revealing the existence of a “serious rift madam speaker of a clique of self-seekers among the Bamasaba who have created their own kingdom called Inzu ye Bagisu which is parallel to Inzu ya Masaba.”

Nambeshe emphasized the detailed nature of the upcoming document, adding, “The rest you will see it, which is well articulated in that petition by your humble petitioners madam speakers.”

The Bamasaba, primarily residing on the slopes of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, have long been represented by the Inzu ya Masaba cultural institution, led by the Umukuka (cultural leader).

The emergence of a parallel institution, Inzu ye Bagisu, as alleged by Nambeshe, signifies a significant challenge to the traditional leadership structure and unity of the community.

Nambeshe’s accusations suggest that the Ministry, which is mandated with overseeing cultural institutions, may have inadvertently or intentionally contributed to this fragmentation.

The planned petition to Speaker Anita Among underscores the gravity with which the Bamasaba leadership views the situation, seeking parliamentary intervention to address what they perceive as undue external influence.

While the specific details of the Ministry’s alleged involvement remain to be fully disclosed in the petition, Nambeshe’s public statement puts the issue squarely in the national spotlight. As Parliament continues its business, all eyes will now be on the anticipated petition from the Bamasaba community, and the subsequent response from both the Speaker’s office and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development regarding these serious allegations.

GREEN LIGHT GRANTED: Parliament approves govt request to borrow Shs70.4bn  to rehabilitate Bugiri Hospital 

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Uganda’s Parliament has given its approval for the government to borrow USD 20 million (approx Shs70.4bn) from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) to fund the crucial rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital.

However, the celebratory mood around this vital healthcare upgrade has been significantly tempered by revelations of substantial funds earmarked for non-core activities, including a staggering UGX 2 billion for seminars and workshops.

The Finance Minister, Henry Musasizi, presented the loan proposal, emphasizing its transformative potential for the region’s healthcare.

According to Musasizi, the intervention will dramatically increase Bugiri General Hospital’s bed capacity from the current 100 to an impressive 250. Furthermore, the hospital is slated for an upgrade to a Regional Referral Hospital, significantly enhancing its service delivery capabilities.

The project is also expected to improve living conditions for medical staff by expanding accommodation units from 83 to 115, ultimately aiming to improve the hospital’s utilization and contribute to increased life expectancy in the area.

Despite these promising projections, the financial details accompanying the loan proposal have sparked outrage among lawmakers. Isingiro South MP Alex Byarugaba spearheaded the criticism, exposing what he described as disproportionate allocations within the project’s budget.

Byarugaba revealed that out of a proposed UGX 70.4 billion loan from BADEA, which appears to encompass the overall project cost or a larger financing package, a massive UGX 2 billion has been set aside for seminars and workshops.

In addition to this, the budget shockingly includes UGX 200 million dedicated solely to the construction of a generator house.

Expressing his deep dismay, MP Byarugaba questioned the rationale behind these expenditures, especially when the core objective of the loan is to bolster critical healthcare infrastructure.

“The hefty sums allocated for seminars, workshops, and even a generator house seem disproportionate and questionable,” Byarugaba stated, adding that such allocations detract from the primary goal of improving patient care and hospital facilities.

The revelations have ignited a debate within parliamentary circles concerning the transparency and judicious use of borrowed funds for public projects.

While the loan’s approval signals a positive step towards enhancing healthcare services in Bugiri, the significant allocations for ancillary activities have raised serious concerns about financial prudence and accountability, prompting calls for tighter oversight on future government projects.

FREEDOM CURTAILED: NUP Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, co-accused Saudah Madada remanded to Luzira

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NUP Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Co-Accused Saudah Madada Remanded to Luzira

Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, the Deputy Spokesperson for Uganda’s opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), and his co-accused, Sauda Madaada, have been remanded to Luzira Prison until September 29, 2025. The order was issued by the Kawempe Chief Magistrates Court today, following their arraignment on charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offences.

The duo appeared before the Kawempe Chief Magistrate, who informed them of the grave nature of the charges. Under Ugandan law, such offences are considered capital in nature, meaning a plea cannot be taken at the magistrate’s court level, and bail for such cases must be sought in the High Court. Consequently, they were remanded to Luzira Prison to allow for further police investigations and the process of committing their case to a higher court for trial.

The charges of unlawful drilling and conspiracy to commit a felony typically suggest allegations of engaging in unauthorized military-style training or plotting subversive or violent activities against the state. Specific details regarding the alleged actions underpinning these charges were not fully disclosed in court, but investigations are understood to be ongoing.

Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro is a prominent figure within the National Unity Platform (NUP), Uganda’s largest opposition party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine. His arrest and subsequent remand come amidst a broader pattern of arrests and detentions of opposition figures and perceived government critics in Uganda, a trend that has frequently drawn concern from human rights organizations.

Sauda Madaada’s role in the alleged offences was not immediately detailed, but she is being jointly charged with Mufumbiro.

The case is expected to attract significant attention, given Mufumbiro’s political standing and the serious nature of the charges, coupled with the extended remand period.

COMMENDATION: Kadaga endorses community health initiative, will officiate Kamuli Kidney Health Camp

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By Ali Lukomo

Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Kamuli Woman Member of Parliament, has highly commended Becky’s Child Foundation for its dedicated efforts in promoting community health and upholding children’s rights. Her commendation came as she accepted an invitation to preside over a crucial Pre-Independence Kidney Health Camp slated for October 7th in Kamuli.

During a meeting with the foundation’s manager and a board member at her office at Kingdom House Kampala, Kadaga emphasized that service delivery is a “calling and passion which must be applauded, supported and acknowledged.” She further underscored her commitment to the initiative, stating, “It is my passion and commendation that you are putting in for the service of the community and definitely I will put aside any program for the sake of honoring your complimentary service delivery initiative to the community.”

Beyond her attendance, Kadaga also pledged to connect Dr. Matthias Magoola of Dei Bio Pharma, a prominent Busoga pharmacist, to join these local community health initiatives. She expressed encouragement, noting, “I am encouraged to see that young people like Becky (Mutesi) are getting inspiration and pushing in the legacy I have inspired them with.”

Rebecca Alitwala Mutesi, CEO of Becky’s Child Foundation, articulated the camp’s significance, describing it as an “Independence Celebration gift to the community and reminder to them to take their health seriously.” She credited Kadaga directly: “Mama Kadaga inspired and mentored us on community service and we shall always chip in whatever we can and have just to say thank you for your legacy so this Independence we are celebrating it with a Community Kidney Health Camp and other neglected diseases.”

Diana Mugabi, Manager of Becky’s Child Foundation, highlighted the “great opportunity” of meeting Rt Hon Rebecca Kadaga, especially given her demanding schedule. Mugabi added, “Mama Kadaga is deeply attached to her people that anything to do with them she doesn’t hesitate to come in. She is a great asset, gold and treasure to the people down in communities and Becky’s Child Foundation is humbled to be part of her mentorship and children.”

Mugabi clarified that the health camp will provide screening and testing for kidney diseases, with participants receiving their results and recommendations for further medical treatment. The Uganda Kidney Association has also confirmed its participation. She urged the public to attend the check-ups and sensitization sessions, stressing the importance of “scaling up seeking health seeking behavior so as to take on preventive rather than curative treatment.”

Reiterating the foundation’s commitment, Mugabi concluded, “We at Becky’s stand to our mission and vision of making lives of less privileged and vulnerable more comfortable and worth living and pledge our commitment through Gods Providence to reach out with love, care, compassion and hope so let us turn up massively to celebrate our independence with health.”