The community in Kamuli has been strongly warned against linking disability in children with witchcraft, with advocates urging parents to seek medical attention rather than turning to traditional healers.
This vital message was delivered during a one-day health camp organized by the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association Uganda (SHAU) at Kitayunjwa Health Three.
SHAU, a non-governmental organization formed by parents of children suffering from Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, conducted the camp to provide much-needed medical care and education.
Children with hydrocephalus and Spina Bifida received treatment, while others were referred to specialized hospitals such as those in Mbale.
Jackline Ahimbisibwe, SHAU’s Eastern Region Coordinator, speaking to our correspondent, affirmed their commitment to Kamuli for a period of five years.
During this time, the organization will tirelessly sensitize the community about Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus, conditions that affect children, and establish effective pathways for disseminating crucial health information.
Ahimbisibwe highlighted a prevalent and dangerous misconception. “Usually, mothers who deliver these children develop fears that maybe they were bewitched, and others end up going to witch doctors,” she explained.
She sharply contrasted this with the medical reality, stating that these birth defects usually affect the fetus as early as four weeks into pregnancy, long before any perceived “bewitchment.”
Reinforcing this critical message, Musota Ali, working with one of SHAU’s sister organizations, emphatically warned parents against consulting witch doctors. “Instead of thinking their children were bewitched, parents should go to specialists for proper treatment,” he urged, stressing the importance of evidence-based medical care.
Looking ahead, the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus Association Uganda is committed to a comprehensive awareness campaign. They plan to work closely with local leaders, cultural leaders, political leaders, religious leaders, and technical staff in Kamuli. This collaborative effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of promoting children’s rights, especially for those living with debilitating conditions like Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus. The message is clear: understanding and medical intervention, not superstition, are the rightful paths to supporting these vulnerable children.
The Busoga Masaza Cup returns this weekend with an electrifying doubleheader at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe. The early semi-final clash on Saturday, October 18th at 12:00 PM will see Bukooli Namayingo and Kigulu rekindle their rivalry in what promises to be a heated repeat of the 2022 final, where Bukooli Namayingo emerged champions after a narrow 1-0 win.
This encounter sets the stage for redemption, pride, and a place in the 2025 final — with both teams backed by strong history and passionate supporters.
Kigulu Seeking Revenge and a Return to Glory
Kigulu, one of the most decorated sides in the competition, enter the semi-final with determination to reclaim lost glory. Under coaches Eddy Kaspat Kibwika and Yusuf Bagalaliwo, the Iganga-based side have blended youth, speed, and tactical maturity.
Since the tournament’s revival in 2016, Kigulu have played in three finals, winning two back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019, against Bunha and Butembe respectively. Their only final loss came in 2022 to Bukooli Namayingo, a wound they’ll be eager to heal this weekend.
They topped the Nhendha group and knocked out last year’s finalists Bukono 2-1 in the quarter-finals at Bugembe. Their strength lies in midfield dominance, led by Saad Mukiibi (08), the team’s engine and chief creator. Supporting him are pacy wide men Suleiman Kisubi (17) and Ukasha Mulondo (11), while Armstrong Owori (03) and John Mwesigwa (04) add defensive solidity and attacking width.
Bukooli Namayingo Aiming for Second Title
Under the experienced and tactical Coach Siraji Bogere, Bukooli Namayingo are chasing history — a second title and Bogere’s third as a manager. The 2022 champions have shown resilience and structure throughout the campaign, even when their away form wavered.
After qualifying from the group stages with nine points, all earned from home wins, Bukooli Namayingo squeezed past Bugweri in the quarter-finals, winning 4-2 on penalties after a tense goalless draw.
Key to their ambitions are Ismail Ndifuna (11) — a fast, clinical forward and former Busiki cup winner — and midfield general Odenga Iduma (04), known for his powerful box-to-box displays. Defensively, Mangeni Derrick (05) and Soita Douglas (12) form one of the tournament’s most disciplined center-back pairings, while Sanya Hassan (06) provides balance, both shielding the backline and linking play forward.
Head-to-Head
The two sides met twice in the group stage — each winning their home game. Kigulu edged Bukooli Namayingo 2-1 in Iganga, while Bukooli Namayingo responded with a 1-0 win in Namayingo. Both finished level on nine points, proving how evenly matched they are.
Kigulu’s last semi-final appearance in 2023 ended in heartbreak, losing to Butembe on penalties at Kakindu Stadium. Bukooli Namayingo, meanwhile, last reached the semis in 2022 — and went on to lift the trophy.
The Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) has suspended its 32-day industrial action to pave the way for Parliamentary deliberations on salary disparities among teachers. The decision follows formal communication from the Speaker of Parliament recalling key committees to address the issue that has kept teachers away from classrooms for over a month.
In a statement issued on Thursday, UNATU General Secretary Baguma Filbert Bates said the union had achieved significant progress through the strike, including reopening stalled negotiations and securing government acknowledgment of the pay gaps between teachers of sciences and those of arts and humanities.
“Suspension is not surrender. It is a strategic decision to allow Parliament, which is the very institution that allocates the national budget, to act,” Baguma said.
Progress Achieved
According to UNATU, the industrial action—launched on 15th September 2025—compelled the government to formally recognize the existence of salary disparities. On 16th September, UNATU met with officials from the Ministries of Public Service, Gender, Labour and Social Development, and Education and Sports, during which the government admitted to the inequality.
Subsequently, the union presented its grievances before the Public Service National Negotiating and Consultative Council on 8th October, which promised feedback within two weeks. On the same day, the union petitioned the Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Anita Among, who has since directed the Committees on Education & Sports, Public Service, and Local Government to urgently consider the matter.
UNATU hailed this as “the first formal recognition in three years” that the issue deserves parliamentary attention, calling it a major victory for teachers nationwide.
Decision to Suspend Industrial Action
In a special sitting on 16th October, the UNATU National Executive Council (NEC) and branch chairpersons resolved to suspend the strike after receiving written assurance from the Speaker that Parliament was handling the matter “expeditiously.”
The union called on its members to resume work immediately, urging patience as the legislative process unfolds.
“Let us give the Speaker and the Committees a chance to demonstrate sincerity,” the statement read. “If justice is not served, we shall return to industrial action—stronger, broader, and indefinite.”
A Message to Parliament and the Public
UNATU’s leadership commended the Speaker’s intervention and expressed cautious optimism that Parliament would act “in the interest of justice and national integrity.” The union emphasized that the struggle was not only for teachers but also for the learners whose education depends on a motivated teaching force.
Baguma reiterated that the union’s primary demand remains equitable salary enhancement for teachers in primary and post-primary institutions, particularly those in arts and humanities, to match the standard agreed upon in the 2018 Public Service Union framework and targeted for implementation in the FY 2022/23.
Looking Ahead
While suspending the strike, UNATU vowed to remain vigilant, organized, and ready to resume industrial action should Parliament or government fail to honor their commitments.
“We have not surrendered our struggle; we have institutionalized it,” the statement declared. “We now have an accountability centre—Parliament.”
The union concluded by reminding lawmakers that teachers’ trust and the credibility of Parliament were now on the line.
“If you stand for justice, history will remember you as heroes and heroines of fairness. If you turn away, the burden of betrayal will rest on your record forever.”
When 34-year-old Joan Nabirye reaches for her favourite lotion every morning, she rarely thinks about what it’s made of. Like many Ugandan women, her daily routine includes a mix of shampoos, soaps, perfumes, nail polish, and hair treatments — the very products that make her feel beautiful and confident. Yet behind their pleasant scents and glossy labels lies a hidden danger that scientists and environmental advocates are now sounding the alarm about: chemicals that disrupt the body’s natural hormones.
These substances — known as Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) — are found in thousands of consumer products used every day. They are part of what keeps plastics soft, perfumes long-lasting, and lotions silky smooth. But according to experts, their widespread use has created a silent health crisis, especially for women.
This week, Bio Vision Africa (BIVA), in collaboration with the International Pollutants Elimination Network (IPEN), launched a national campaign under the IPEN Women’s Global Communication Initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of these chemicals and to push for stronger policies to protect women and communities in Uganda. The campaign will run through to end of December.
A Hidden Menace in Everyday Life
“These chemicals, commonly known as phthalates, are everywhere,” explains Betty Obbo, BIVA’s Program Officer for Gender and Extractives. “They are in personal care products like cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, soaps, and perfumes — but also in everyday materials like paint, adhesives, and plastic packaging.”
Betty Obbo, BIVA’s Program Officer for Gender and Extractives
Their chemical properties make them valuable to manufacturers — softening plastics, increasing durability, and improving texture. But their ability to mimic or block hormones in the human body is what makes them dangerous. Scientific evidence links exposure to these chemicals with reproductive disorders, reduced fertility, cervical cancer, premature births, and developmental problems in children.
And for women, the risk is much higher
“Women are the primary users of cosmetics and personal care products,” says Esther Kamese, BIVA’s Program Officer for Youth, Food Systems, Biodiversity and Climate Change. “Frequent and prolonged exposure increases their vulnerability. Urban women, in particular, are using more of these products as lifestyles change — yet few know what they are really exposing themselves to.”
Everyday Practices, Everyday Risks
Beyond cosmetics, women in Uganda face another layer of exposure through household practices that seem harmless but are actually toxic.
Kamese points to the widespread use of plastics and polythene bags (kaveera) to light charcoal stoves, prepare, or serve food — practices that release harmful substances into the air and food.
“These are things we do daily without realizing the consequences,” she says. “When plastics burn, they release chemicals that can cause long-term health problems. Women and children, who spend the most time around cooking spaces, bear the greatest risk.”
For many households, these habits are driven by convenience and lack of awareness rather than negligence. “We can’t blame women for trying to make ends meet or find affordable solutions,” Obbo adds. “That’s why education and advocacy are so critical.”
A Call for Stronger Protection
BIVA’s campaign aims not just to raise awareness, but also to push for policy change. The organization is calling on the Ugandan government to phase out toxic chemicals, close regulatory loopholes, and align national standards with international chemical management frameworks such as the Stockholm Convention, the Minamata Convention, and the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM).
Bio Vision Africa has launched a national campaign under the IPEN Women’s Global Communication Initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of chemicals in beauty products.
“These global agreements give countries a roadmap for managing hazardous substances safely,” says Obbo. “Uganda must act now to strengthen its laws, protect women, and ensure that industries prioritize safer alternatives.”
Empowering Women Through Knowledge
The campaign’s approach is rooted in community empowerment. Through workshops, media engagement, and partnerships with women’s organizations, BIVA hopes to give women the tools to make informed choices about the products they use — and to demand safer options from producers and policymakers alike.
“Protecting women from endocrine-disrupting chemicals is not just a women’s issue,” Kamese emphasizes. “It’s about protecting families, communities, and future generations. When women are informed, they become powerful advocates for change.”
As the campaign unfolds, women like Joan may begin to see their daily beauty routines in a new light. Awareness, advocates say, is the first step toward transformation — a move from unknowing exposure to empowered action. Because every woman deserves to live beautifully — and safely.
Hon. Bazanya Mathew, the aspiring Member of Parliament for Bugabula South Constituency and patron of Bugabula Eisaza, has rewarded the Bugabula team with millions of shillings and a fully paid outing after their dramatic quarter-final victory over Bunha in the ongoing MTN Busoga Masaza Cup.
The thrilling match, played on Sunday evening at Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe, saw Bugabula edge past Bunha 3–2 in a penalty shootout after a tense 1–1 draw in normal time. The result sent the Kamuli-based side into the semi-finals once again, keeping their dream of reaching a first-ever Masaza Cup final alive.
In appreciation of their spirited performance, Hon. Bazanya gifted each Bugabula player with UGX 100,000 and pledged more rewards should the team continue their fine form. He later hosted the team to a free celebration outing, footing all expenses as a token of motivation ahead of the semi-finals.
Bugabula will now face Luuka this Friday at 4:00 pm, again at the Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe — a clash that promises fireworks as both sides eye a ticket to the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup final.
Despite consistent performances, Bugabula have fallen short at the semi-final hurdle in the last three editions: losing to Kigulu (2022), Busiki (2023), and Butembe (2024). The 2025 campaign now presents a golden chance to rewrite history and reach the finals for the first time since the tournament’s inception in 2016.
Hon. Bazanya, who also doubles as the Kamuli NRM District Chairperson following his swearing-in four months ago, reaffirmed his commitment to supporting local sports development in Bugabula and across Busoga.
The stage is fully set for the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup 2025 semi-finals, slated for Friday 17th October at the Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe in Jinja City, with two mouth-watering clashes promising high-octane football and renewed rivalries.
In the early kick-off at 12:00pm, Kigulu will lock horns with Bukooli Namayingo, a thrilling repeat of their Nhendha Group battles. Both sides won their home fixtures during the group stages — Kigulu triumphed 2-1 in Iganga, while Bukooli Namayingo edged 1-0 in Namayingo — setting the stage for an explosive decider at a neutral ground.
Later at 4:00pm, attention will turn to the Bukowe Group reunion as Luuka faces Bugabula. These two sides also traded 1-0 victories during the group stage, making the semi a perfect test of consistency and tactical discipline.
Kigulu reached this stage after a 2-1 victory over Bukono, thanks to goals from Ukasha Mulondo and Sizomu Benjamin, while Nabola Emmanuel netted the consolation for Bukono. Bukooli Namayingo, on the other hand, saw off Bugweri 4-2 in penalties after a goalless draw, with their captain showing nerves of steel in the shootout.
In the other quarter-final ties, Luuka cruised past Bulamogi 3-0, courtesy of a brilliant Kasakya Ibra hat-trick, while Bugabula eliminated Bunha 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 stalemate. Goalkeeper Oboya Musa turned hero for Bugabula, saving three of the five spot-kicks taken by Bunha to send his side to the semis in dramatic fashion.
Bukooli Namayingo head coach Siraji Bogere has once again proven his tactical brilliance, guiding his side to the semifinals of the 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup after edging Bugweri 4–2 on penalties at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe.
Bogere, who has already won the prestigious tournament twice as a manager in 2016 and 2022, is now chasing a third championship title, and he believes this could be his year of glory once again.
“We don’t fear Kigulu. I’m confident we shall eliminate them and reach the finals. My target is to win the trophy this edition,” Bogere said with confidence. “When I saw the game heading to penalties, I told my players to place their kicks on the right side of the goalkeeper and instructed my keeper to focus on his right — that worked for us. But I can’t forget to thank God because Bugweri was a strong team.”
The quarterfinal encounter ended goalless in normal time before Bukooli Namayingo held their nerve in the shootout, scoring four of their five kicks while Bugweri missed two.
Ondusu Peter, who netted the decisive penalty to send Bukooli Namayingo through, said composure and confidence were key in their win.
“It was a tough game, both teams were strong. But I trusted my decision, stayed calm, and scored. We thank God we’re in the semis. I believe this is our year to win,” he noted.
Bukooli Namayingo now set up a semifinal showdown with Kigulu, who earlier defeated Bukono 2–1. Interestingly, both teams were in the same Nhendha group earlier in the tournament, each winning at home.
The Busoga Masaza Cup 2025 quarterfinal action continues his Sunday 12th October at Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe, with Luuka facing Bulamogi at 12:00pm and Bunha taking on Bugabula at 4:00pm.
Speaker of Parliament Anita Among has appealed to teachers under the Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) to call off their ongoing strike, assuring them that Parliament will push for the inclusion of salary enhancements for humanities teachers in the 2026/27 national budget.
The Speaker made the remarks on Thursday after receiving a petition from UNATU leadership at Parliament, in which the union demanded that government address the salary disparities between teachers of humanities and sciences across the country.
“As Parliament of Uganda, I want to promise you that we are going to do whatever it takes to ensure that these issues are resolved, and all these things are revolving around money,” Among said. “I am happy that you have brought this petition before we go into the budgeting time.”
Among emphasized that President Yoweri Museveni is fully aware of the discussions and pledged that Parliament will work closely with the Executive to ensure the long-standing pay gap is addressed.
“I want to request you, please go back and do the work as we handle this issue. Now that you have come to Parliament, there is no way Parliament will let you down,” she said. “The commitment I’m giving you is on behalf of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni because there is no way we can commit ourselves here without the President knowing. Whatever we do here, we work together with the Executive.”
The Speaker urged teachers not to paralyze learning, assuring them that their concerns would be handled expeditiously. “Let’s not paralyze the country. Let’s go back and work and this issue will be resolved. It is in our best interest that you are happy, your welfare is good, because you mean a lot to this country,” Among said.
To expedite the matter, Among directed Parliament’s Committees on Public Service and Education to hold a joint sitting to scrutinize salary disparities between science and humanities teachers. She also instructed that the petition be forwarded to the Ministry of Public Service for immediate consideration.
“We are going to refer this petition to the Committee of Education and Sports together with the Committee of Public Service for a joint review so that they advise Parliament,” she stated. “In the meantime, we are also going to write to the Minister of Public Service and attach these petitions and ask him to act on them.”
UNATU General Secretary Filbert Baguma Bates reiterated that the union’s demand is rooted in the principle of equity, not excess. “Our demand is not an excessive claim, but a measure to restore fairness and parity within the profession,” Baguma said. “It is the minimum requirement to align all teachers with their rightful place in the salary scales and uphold equity in remuneration.”
He warned that continued disparities could lead to more industrial actions, noting that “when teachers thrive, Uganda’s learners and the nation’s future thrive with them.”
UNATU’s petition follows years of contention over the government’s decision to enhance salaries for science teachers while leaving those in humanities and arts at previous pay levels.
The organizing committee of the Busoga Masaza Cup 2025 has officially confirmed the dates and venue for this year’s quarterfinal stage.
All matches will be hosted at the Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe in Jinja City, starting Saturday, 11th October and concluding Sunday, 12th October 2025.
Saturday’s opening fixtures will see Kigulu face Bukono at 12:00pm, followed by Bugweri clashing with Bukooli Namayingo at 4:00pm.
Action continues on Sunday, 12th October, as Luuka battles Bulamogi in the early kickoff at 12:00pm, before Bunha takes on Bugabula in the late encounter at 4:00pm.
Fans will be charged an entry fee of 3,000/= (Ordinary) and 10,000/= (VIP) to witness the much-anticipated knockout clashes that will determine this year’s semifinalists.
The much-anticipated quarter finals of the 8th edition of the Busoga Masaza Cup have been postponed to a later date, according to the tournament’s organizing committee (TOC). The matches, initially slated for Saturday, October 4, and Sunday, October 5, will now be played on new dates yet to be confirmed.
Despite the delay, the TOC has confirmed that all quarter final fixtures will be staged at Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe in Jinja City.
The official fixtures remain intact, promising thrilling encounters once rescheduled:
Kigulu vs Bukono at 12pm
Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo at 3pm
Luuka vs Bulamogi at 12pm
Bunha vs Bugabula at 3pm
Tournament spokesperson David Mwesigwa, in a brief message shared via WhatsApp, confirmed: “All matches will be played at Kyabazinga Stadium Bugembe but dates to be communicated.”
Part of the fixtures shared by the tournament spokes person on 1st October 2025
The postponement has left fans and participating teams on edge as they wait for the revised schedule that will determine which four chiefdoms I march into the semifinals. While the reason behind the delay remains unclear, insiders suggest the TOC will issue an official explanation in the coming days.
The quarter finals are expected to draw massive crowds once action kicks off at Bugembe, as Busoga’s teams battle for supremacy and a place in the last four.
