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LEARNERS SUPPORTED: IDI Uganda injects in 300 million in food provision to keep learners in schools

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LEARNERS SUPPORTED: IDI Uganda injects in 300 million in food provision to keep learners in schools

As government battles industrial teachers’ action and prepares to launch a national School feeding program to improve learning and reduce drop outs, International Development Institute (IDI) Uganda has delivered food for over 13,000 pupils in its 16 supported Primary Schools attracting learners back to schools.

The supplies under IDI Uganda School Feeding Program by Agroways Uganda include 57,950 kgs of Posho, 27,000 kgs of beans and 660 liters of cooking oil

Christine Okalang the Regional manager underscored the importance of mid-day meals to learners not only as a means of attracting learners to school but a basic right.

“We are here to fight both spiritual and physical hunger through our child focused community transformation focusing on building the capacity of parents to manage their children’s education, health, nutrition and livelihood wrapped up in spiritual growth,” Okalang revealed.

Okalang added that IDI Uganda’s generosity, expertise and support leaves a lasting and impactful legacy of providing a conducive learning environment and enhancing quality education

Kamuli District Education Officer Joseph Waibi revealed that schools are struggling with parents to feed the children coupled with poor harvest and the few schools under IDI Uganda are lucky.

The DEO added that IDI Uganda has worked on retooling teachers, school management and PTA, sanitation and menstrual hygiene management and above all introduced school feeding gardening projects for pupils to grow food and vegetables to supplement and sustain the feeding program in a participatory manner.

“Food provision has contributed to retention and as Education department, we are grateful to IDI Uganda for its extra contribution towards capacity building of teachers in the district, infrastructure development and community engagement to embrace and support education using their responsive, liberal and engaging model,” Waibi hailed.

Stella Lubuga the headteacher Bukusu Primary School and IDI Uganda supported schools Academic coordinator reported that the lunch supply spurred sudden return of pupils to schools in the second week and it has become the habit that the children wait for food supply to report back from holidays.

“Food and mid-day meals plays a pivotal role in curbing school absenteeism, boosting retention and we are sure we are teaching children who are not hungry and angry and we are working with parents for the sustainability and indebted to IDI Uganda for this sacrifice,” Lubuga commended.

BLESSING IN DISGUISE: Bobi Wine and NUP defy blockades in Buyende and Kamuli, says forced rural routes are strategic goldmine to access voters

Baz Waiswa
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BLESSING IN DISGUISE: Bobi Wine and NUP defy blockades in Buyende and Kamuli, says forced rural routes are strategic goldmine to access voters

The National Unity Platform (NUP) and its leader, Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, completed a highly contested mobilization tour of Kamuli and Buyende districts, claiming victory despite facing extensive police blockades and road closures designed to thwart their movement.

NUP officials asserted that authorities’ attempts to force them off major thoroughfares and onto remote, dusty alternative roads inadvertently played into their strategy, allowing them to connect directly with their core rural base.

The Kamuli and Buyende tour on 30th September, 2025, was characterized by standoffs and forced detours, particularly frustrating NUP’s attempts to reach planned destinations such as Bukungu landing site.

Blockades and ‘Eating Dust’

According to statements released by the party leadership, police deployments aggressively blocked main roads, compelling the NUP convoy to navigate challenging, unpaved routes.

David Lewis Rubongoya, the NUP Secretary General, detailed the logistical struggles faced by the team, emphasizing the poor state of the alternative roads and the deliberate attempts to extend their travel time.

“Today has been a day of eating so much dust because of the terrible roads. It’s been a day of enduring long distances because the main roads were blocked,” Rubongoya stated on social media, confirming that the convoy was prevented from reaching Bukungu Island.

However, the party quickly framed the harassment as a strategic miscalculation by the state.

Rural Audience is the ‘Actual Target’

The NUP leadership argued that the security forces, by pushing them away from urban centers, were essentially delivering them straight to the constituents they most needed to reach.

A statement from the NUP central leadership highlighted this counter-narrative of resilience and strategic advantage.

“They did all they could to block us from passing through the main streets of town centers and forced us to use alternative rural dusty routes. Little did they know that the rural audience is our actual target,” the statement read, suggesting that state interference merely enhanced their access to grassroots voters.

Bobi Wine confirmed that despite the intense operational challenges, including the inability to reach Bukungu, they successfully addressed massive crowds in Buyende Town Council and across Kamuli District.

“Despite a police blockade which prevented us from reaching our planned destination… and the deliberate blocking of main roads, we still addressed our people in Buyende Town Council and Kamuli District,” Bobi Wine posted, echoing the defiance of his party.

Assertion of People Power

For the NUP, the highly publicized tour served as a testament to the enduring loyalty of their supporters, even when faced with intimidation and logistical hurdles. Both Bobi Wine and Rubongoya stressed that the massive turnout overwhelmed the attempts at suppression.

Rubongoya concluded his address to the supporters by thanking the crowds for their steadfast appearance: “but it was also a day of people showing up in very large numbers to assert their power. Thank you Kamuli and Buyende.”

Bobi Wine summarized the day’s events as proof that their movement’s popularity transcends state repression. “People Power is stronger than the people in power!” he declared. The repeated confrontation between the NUP mobilization efforts and state security forces remains a defining feature of Uganda’s political landscape as the country prepares for future electoral cycles.

PROTECTING LIBERATION GAINS: Museveni promises Luweero jobs, free education and land protection in 2026 bid

Editorial
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PROTECTING LIBERATION GAINS: Museveni promises Luweero jobs, free education and land protection in 2026 bid

President Yoweri Museveni on Wednesday returned to the symbolic grounds of Bukalasa Agricultural College—once a rebel training camp—kicking off his 2026 re-election campaign with a blunt message to the people who birthed his presidency: “I have protected the revolution for 40 years; give me five more and every Luweero household will be in the money economy.”

Tens of thousands of yellow-clad supporters, many old enough to have carried guns in the 1981-86 bush war, cheered as Museveni listed what he called “receipts” for their sacrifice: peace, 50 000 factories, an economy set to be turbo-charged by first oil next year, and a welfare chain that now reaches every parish.

But the President admitted the job is unfinished. “When we started, only 9 % of Ugandans were in the money economy. Today 67 % are inside; 33 % remain outside. This kisanja, we are going in to get everybody,” he declared to thunderous applause.

Cash on the ground

To make the pledge real, Museveni announced a dramatic cash increase for poverty programmes: urban parishes will receive Shs 300 million each; rural ones Shs 100 million plus an extra Shs 15 million for leaders—money channelled through the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) structures he controls.

He paired the offer with a warning: “Some people steal this money. I want you to expose them and we shall arrest them.”

Land, drugs and school fees

On land—an emotive issue in Buganda—Museveni reassured bibanja holders that they can now pay nominal ground rent (busulu) directly to sub-county offices, bypassing landlords. Government, he said, will “eventually pay off the landlords” so peasants own their plots outright.

He also promised to end theft of medicines in public health centres, blaming local politicians and administrators. “The drugs are traceable. Elect good LC5s and MPs to monitor the stores; from the centre I will act,” he said.

And in a move aimed at restless parents, Museveni vowed to recruit 50 000 additional teachers and crack down on government schools charging illegal fees. “Free education must be exactly that—free,” he said, revealing that pupils at his Presidential Skilling Hubs graduate into employment “within six months at zero cost.”

Symbolic launch ground

Choosing Luweero—nicknamed the “Luweero Triangle” for the fierce fighting that happened here—was no accident. The district delivered the bulk of Museveni’s bush-war fighters and has voted overwhelmingly for him since 1996. Many in Wednesday’s crowd wore T-shirts emblazoned with the 2026 campaign theme: “Protecting the Gains, Making a Qualitative Leap into High Middle-Income Status.”

First Lady Janet Museveni, also Minister of Education, stood beside the President, while NRM First National Vice-Chairman Al-Hajji Moses Kigongo handed the party flag to Luweero parliamentary candidates, cementing the district’s place at the centre of Museveni’s sixth-term bid.

Opposition unimpressed

Speaking by phone, National Unity Platform (NUP) spokesperson Joel Ssenyonyi dismissed the promises as “recycled pledges we have heard since 1996.”

“Luweero remains one of the poorest regions; poverty levels are above the national average. If after four decades the President is still campaigning on ending poverty, it is an admission of failure,” Ssenyonyi said.

Longest campaign yet

With 14 months to the February 2026 vote, Museveni becomes the first major candidate to open formal campaigns. The Electoral Commission says the official campaign window is only three months, but the President’s early start signals what is expected to be the longest—and most resource-intensive—race of his 38-year tenure.

For the people of Luweero, the President’s message was simple: “You fought for the revolution; now let the revolution fight poverty for you.” Whether they still believe the war will end at the ballot box, only the votes—cast in little over a year—will tell.

PREGNANCY AND EARLY MARRIAGES: KOICA boosts Luuka’s teenage mothers with UGX 68.2 million skilling initiative

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PREGNANCY AND EARLY MARRIAGES: KOICA boosts Luuka’s teenage mothers with UGX 68.2 million skilling initiative

The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has injected over UGX 68.2 million into empowering teenage mothers and young women in Luuka district, providing vocational skilling tools as part of a broader call to address alarming rates of teenage pregnancy and early marriages.

One hundred young mothers from Bukanga, Bulongo, Bukooma, and Bugaya sub-counties are set to benefit from knitting and sewing tools and kits, aimed at equipping them with practical skills for self-reliance.

The handover, held recently at Bulongo sub-county, underscores a critical intervention in a region grappling with a significant social and economic burden.

Health records in Luuka district paint a grim picture, indicating that 2,383 teenage mothers attended Ante Natal Clinics (ANC), with a concerning 29 of them aged between just 12 and 15 years. These statistics highlight the urgency of addressing the root causes and consequences of early pregnancies.

Isaac Waboda, the Bulongo Sub-County Community Development Officer, expressed grave concern over the situation. “We have a time bomb of teenage mothers, unplanned pregnancies, and babies with a bleak future,” Waboda stated during the handover.

He noted that most of these teenage mothers are primary school dropouts who remain single mothers, requiring extensive counselling, guidance, and support.

Waboda emphasized that support from development partners like KOICA is vital. “When development partners come to the rescue like KOICA is doing, it gets a long way to securing the future of these innocent children and boosts the self-esteem of the teenage mothers, waking them up to responsibility and productivity.”

He further regretted the prevalent blaming and stigmatization directed at these girls and their parents, advocating for a more “solution-driven approach” that empowers young people and their communities.

“There is a need for more engagement of community structures including parents and leaders to address social norm change. Teenage pregnancies are ‘normalized’ in societies, it requires the involvement and participation of all relevant stakeholders to tackle it,” he rallied.

Vincent Njeho, a Program Officer for the KOICA Project, urged the beneficiaries to seize this opportunity to advance, earn, and progress, while importantly, living responsibly to avoid a repeat of past challenges.

“KOICA is helping you recover, restore hope, build solid confidence, and make you productive enough to support your children and better yourselves,” Njeho encouraged the young mothers.

Njeho lamented the social acceptance of child marriage and teenage pregnancies in the Busoga region, stressing that current interventions are insufficient in addressing the Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) needs of sexually active young people.

He highlighted the critical need for open conversations about contraceptives and access to them to prevent unplanned pregnancies.

On behalf of the beneficiaries, Sanyu Rahma Nampiina delivered a heartfelt appeal for continued action and support for young women and girls.

She called for efforts to ensure their meaningful engagement in public life, to end unintended teenage pregnancies, and to empower adolescents to make healthier choices that ultimately prevent child marriages.

Nampiina expressed profound gratitude to KOICA and Plan International for their timely intervention, which she credited with pulling the young mothers “out of stigma, neglect, and ridicule.”

“To now improved health, social acceptance, a better productive state that many of them are comfortable getting back to school and proudly looking after their children,” she revealed.

“KOICA is our parent; it understood our pain and became part of our struggle to regain both our identities, dignities, and esteem. With the practical skills imparted to us, we are now in a position to support ourselves and children, let alone live a happier life,” Nampiina concluded, highlighting the transformative impact of the initiative.

NEW ERA: Lukungu unveiled as Kyabazinga College FC head coach

Musa Kikuuno
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NEW ERA: Lukungu unveiled as Kyabazinga College FC head coach

Kyabazinga College FC has officially appointed Ronald Lukungu as their new head coach on a three-year contract, with his tenure set to begin on October 1. Lukungu, who is also guiding Bugabula FC in the ongoing Busoga Masaza Cup, replaces Kirabo Joel, who now steps into the assistant coaching role.

The unveiling ceremony, held at Kyabazinga College Kamuli on Tuesday, was attended by top football stakeholders, including Kamuli District Football Association chairman, Katamba Noah.

Coach Lukungu Ronald being unveiled by the Club President Wanume Hussein

Club president, Wanume Hussein, expressed optimism about the new era under Lukungu’s leadership.

“Today i am so happy that we have signed a coach of purpose and we have much hope in him. Our target is clear, this season we compete in the province League, next season we aim for regionals, and eventually the big league. We also want Kyabazinga college FC to provide a base for Bugabula FC, giving players a clear pathway beyond the masaza cup, our target is clear—this season we compete in the Province League, next season we aim for regionals, and eventually the Big League. We also want Kyabazinga College FC to provide a base for Bugabula FC, giving players a clear pathway beyond the Masaza Cup,” he said.

Hussein emphasized that the club’s focus goes beyond results, aiming to nurture football talent in Kamuli, Busoga, and Uganda at large.

Lukungu arrives with solid experience, having guided Bugabula FC in the Busoga Masaza Cup for three straight editions, consistently reaching at least the semifinals. This season, Bugabula has won three of their four games and will face Bunha in the quarterfinals on October 4 at Kyabazinga Stadium, Bugembe. In addition, in 2021, Lukungu coached Busiro in the prestigious Buganda Masaza Cup, a role that boosted his reputation as a tactician capable of handling both school and chiefdom teams.

Ronald Lukungu at Busiro FC in 2021. (Photo by Kawowo sports)

Katamba Noah welcomed the appointment, praising the school’s commitment to football development.

“Kyabazinga College has steadily grown from the fifth division and recently impressed in the zonal mini league. Their decision to sign Lukungu adds momentum ahead of the Province League. We wish him and the club success,” Katamba said.

In his first remarks as head coach, Lukungu described the move as a significant step in his career.

“I am delighted to join this project. I won’t make big promises, but I assure the management, players, and fans that I will work tirelessly for good performances. With cooperation, we can build something strong here,” Lukungu noted.

With province games kicking off in two weeks, Kyabazinga College FC hopes Lukungu’s leadership will set them on a steady path toward their ambitious three-year vision.

SYMBOL OF PROTECTION: St John Bosco Kamuli receives UGX 85 million protective gate

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SYMBOL OF PROTECTION: St John Bosco Kamuli receives UGX 85 million protective gate

In a powerful display of community dedication and partnership, St John Bosco Secondary School in Kamuli officially unveiled a magnificent new school gate this morning, a facility valued at 85 million Ugandan Shillings.

The project, a collaborative effort between the school’s Old Students Association and BAPS Charities Uganda Indian Association, was hailed as a symbol of protecting educational gains and securing the future of the students.

Ghanshyam Patel, the Chairman of BAPS Charities, led the handover ceremony, stressing that the commitment to education and security transcends political boundaries and serves as a guiding norm for communities.

“Today, in the Spirit of Service, we are here at St John Bosco SS Kamuli to hand over the school gate and to ensure a better protective environment for all students now and in future,” Patel announced. “Together with your partnership and participation we aim to bring even more hope, dignity and opportunity to the people we serve.”

Patel further urged schools to focus on cultivating portable and practical skills, alongside strong morals and values, ensuring students are equipped to “serve their communities with humanity, respect and dignity.”

The donation is part of BAPS Charities’ broader focus on strengthening education and health initiatives in local communities through a combination of material support and volunteer commitment to achieve lasting change.

Ajay Singh, who supervised the construction, noted that BAPS Charities is a volunteer-driven nonprofit dedicated to selfless giving, operating across nine countries and working to uplift communities through health awareness, education, and humanitarian relief.

Landmark of Homecoming and Future Security

The St John Bosco SS Old Students Association viewed the gate as a symbolic gesture of appreciation and continuity.

James Malinzi, Chairman of the Old Students Projects, described the gate’s completion as a “landmark homecoming” meant to inspire current students and concretize the strong foundation the school built in them.

“This landmark monument not only protects our gains as Old Students of this glorious school but also lays a strong symbolism of a secure gate to the future of students,” Malinzi stated, immediately outlining future goals.

He emphasized the continued need to secure the institution with a perimeter wall and a modern staff room where teachers can “ably sit to prepare, watch over and impart skills and knowledge to the students.”

Dignity and Commitment

Headteacher, Peter Deo Mulamba, commended the generous input from the Old Students and the BAPS Charities, noting that the gate significantly enhances the security of the learners and the dignity of the institution.

“It is a great moment celebrating the generosity, love, gratitude and commitment of our Old Students which leaves an indelible mark of appreciation and give back to your mother institution,” Mulamba said, adding that the new structure makes the school “a home of peace and justice in line with the School motto: Success, Obedience and hardwork.”

The headteacher encouraged the alumni to continue actively contributing to the development of the school.

Call for Equal Opportunity

Adding a social dimension to the ceremony, Kamuli Municipality MP candidate and Vice Chairperson of the Women’s Council, Mastula Namatovu, challenged alumni and community leaders to prioritize the young generation.

Mastula specifically called for increased protection of the girl child, advocating for equal opportunities and an enabling environment that allows girls to enroll, stay, and complete school successfully.

“Let us ensure the girls are given every opportunity to secure their future, guarded against inhibiting factors and be given equal chances in all spaces,” Mastula said, concluding her address by making a personal contribution toward the welfare of the candidates.

BUSOGA MASAZA CUP 2025: Quarter finals set to decide last four

Musa Kikuuno
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BUSOGA MASAZA CUP 2025: Quarter finals set to decide last four

The Busoga Masaza Cup enters its quarterfinal stage this weekend with four highly anticipated fixtures that promise thrills, history, and drama. The 8th edition of the tournament has already produced surprises, and the knockout battles scheduled for Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th October 2025 will decide who advances to the semifinals set for October 11th.

Saturday Fixtures

Kigulu vs Bukono – 12:00 noon
The quarterfinals kick off with a heavyweight clash between two-time champions Kigulu and last season’s runners-up Bukono. Kigulu, winners in 2018 and 2019, carry pedigree and experience into this tie. They topped Nhendha group with 9 points, scoring five goals and conceding just three despite being grouped with three former champions—Butembe, Busiki, and Bukooli Namayingo. Remarkably, Kigulu has never failed to qualify for the knockouts since 2016.

This fixture brings back memories of 2016 when Kigulu crushed Bukono 6–0 on aggregate at the same stage. The Iganga-based side boasts key players such as Kisubi Suleiman (17), Mukiibi Saad (08), and Mundwa Boniface (10).

However, Bukono cannot be underestimated. They finished second in Mawembe group with 11 points, the second-best tally in the group stages, just behind Bugweri. Bukono’s forward line has been lethal, netting 10 goals—the highest so far in this year’s competition. Striker Ivan Mupere (17) already has a hat-trick to his name and will be supported by Emmanuel Nabola (7) and Abel Muwola (11). Having reached the final last year, Bukono is eager to avenge past scars against Kigulu and stake their claim for glory.

Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo – 3:00 pm
Later on Saturday, high-flying Bugweri lock horns with Bukooli Namayingo in what promises to be a tactical battle. Bugweri topped Mawembe group with 13 points—the highest tally among all teams this year. Ranked the number one side so far, Bugweri is targeting its first-ever semifinal berth after falling short in 2019 and 2023. Key men include Emayu Calvin Peter (17), who lifted the University Football League with UCU last year, Sekibobo Juma (08), and Kagera Isima (10).

Bukooli Namayingo, coached by the experienced Siraji Bogere—the first-ever manager to win this cup in 2016—bring solid defensive organization to the contest. With a center-back pairing of Mangeni Derrick and Soita Douglas (12), ranked second-best in the tournament, they will be tough to break down. Bukooli Namayingo, winners in 2022, are making their third consecutive quarterfinal appearance. Their danger men include Baraza Levis Okello (7) and Hassan Sanyaa (6).

Sunday Fixtures

Luuka vs Bulamoogi – 12:00 noon
Sunday’s early kick-off pits tournament dark horses Luuka against first-time quarterfinalists Bulamoogi. Luuka, who last reached this stage in 2016, emerged top of Bukowe group on goal difference over Bugabula with 9 points. They have shown defensive resilience, led by center-back Isabirye Edirine and goalkeeper Kairugavu Ali (1). Other key figures include Karogo Farouk (16) and Baluzibye Umaru (7).

Bulamoogi, meanwhile, are the fairytale story of this edition. After four failed attempts, they finally broke through to the knockouts, finishing with 5 points—the lowest tally among quarterfinalists. Their spirited campaign recalls the recent underdog stories of Bukooli Namayingo (2022 champions), Busiki (2023 champions), and Bukono (2024 finalists). Players to watch include Kiiza Amuza (18), Abudallah Kasolo (7), and Hassan Wasswa (10).

Bunha vs Bugabula – 3:00 pm
The final quarterfinal fixture brings together Bunha and Bugabula in a clash of giants. Bunha, unbeaten this edition with one win and three draws, topped Kagulu group with 6 points. A consistent performer, Bunha has reached seven of the eight quarterfinals in the tournament’s history, missing out only in 2018. Of their six previous appearances at this stage, they advanced to the semifinals three times. Key players include Abasi Mikel (02), Koire Bakali (17), and Karim Mutebe (11).

Bugabula, on the other hand, have reached the semifinals in each of the last three editions but are still chasing their first-ever final. With the best central defensive pairing in the tournament—David Balondemu and Yiga Keith—they remain a formidable force. Goalkeeper Regan Mudusu (18) has kept three clean sheets in all the three games he has played for his side, while midfielder Kimuli Michael (06) provides box-to-box energy. The return of star forward Ibrahim Musisi Kazindula, last year’s top scorer, could be decisive if he regains full fitness. Other players to watch include Edgar Magombe (09).

The Road to the Semifinals

The winner between Kigulu and Bukono will meet either Bugweri or Bukooli Namayingo in the semifinals. On the other side of the draw, the victor between Luuka and Bulamoogi will face the winner of Bunha versus Bugabula. The semifinals are scheduled for Saturday, October 11, 2025, at a yet-to-be-announced venue.

HISTORIC FEAT: Bulamogi storms Busoga masaza cup quarterfinals for first time

Musa Kikuuno
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HISTORIC FEAT: Bulamogi storms Busoga masaza cup quarterfinals for first time

Bulamogi 1-0 Buzaya

It was a day of history and jubilation at Bulumba Ginnery playground on Thursday evening as Bulamogi FC booked a spot in the Busoga Masaza Cup quarterfinals for the very first time. Having featured in five previous editions without ever making it past the group stage, the team finally broke the jinx with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Buzaya.

The decisive moment came in the first half when Buzaya defender Mathias Muwanguzi, under pressure, accidentally headed the ball into his own net while trying to clear a free kick delivered by Bulamogi’s right back, Abudhallah Kasolo.

The win lifted Bulamogi to five points, joining Bunha (6 points) as the two teams from the group to qualify for the knockout stage. Bulamogi will face fellow debutants Luuka in the quarterfinals on Sunday, October 5th.

Pre-Match Drama

The game’s kickoff was delayed following protests from Buzaya, who accused Bulamogi of fielding six ineligible players — Swaibu Nteeba, Denis Magala, Alex Lubega, Abudhallah Kasolo, Alex Kiige, and Livingston Kolata. According to Buzaya’s coach, Ikooba Afan, the players’ names and faces were missing from the official register, with some allegedly attached to Big League clubs.

The matter drew the intervention of the Busoga Kingdom’s Deputy Sports Minister, Owek. Daniel Musota, who allowed the game to proceed while promising further investigations. Later, Bulamogi CEO Julius Nkonte insisted that the players were duly registered, noting that clearer documents and licenses were produced at halftime in the presence of officials.

Reactions

Speaking after the game, Nkonte expressed his delight at Bulamogi’s historic qualification:

“We are extremely happy to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in our history. I am confident that no petitions will succeed because our players are eligible. Our dream is to win the trophy this year.”

Buzaya’s coach Afan, though disappointed, congratulated Bulamoogi

“We only needed a draw to qualify, but things didn’t go our way. Despite the confusion over player eligibility, I won’t waste time petitioning. I wish Bulamoogi the best in the knockouts.”

Quarterfinal Lineup

The Busoga Masaza Cup quarterfinals will be staged on October 4th and 5th at a venue yet to be confirmed.

Saturday, October 4th

Kigulu vs Bukono – 12:00pm

Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo – 3:00pm

Sunday, October 5th

Luuka vs Bulamogi – 12:00pm

Bunha vs Bugabula – 3:00pm

STERN CALL: Bishop urges government to address teacher plight amidst election spending

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STERN CALL: Bishop urges government to address teacher plight amidst election spending

The Bishop of Busoga Diocese, Samson Paul Moses Naimanhye, has issued a stern call to the government, urging them to move beyond intimidation and silence, and instead actively listen to and address the grievances of teachers.

The impassioned plea was made Thursday morning during the Blessing of Candidates for Kamuli Girls Boarding Primary School, where Bishop Naimanhye highlighted the critical state of the teaching profession and its potential impact on the nation’s education sector.

Bishop Naimanhye expressed deep concern that while the ruling NRM party touts its manifesto of protecting gains, the very educators who have been instrumental in achieving universal education are being neglected.

“It becomes an ironical mockery,” he stated, “for the Government and NRM Party to claim the election manifesto is to protect the gains yet the most precious gain it has made is neglected.”

The Bishop warned that the current situation, characterized by widespread teacher dissatisfaction and potential strikes, could lead to an unprecedented decline in academic performance.

He directly challenged the approach of local authorities, referencing “unfortunate remarks” made by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC) regarding teachers’ industrial action.

“As the church and shepherds,” Bishop Naimanhye appealed, “we ask the government to listen and address the teachers’ plight because they are the ones who have sustained the NRM Universal Education, a gain it is seeking to protect.”

Describing the ground reality as “appalling, demoralizing, pathetic, and deplorable to ignore,” the Bishop cautioned that continued neglect could precipitate an education disaster at a time when significant resources are reportedly being diverted to election campaigns.

“We may ignore teachers’ plight, but its effects are going to be glaring, so don’t expect good performance this time. No one should blame schools when the results come back worst, because it is going to be a national disaster and time bomb,” he predicted.

Bishop Naimanhye also commended the headteacher of Kamuli Girls, Joy Kasana Muwanika, for her dedication to the welfare of the students. He stressed the importance of government and foundation bodies working collaboratively to ensure conducive learning environments and supportive policies for educational institutions.

He pointed to the struggle to secure a female headteacher for the girls’ school as an example of existing policy challenges, noting that had the government’s policy of closing teacher training colleges persisted, qualified educators would be even scarcer.

He highlighted the financial burden on parents at Kamuli Girls, who are currently funding 24 out of 45 teachers, and contrasted this with the even more dire situation in rural schools.

Furthermore, Bishop Naimanhye addressed the persistent issues of teenage pregnancies and child marriages, unequivocally condemning them as “unacceptable vices, sins religiously and abominations culturally.”

He stressed that keeping girls in school is paramount to combating these societal ills. “We need to rediscover our values, social norms, and parenting values to act and bring up children responsibly,” he urged.

Muwanika, headteacher of Kamuli Girls, expressed gratitude for the Bishop’s guidance and the church’s support, assuring parents that the school’s 98 candidates are well-prepared for their Primary Leaving Examinations.

She lauded the Bishop’s “unwavering faith and tireless efforts” in fostering collaboration, infrastructure development, and spiritual guidance, which have laid a strong foundation for the school’s progress.

Muwanika affirmed that the girls have been nurtured to be individuals of “dignity, substance, and competence.”

SHOCK IN LUUKA: Kalyesubula collapses as Bugabula suffer first defeat

Musa Kikuuno
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SHOCK IN LUUKA: Kalyesubula collapses as Bugabula suffer first defeat

Bugabula FC’s perfect start to this year’s Busoga Masaza Cup came to a dramatic halt on Wednesday 24th Sept after a 1–0 loss to Luuka at Busalaamu Primary School playground. The defeat marked their first of the tournament and also saw them concede their first goal, courtesy of Gonza Muzaham’s second-half penalty.

Despite heavy rains in the second half, play continued, but all eyes were on Bugabula’s Tony Kalyesubula, who collapsed on the pitch in the 45th minute, leaving players, officials, and fans in shock.

Bugabula captain Ibrahim Musisi Kazindula explained that several players in the squad had been unwell during the tournament. “Tony had a simple illness and maybe dizziness caught up with him. We are praying for him and are ready to face any team that comes our way in the quarterfinals,” Kazindula said.

CEO Kabi Sharif reassured supporters that Kalyesubula had been cleared to play before the match and was now recovering well. “He had a minor issue in the first half, but he is under treatment and will be ready for the quarterfinals. We appreciate Luuka for converting their penalty, but our focus is on bouncing back,” Sharif added.

Head coach Ronald Lukungu revealed that all of Bugabula’s first eleven were absent, and Kalyesubula stepped in to back up the team. “I wanted to substitute him early after he felt dizzy, but the officials delayed the change. He collapsed on his own, but he has since stabilized, and the team traveled back to Kamuli with him,” Lukungu said.

With the group stages concluded, Luuka topped the Bukowe group with nine points, edging Bugabula on a +1 goal difference. Both teams qualified for the quarterfinals, with Bugabula set to face the Kagulu group leaders, while Luuka will play the second-placed team from Kagulu.

Other confirmed quarterfinal fixtures on Saturday, October 4, include Kigulu vs Bukono at midday and Bugweri vs Bukooli Namayingo at 4 pm.

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