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DONE: Penalty magic sends Cranes into CHAN quarter finals

Musa Kikuuno
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DONE: Penalty magic sends Cranes into CHAN quarter finals

South Africa 3-3 Uganda Cranes

Algeria 0-0 Niger

Under the dazzling floodlights of Mandela National Stadium, Uganda Cranes scripted history on Monday night, coming from behind to secure a dramatic 3-3 draw with South Africa and, for the first time ever, booked their place in the quarterfinals of the African Nations Championship (CHAN).

In what will be remembered as one of Uganda’s most thrilling football nights, the Cranes showed resilience, character, and belief—hallmarks of champions in the making.

Jude Semugabi opened the scoring for Uganda in the 31st minute, giving the hosts an early lead and sending the home fans into raptures. However, the second half saw a resurgent South Africa who netted three goals in quick succession through Ramahlwe Mphahlele (52′), Thabiso Kutumela (58′), and Ndabayithethwa Ndlondlo (83′), stunning the Ugandan crowd into silence.

But the Cranes refused to bow out. Allan Okello converted a penalty in the 88th minute to give Uganda hope, and in the dying moments of the game—deep into stoppage time (90+6′)—Rogers Torach stepped up to bury another penalty, completing a sensational comeback and sealing the crucial point Uganda needed to top Group C.

The result meant Uganda finished first in the group with 7 points, while Algeria and South Africa both ended with 6. However, Algeria advanced on goal difference (+3) over South Africa (+1), following a goalless draw against Niger in the other group match.

Final Group C Standings:

  1. Uganda – 7 pts
  2. Algeria – 6 pts
  3. South Africa – 6 pts
  4. Guinea – 4 pts
  5. Niger – 2 pts

Uganda will now face the second-placed team in Group D on Saturday, August 23rd, at the same venue—Mandela National Stadium—while Algeria will take on the Group D leaders in Zanzibar at Amaan Stadium.

This is a landmark moment for the Cranes, who had previously failed to make it past the group stage in all six of their past CHAN appearances. In their seventh attempt, they’ve finally broken the curse—reaching the knockout stage in the eighth edition of the tournament.

The stakes are high as the CHAN2024 champion will walk away with a grand prize of $3.5 million. With the spirit shown in Kampala, Uganda’s journey may just be getting started

TICAD CUP: Rwamwanja Girls ready for Jinja

Musa Kikuuno
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TICAD CUP: Rwamwanja Girls ready for Jinja

Results:

She Global Queens FC 2-0 Western Giants Girls Academy FC

Western Giants Academy FC 0-4 Bwizi ss She Falcons FC

Bwizi ss she falcons FC 0(2)-0(1) She Global Queens FC

The best talent from Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement has been selected to represent the community in the upcoming TICAD Cup 2025, a refugee girls’ football tournament organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in partnership with UNHCR Uganda and Solitilo Bright Stars FC.

The selection event, held at Rwamwanja Stadium, featured three teams – Western Giants Women FC, She Global Queens Women FC, and Bwizi SS She Falcons Women FC. After spirited competition, the top 15 players were chosen to carry Rwamwanja’s flag at the prestigious tournament scheduled for September in Jinja.

Gracing the occasion, Mr. Jun Kunihiro, JICA Uganda’s representative, applauded the Office of the Prime Minister, UNHCR, Solitilo Bright Stars, and implementing partners for their role in making the event a success.

JICA Representative Mr. Jun Kunihiro during the event earlier on saturday

“The purpose of this football event is to enhance peaceful coexistence, social cohesion, and the empowerment of women. Since 2022, JICA has been committed to supporting refugees and host communities through sports. We are excited to see these talented girls showcase their skills in Jinja,” Mr. Jun said, before handing over a new set of jerseys and gift packages to all players.

The selection event follows earlier initiatives, including a March 2024 International Women’s Day football tournament, which JICA and partners organised in Rwamwanja to promote inclusion and gender empowerment.

Bwizi SS She falcons FC Captain Nwasime Sarah picks teams jersey from JICA officials

Captain Nwasime Sarah of Bwizi SS She Falcons expressed gratitude for the platform JICA has provided:

“This opportunity makes us famous and helps us expose our talents. JICA has supported us with bursaries, schooling, and basic needs. Now we are ready to represent Rwamwanja well in Jinja.”

Some of the players of She Global Queens FC celebrate after winning a game on saturday

Coach Mutebi Ivan praised his side’s progress:

“It has always been a dream to play against big teams. Football was once just leisure here, but with JICA’s support it has become a tool for empowerment. We believe Rwamwanja will shine at this year’s TCAD Cup.”

The TCAD Cup, now in its fourth edition, has grown into a flagship platform for refugee girls’ football since its launch in 2022. Jinja City Queens, winners of both the first and third editions, are the defending champions. Last year, Rwamwanja finished fifth out of six participating teams.

This initiative is part of Japan’s pledge at the 2nd Global Refugee Forum 2023, committing to give 10,000 refugees and host community members opportunities through sports.

With their strongest team yet, Rwamwanja’s girls will head to Jinja in September, eager to compete, learn, and inspire.

DO OR DIE: Uganda, Algeria, South Africa in final group C battle for last eight

Musa Kikuuno
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DO OR DIE: Uganda, Algeria, South Africa in final group C battle for last eight

Group C results

Guinea 1-1 Algeria

South Africa 0-0 Niger

Group C of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) has been whittled down to a three-way qualification race, with Uganda, Algeria, and South Africa all still in contention for the two available quarterfinal slots. Guinea and Niger have already bowed out after disappointing campaigns.

Guinea’s 1–1 draw with Algeria in their final group match took them to just four points — not enough to progress. Niger, meanwhile, held South Africa to a goalless draw but remain bottom on one point, with no mathematical chance of advancing despite having one match left.

This leaves Uganda on top with six points, Algeria on five, and South Africa also on five but behind on goal difference. The qualification picture will be decided on Monday, August 18, in a double-header that promises high drama.

At the Nyayo International Stadium in Kenya, Niger will play Algeria in a fixture that is a formality for the West Africans but potentially decisive for the North Africans. Later that night, attention will shift to the Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, where Uganda and South Africa clash in what could be the game of the tournament so far.

Qualification Scenarios:

Uganda need just a draw — or a win — to secure a historic first-ever CHAN quarterfinal appearance since their debut in 2011 in Sudan.

South Africa must beat Uganda or draw and hope Niger stun Algeria.

Algeria will go through with a win against Niger. A draw could also be enough if Uganda avoid defeat against South Africa.

Uganda’s campaign so far has been their most promising in CHAN history, with two wins already on the board. The Cranes now stand on the brink of history, aiming to join the likes of Tanzania and Mauritania — teams who have already confirmed their last-eight places.

Seven of the 19 participating teams have already been eliminated: Zambia, Nigeria, Central African Republic, Burkina Faso, Niger, Guinea, and Angola.

MAJOR LEAP IN WATER ACCESS: Kamuli water supply and sanitation system handed over as phase 2 of strategic towns’ project is approved

Editorial
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MAJOR LEAP IN WATER ACCESS: Kamuli water supply and sanitation system handed over as phase 2 of strategic towns’ project is approved

In a significant boost for public health and development, the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) has officially handed over the newly completed Kamuli Water Supply and Sanitation System to the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC). This milestone coincided with the Parliamentary Committee on National Economy giving a crucial green light to secure a government loan for Phase Two of the Strategic Towns Water Supply Project.

The dual announcement, made during the Committee’s assessment tour and the handover ceremony at the water plant in Mbulamuti, Kamuli, marks a pivotal stride towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal Six (SDG 6), which focuses on providing clean water and sanitation for all. The event saw the convergence of the Parliamentary Committee, local political leaders, and jubilant community members.

The Parliamentary Committee on National Economy lauded the Ministry of Water and Environment for its unwavering commitment to implementing government programs that directly improve citizens’ standards of living.

Kamuli Project Delivers 80% Service Increase

The completed Kamuli Water Supply and Sanitation System is expected to increase water and sanitation services in the area by an impressive 80%. The new infrastructure boasts a modern water treatment plant, efficient pump houses, sedimentation tanks, and numerous public stand-posts designed to enhance accessibility. M/S Vidas Engineering Services Company Ltd., the project contractor, will remain responsible for addressing any defects during the specified liability period.

Green Light for Phase 2: A Strategic Investment

John Bosco Ikojo, Member of Parliament for Bukedea and Chairperson of the Committee on National Economy, explained the rigorous process behind the approval for Phase 2. He clarified that the Ministry of Finance had presented a loan request in April to finance Phase Two of the Strategic Towns Water Supply System, building on the successes of the first phase.

“In April, Ministry of Finance presented a loan request towards implementation of a project to finance Phase II of strategic towns water supply system in line with the first Project implemented in Phase 1 to improve water supply system,” Ikojo explained.

Citing Article 159 of the constitution, which grants the committee powers to process donor-funded loans, Hon. Ikojo affirmed their thorough assessment of the completed first phase. He noted that while Phase 2 funding is currently proposed from Standard Chartered Bank as a commercial loan, the committee intends to scrutinize its terms.

“Yes, Standard Chartered Bank is offering a commercial loan which we may need a lot of money to pay off, and looking at our national debt service strategy, we may need to get a more concessional loan to finance social services,” Ikojo stated, emphasizing the need for financially sustainable solutions while balancing the critical demand for water for “sustainability of development, domestic and industrial production.”

Addressing Power Challenges and Local Content Demands

Despite the significant progress, challenges remain. Eng. Dr. Felix Twinomucunguzi, Assistant Commissioner for Urban Water and Sewerage Department, raised concerns about intermittent power supply due to load shedding, which hinders consistent water pumping.

He highlighted the dilemma of employing heavy generators as an alternative, stating it would inevitably push tariffs higher for consumers. Dr. Twinomucunguzi appealed for intervention and discussions with UEDCL to provide a dedicated power line not subjected to routine load shedding, ensuring continuous water supply. He also urged more customers to connect to the system, noting that despite a five-times capacity for 2,000 customers, only 700 have currently connected.

Adding a local perspective, Henry Maurice Kibalya, Member of Parliament for Bugabula South, advocated strongly for local content in the next phase. “We are happy and appreciate the project, but observe that Phase 1 did not cater for local content. So our demand is that in Phase 2, we want the community to own and feel the project; let the money remain in the local economy and the project make impact with tangible corporate social responsibility, not merely latrines,” he urged. He also prioritized the inclusion of a standby generator in Phase 2. Earlier, community representative Ruth Namusisi voiced a request for at least a latrine for Bugondha Primary School, the nearest to the water plant.

Community Praises Affordability and Health Benefits

The positive impact on the community was enthusiastically reported by Kamuli Deputy RDC Adonia Mafumo, who witnessed the handover. He delivered a community report appreciating the improved water services, which have dramatically cut the cost of water from UGX 500 to UGX 100 per jerrycan. This substantial reduction has directly led to a decrease in the burden of waterborne diseases.

“From our community dialogues and field visits, the public has commended the improved water supply system, which has seen a great reduction, hence affordability of safe and clean water, saving UGX 400 a jerrycan, which translates to reduction in the water-cleaned disease burden,” the RDC called, urging communities and leaders to “not only appreciate, support but also embrace government interventions.”

The handover and the subsequent approval for Phase Two signal a strong governmental commitment to expanding access to clean and safe water across strategic towns, setting a promising trajectory for improved public health and socio-economic development.

NRM’S ENDURING JOURNEY: A hypothesis on its evolution and future

Editorial
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NRM’S ENDURING JOURNEY: A hypothesis on its evolution and future

By Waiswa Michael Baluye

Uganda’s political landscape has been profoundly shaped by the National Resistance Movement (NRM). From its origins as a liberation movement to its current role as a dominant political force, the NRM’s trajectory offers a compelling case study in political evolution. This article explores a hypothesis on the NRM’s journey, examining its genesis, objectives, historical phases, internal democratic processes, and charting a potential path forward.

The Genesis of a Movement

The National Resistance Movement, as it stands today, is not merely a political party but the culmination of protracted struggles by the Ugandan people against cycles of injustice, exploitation, and debilitating sectarian divisions. Its roots delve deep into the intellectual ferment of the 1960s student movements and the political experiences of former parties like the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC), Democratic Party (DP), and Kabaka Yekka (KY). This was a period characterized by pervasive ethnic and religious sectarianism, and the systemic marginalization of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

Under the visionary leadership of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, the NRM, then primarily known as the National Resistance Army (NRA), launched and successfully waged a five-year protracted people’s war from 1981 to 1986. This armed struggle was a direct, revolutionary response to the pervasive political instability and profound governance failures that plagued Uganda throughout the 1970s and early 1980s.

Following the triumphant capture of Kampala in January 1986, the NRA seamlessly transitioned into the NRM, consolidating power and instituting a new political order. This new order was fundamentally aimed at restoring stability, fostering democracy, and rebuilding national unity. The NRM distinguished itself by positioning itself as a unifier, a restorer of peace, and a steadfast proponent of democratic principles, evolving into the dominant political organization it is today. Its unique blend of clear political, military, and organizational principles, all geared towards national unity and socio-economic transformation, set it apart.

Core Mandate: The NRM’s Enduring Objectives

Central to understanding the NRM’s evolution and continued relevance are its broad objectives, which aim at the holistic transformation of Uganda. These include:

•             Mobilizing Ugandans to support a peaceful, united, democratic, industrialized, and prosperous nation.

•             Consolidating democracy and constitutional governance.

•             Maintaining peace, security, and the protection of persons and property.

•             Promoting national unity, patriotism, and pan-Africanism.

•             Fostering socio-economic transformation through modernization and ensuring equal opportunities for all citizens.

•             Upholding the crucial principles of transparency, accountability, integrity, consensus building, and merit in governance.

A Journey Through Time: Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

The NRM’s trajectory can be understood in three distinct yet interconnected phases:

Yesterday (1986 Onwards): The NRM emerged as a formidable liberation movement, dedicating itself to ending sectarianism and marginalization. Post-1986, it consolidated its hard-won victory and spearheaded the establishment of a “movement” political system. This system was founded on the principles of decentralization and participatory democracy, laying the groundwork for Uganda’s recovery and initiating a profound socio-economic transformation.

Today (Current Era): In the present day, the NRM has successfully steered Uganda through decades of relative stability, implementing significant economic reforms and orchestrating impressive infrastructural development. Its current manifesto is a blueprint for accelerating socio-economic transformation, with a strong focus on wealth creation, job creation, enhancing education, strengthening national security, and pursuing comprehensive governance reforms. The party remains the principal guarantor of Uganda’s ambitious Vision 2040, which aims to elevate the nation to a middle-income country status.

Tomorrow (Future Trajectory): Looking ahead, the NRM prioritizes further modernization of the economy, focusing on fully monetizing an economy largely based on subsistence, emphasizing value addition in agriculture, and driving industrial development.

Crucially, it aims to expand and deepen democratic governance across all levels of society. The party recognizes the imperative to continually adapt and strengthen its internal democracy and inclusivity to ensure it remains relevant and responsive to the evolving needs and aspirations of all Ugandans.

Upholding Internal Democracy: The Electoral Process

Integral to the NRM’s structure and its claim to democratic principles is its robust system of internal elections. These elections are conducted at various levels, from the village and parish to the district and city structures, ensuring broad-based participation. The party’s voting method often emphasizes transparency, commonly utilizing public lining up behind candidates rather than secret ballots, to reinforce accountability.

There are clear procedures for candidate nomination, meticulous voter verification, and active agent participation to ensure credible outcomes. The NRM continually works to tighten its election processes, aiming to promote free and fair primaries and, in so doing, strengthen democratic governance within the party itself.

Charting the Future: The Way Forward for the Party

For the NRM to continue its legacy and effectively steer Uganda towards its stated aspirations, several strategic imperatives emerge:

Strengthen Internal Democracy: This is paramount. It involves enhancing transparency and inclusivity in electoral processes to grow legitimacy and participation. A key suggestion is to ensure strict adherence to the party’s electoral registers, making internal voting exclusive to bona fide party members at specific voting locations.

    Furthermore, I suggested that the National Executive Committee (NEC), under the guidance of the National Chairperson (President Museveni), directly elect members of the Central Executive Committee (CEC), rather than having the CEC elected by the potentially unwieldy National Conference. This would streamline decision-making and enhance coherence.

    Enhance Socio-Economic Transformation: Deepening the implementation of policies that directly focus on wealth creation, job creation, improving education and health outcomes, and accelerating infrastructural development is critical for broad-based prosperity.

    Promote Unity and Patriotism: The party must continue fostering national cohesion and pan-African ideals to unite Uganda’s diverse communities, mitigating any divisive forces.

    Respond to Emerging Challenges: Proactively addressing pressing issues such as youth unemployment, corruption, the continuous need for governance reforms, and adapting to global economic changes will be crucial for maintaining public trust and national progress.

    Sustain Vision 2040: A continued focus on technological innovation, industrialization, and the sustainable use of natural resources is essential for realizing Uganda’s long-term development goals.

    Engage Youth and Marginalized Groups: Empowering previously marginalized groups politically and economically is not just a matter of social justice but also vital for ensuring broad-based development and inclusive participation in the nation’s future.

    In conclusion, the NRM’s journey from a liberation movement to a dominant political force is a testament to its adaptive capacity and a consistent focus on national unity and socio-economic transformation.

    As the NRM looks to “Tomorrow,” its ability to navigate emerging complexities, uphold its founding principles, and continue to adapt its internal mechanisms and policy approaches will undoubtedly determine its enduring relevance and significantly shape Uganda’s future trajectory.

    Mr. Waiswa Michael Baluye is the coordinator ONC in Buyende district

    AGENDA SETTING: “Go mad about our economy, or we shall not develop” – Ambassador Mubiru urges Buyende community at Musevenomics launch

    Editorial
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    AGENDA SETTING: “Go mad about our economy, or we shall not develop” – Ambassador Mubiru urges Buyende community at Musevenomics launch

    His Excellency James Mubiru, Uganda’s Ambassador to Germany, delivered a stirring call to action in Buyende, challenging residents to adopt an almost obsessive focus on economic development if the nation is to truly progress.

    Speaking at the Buyende Town Council Hall during the launch of ‘Musevenomics in Greater Busoga,’ an initiative by the Uganda Development Forum (UDF), Ambassador Mubiru declared, “Unless we go mad about our economy, we shall not develop.”

    Ambassador Mubiru’s potent message underscored the urgent need for a radical shift in mindset towards economic engagement. He elaborated that this “madness” translates into a fierce dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to personal and national economic prosperity.

    He implored the community to be resilient and to aim higher, emphasizing that achieving their aspirations requires consistent effort and strategic investment.

    A key recommendation from the Ambassador was the critical role of vocational training; he urged parents to enroll their children in vocational schools and institutions. This, he explained, would ensure the availability of adequate skilled manpower in the near future, enabling them to secure employment and generate vital income for their households.

    Echoing the call for proactive engagement, Edward Katende, Chairman of the Uganda Development Forum (UDF), outlined the government’s steadfast commitment to fostering community development. He highlighted the various programs and initiatives through which the government seeks to empower citizens economically.

    A significant aspect of this strategy, Katende revealed, is the establishment of a Parish Planning Committee (PPC). This committee, designed to foster bottom-up development, will bring together local leaders and district officials to meticulously plan from the village level upwards, ultimately integrating into national development strategies. This localized approach aims to ensure that development interventions are relevant and impactful to the specific needs of each community.

    The launch of Musevenomics in Greater Busoga signifies a collaborative effort towards accelerating economic growth and empowering local communities. The initiative garnered crucial support from several key government bodies, including the Uganda Development Forum itself, the Ministry of Finance, and the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS).

    This multi-sectoral involvement underscores the comprehensive approach being adopted to drive sustainable development.

    The gathering in Buyende served as a powerful reminder that genuine development hinges on collective dedication and strategic planning.

    The Musevenomics initiative, coupled with the proposed Parish Planning Committees, aims to cultivate a resilient, skilled, and economically empowered citizenry, paving the way for sustainable growth across Uganda.

    SHOCK EXIT: Nigeria’s dream ends, Tanzania through as the rest fight for survival

    Musa Kikuuno
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    SHOCK EXIT: Nigeria’s dream ends, Tanzania through as the rest fight for survival

    Senegal 1-1 Congo

    Sudan 4-0 Nigeria

    As the group stage of the continental championship approaches its climax, the picture is becoming clearer — and for some, more painful. Tanzania have already booked their spot in the quarter-finals, while Nigeria once seen as a tournament favorite, are officially out after two disappointing defeats.

    With just one or two matches left for most teams, the battle for the remaining quarter-final slots is heating up across all four groups.

    Group A: Kenya Close, DR Congo & Morocco in Pursuit

    Kenya sit on top with 7 points and are just one result away from sealing a spot in the last eight. They face bottom-side Zambia next, needing only a draw. Angola (4 pts) face DR Congo (3 pts) in a crucial match that could decide who joins Kenya. Morocco (3 pts) also remain in contention and face DR Congo in their final group game — a potential knockout decider.

    Still in the race: Kenya, Angola, DR Congo, Morocco

    All but out: Zambia

    Group B: Tanzania Through, Second Spot Wide Open

    Tanzania have been flawless, winning all three matches and conceding just once. They’ll top the group regardless of their final result. The real drama lies beneath them, where Mauritania (4 pts) and Burkina Faso (3 pts) clash tonight. Madagascar and the Central African Republic need wins and outside help to have a shot.

    Qualified: Tanzania

    Still in the race: Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Madagascar

    Hanging by a thread: Central African Republic

    Group C: Uganda Lead, Final-Day Drama Looms

    Uganda top the group with 6 points but still have to face South Africa (4 pts) in a vital final match. Algeria (4 pts) can also qualify if they avoid slip-ups against Guinea and Niger. Guinea (3 pts) need a win to stay alive, while Niger are out.

    Still in the race: Uganda, South Africa, Algeria, Guinea

    Out: Niger

    Group D: Nigeria Out, Sudan and Senegal in Control

    In the tournament’s biggest shock so far, Nigeria have been eliminated, failing to score and conceding five in two games. Sudan and Senegal (4 pts each) are in prime position to qualify, with Congo (2 pts) needing a win and favorable results to sneak through. Their final day clash could determine both qualifiers.

    Qualified: None

    Still in the race: Sudan, Senegal, Congo

    Eliminated: Nigeria

    The Road AheadWith just a few games left, every pass, shot, and save counts. While Tanzania rest easy, the rest are locked in a high-stakes fight for survival.

    GREEN FUTURE: Busoga attempts to shift from sugarcane to coffee and bananas for sustainable prosperity

    Editorial
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    GREEN FUTURE: Busoga attempts to shift from sugarcane to coffee and bananas for sustainable prosperity

    By Ali Lukomo

    For decades, the fertile plains of Busoga have been synonymous with sugarcane, a crop that has shaped the economic landscape but often left many households struggling with fluctuating incomes and land degradation. However, a quiet yet profound agricultural revolution is now underway, as farmers in districts like Kamuli and Buyende are strategically shifting their focus towards the more sustainable and lucrative cultivation of coffee and bananas.

    This significant change is being driven by a compelling desire to bolster household incomes and secure a more stable future for farming communities. Farmers, increasingly informed by media houses and agricultural outreach programs across Busoga, are recognizing the immense potential of coffee as a long-term investment that promises substantial yields and better returns.

    Spearheading this transformative initiative is the Ministry of Agriculture, through its dedicated Department of Coffee Development. Recognizing coffee as a heritage cash crop for the region, the Ministry is actively working to re-educate and sensitize communities, guiding them back to their original economic roots.

    A key component of this effort is the ambitious distribution of over 45,000 coffee seedlings – high-quality, improved varieties designed for optimal productivity. But the Ministry’s support extends far beyond just providing planting material. Farmers are receiving crucial training in modern methodologies of coffee cultivation, including critical aspects like the application of locally made fertilizers. This holistic approach ensures that farmers are not only planting but also nurturing their crops using sustainable and cost-effective practices.

    “Gone are the days when coffee and cotton were the undisputed main cash crops in Busoga,” explains a regional agricultural officer. “For too long, their cultivation dwindled, almost dying a natural death. Now, thanks to dedicated organizations and media houses, we are working tirelessly to bring them back, and the community is slowly but surely embracing this revival, seeing the clear value in it.”

    The economic incentives are proving to be a powerful motivator. A kilogram of clean, processed coffee beans currently fetches an impressive UGX 10,000, while unprocessed “kiboko” goes for UGX 4,000 and above. These robust prices offer a stark contrast to the often-depressed returns from sugarcane, making coffee an increasingly attractive option.

    Diversification for Resilience and Land Health

    Speaking to a group of farmers from the Bugonda Farmers Group, Michael Baguma, the Coffee Regional Agriculture Officer in charge of Kamuli and Buyende, reiterated the Ministry’s commitment. “Our aim is to empower our farmers by giving out free coffee seedlings and call upon them to stick to coffee and cocoa as their main cash crops, alongside bananas.”

    Baguma emphasized the strategic importance of diversification, particularly the inclusion of bananas. “Bananas are not only a staple food crop, ensuring household food security, but they also contribute significantly to soil health, helping to keep the land safe and productive,” he stated. This is a subtle yet critical jab at sugarcane monoculture, which is often associated with soil nutrient depletion and environmental strain.

    The shift in Busoga is more than just a change in crops; it’s a paradigm shift towards sustainable agriculture, economic empowerment, and a renewed sense of pride in the region’s agricultural heritage. With government support, committed farmers, and the natural advantages of coffee and banana, Busoga is poised to cultivate a future that is not only greener but significantly more prosperous.

    PARENTING: Give us quality time and support, Kamuli children plead with parents

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    PARENTING: Give us quality time and support, Kamuli children plead with parents

    Children in Kamuli district have made an impassioned plea to their parents, demanding not just material provisions but also valuable quality time, crucial school requirements to help them stay in school, and active participation in decisions affecting their lives.

    The powerful call was made during the Music, Dance, and Drama (MDD) competitions held today at Butende Primary School, an event organized by Africa Water Solutions (AWS).

    In their moving presentations, the children articulated a clear message to their guardians: “We love our parents and value school as holding the keys to our future, but we also ask you to give us valuable and quality time.” Their compelling messages further urged parents to “end teenage pregnancies, child marriage, and keep children in school,” highlighting critical issues plaguing their communities.

    Hillary Wafula, Project Coordinator for Africa Water Solutions (AWS), echoed the children’s concerns, expressing alarm over the “high rate of school drop-outs and parenting neglect” prevalent in the area. Wafula urged parents to heed the children’s heartfelt messages, emphasizing the need for providing basic requirements, maintaining close supervision, and fostering closer ties to facilitate open discussions on sensitive topics like sexual and reproductive health rights.

    He particularly stressed the critical need for “parental interventions and interventions on violence against children, menstrual hygiene management which negatively impact on attendance and school completion.”

    Reinforcing the importance of systemic support, Moses Woira Mitala, the Kamuli Assistant Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), called for the rigorous enforcement of the National Child Policy. He highlighted that the policy “demonstrates government’s commitment to ensure the wellbeing of children’s health, survival, protection, participation and above all education for all.”

    Mitala advocated for improved realization and enjoyment of children’s rights, development of their full potentials, and enhancing family-centered practices and capacities to care, nurture, and protect children’s safety, including vital school feeding programs.

    “We need system strengthening for families to reduce social exclusion, lower risk of separation, domestic violence and exploitation, but above parents as their sole responsibility should feed children at school,” Mitala firmly stated, urging parents not to shy away from this critical duty.

    Earlier, Joab Kyalo, the headteacher of Butende Primary School, shared a compelling success story. He reported a significant increase in enrollment and retention – from 456 to 758 pupils – attributing it to the impactful interventions by Africa Water Solutions. Kyalo credited AWS’s efforts in “menstrual hygiene management, counseling, and community outreaches that rallied parents to support the education of their children.”

    He concluded with a specific appeal, calling on all stakeholders: “Let us budget for the girl child special requirements and boost the school feeding program for better results.”

    The event served as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted challenges faced by children in Kamuli, and a collective call to action for parents, communities, and government to ensure their holistic development and a brighter future.

    SUPER WIN: Uganda edge closer to historical CHAN quarter-final berth

    Musa Kikuuno
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    SUPER WIN: Uganda edge closer to historical CHAN quarter-final berth

    Monday Results

    Uganda 2-0 Niger

    South Africa 2-1 Guinea

    Uganda Cranes took a giant step towards their first-ever CHAN quarter-final appearance after defeating Niger 2-0 on Monday evening at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

    Goals from SC Vipers’ star Allan Okello and KCCA FC forward Joel Sserunjogi sealed the victory in front of an electrified home crowd. Okello, who had missed a first-half penalty, made amends in the 25th minute by slotting in a rebound to give Uganda the lead.

    Sserunjogi doubled the advantage with a fine strike from just inside the 18-yard box, putting the game beyond Niger’s reach.Earlier in the day, South Africa revived their campaign with a 2-1 win over Guinea, thanks to goals from Neo Maema and Thabiso Kutumela.

    The result marked Bafana Bafana’s first victory of the tournament after their opening draw with Algeria.

    The win sees Uganda top Group C with six points from three matches (two wins and one loss), followed by Algeria (4 points), South Africa (4), Guinea (3), and Niger (0).

    Group C Standings:

    1. Uganda – 6 pts

    2. Algeria – 4 pts

    3. South Africa – 4 pts

    4. Guinea – 3 pts

    5. Niger – 0 pts

    With just one group game left – against South Africa on Monday, August 18 at 8 PM – Uganda’s qualification permutations are clear. A draw would be enough if South Africa fail to beat Niger in their penultimate fixture on Friday. However, should South Africa win on Friday, Uganda will need a victory to secure a last-eight spot.

    Algeria remain strong contenders for top spot with two games left against Guinea and Niger, while South Africa still have a realistic shot at a top-two finish with six points up for grabs.

    Guinea’s hopes are slim, requiring back-to-back wins and favorable results elsewhere.

    Niger, rooted at the bottom, would need a football miracle to progress.Uganda has participated in six previous CHAN editions without ever reaching the knockout stage, and the class of 2025 now stands just 90 minutes away from making history.

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