Uganda’s Parliament has given its approval for the government to borrow USD 20 million (approx Shs70.4bn) from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) to fund the crucial rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital.
However, the celebratory mood around this vital healthcare upgrade has been significantly tempered by revelations of substantial funds earmarked for non-core activities, including a staggering UGX 2 billion for seminars and workshops.
The Finance Minister, Henry Musasizi, presented the loan proposal, emphasizing its transformative potential for the region’s healthcare.
According to Musasizi, the intervention will dramatically increase Bugiri General Hospital’s bed capacity from the current 100 to an impressive 250. Furthermore, the hospital is slated for an upgrade to a Regional Referral Hospital, significantly enhancing its service delivery capabilities.
The project is also expected to improve living conditions for medical staff by expanding accommodation units from 83 to 115, ultimately aiming to improve the hospital’s utilization and contribute to increased life expectancy in the area.
Despite these promising projections, the financial details accompanying the loan proposal have sparked outrage among lawmakers. Isingiro South MP Alex Byarugaba spearheaded the criticism, exposing what he described as disproportionate allocations within the project’s budget.
Byarugaba revealed that out of a proposed UGX 70.4 billion loan from BADEA, which appears to encompass the overall project cost or a larger financing package, a massive UGX 2 billion has been set aside for seminars and workshops.
In addition to this, the budget shockingly includes UGX 200 million dedicated solely to the construction of a generator house.
Expressing his deep dismay, MP Byarugaba questioned the rationale behind these expenditures, especially when the core objective of the loan is to bolster critical healthcare infrastructure.
“The hefty sums allocated for seminars, workshops, and even a generator house seem disproportionate and questionable,” Byarugaba stated, adding that such allocations detract from the primary goal of improving patient care and hospital facilities.
The revelations have ignited a debate within parliamentary circles concerning the transparency and judicious use of borrowed funds for public projects.
While the loan’s approval signals a positive step towards enhancing healthcare services in Bugiri, the significant allocations for ancillary activities have raised serious concerns about financial prudence and accountability, prompting calls for tighter oversight on future government projects.
NUP Deputy Spokesperson Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, Co-Accused Saudah Madada Remanded to Luzira
Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, the Deputy Spokesperson for Uganda’s opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), and his co-accused, Sauda Madaada, have been remanded to Luzira Prison until September 29, 2025. The order was issued by the Kawempe Chief Magistrates Court today, following their arraignment on charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offences.
The duo appeared before the Kawempe Chief Magistrate, who informed them of the grave nature of the charges. Under Ugandan law, such offences are considered capital in nature, meaning a plea cannot be taken at the magistrate’s court level, and bail for such cases must be sought in the High Court. Consequently, they were remanded to Luzira Prison to allow for further police investigations and the process of committing their case to a higher court for trial.
The charges of unlawful drilling and conspiracy to commit a felony typically suggest allegations of engaging in unauthorized military-style training or plotting subversive or violent activities against the state. Specific details regarding the alleged actions underpinning these charges were not fully disclosed in court, but investigations are understood to be ongoing.
Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro is a prominent figure within the National Unity Platform (NUP), Uganda’s largest opposition party, led by Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine. His arrest and subsequent remand come amidst a broader pattern of arrests and detentions of opposition figures and perceived government critics in Uganda, a trend that has frequently drawn concern from human rights organizations.
Sauda Madaada’s role in the alleged offences was not immediately detailed, but she is being jointly charged with Mufumbiro.
The case is expected to attract significant attention, given Mufumbiro’s political standing and the serious nature of the charges, coupled with the extended remand period.
Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Kamuli Woman Member of Parliament, has highly commended Becky’s Child Foundation for its dedicated efforts in promoting community health and upholding children’s rights. Her commendation came as she accepted an invitation to preside over a crucial Pre-Independence Kidney Health Camp slated for October 7th in Kamuli.
During a meeting with the foundation’s manager and a board member at her office at Kingdom House Kampala, Kadaga emphasized that service delivery is a “calling and passion which must be applauded, supported and acknowledged.” She further underscored her commitment to the initiative, stating, “It is my passion and commendation that you are putting in for the service of the community and definitely I will put aside any program for the sake of honoring your complimentary service delivery initiative to the community.”
Beyond her attendance, Kadaga also pledged to connect Dr. Matthias Magoola of Dei Bio Pharma, a prominent Busoga pharmacist, to join these local community health initiatives. She expressed encouragement, noting, “I am encouraged to see that young people like Becky (Mutesi) are getting inspiration and pushing in the legacy I have inspired them with.”
Rebecca Alitwala Mutesi, CEO of Becky’s Child Foundation, articulated the camp’s significance, describing it as an “Independence Celebration gift to the community and reminder to them to take their health seriously.” She credited Kadaga directly: “Mama Kadaga inspired and mentored us on community service and we shall always chip in whatever we can and have just to say thank you for your legacy so this Independence we are celebrating it with a Community Kidney Health Camp and other neglected diseases.”
Diana Mugabi, Manager of Becky’s Child Foundation, highlighted the “great opportunity” of meeting Rt Hon Rebecca Kadaga, especially given her demanding schedule. Mugabi added, “Mama Kadaga is deeply attached to her people that anything to do with them she doesn’t hesitate to come in. She is a great asset, gold and treasure to the people down in communities and Becky’s Child Foundation is humbled to be part of her mentorship and children.”
Mugabi clarified that the health camp will provide screening and testing for kidney diseases, with participants receiving their results and recommendations for further medical treatment. The Uganda Kidney Association has also confirmed its participation. She urged the public to attend the check-ups and sensitization sessions, stressing the importance of “scaling up seeking health seeking behavior so as to take on preventive rather than curative treatment.”
Reiterating the foundation’s commitment, Mugabi concluded, “We at Becky’s stand to our mission and vision of making lives of less privileged and vulnerable more comfortable and worth living and pledge our commitment through Gods Providence to reach out with love, care, compassion and hope so let us turn up massively to celebrate our independence with health.”
Traders in Kamuli District have issued a fervent appeal to President Yoweri Museveni, urging his intervention against crippling high taxes, unregulated levies, and what they describe as rampant power exploitation. The business community, however, coupled their grievances with a strong assurance of their readiness to actively mobilize votes for the government, emphasizing that sustained peace is a crucial prerequisite for economic and business development.
The heartfelt call was made during a “Meet, Listen, and Make Solutions” initiative organized by the Kamuli Traders Association (KTA). The executive dialogue brought together representatives from the Industrial Area, market vendors, transporters, and other business communities to voice their concerns.
Mubarak Isabirye, the chairperson of the Kamuli Traders Association, underscored the significant political influence of the business sector. “Traders and businessmen are a great campaign force who meet every voter,” Isabirye stated. “As a reserve team, we are ready, steady, and set to protect our hard-earned incomes, businesses, and prospects by rallying behind seasoned President Mzee Museveni.”
Despite their pledge of loyalty, Isabirye did not shy away from reminding the government of unfulfilled promises to the business community. These include improvements in transport infrastructure to the Lorry Park, a much-needed boost to the Traders’ SACCO, and a critical review of existing power tariffs.
Aggrey Tigawalana, the chairperson of the Industry Area milkers, specifically highlighted exploitation by the Uganda Electricity Commercial Distribution Limited (UECDL). He called for the urgent provision of prepaid meters and more stable transformers to meet the rising demand for electricity, which powers their installed machinery. “We are suffering from biking penalties and reluctance to avail us with pre-paid meters to run our machines,” Isabirye further elaborated on the power issues.
Transporters and drivers, represented by Saadi Alibawa, aired their frustrations over excessive deductions from their earnings due to numerous roadblocks, pointing out the one at Nagalama as particularly problematic. “Our take-home, which could have saved us, is eaten out servicing roadblocks, especially the one at Nagalama,” Alibawa lamented.
Rehema Nalongo, popularly known as Mama Matooke, a long-serving vendor at Kamuli Central Market, put forward a request for better facilities for women. She appealed for the provision of safe spaces, friendly washrooms to cater to women’s emergencies, and dedicated areas for children and babies within the market.
Nalongo also passionately requested government and President Museveni’s assistance in providing dedicated transport for women who travel daily to rural markets. She described the precarious situation where women often perch on trucks and can be left stranded amidst the hustle. “Women are catching up with family economic liberation, but the hustle is rough, so we request some transport and economic boost so that we can grow our businesses to be able to support our children and families,” she voiced, emphasizing the need for support to empower women-led businesses.
The collective appeal from Kamuli’s trading community underscores a desire for a more conducive business environment, with a clear message that their economic well-being is intrinsically linked to their political support for the sitting government.
Bugabula vs Bukooli Bugiri, 4pm at Kamuli municipal stadium
Bukooli Bugiri face elimination from the Busoga Masaza Cup as they meet group leaders Bugabula this Wednesday, September 10th, at Kamuli Municipal Stadium.
Bottom of Bukowe Group with no point from two games, Bukooli Bugiri must avoid defeat to keep their hopes alive. They lost 2-0 to Bugabula in the first round at Hindocha Primary School playground and also fell to Luuka, leaving them goalless and winless so far.
Bugabula, who top the group with six points, need only a draw to seal qualification to the quarterfinals. Luuka sit second with three points.
If Bukooli Bugiri lose again, they will join Bunhole Bunhanumba as the second side officially out of this year’s tournament. Victory or a draw would still demand a tough task—beating Luuka with at least 8 eight goals and hoping Bugabula deny Luuka even a single point.
The Busoga Masaza Cup second round produced drama and shifting fortunes over the weekend, with Budiope and Kigulu emerging as the biggest winners in fixtures played across Namutumba, Iganga and Namayingo.
On Saturday, 6th September, Budiope reignited their qualification hopes with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Bukono at Ivukula Sub-county headquarters in Namutumba. The three away points lifted Budiope to six, though they remain third in Mawembe Group behind leaders Bugweri and second-placed Bukono.
Bugweri extended their dominance at the summit after overcoming Bunhole Bunhanhumba 2-1, moving to 10 points, the highest tally across all four groups. Bunhole Bunhanhumba, on the other hand, are now out of contention, even if they win their remaining two matches.
This leaves the battle for the group’s two quarterfinal slots firmly between Bugweri, Bukono and Budiope. Budiope must win their remaining fixtures against Bunhole Bunhanhumba on Sunday, 14th September, and group leaders Bugweri on Sunday, 21st September. Anything less than victory in their next game will spell elimination. Bukono, meanwhile, will also face Bugweri next weekend in a match that could shape their fate.
On Sunday, 7th September, action shifted to the Nendha Group where Kigulu beat Butembe 2-0, thanks to goals from Sizomu Benjamin and Awor Armstrong. The win moved Kigulu to the top of the group with eight points from four matches.
In Namayingo, Bukooli Namayingo brushed aside Busiki 3-0, climbing to second place on six points, just one ahead of Busiki, who slipped to third. Butembe sit bottom with two points but still cling to slim qualification hopes.
With two group games remaining, Nendha Group remains wide open. A maximum of six points is still available for each side, meaning all four teams can mathematically qualify for the quarterfinals. Kigulu are close but not yet assured of a last-eight spot, while Butembe must win their remaining home ties against Bukooli Namayingo on Friday, 12th September, and Busiki on Saturday, 20th September to stand a chance.
Bukooli Namayingo will also be looking for at least a point at Gonzaga Gonza Kagoma to strengthen their push, while Busiki need to respond against Kigulu at Kisiki College after sliding down the standings.
Elsewhere, action continues midweek with Bugabula hosting Bukooli Bugiri on Wednesday at Kamuli Municipal Stadium and Buzaya taking on Bunha on Thursday at Lwanyana Primary School.
Security forces in Namutumba District have assured residents of a peaceful and orderly re-election for the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party flag bearer for the Bukono Constituency Member of Parliament.
The crucial exercise, scheduled for Monday, September 8th, 2025, in Kibale Town Council and Kibale Sub-county, follows the overturning of previous results by the NRM Elections dispute tribunal due to widespread irregularities.
This assurance was made by the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Fredrick Bangu Aggrey, during a media briefing held at his office in Kaiti on Friday, September 4th, 2025. The briefing also saw the participation of other key security officials, including the District Police Commander (DPC), SSP Kaziba Bashir.
The re-election became necessary after the National Resistance Movement elections dispute tribunal previously overturned the declaration of Maganda Katooko as the flag bearer. This decision followed a petition by the incumbent legislator, Minister Princess Persis Namuganza, citing numerous irregularities and the absence of proper tallying in the initial poll.
RDC Bangu issued a stern warning against any attempts to disrupt the process. “We will not tolerate any attempts to intimidate others from exercising their right to vote by lining up behind their preferred candidate,” Bangu declared.
He further revealed that security had received intelligence reports on plans to smuggle voters from neighbouring sub-counties into the two affected areas. To counter this, Bangu emphasized that strict verification measures would be in place, requiring voters to present a National Identity Card and be a registered voter to qualify.
He also highlighted past issues: “In the previous election, children were seen participating in the election in these two sub-counties and intimidating others from voting, which compelled the tribunal to direct for the re-run.” The RDC also urged registrars to adhere strictly to party guidelines to prevent any further irregularities.
Adding to the security assurances, SSP Kaziba Bashir, the District Police Commander, specifically addressed voters in Kibale Town Council and Kibale Sub-county. “I assure voters in these two sub-counties that they will be protected exceptionally well, and no one should threaten them, as the security deployment plan is already in place,” DPC Bashir stated.
He concluded with a call to action: “I urge the people of Kibale Town Council and Kibale Sub-county to go and exercise their rights on Monday, 8th September, knowing they will be protected at their respective polling stations.”
Teachers in Uganda’s Kamuli and Buyende districts have officially severed ties with the Uganda National Teachers Union (UNATU), flocking instead to the newly formed Uganda Liberal Teachers Union (ULITU)’s SACCO Ltd.
The mass defection stems from years of disillusionment, unfulfilled promises, and perceived exploitation under the former union, as educators seek a tangible path to financial stability.
The move, described by some as a “divorce” from their “parent body” and an embrace of a “new bride,” highlights the deep-seated frustration among teachers grappling with low salaries, salary disparities, and mounting debt.
“UNATU has disappointed, exploited and abandoned us and benefiting from negotiations with government so with all those unfulfilled promises of salary increase and with teachers choking on multiple loans from loan sharks to survive, we see a future with ULITU and voluntarily embrace it,” declared Daniel Mugabi, a former UNATU chairman for Kamuli Municipality.
Lillian Naisanga, a teacher nearing retirement, echoed the sentiment, lamenting the perceived lack of tangible benefits from UNATU despite monthly salary deductions for membership.
“The only thing UNATU has benefited them is the Corporate wear shirt given two years ago,” she stated, adding, “UNATU are mere barking dogs and like castrated bulls taking advantage of our forced salary deductions and enjoying negotiation perks with Museveni as we suffer with empty promises of things getting better soon and singing solidarity.”
Teachers also raised long-standing grievances, including unresolved issues of salary disparity and the “unrealistic” requirement of a degree for all teachers, even those in nursery education who are often not catered for in the government payroll system.
“Government woke up with scientist and forgot the basic teaching cadres in Primary forgetting that teaching is a basic science,” questioned Mubarak Kintu.
“The degree requirement makes teaching academic not professional yet in Primary and Nursery we need methodology not academic. Nursery teachers cannot access government payroll, a primary graduate teacher earns the same as a grade 3 where is the motivation omusomesa agoingewa?”
In response to this widespread disaffection, ULITU presented itself as a pragmatic alternative focused on teacher welfare and financial empowerment.
At a gathering at Tigs Hotel Kamuli, ULITU Chairperson Andrew Kwete clarified that ULITU is not a breakaway faction but a voluntary association born to “consolidate teachers disparity, despondency and revive hope and professionalism.”
“ULITU is here to keep the teaching profession together, respond professionally to the teachers unending appalling working conditions and save them from loan sharks through voluntarism and solidarity as one voice for the teachers and it is ourselves to improve our lot and make it better, respected and dignified again,” Kwete emphasized.
A cornerstone of ULITU’s appeal is its SACCO Ltd., which aims to foster financial discipline and offer a lifeline to debt-ridden teachers. Jackson Erima, ULITU’s General Secretary, along with Sacco Manager John Murungi, urged teachers to embrace the SACCO, emphasizing the importance of “financial discipline, literacy and saving culture which will liberate our ATM cards.”
Erima revealed a significant boost to their initiative: “We have accessed 6.6 billion from our dear President’s initiative towards the teachers SACCO which we need to grow, benefit and take advantage of for hustle and high interest rate free loans which in turn makes the teachers stable and concentrate at work.”
The mass exodus from UNATU to ULITU’s SACCO in Kamuli and Buyende signals a significant shift in the landscape of teacher representation in Uganda, driven by a desperate search for financial stability and renewed professional dignity amidst challenging economic conditions.
In a shocking revelation, lawmakers in Uganda have exposed that the government intends to allocate a massive UGX2 billion for seminars and workshops, out of a proposed UGX70.4 billion loan from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA), meant to rehabilitate and expand Bugiri General Hospital.
According to Isingiro South MP Alex Byarugaba, who made the shocking disclosure, the funds earmarked for the hospital project also include UGX200 million for the construction of a generator house. Byarugaba expressed his dismay, stating that the hefty sums seemed disproportionate to the purpose of the loan.
“The unit costs, can you imagine, Honourable Minister, yesterday we were looking at a loan for rehabilitation and construction of this hospital, Bugiri Hospital, and you know what, they were saying they want UGX2Bn for seminars and workshops.”
“Rehabilitation of a hospital, to launch that project, they wanted two billion; to build a guard house as you enter the hospital, a generator house. This man is looking for two hundred million Ugandans,” Byarugaba said during a meeting between the Ministry of Finance and Parliament’s National Economy Committee.
The disclosure comes amidst the Ministry of Finance tabling three loan proposals in Parliament, seeking approval to borrow over UGX1.418 trillion for various projects, including the construction and equipping of Mbale and Arua Oncology centers, the Busega-Mpigi Expressway, and boosting livestock farming in Uganda.
In its bid to finance the UGX72.376 trillion national budget for the 2025/26 financial year, the government plans to borrow UGX32.075 trillion (44.3% of the national budget) while relying on tax revenue collections by the Uganda Revenue Authority for UGX34.051 trillion (47% of the total budget requirements).
Lawmakers have been advised to scrutinize unit costs attached to loan requests, raising concerns about the allocation of funds and prioritization of projects. As the debate around the proposed loans intensifies, questions remain about the government’s spending priorities in the face of pressing national needs.
In the vibrant heart of Uganda, where the rhythm of daily life beats to the hum of boda-bodas and the bustling energy of markets, a quiet revolution is underway.
More than just a ride-hailing platform, Faras has emerged as a powerful engine of economic growth, weaving a tapestry of opportunity for thousands across the nation.
It’s a story of empowerment, job creation, and lives profoundly transformed – one ride, one successful business at a time.
A Network of Opportunity: The Numbers Speak
Faras isn’t just facilitating convenience; it’s building a robust network of micro-entrepreneurs. With over 70,000 active partners generating income through the platform across Uganda, Faras has become a cornerstone of the informal and formal economies.
Nalubaale Hadijah, the Human Resource Manager, Faras Uganda.
This includes a significant proportion of boda-boda riders (approximately 70%), car drivers (30%). These individuals and businesses find not just a source of income, but a flexible, reliable, and technology-backed pathway to financial stability and growth.
For many, joining Faras has been a pivotal moment, turning months of underemployment or inconsistent income into a steady stream of earnings.
Isaac Oyuki, The Boda-Boda Entrepreneur
Meet Isaac Oyuki, a boda-boda rider from Bugolobi, Kampala.
Before Faras, Oyuki’s days were a relentless grind, chasing fares at stages, battling fierce competition, and often returning home with barely enough to feed his family. “Some days, I would work for 12 hours and make less than UGX 20, 000,” he recalls, his face etched with the memory of past struggles.
Since joining Faras two years ago, Oyuki’s income has seen a remarkable increase, often doubling his previous earnings. “The app brings customers directly to me. I don’t waste time waiting,” he explains.
With his consistent income, Twine has not only been able to consistently pay his children’s school fees but has also started saving. “I’ve bought a small piece of land in my village. Soon, I will build my own house. Faras didn’t just give me rides; it gave me a future for my children.”
Denis Kabunga, The Car Driver Who Found his Path
Denis Kabunga, from Mengo stage, represents another facet of Faras’s impact. Despite his driving skills, finding stable, well-paying employment was a constant challenge. “I had a car, but it was sitting idle most of the time. I tried various odd jobs, but nothing was consistent,” she shares.
Faras offered her the flexibility and consistent demand she needed. As a Faras car driver, Sarah can set her own hours, allowing her to balance work with her family responsibilities.
“My income through Faras has allowed me to clear my children’s school arrears and even invest in a small plot of land for future development,” Sarah proudly states. “I feel respected, independent. Faras gave me back my dignity and the means to provide for my family with confidence.”
From Boda-Boda Stages to Stable Incomes: David’s Story
For David Okello, a 34-year-old father of three, life before Faras was a daily struggle. “I used to spend hours just waiting at the boda-boda stage in Mengo, praying for a passenger,” he recounts, his face etched with memories of lean days.
“Some days I would make barely enough to buy food, let alone pay school fees.” Since joining Faras two years ago, David’s fortunes have dramatically improved.
“Now, my phone is constantly buzzing. Faras sends me rides directly, reducing my idle time significantly. On a good day, I can earn twice what I used to, reliably. My children are now in better schools, and I’m even saving to build a small house.”
David’s story is echoed by thousands of boda-boda riders who have found stability, increased earnings, and a sense of dignity through the platform.
Esther Mirembe: Driving Her Way to Financial Independence
It’s not just two-wheelers feeling the impact. Mirembe, a former administrative assistant, found her calling behind the wheel of a comfortable sedan, ferrying passengers across Kampala. “After losing my office job during the pandemic, I felt lost,” Mirembe shares.
“A friend suggested Faras. I owned a small car, so I decided to try.” What started as a temporary solution blossomed into a full-fledged career. “Faras gave me the flexibility to be my own boss and manage my schedule around my family. More importantly, it gave me a consistent and respectable income. I’ve gained confidence, met so many interesting people, and I’m even planning to buy a second car to expand my small fleet.”
Faras provides a lifeline for individuals like Sarah, turning personal assets into income-generating tools.
A Commitment to Community Growth
“Our vision for Faras has always been to leverage technology to create tangible economic opportunities and improve lives across Uganda,” says Nalubaale Hadijah, the Human Resource Manager, Faras Uganda.
“We are incredibly proud to see how our platform empowers thousands of individuals to become entrepreneurs, earn sustainable incomes, and contribute to their families and communities. When our partners prosper, Uganda prospers.”
As Faras continues to expand its footprint and refine its services, its impact on Uganda’s economic landscape is undeniable. It stands as a testament to how technology, when thoughtfully applied, can be a powerful catalyst for change, transforming individual livelihoods and driving the collective prosperity of a nation.
Faras is more than just an app; it’s a testament to the resilient spirit of Ugandans and a crucial engine powering their journey towards a brighter, more financially secure future.
It’s a testament to the power of innovation in fostering economic resilience and transforming lives. As Uganda continues its journey of development, platforms like Faras stand as crucial partners, empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and charting a course for a more prosperous future. Faras is truly transforming lives, one ride at a time.
