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THE 65% FACTOR: Why local youth action is the key to achieving the SDGs

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THE 65% FACTOR: Why local youth action is the key to achieving the SDGs

By Pious Nsajja

As we observe International Youth Day 2025 under the theme “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” one statistic stands out as both a rallying cry and a strategic imperative:65% of the SDG targets cannot be achieved without active engagement at the local levelespecially by empowered youth. This represents not just an advocacy insight but a roadmap for transforming global goals into community realities.

Globally, progress toward the SDGs falters: only 17% of targets are on track, while nearly half show regression or stagnation. The clock is ticking, and localized youth-driven action must become the heartbeat of the SDG acceleration.

According to Ministry of Finance, planning and National Development, Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) (2025/26–2029/30) lays the groundwork for socio-economic transformation aiming for accelerated GDP growth (from 6.6% to 10.1%) and raising household incomes from UGX 202,131 to UGX 578,635 per month. Central to achieving these goals are its guiding pillars: inclusive industrialization, human capital development, private-sector-led growth, infrastructure, and good governance.

Youth human rights defenders across Uganda transform policy into practice. From health outreach in village parishes and civic education in urban slums to agro ecological initiatives in rural areas, youth efforts cover the breadth of the SDGs:Youth-led health campaigns and informal education networks (SDG 3&4), innovations in agribusiness and ICT-led livelihoods (SDG 8&9), advocacy for inclusive governance and gender justice,(SDG 5&16), and strengthening legal identitycivil participation, and rights awareness (which are cross cutting).For these projects to yield sustainable impact, they must be intertwined into national planning and funded accordingly.

Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM) offers a decentralized platform bringing development planning to the grassroots. It addresses seven pillars, including governance, social services, and economic services.When youths are actively included in PDM implementation, they help transform the 65% of SDG targets tied to local action into concrete outcomes.

Let us take a look at inspiring examples from home and afar.In urban Uganda, young human rights defenders have convened community dialogues that have improved local access to education services.In Kenya and Rwanda, youth-led environmental initiatives have demonstrated how SDG localization drives climate resilience and economic inclusion.In Medellín, Colombia, “Voluntary Local Reviews” empower youth to report on SDG progress and influence governance amplifying accountability across levels.These stories show that when youth are empowered locally, they become catalysts for systemic change turning targets into transport upgrades, rights realizations, and livelihoods.

The statistic is undeniable: 65% of SDGs demand youth-led, local action. This International Youth Day, let’s acknowledge that youth human rights defenders are the vital link between ambitious SDG targets and real-world transformation. If Uganda’s NDP IV is to succeed, and if the post-2030 development agenda is to be meaningful, we must invest in them, protect their civic space, and enable their leadership at every level.

That’s not just policy it’s our collective future.

Pious Nsajja is the Communications Officer, National Coalition of Human Rights Defender Uganda

BEST OF FIRST ROUND: Bugabula FC leads as three teams keep perfect defensive records in Busoga Masaza Cup 2025

Musa Kikuuno
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BEST OF FIRST ROUND: Bugabula FC leads as three teams keep perfect defensive records in Busoga Masaza Cup 2025

Bugabula are the standout performers in the first round of the 8th edition of the Busoga Masaza Cup, leading the Bukowe Group and joining two other sides yet to concede a goal. Alongside Bukono and Buzaaya they form the competition’s most resilient defences heading into the second round.

1. Bugabula – 6 pts

Leaders of Bukowe Group, Bugabula won both their first-round matches without conceding a goal. They beat Bukooli Bugiri 2–0 and Luuka 1–0 at Kamuli Municipal Stadium. Coach Ronald Lukungu should be praised for the team’s consistency, while goalkeeper Mudusu Reagan remains unbeaten between the posts, currently ranked the best goalkeeper in the tournament alongside Bukono’s shot stopper Otema Kenneth. Bugabula takes number one position because it attained 100% winning record in the first round.

2. Bukono – 7 pts

In the Mawembe Group, Bukono remain unbeaten with two wins and one draw, and they too are yet to concede. Their 6 goals came in victories over Budiope (2–0) and Bunhole Bunanumba (4–0), plus a 0–0 draw with Bugweri. They too currently own the tournamnets top scorer Ivan Mupere with three goals, netted a hat-trick on August 2nd against Bunhole bunhanumba.

3. Bugweri – 7 pts

Also in Mawembe Group, Bugweri matched Bukono’s 7 points but conceded once — in a 2–1 victory over Bunhole Bunanumba. That goal, scored by Kigomba Rashid (16) , remains Bunhole Bunanumba’s only strike in the tournament and the only against Bugweri.

4. Busiki – 5 pts

Busiki, part of the tough Nhenhda “Group of Death,” won 3–0 against Bukooli Namayingo, and drew with both Kigulu and Butembe. Coach Ndiita will hope to carry this form into the knockout stage, they are also unbeaten this edition despite their 2023 final scorer Ismail Ndifuna still finding his way back into the teams line up.

5. Kigulu – 5 pts

Also unbeaten in Nhenda Group, Kigulu have drawn twice and won once, trailing Busiki only on goal difference (+1 vs +3). all their eyes are directed into the quarter finals as the second round nears.

6. Luuka – 3 pts

Second in Bukowe Group, Luuka beat Bukooli Bugiri but lost to Bugabula, conceding just once in the first round. with two teams supposed to reach knockouts from this group, they are the favourites to join Bugabula just if they keep up the first round form.

7. Budiope – 3 pts

Quarterfinalists last year, Budiope look struggling this time round, losing twice and winning once. Their only goal came from Wilson Kivayo against Bunhole Bunanumba at their home ground in irundu. They surely need to pull stockings in the second round.

8. Bukooli Namayingo – 3 pts

In the Group of Death, Bukooli Namayingo will need a strong second round. Coached by Siraji Bogere, the “Master of the Cup,” and this could be his final season if he achieves it all.

9. Buzaaya – 2 pts

In Kagulu Group, Buzaaya are unbeaten and have yet to concede a goal — but also haven’t scored in two matches.

10. Bunha – 2 pts

Also in Kagulu Group, Bunha are unbeaten, scoring and conceding once.

11. Bulamogi – 2 pts

The third unbeaten team in Kagulu Group, Bulamogi, coached by thier own  Frank Kalata , have drawn all their first round games and their group remains open as they are all three tied on two points each.

12.  Butembe – 2 pts

Defending champions in Nhenda Group, Butembe are winless with two draws and a loss, struggling to hold onto leads in matches as their recent two games they manged to win at half time and only shocked with full time results. They are under the guidance of Ivan Kitakule alisa Ozil

13. Bukooli Bugiri – 0 pts

In Bukowe Group, they lost all matches, failed to score, and conceded five goals.

14. Bunhole Bunanumba – 0 pts

The Mawembe Group’s bottom side conceded seven goals in three matches, scoring only once.

As the tournament heads into the second round, all eyes will be on whether these three defensive giants — Bugabula, Bukono, and Buzaaya, — can maintain their clean-sheet records, and whether Bugabula can turn their perfect start into a championship run.

FREEDOM LOST: Youth councilor arrested in Buyende over filming incident during contentious elections

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FREEDOM LOST: Youth councilor arrested in Buyende over filming incident during contentious elections

By Ali Lukomo

Ngobi Henry Bukayi, the male youth councilor for Bugaya, was arrested yesterday during the heated youth district elections in Buyende. His offense? Allegedly capturing a video on his phone of the District Police Commander (DPC) harassing a delegate, an act that swiftly led to his detention.

According to reports from the scene, the incident unfolded as the Buyende youth district elections, already marked by high stakes and tension, were underway. Ngobi Henry Bukayi, who also serves as the Bugaya NRM Secretary for Youth, was allegedly observed filming the DPC, Edson Turanyomwe Birema, interacting with one of the delegates, Isiiko Bony, who represents disabled youth.

It’s claimed that Ngobi’s video aimed to document an alleged instance of the DPC harassing Isiiko Bony. The act of filming, however, reportedly caught the attention of DPC Birema, who quickly switched to arrest him. Ngobi was then whisked away and taken to the Buyende District Police Headquarters, where he is currently being held.

Speaking to our correspondent, several youth present at the elections expressed deep dissatisfaction with the actions of the security forces. They allege that the police and other security personnel are unfairly siding with opposing factions in the closely contested elections.

The Buyende youth elections have drawn significant attention, featuring two prominent candidates vying for the chairmanship: Agrey Musooma and Sande Ronald. The electoral process involves forty-five delegates, each tasked with electing their preferred leaders for the youth council.

Further discontent was voiced regarding the acting NRM administrator, whom the youth accuse of failing to manage the elections impartially and of allegedly “working on orders” rather than ensuring a fair and transparent process for all participants.

The arrest of a prominent youth leader during such a critical electoral process has fueled concerns about the fairness and transparency of the Buyende youth elections. Many are now calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations of police misconduct and electoral interference as the situation continues to develop.

CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes eye redemption in tomorrow’s encounter against Guinea

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CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes eye redemption in tomorrow’s encounter against Guinea

The Uganda Cranes are determined to reignite their campaign at the ongoing TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 with a spirited response against Guinea in their second Group C encounter, set for Friday night at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.Despite a tough start in the tournament with a 3-0 loss to North African giants Algeria, the Cranes remain focused and upbeat about their chances of bouncing back and bringing joy to the passionate home crowd.

With three group games still to play, optimism remains high in the Cranes camp as they aim to rewrite history and finally break their long-standing CHAN group stage jinx.The biennial tournament—co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania offers Uganda a unique opportunity to advance past the group stages for the first time in their CHAN history, and the players are embracing that challenge with renewed spirit and belief.

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso remained positive and confident that his charges are ready to step up.

‘We’ve put the first game behind us. Football has its ups and downs, but what matters is how you respond. The team is motivated, and we’re ready to give everything tomorrow,’ Byekwaso stated. ‘We have addressed the key areas where we fell short, and the boys are in a good place mentally. We believe we can make the country proud again.’

Coach Byekwaso also appealed to fans for their unwavering support, emphasizing the power of a united home crowd. ‘Our supporters mean everything to us. Yes, the first result was disappointing, but we urge fans to return in big numbers. We are still in this fight together and their energy will lift the players. We promise to give them something to cheer about.’

The coach noted a few injury concerns with midfielder Emmanuel Anyama and Marvin Youngman being assessed for fitness, but confirmed the rest of the squad is fully prepared.

Third-choice captain and dependable defender Rogers Torach echoed the coach’s positivity, expressing the squad’s readiness and determination to turn things around.

‘The team is fired up and focused. We know what is at stake and we are not dwelling on the past. Everyone is ready to fight for the badge. We want to make our fans proud and keep our dream alive,’ said Torach.

Uganda’s last meeting with Guinea ended in a 1-0 win for the Cranes during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, a result that adds to the team’s belief as they prepare to face familiar opponents on Friday night under the Namboole lights.

EBIKADHO: Museveni moves to empower Busoga sugarcane farmers with factory acquisition

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EBIKADHO: Museveni moves to empower Busoga sugarcane farmers with factory acquisition

By Joseph Sooka

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has pledged a significant intervention to bolster the Busoga sugarcane industry, committing to acquire the Mayuge Sugar Factory and transfer its ownership directly to the region’s sugarcane farmers. This move fulfills a key promise made during his 2021 election campaign, aimed at empowering farmers and addressing long-standing grievances against millers.

The announcement came during a strategic meeting with sugarcane farmers and millers held at Kityelera State Lodge in Mayuge District on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. President Museveni revealed that the current owners of Mayuge Sugar Factory had recently approached him with an offer to sell the facility to the government. He put the final decision to the assembled farmers, who responded with resounding cheers and chants of “Yes Mzee, buy the factory!”

The gathering brought together sugarcane farmers from across the country to deliberate on the progress, challenges, and sustainability of the sugarcane industry. In Busoga, where the crop has become a dominant source of livelihood, farmers have consistently voiced concerns over low prices and alleged exploitation by millers.

Isa Budhugo, a prominent leader of sugarcane out-growers, articulated the farmers’ frustrations. “They deduct 5% claiming it’s trash, yet our sugarcane is cut clean in the plantations,” he complained, highlighting unfair practices that erode farmers’ earnings. He added that a ton of sugarcane currently fetches a meagre Shs140,000, a price farmers argue is insufficient to cover their production costs.

Budhugo also decried attempts by millers to manipulate output estimates. “We want a ton of sugarcane to produce 100 kilograms of sugar, which is the industry standard. But millers claimed it yields only 50 kilograms. We rejected that nonsense and agreed on at least 80 kilograms,” he asserted, underscoring the constant battle over fair compensation.

Furthermore, Budhugo criticized the Ministry of Trade for the prolonged delay in forming the Sugar Council, a body mandated by the Sugarcane (Amendment) Act, 2023. The council is crucial for mediating and regulating relations between farmers and millers, providing a much-needed oversight mechanism.

Responding to the criticism, Trade Minister Francis Mwebesa attributed the delay to the Ministry of Security, which is yet to complete the vetting process for the proposed council members. President Museveni has since issued a directive for the verification process to be completed by Monday next week, signaling an expedited resolution.

Despite his strong support for the factory takeover, President Museveni expressed reservations about sugarcane farming’s ability to significantly transform the lives of smallholder farmers with limited land. While Budhugo stated that an acre of land, with proper fertilization, could yield a net profit of Shs4 million annually, Museveni contended that this income is inadequate for meaningful livelihood improvement.

“Budhugo, you want my people to remain poor. Earning Shs4 million from an acre per year is not enough. A farmer can’t educate their children on that,” Museveni stated, urging farmers to adopt a diversified farming model. He championed what he termed “Ekibalo,” an integrated approach that combines sugarcane cultivation with livestock and poultry farming, aimed at maximizing land use and income potential.

To further support sugarcane growers and enhance their productivity, the President also pledged to provide fertilizers, emphasizing the importance of better farming practices for improved crop yields. This multi-pronged approach underscores the government’s commitment to not only addressing immediate challenges but also fostering long-term economic resilience for Busoga’s farming communities.

TRUSTED: DP delegates in Jinja City endorse Ismael Kiirya as flag bearer for Jinja South East MP bid

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TRUSTED: DP delegates in Jinja City endorse Ismael Kiirya as flag bearer for Jinja South East MP bid

By Joseph Sooka

Democratic Party (DP) delegates in Jinja City have officially endorsed Ismael Kiirya as the party’s flag bearer for the Jinja South East Constituency, marking a crucial step in their preparations for the upcoming 2026 general elections.

The significant endorsement took place on the evening of Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at the Beam of Hope Computer Training Centre in Aldina Village, Jinja. The event brought together party faithful eager to strategize for the forthcoming electoral cycle.

The ceremony was graced by Hon. Eng. Sebamala Richard, the Member of Parliament for Bukoto Central, who addressed the assembled delegates. In his address, Hon. Sebamala expressed concern over Jinja’s decline, lamenting that the city, once a vibrant hub of tourism and industrial activity, has been neglected in terms of political representation and development. He pointed to the poor state of road infrastructure, citing the long hours he spent traveling from Kampala, as a clear indicator of government neglect.

Hon. Sebamala sharply criticized the incumbent government, stating that despite over four decades in power, it has failed to bring about significant economic transformation. He framed the current political landscape as a critical battle for opposition parties to seize power and instigate genuine change. The MP also condemned government initiatives like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga, asserting that these programs have exacerbated poverty rather than alleviating it. He urged DP delegates to grasp the profound potential of political power in uplifting the populace.

Sebamala underscored the necessity of cultivating fresh leadership within the Busoga region, noting the widespread failure of many current leaders, particularly during NRM primaries, due to inadequate service delivery. He cautioned about the nation’s escalating debt burden, which he warned future leaders would inherit. The MP further highlighted the government’s disregard for vulnerable groups, such as persons with disabilities, who, he argued, deserve respect and housing support.

Expressing unwavering confidence in the Democratic Party, Sebamala declared, “We believe that come 2026, DP will be in the driver’s seat. Many parties fear DP because of its strong organization and transparency. DP is one family.”

Following the powerful address, Ismael Kiirya, the newly endorsed flag bearer, took to the podium. He asserted his unquestionable academic and professional credentials, affirming his full qualification to contest the parliamentary seat. Kiirya lauded the Democratic Party for its dedication to mentorship and nurturing responsible leaders.

Appealing for overwhelming community support, Kiirya pledged not to disappoint the people of Jinja South East. “I am an international leader, and I believe it’s time to elect leaders based on integrity and capability, not those driven by money,” he stated, emphasizing a shift towards value-based leadership in the upcoming general elections.

EYES ON THE PRIZE: Bukono Chiefdom targets Masaza Cup glory, urges financial lifeline

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EYES ON THE PRIZE: Bukono Chiefdom targets Masaza Cup glory, urges financial lifeline

By Joseph Sooka

Riding high on an impressive start to the 2024 Busoga Masaza Cup, Bukono Chiefdom’s football team is showing immense potential to clinch this year’s coveted trophy. However, their journey to championship glory hinges significantly on robust financial backing.

In a passionate plea aimed at fostering local talent and rallying community spirit, the Hereditary Chief of Bukono, HRH Godfrey Nkono, has called upon the Bakono people and well-wishers, both within and outside the chiefdom, to extend their financial support to the promising squad.

The chief’s crucial message was conveyed by Prime Minister Owek Kabakubya Eridadi, following the team’s outstanding performance in the just-concluded group stage matches. Bukono currently leads the Mawembe group with a convincing 7 points, showcasing a dominant display of skill and teamwork.

“We should support our team regardless of which candidate or political party we support because football brings people together,” Kabakubya stated, emphasizing the unifying power of sports and urging all residents to transcend political divides for the common good of the chiefdom. He also took the opportunity to express profound appreciation to those who have already contributed to the team’s journey in previous games.

The echoes of last year’s tournament still resonate within the chiefdom, as Bukono made a formidable run to the final stage of the Busoga Masaza Cup. While Butembe Chiefdom ultimately lifted the trophy, Bukono’s presence in the final underscored their consistent prowess and hunger for success. “If we support our team financially, it’ll increase their chances of winning the trophy this time,” Kabakubya asserted, linking financial stability directly to enhanced performance and ultimate victory.

Bukono’s formidable run in the ongoing Busoga Masaza Cup has indeed set them apart. Their campaign kicked off with a commanding 2-0 win against Budiope in the tournament opener. This was followed by a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Bugweri, demonstrating their resilience. The highlight of their group stage performance came with a spectacular 4-0 mauling of Bunhole Bunhanumba, securing their top spot in the Mawembe Group.

Currently, Bukono leads the pack with 7 points. Bugweri sits in second place, also on 7 points, while Budiope follows with 3 points. Bunhole Bunhanumba is at the bottom of the group with no points so far.

As Bukono Chiefdom stands on the cusp of a potentially historic victory, the call for financial support is not just about resources; it’s about empowering a dream and uniting a community behind its champions. The collective effort and financial contributions from every corner of the community could very well be the catalyst that propels the Bukono Chiefdom team to raise the Busoga Masaza Cup this year, turning potential into palpable success.

MILLY IS MAD?: Budiope West’s Dennis Mutagaya demands mental examination of minister Babalanda in contempt complaint to tribunal handling NRM primaries irregularities

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MILLY IS MAD?: Budiope West’s Dennis Mutagaya demands mental examination of minister Babalanda in contempt complaint to tribunal handling NRM primaries irregularities

The National Resistance Movement (NRM) primaries in Budiope West Constituency have taken a dramatic turn, with contestant Dennis Mutagaya filing a scathing complaint against the declared winner, presidency minister Milly Babirye Babalanda, before the NRM Elections Disputes Tribunal. Mutagaya alleges “contempt of the tribunal” alongside a raft of election malpractices, even controversially requesting a mental examination for his rival.

Mutagaya’s letter, dated August 4, 2025, details how Babalanda allegedly began circulating “contempt voice messages” on social and local media platforms just days after their July 30, 2025, hearing before the tribunal’s panel. In these messages, Babalanda reportedly declared herself the winner prematurely and launched personal attacks against Mutagaya, labeling him a “marijuana user,” a “witch,” and falsely attributing a local accident to him.

“Before the seven days [for feedback from the tribunal] could elapse, Milly Babirye Babalanda is pronouncing herself a winner,” Mutagaya states in his complaint, adding that the “abusive language used by Babirye Babalanda in her audios does not represent sobriety.”

The contempt claims build upon Mutagaya’s initial petition (case PT-045/2025), which cited numerous electoral malpractices during the NRM primaries. These included alleged alteration of results in 18 polling stations in Buyende Town Council, where Mutagaya claims he presented evidence of manipulated declaration of results (DR) forms, noting Babalanda’s failure to produce her own DR forms in defense.

Other accusations from Mutagaya’s petition comprise polling officials absconding with materials before results declaration, confirmed by video evidence. He also alleged the complete absence of voting activities in multiple polling stations (including Ndolwa, Nkondo, Kidera Town Council, Buyanja, and Bukungu), despite results being posted in Babalanda’s favour. Furthermore, Mutagaya’s petition cited heavy deployment of government forces, police, army, and “goons” during the election.

Perhaps the most striking of Mutagaya’s demands to the tribunal is an order for a “mental examination” of Hon. Milly Babirye Babalanda. Mutagaya asserts, “This is because some of these election issues can mean to mentally disturbing so we might innocently accuse someone yet she is not in her right mental state of mind.” He further requested the tribunal to recommend necessary treatment if she is found not to be mentally sound.

Should she be found “mentally fine,” Mutagaya seeks an order restraining her from commenting on the tribunal matters until judgment is passed. He also requested the tribunal to personally serve Babalanda with copies of the submitted DR forms and “explain to her one by one” to clarify that they pertain to directly elected members of parliament, not women contestants, as she allegedly claimed.

Mutagaya vehemently asserts that Babalanda “never won this election, not even a count of 10 polling station in the whole constituency.” He attributes her declared victory to “beating people, running with DR forms changing results.”

Raising the political stakes, Mutagaya warned the tribunal that mishandling these petitions could lead to the NRM losing Buyende district to the opposition in upcoming elections, highlighting its importance as one of only two districts in Busoga genuinely supporting President Museveni. He cast doubt on Babalanda’s reported 99,000 votes, stating, “I bet she can’t present this figure for President Museveni for the coming elections.”

Mutagaya’s complaint also highlighted Babalanda’s reported security escort, including the RDC, even during her tribunal appearance, which he suggested indicated undue influence. He has submitted audio recordings of Babalanda’s alleged contemptuous remarks as evidence to the tribunal. The NRM Elections Disputes Tribunal is yet to issue its judgment on the matter.

Babirye Milly Babalanda was declared the NRM flag bearer for Budiope West after scoring 99,832 votes bettering Kyoto Ibrahim with 9,995 votes, Mutagaya Denis with 12,940 votes, with Mukisa Edward 471 votes, Tibatesa William 666 votes and Mbaziira Fred with 448 votes. Mutagaya and Kyoto filed separate petitions challenging the ministers victory. The minister maintains she attain a clean victory as voted by the party members in Budiope West.

POWERFUL STAND: Busoga Kingdom halts annual Kagulu Hill Challenge over delayed justice for defiled teen

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POWERFUL STAND: Busoga Kingdom halts annual Kagulu Hill Challenge over delayed justice for defiled teen

The Busoga Kingdom has taken a powerful stand against delayed justice, announcing the indefinite suspension of its highly anticipated annual Kagulu Hill Climbing Challenge, originally slated for August 17th. The decision comes as a direct protest over the protracted and unaddressed case of “Princess Justice” (name changed for child protection), a young girl allegedly gang-defiled by two security officers during last year’s pre-event activities.

The harrowing incident, which saw Princess Justice, then 16 years old, subjected to alleged defilement during the Annual Kagulu Climbing Challenge Tourism Expo in 2024 (reported in the Daily Monitor on September 11, 2024, with case file SD 21/17/8/24 at Irundu Sub County Model Police Post), remains unresolved, nearly a year later. Now a Senior One student, the girl’s plight was brought to the forefront during a recent itinerary meeting in Jinja, organized by the Sexual Health and Reproductive Education (SHARE) Project – a consortium including Water Aid, Forum for African Women Educationists (FAWE), Right to Play, and FHI 360, dedicated to advancing gender equality and sexual/reproductive health rights.

Speaking passionately at the dialogue with SHARE partners, cultural, religious, and civic leaders, Edward Paul Munaaba, the Busoga Kingdom Minister for General Duties in the Prime Minister’s Office, minced no words in condemning the stalled justice process.

“We can’t celebrate one year of delayed justice and be portrayed as a Kingdom which can’t protect its children,” Munaaba declared. “The Kingdom is morally obliged to protect its subjects and walk the talk of child protection. Going back to the same place and event while the young girl hasn’t yet got justice will be a mockery, not walking the talk of child protection and lending credit to the perpetuators of injustice Busoga is notoriously known for.”

He continued, emphasizing the gravity of the situation: “We therefore halt the event and demand police gives a detailed case progress, and how far they have gone to ensure the girl gets due justice because the Kingdom will be perceived to be an accomplice in the vice.”

Joyce Abaliwano, the Kingdom’s Minister for Gender, Women and Children Affairs, who has been instrumental in counseling and caring for the traumatized survivor, reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment. “The Kingdom cannot condone crime and injustice to its subjects,” she stated, emphasizing efforts to eliminate the “vice of using defilement, child marriages and teenage pregnancies for economic gains” from Busoga.

“These vices are not only criminal but culturally and morally wrong and abominations in the Busoga culture,” Abaliwano stressed, “and we demand government response, action and justice for this girl who has now become a clear litmus case of what goes on in efforts to access justice.”

While commending organizations like Plan International and FAWE, along with Mama Rebecca Kadaga, for their swift response in providing counseling and psychosocial support, Abaliwano highlighted Princess Justice’s ongoing needs, particularly for her education. She revealed that the girl still faces a pending school fees bill of Shs 1.3 million for two terms, a sum that threatens her continued schooling as the headteacher patiently awaits a sponsor.

The Busoga North police region’s annual crime report for 2023 and 2024 paints a grim picture, with 698 defilement cases and 133 aggravated defilement cases registered. It also indicated 49 rape cases, 171 children suffering neglect, and 43 tortured.

Gloria Auma, the FAWE Program Coordinator, applauded the Busoga Kingdom’s decisive action. “We support the Kingdom’s good stand in pursuit for justice and sustained protection of its subjects because justice is bigger and more important than the event,” Auma asserted. “We can’t sacrifice justice for crime, and the Kingdom is setting the pace, putting the children’s agenda right and sending a clearer, stronger and most valued message and lessons to all duty bearers.”

Michael Kanaku, the Buyende District Chairperson, whose district was unfortunately cited as having the highest national crime statistics for defilement last year, lamented the incident. “It is undesirable, unacceptable and a grave insult to our Kyabazinga who is the International Ambassador for Children Protection that a vice committed at his very event can’t see justice what of the local cases,” Kanaku voiced. He further advocated for higher authorities to intervene, critical of security agencies that seem “more concerned on protecting their image and doing a lot of damage control than dispensing justice to the young girl,” especially when the case involves those who are meant to protect.

Busoga North Police spokesperson, Michael Kasadha, called for calm, assuring that police were handling the case sensitively and had resorted to scientific investigation due to its complicated nature. “We went scientific, collected samples from the officers on duty, and we are waiting for the results to take informed action and be assured that due justice will be given,” he stated.

Despite her ordeal, Princess Justice remains remarkably resilient. Speaking to journalists at her school recently, she expressed unwavering faith, stating she has “left everything to the Lord who is the provider, guardian and Chief Judge.” While lamenting that those denying her justice “will also face the same or even worse as individuals or their families,” she expressed optimism that justice, though delayed, will eventually prevail. Her current focus, she said, is securing her future, for which she is grateful to all who have aided in her healing and resettlement.

“Those people broke my virginity and continue to break my trust in security by denying me justice,” she said emotionally. “It haunts and traumatizes them more than it does to me.” She expressed immense gratitude to the health workers at Irundu Health Center who provided her with PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) immediately, which she credits with saving her from HIV/AIDS infection and unwanted pregnancy.

Princess Justice also raised an urgent alarm for countless other girls who, unlike herself, cannot access the necessary attention and services, enduring defilement, rape, and unwanted pregnancies due to ignorance of health services like PEP or inability to afford them. “I am lucky I got media attention, got counseling and now resettled at school thanks to Media, Aunt Joyce, Mama Kadaga, Plan International and FAWE,” she concluded. “Now I stay focused, live tight, happy and confident of the future but many girls are out there worse than myself who need rescue and attention.”

The Busoga Kingdom’s bold move underscores a growing demand for accountability and justice, sending a clear message that cultural heritage and tourism cannot thrive at the expense of its children’s safety and well-being.

GROUP STAGE BATTLES: Who will survive the second round and qualify to the quarterfinals of Busoga Masaza Cup?

Musa Kikuuno
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GROUP STAGE BATTLES: Who will survive the second round and qualify to the quarterfinals of Busoga Masaza Cup?

Saturday, 2nd August

Busiki 1–1 Butembe

Bukono 4–0 Bunhole Bunhanumba

Bugabula 1–0 Luuka

Sunday, 3rd August

Kigulu 2–1 Bukooli Namayingo

Bugweri 1–0 Budiope

Buzaya 0–0 Bulamogi

The first round of the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup concluded over the weekend with 14 teams battling it out across four groups. A total of 31 goals have been scored in three match days, with seven teams—Busiki, Kigulu, Bukono, Buzaya, Bugabula, Bunha, and Bulamogi—finishing the round unbeaten.

Bukono and Bugweri top the overall standings with 7 points each, while Bugabula stands out as the only team with a perfect 100% win record. As attention shifts to the decisive second round, qualification battles intensify in all groups.

Group-by-Group Breakdown

Bukowe Group

Bugabula leads with 6 points and only needs a draw from two second-round matches to confirm qualification. Luuka , on 3 points, can qualify with a draw and a win. Bukooli Bugiri , still pointless, must win both remaining matches to stay alive.

Kagulu Group

All three teams—Bulamogi, Bunha, and Buzaya—are level on 2 points, having drawn all their games. With every team unbeaten and nothing separating them, a single win in the second round could be the difference between progression and elimination.

Mawembe Group

Bukono and Bugweri lead the pack with 7 points each, while Budiope (3 points) has some work to do. Bunhole Bunhanumba remains bottom and winless. For Budiope to qualify, two wins in the second round are crucial. Bukono and Bugweri , both unbeaten, only need one more positive result to confirm their quarterfinal spots.

Nendha Group

Busiki and Kigulu lead with 5 points each, followed closely by Bukooli Namayingo on 3 and Butembe on 2. With each team still in contention, this group remains the most open. The defending champions Butembe must win at least two of their three remaining games to avoid an early exit.

What Lies Ahead

With knockout spots still up for grabs and only a few points separating most teams, the second round promises drama, tension, and potential heartbreak. Teams like Bugabula , Bukono , and Bugweri may seem secure, but in football, nothing is certain until the final whistle blows.

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