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PRESSURE POINTS: Uganda Cranes Coach Byekwaso laments mental collapse in humbling CHAN defeat to Algeria

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PRESSURE POINTS: Uganda Cranes Coach Byekwaso laments mental collapse in humbling CHAN defeat to Algeria

The TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 got off to a difficult start for hosts Uganda, as the Cranes succumbed to a humbling 3-0 defeat against Algeria in their opening Group C encounter. Speaking after the match, Uganda coach Morley Byekwaso candidly admitted his side “buckled under pressure,” revealing significant mental and tactical shortcomings that led to their comprehensive loss in front of their home fans.

From the outset, Uganda appeared outclassed, struggling to counter Algeria’s sharp attacking play and compact structure. The defensive organization crumbled early, with Ayoub Ghezala scoring from a set-piece. Subsequent goals from Abderrahmane Meziane and Soufiane Bayazid compounded the Cranes’ misery.

“We came in to give our best, but we failed in our defensive block and paid the price,” Byekwaso stated, highlighting the immediate tactical failure. His deeper concern, however, was the mental fragility of his squad. “The team was anxious. We couldn’t launch transitions, and the pressure was a decisive factor in the loss.”

The emotional impact of conceding early was evident. “After the first goal, we collapsed emotionally. We missed chances, lost the ball cheaply, and failed to manage the game,” the coach admitted. He pointed out glaring issues across the pitch, despite believing in his players’ inherent quality. Tactical deficiencies included a struggle in transition, losing aerial duels despite having a tall squad, and a severe lack of midfield control. “The midfield lacked control, and we were too stretched. We need to tighten up and keep things simple,” he explained, emphasizing the inability to retain possession under pressure.

Despite the disastrous start, Byekwaso remains pragmatic, insisting the tournament is not over. With two crucial group games remaining, he believes qualification is still possible, but only if “we correct our flaws quickly.”

“We’ll talk to the players. We need more control of the game and must strengthen the midfield. We still have two matches to show our real character,” he affirmed, signalling an urgent need for mental recovery and tactical adjustments ahead of their critical second match.

Meanwhile, Algeria coach Madjid Bougherra painted a picture of calm confidence and superior execution. His side’s 3-0 demolition of the hosts was, for him, a testament to their “tactical discipline and superior preparation.”

Playing in a potentially hostile environment at the Nelson Mandela National Stadium, Bougherra’s men silenced the home crowd with a well-orchestrated performance marked by controlled possession, clinical finishing, and a dynamic attacking trio. “It was a good win. The result reflects the work this group has put in. It wasn’t easy — we were playing away, under pressure — but we dominated technically and tactically,” Bougherra remarked.

Algeria’s opening goal came through Ayoub Ghezala’s header, before Abderrahmane Meziane doubled the advantage with a slick finish and was later named TotalEnergies Man of the Match for his goal and assist. Soufiane Bayazid rounded off the scoring, capping a display that confirmed Algeria’s status as one of the tournament’s top contenders. Their statistical dominance underscored their control: 55% possession, 443 completed passes with 81% accuracy, and five shots on target. Notably, they remained card-free while Uganda picked up three, showcasing their composure. Bougherra attributed this success partly to their domestic league’s early conclusion, which provided more time for cohesion and tactical build-up.

As Algeria basks in the comfort of three early points and a commanding performance, Uganda faces a critical juncture in their CHAN campaign. The Cranes must swiftly regroup, address their admitted mental and tactical shortcomings, and deliver a vastly improved performance in their next match, or risk an early and disappointing exit from a tournament played on home soil.

TAKE NOTE: Here is why the EC has postponed non-unionized workers’ elections  

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TAKE NOTE: Here is why the EC has postponed non-unionized workers’ elections  

The Electoral Commission (EC) has announced a postponement of the elections for non-unionised workers’ delegates at the Sub-County, Division, and Town Council levels. Originally slated for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, the elections will now take place on Monday, August 18, 2025.

In a statement signed by the EC Chairperson, Justice Byabakama Mugenyi Simon, the Commission cited the need for additional preparations in coordination with the Minister responsible for workers as the reason for the rescheduling.

The elections are part of a nationwide process to select representatives of non-unionised workers who will eventually participate in electing Members of Parliament representing workers.

According to the updated schedule:

  • August 18, 2025 – Sub-County/City Division/Municipal Division conferences will be held. Each will elect 10 delegates, including at least 3 women, to represent them at the City/District level.
  • August 22, 2025 – City/District level conferences will elect 10 more delegates to the Regional Conference.
  • August 25, 2025 – Regional conferences (Northern, Eastern, Central, and Western) will each elect 10 delegates who will join unionised workers in forming the national electoral college for electing Workers’ MPs in early 2026.

To participate, workers must be:

  • Ugandan citizens aged 18 and above,
  • Registered voters,
  • In possession of a valid employment identity card,
  • Not affiliated with any labour union.

Voting will be done by lining up behind candidates, starting with the election of the three required female delegates.

The EC has urged all eligible non-unionised workers to turn up in large numbers and exercise their right to vote. Regional Election Officers, Returning Officers, and Community Development Officers have been instructed to disseminate this information widely.

The final election of Workers’ MPs will take place between January 12 and February 9, 2026.

CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes kick off tournament with high hopes against Algeria’s Desert Foxes at Namboole

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CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes kick off tournament with high hopes against Algeria’s Desert Foxes at Namboole

The Uganda Cranes are set to commence their TotalEnergies CHAN 2024 journey with a highly anticipated clash against the formidable Desert Foxes of Algeria. The crucial Group C encounter is scheduled for Monday at 8:00 PM at the iconic Mandela National Stadium, Namboole, marking the start of a campaign where the Cranes aim to break a long-standing group stage jinx in front of their home crowd.

Co-hosting this edition alongside Kenya and Tanzania, Uganda carries the weight of history, having never progressed beyond the group stages in their six previous CHAN appearances. Placed in a challenging ‘Group of Death’ alongside powerhouses South Africa, Guinea, and Niger, their opening fixture against Algeria is a crucial test, especially considering a 2-0 defeat to the same opponents in the 2011 CHAN.

Despite the daunting task, Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso exuded confidence during the final pre-match briefing. “The boys must have a serious mentality; we are home playing our first game, and it’s very tricky. Our group is a group of death, but we need to have a good start for us to be on the safe side,” Byekwaso stated, emphasizing the importance of a strong opening.

He further assured fans that the squad is fully fit and mentally charged, adding, “The good thing is we don’t have injuries, and every player is willing to play off their hearts in front of our fans.”

Adding to the team’s resolve, skipper Allan Okello, set to make his maiden CHAN debut, spoke of the collective responsibility needed on the pitch and the hunger within the squad to break new ground.

“Being a leader is a blessing from God; however, on the pitch, everyone must be a leader to know what should be done. We are more than ready; we need to give it our best. Every player wants to make history for the first time, so everyone will give their best,” Okello affirmed.

Okello drew valuable lessons from their most recent clash with Algeria, a narrow 2-1 loss in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at Namboole. “We played them in the World Cup qualifiers and lost, but we learned from our mistakes, so there’s no room for other mistakes. We need to make history in front of our fans, so we are prepared.”

He passionately urged supporters to fill Namboole, recognizing their immense impact: “You can get tired for some minutes, but when you hear voices behind you, you push on. So, we need fans to fill up Namboole tomorrow and in all the upcoming games; we can make history together.”

Meanwhile, Algeria head coach Madjid Bougherra acknowledged Uganda’s hospitality but maintained his side’s readiness for the challenge. “I thank Uganda for the reception. The country is peaceful. We are ready to face Uganda. We know what it means playing with your fans home, but we are prepared for it,” Bougherra remarked.

He anticipates a tough encounter, stating, “We expect a tough game. We know Uganda will do anything to make their fans proud. It’s a good game to start with — when you win it, it puts you there as a competitor of the championship.”

Bougherra, however, sought to shift the psychological burden onto the hosts, concluding, “We need to take it game by game. It’s a different competition as teams change, so everyone starts as a favorite. We want to go as far as possible. The pressure is on Uganda as they are home, not us.”

The most recent clash between these two nations was indeed the aforementioned 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, where Uganda succumbed to a narrow 2-1 defeat at Namboole, with Travis Mutyaba securing Uganda’s sole goal.

As the Cranes prepare to step onto their home turf, the blend of historical aspiration, a challenging group, and palpable determination from both players and coaching staff sets the stage for a thrilling tournament opener. All eyes will be on Namboole as Uganda seeks to write a new chapter in its CHAN history.

Full Uganda Cranes Squad – CHAN 2024

Goalkeepers:

  • Denis Kiggundu (Vipers SC)
  • Joel Mutakubwa (BUL FC)
  • Chrispas Kusiima (Kitara FC)

Defenders:

  • Arnold Odong (SC Villa)
  • Nicholas Mwere (BUL FC)
  • Gideon Odong (NEC FC)
  • Herbert Achai (KCCA FC)
  • Rogers Torach (Vipers SC)
  • Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC)
  • Hilary Mukundane (Vipers SC)
  • Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC)

Midfielders:

  • Joseph Youngman Marvin (Vipers SC)
  • Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa)
  • Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa)
  • Allan Okello (KCCA FC)
  • Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC)
  • Enock Ssebagala (Vipers SC)
  • Abdu Karim Watambala (Vipers SC)

Forwards:

  • Jude Ssemugabi (Kitara FC)
  • Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC)
  • Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC)
  • Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC)
  • Reagan Mpande (SC Villa)
  • Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC)
  • Shafik Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC)

MASAZA CUP: Bukono run riot, Busiki fans cause chaos; all eyes on super Sunday showdowns

Musa Kikuuno
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MASAZA CUP: Bukono run riot, Busiki fans cause chaos; all eyes on super Sunday showdowns

Saturday Results – 2nd August

Bukono 4–0 Bunhole Bunhanumba

Busiki 1–1 Butembe

Bugabula 1–0 Luuka

 Sunday Fixtures – 3rd August

Buzaya vs Bulamogi (Lwanyama Primary School)

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo (Iganga Technical Institute – LIVE on Baba TV)

Bugweri vs Budiope (Busesa Mixed P/S Ground)

Saturday’s Masaza Cup action delivered fireworks as Bukono cruised past Bunhole Bunhanumba in a 4-0 demolition, while drama unfolded in Kisiki as Busiki’s draw with Butembe ended in chaos. With just one match day left to wrap up the first round, Sunday promises blockbuster clashes across three grounds.

 Mupere Hat-trick Headlines Bukono Brilliance

Joel Mupere was the standout performer of the day, bagging a sensational hat-trick to power Bukono to a resounding 4-0 win at Ivukula Sub-county Headquarters. Emmanuel Nabola added the fourth as Bukono stamped their authority atop the Mawembe group with 7 points from three games.

Mupere’s treble sends him top of the tournament scoring charts with three goals, while Nabola joins Euku Simon (Busiki) and Umaru Baluzilye (Luuka) on two apiece. The edition has now seen 27 goals scored.

 Violence Mars Kisiki Clash

At Kisiki College, Busiki and Butembe battled to a 1-1 draw, but it was fan behavior that stole the spotlight. After Ashiraf Ssemmanda cancelled out Ivan Nakalanda’s opener for Butembe, angry Busiki fans stormed the pitch, seriously injuring Butembe player Kibirege Obadiah Martin, who was later rushed to Namutumba Health Center three for medical attention.

Busiki stay top of the Nendha group with 5 points, while Butembe finish the round with just 2 points from three matches.

 Bugabula Stay Perfect

At Kamuli Municipal Stadium, Bugabula sealed a second straight win with a 1-0 result over Luuka, thanks to Ayebale Samuel’s first-half strike. With 6 points, Bugabula comfortably top the Bukowe group and are among the early favorites for the knockout stage.

 Super Sunday Showdowns – What’s at Stake

The final day of the first round sees three huge matches across the region:

 Buzaya vs Bulamogi (Lwanyama Primary School)

Both teams seek their first win in the Kagulu group. Buzaya boasts a strong home record while Bulamogi carries a worrying trend of away losses.

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo (Iganga Technical Institute – LIVE on Baba TV)

Kigulu aim to protect their home fortress. Bukooli Namayingo, fresh from victory, hope to break a two-year away curse.

 Bugweri vs Budiope (Busesa Mixed P/S)

With qualification on the line, this match is personal. Bugweri seek revenge after being eliminated by Budiope last year at the same venue.

OPTIONS: What Uganda could have done better through CHAN 2024

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OPTIONS: What Uganda could have done better through CHAN 2024

By Jumbwike Sam

Experiencing air travel for the first time can be exhilarating. I arrived at Entebbe Airport 8 hours before the check-in time for my 8:00am SAA flight and kept around the then tiny lounge. I had been having hallucinations the week prior to the flight about missing the plane by a whisker, arriving at the airport when the gates had just been closed, and so many other imaginings, so I found it safer to keep around the airport hours ahead on the day of the flight.

Relief only came after hearing the plane’s engines roaring to life and lifting off the ground for our southward 4-hour journey to the chilly Oliver Tambo Airport, where I had to wait for two hours for the connecting 2-hour flight to Cape Town Airport. By the time I entered the Combi for the 70 km drive from the airport to Wellington, I was already exhausted from sleep deprivation. I obeyed nature and dozed off for the longer part of the journey. We arrived at Bergkroon Faith Center towards 8:00pm, where I met over 30 other exhausted souls from 27 countries across the world. We were briefed, offered dinner, and advised to rest at the earliest opportunity in preparation for an early morning journey to an undisclosed location.

We were woken up at 5:00am, grouped into 3 categories, and put into vans for a 150km drive from Wellington towards Genandedal. The vehicles stopped at Greyton, and we were issued with maps that would lead us to our final destination, which was 6-8 km away, and we had to reach there on foot through the countryside routes. Each group was tasked to engage in conversations that would be told to the other groups about their countries of origin and the host country, South Africa.

South Africa had hosted the 2010 World Cup some months earlier before our arrival. In the buildupto the tournament, international media had been stained with skepticism about SA’s ability to host the rest of the world with its image as one of the countries with the highest crime rates in the world. The Guardian has reported a 41% increase in business theft, a 27% increase in residential burglary, and high rates of sex offenses, including rape, kidnapping, and assault, and here we were comfortably trekking through the hilly plains of Greyton without any security less than a year after the World Cup.

South Africa had capitalized on the tournament to reposition itself as a modern, stable, and welcoming nation, emphasizing its cultural diversity and infrastructural development aimed at counteracting the negative perceptions fueled by crime and political history and promoting a narration of unity and progress. They positioned SA a catalyst for social development and tourism growth and as an investment destination. By the time we reached Genadedal, only good stories had been told of the post-World Cup South Africa. Our subsequent visits to townships like Kayamandi and Kayelisha showed the World Cup projects, like the hope for soccer and legacy projects, that were used for social transformation in health, education, and community infrastructure.

Uganda’s Missed Opportunities in CHAN 2025

3-4 years ago, my contemporary friend who had retired from semiprofessional football acquired exclusive rights to generate sports-related content in East Africa for the Soccer Africa Show on SuperSport TV channels 2, 8, and 10 on behalf of MediaMora, DSTV’s content provider. For the past 18 months, my friend has been knocking on all offices that matter in Uganda, seeking an opportunity to utilize the CHAN season and market Uganda’s tourist sites, culture, and soccer clubs to over 15 million viewers across the African continent. He had planned to plant over 10 million trees across the country and promote health and social cohesion projects that highlight the uniqueness of Uganda’s talent. Some of the red zones, like Kireka near sports facilities like Mandela National Stadium, had been targeted to have special collaborative interventions with key populations through soccer. Unfortunately, the influential powers that run the sector seem to be preoccupied with very many other activities to respond to even basic mail; others are paranoid and fear the unknown, while others are simply interested in making a killing off the tournament. We have missed out on the opportunity of involving Ugandans beyond football during CHAN, and we hope that things will be different by the time we get to AFCON 2027.

BALLSY MOVE: David Mugabi declares candidacy to unseat Yoweri Museveni as Uganda’s president

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BALLSY MOVE: David Mugabi declares candidacy to unseat Yoweri Museveni as Uganda’s president

In a bold move signaling a potential generational shift in Ugandan politics, 28-year-old David Mugabi, a professional secondary teacher and Secretary General of the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council, has officially announced his intention to contest for the presidency in Uganda’s 2026 general elections. Speaking from Speke Courts Hotel in Jinja, the proud Musoga from Mayuge District set his sights directly on challenging long-serving incumbent President Yoweri Museveni.

At just 28, Mugabi represents a new crop of leaders, many of whom have grown up entirely under President Museveni’s decades-long rule and are now seeking to redefine Uganda’s political landscape. His background as a teacher suggests a grounded understanding of societal needs, while his leadership within the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council positions him as a voice for the younger demographic and regional interests.

Mugabi’s declaration was not merely an announcement of candidacy; it was a scathing indictment of the current regime. He accused President Museveni of holding Uganda “at gunpoint,” a stark metaphor for what he described as a governance system thriving on corruption and fear. Mugabi did not hold back, asserting that the nation has “suffered for too long under a regime that thrives on corruption and fear.”

Brandishing a broom – his chosen campaign symbol – Mugabi vividly articulated his resolve to “sweep out the thieves” he claims have plundered the nation’s wealth and betrayed public trust. This potent imagery underscores his message of radical change and accountability. “I stand for a Uganda that is free, fair, and focused on the future,” Mugabi told reporters, emphasizing his commitment to a new era of governance.

Beyond the symbolic, Mugabi laid out tangible aspirations for his potential government. He pledged to ensure “all Ugandans enjoy their rights in terms of social infrastructure,” signaling a focus on improving basic services and public amenities. He also promised “better payments” for civil servants across different sectors, recognizing them as “the backbone of this country” and essential for effective governance.

A particularly striking aspect of his vision revolves around Uganda’s vast natural resources. Mugabi highlighted the potential for indigenous processing of resources like “Gold from Busia, silica from Gulu, cobalt from Kasese” – currently vital for global tech components from computers to smartphones. He proposed that Ugandan professionals, graduating from local universities, could process these resources domestically, fostering local industry, creating jobs, and ensuring that the nation’s wealth benefits its own people directly.

Mugabi’s entry into the presidential race adds a new dimension to the unfolding political drama ahead of 2026. His candidacy, though nascent, will likely resonate with a significant portion of Uganda’s largely youthful population, many of whom are yearning for fresh leadership and alternative approaches to governance. As opposition momentum builds, David Mugabi’s bold challenge sets the stage for what promises to be a high-stakes and keenly watched election cycle. While the path to State House is undeniably arduous for any challenger in Uganda, David Mugabi’s declaration marks him as a formidable new voice in the political arena, offering a vision of hope and accountability against a well-entrenched establishment.

NEW HOME: Kigulu FC relocates to Iganga Technical Grounds after Saza Pitch dispute

Musa Kikuuno
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NEW HOME: Kigulu FC relocates to Iganga Technical Grounds after Saza Pitch dispute

In a swift and mature response to unexpected disruptions, Kigulu Chiefdom Football Club has officially shifted its home ground from Iganga Saza Ground to Iganga Technical Institute Playground . The move comes amid ongoing developments at the Saza ground, spearheaded by Iganga United FC, without prior consultation with Kigulu FC.

In a formal letter dated 31st July 2025, the Katukiro’s office in Obwa Ngobi Bwa Kigulu, through the Ministry of Sports, informed the technical organizing committee of the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup about the venue change. The letter, signed by Lukwita Michael, confirmed that Kigulu FC would no longer host matches at Iganga Saza Ground due to unannounced grading and pitch preparation activities initiated by Iganga United FC for their internal programs.

“It has come to our notice that Iganga United FC has commenced grading and preparation of the Saza pitch without prior consultation or communication to the Kigulu executive team,” the letter reads in part. “While this development was abrupt and inconsiderate, the Kigulu executive has chosen not to escalate the situation, but rather act with maturity in the spirit of sportsmanship and unity.”

The statement emphasized that the change was necessary to ensure uninterrupted participation in the prestigious MTN Busoga Masaza Cup while upholding the dignity and order of the tournament.

Kigulu FC will now host its matches at the Iganga Technical Institute Playground, a venue described as accessible, secure, and fit for high-level competitive football. The team has committed to ensuring smooth coordination and hospitality for all fixtures at their new home.

The change takes immediate effect, with Kigulu set to host Bukooli Namayingo at their new ground this Sunday, 3rd August, in what promises to be an electrifying clash.

A LEGACY CELEBRATED: Nakapanchu’s Father, Mzee Joseph Kawesa, Laid to Rest in Mpigi

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A LEGACY CELEBRATED: Nakapanchu’s Father, Mzee Joseph Kawesa, Laid to Rest in Mpigi

Emotions ran high on Thursday, July 31, 2025, as hundreds of mourners gathered to bid a final, tearful farewell to Mzee Joseph Kawesa. The 71-year-old patriarch, father of prominent media personality Resty Nanteza, known as Nakapachu, passed away tragically on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, in an incident that sent shockwaves through the community.

Born in 1954, Mzee Kawesa’s life was abruptly cut short when he was knocked down by a reckless motorist as he walked to St. Kaloli Lwanga Church for his routine morning prayers. The driver responsible for the fatal incident was immediately apprehended and is currently detained at Njeru Police Station as investigations continue.

The sacred grounds of his ancestral home in Kimbugu Village, Bugayi Sub-county, Mpigi District, became a focal point for hundreds of mourners who converged from various parts of the country. The somber gathering included Members of Parliament, esteemed religious leaders, prominent media personalities, and devoted community members, all united in grief and respect for a life well-lived.

Mzee Kawesa is survived by seven children, with his first-born, Resty Nanteza, a celebrated Presenter with Busoga One Radio and Mama TV in Jinja, leading the family in mourning. In a deeply emotional tribute, Nanteza expressed profound gratitude for her father’s life and thanked the public for their overwhelming support during this challenging time.

“Our father lived a life of faith, discipline, and humility. He raised us with love and taught us to work hard and serve others. Though his passing has left a deep wound, we are thankful for the legacy he leaves behind,” she stated on behalf of the family. She also extended heartfelt appreciation to Haji Kirunda and all leaders and media colleagues who honored Mzee Kawesa’s memory.

A special condolence message from Haji Faruk Kirunda, Deputy Press Secretary to the President and Special Presidential Assistant on Press and Mobilization, underscored Mzee Kawesa’s significant impact. Delivered by Ibrahim Shamiru Byakika, the message hailed Mzee Kawesa as “a devoted servant of God and community, whose contributions to the spiritual and social development of Mbiko and Jinja would always be remembered.”

The message further highlighted his “long-lasting contributions in transforming Mbiko area and Jinja, his support for religious works and the nurturing of helpless children.” Haji Kirunda urged Mzee Kawesa’s children to “carry forward his legacy of compassion, faith, and hard work,” accompanying his sincere words with a UGX 1 million contribution towards the burial expenses.

The funeral mass, a solemn and poignant affair, was led by Father Deogracius Kiibi. In his homily, Father Kiibi urged mourners to emulate Mzee Kawesa’s deep spiritual commitment. “Mzee Kawesa died on his way to pray — a man who kept God at the center of his life. Let us follow that example by living with purpose, humility, and service to others,” he implored, reflecting on the profound faith that guided Mzee Kawesa’s life.

The extensive attendance at the burial ceremony included several prominent dignitaries, signaling Mzee Kawesa’s far-reaching influence. Among those present were: Hon. Isabirye David Aga (MP Jinja North Division), Hon. Dr. Timothy Batuwa (MP Jinja South Division West), Hon. Manjeri Kyebakutiika (Woman MP Jinja City), Hon. Paul Mwiru (Former MP Jinja East), Hon. Jimmy Lwanga (MP Njeru Municipality), and Hon. Kaija Harold.

The media fraternity also turned out in large numbers, particularly representatives from Busoga One, Mama TV, Baba FM, Bridge FM, NBS Radio, and other outlets, demonstrating immense solidarity with Resty Nanteza, who is a beloved and respected figure in Uganda’s media landscape.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon over Kimbugu Village, a unified sentiment resonated among family, friends, and leaders: Mzee Kawesa was a man characterized by “few words but great deeds.” His life story, marked by unwavering faith, steadfast perseverance, and selfless dedication to others, left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

“We are grateful that God gave us a father who led by example,” one of his sons shared during the family’s final tribute. “His legacy will not die with him — it lives on in us,” a powerful testament to a life truly celebrated and a legacy destined to endure.

KNOWLEDGE INITIATIVES: Kadaga champions education as catalyst for Busoga’s development

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KNOWLEDGE INITIATIVES: Kadaga champions education as catalyst for Busoga’s development

Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga, the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs, has strongly advocated for quality education as the cornerstone of socio-economic development, particularly in the rural communities of the Busoga region. Her remarks came during the recent inauguration of the Tom Mullaney Boys Dormitory at St. Atanansi Junior School in Nakasedhere Village, Luuka District, a project spearheaded by the faith-based Atanansi Community Based Organization (CBO).

Kadaga lauded the efforts of the Atanansi CBO, recognizing their significant contribution to improving the lives of local residents. She shared a personal anecdote, recalling a conversation she had that underscored the importance of such initiatives.

“While participating in the Twegaite International Conference in the US, I had a conversation with Fr. Jenga about the importance of prioritizing the education of our children, particularly in the rural areas of Busoga. I was unaware at that time that he was tirelessly collaborating with his friends to advocate for the creation of the current model school, which now serves 550 pupils in the region,” Kadaga noted, praising the dedication behind the school’s establishment.

The Atanansi Community Based Organization in Luuka District is dedicated to a holistic approach to community upliftment. Their programs and partnerships emphasize education, economic empowerment, spiritual pastoral care, and healthcare access for financially struggling areas. Fr. Dr. Fred Jenga, one of the leaders of the Atanansi CBO, articulated the organization’s guiding principle: “The Christian faith encourages those who have been fortunate to have access, influence, or resources to assist those who are still in need. The Atanansi CBO acts as a means to live out the values of faith by supporting those who are in significant need.”

Beyond her commendation for educational initiatives, Kadaga demonstrated her commitment to broader community development by addressing local concerns. She pledged to follow up on the urgent repairs needed for the Kyanvuma-Nakasedere-Nawampiti road, a crucial link for the school and surrounding communities, as brought to her attention by the local LC1 Chairperson and other leaders. Furthermore, responding to a request from Fr. Gerald Muto, the Jinja Diocesan Chancellor and the day’s main celebrant, Kadaga assured that she would pursue commitments made by President Museveni to the Diocese of Jinja during the recent annual Bugonza Pilgrimage event in Kaliro District.

The significant public event drew a diverse array of dignitaries, including local clergy from the Diocese of Jinja and international guests from the United States, such as Nancy Harvey, Erin Harvey, Magela Justin, and Diann Ruholl, underscoring the collaborative spirit behind the initiative.

A testament to the CBO’s comprehensive development strategy was the showcase by the Atanansi Women’s Association. Comprising 132 members, the association displayed an impressive range of empowerment initiatives, including crafts, tailoring, liquid and bar-soap production, hairdressing, and robust village savings programs. This aligns seamlessly with Right Honorable Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga’s well-known national advocacy for women’s issues.

The inauguration event not only marked a significant milestone for St. Atanansi Junior School but also reinforced the message that collaborative efforts, particularly those championed by leaders like Kadaga and driven by faith-based organizations, are vital for fostering sustainable socio-economic growth in Uganda’s rural areas.

CHAN 2024: Winner to take home record $3.5 million – a historic boost for local football

Musa Kikuuno
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CHAN 2024: Winner to take home record $3.5 million – a historic boost for local football

East Africa is set to make football history as the 8th edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) kicks off this Saturday, 2nd August 2025, with a record $10.4 million (UGX 38.6 billion) prize pool on offer.

A massive 3.5 USD million awaits the tournament champion – the highest ever awarded in CHAN history – representing a 75% increase from the previous edition and half of what AFCON champions Ivory Coast earned earlier this year.

The runner-up will bag 1.2 USD million; third place earns 700,000 USD and the fourth-placed team takes home 600,000 USD. Quarter-finalists who fall short of the semis will not go empty-handed, as they’ll each receive 450,000 USD.

Teams finishing third in their groups will walk away with 300,000 USD, while fourth and fifth-placed teams will earn 200,000 USD apiece – a clear demonstration of CAF’s growing commitment to rewarding local talent across all stages.

 Staggering Growth Since 2009

When CHAN debuted in 2009, the total prize fund was only 3.25 USD million. Back then, winners DR Congo earned 750,000 USD , and runners-up Ghana received 400,000 USD . For years, that structure remained unchanged until 2018 when host nation Morocco, after replacing Kenya, earned 1.25 USD million for lifting the trophy.

CHAN 2023 in Algeria marked a turning point, boosting the total prize money to 7.9 USD million, with Senegal receiving 2 USD million as champions. Now, the 2025 edition raises the bar once again, both in financial scale and prestige.

 19 Nations, 4 Cities, 5 Stadiums, 1 Goal

A total of 19 teams will compete across four cities and five stadiums – in Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar City (Tanzania), Kampala (Uganda), and Nairobi (Kenya) – making it the most logistically ambitious CHAN to date.

The opening match will be held at Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Tanzania, where the hosts will take on Burkina Faso in a thrilling Group A opener.

 A Tournament of Champions

Since its inception, CHAN has crowned five different champions:

DR Congo (2009, 2016)

Morocco (2018, 2020 – the only back-to-back winner)           

Tunisia (2011)

Libya (2014)

Senegal (2022)

This year’s winner will not only lift the trophy but also cement their place in history with a life-changing financial reward.

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