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

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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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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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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

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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.

FOOTBALL ACTION: A weekend of scintillating fixtures in the MTN Busoga Masaza Cup await to light up tournament’s third round

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Saturday 2nd

Busiki vs Butembe (LIVE on Baba TV)

Bukono vs Bunhole Bunhanumba

Bugabula vs Luuka

Sunday 3rd

Buzaaya vs Bulamogi

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo

Bugweri vs Budiope

As the 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup enters its crucial third weekend, fans across the region are in for an action-packed set of fixtures, with reigning champions, historical rivalries, and early group dominance at stake. Six mouthwatering matches are lined up across Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd August, all kicking off at 4:00 PM.

Busiki vs Butembe – Kisiki College, Namutumba (LIVE on Baba TV)

All eyes will be on Namutumba as 2023 champions Busiki host two-time winners Butembe in what promises to be a blockbuster clash.

Busiki currently tops the Nendha Group with four points from two games – a 3-0 thrashing of Bukooli Namayingo at home and a 1-1 draw away to Kigulu. Butembe, however, find themselves in unfamiliar territory, trailing the group with just a single point. Their campaign began with a goalless draw against Kigulu but took a dip following a 2-1 loss to Bukooli Namayingo.

This fixture is a replay of the 2023 final where Busiki edged Butembe 1-0, thanks to a decisive strike from Ismail Ndifuna, beating then-goalkeeper Peter Kadama at Kakindu Stadium.

Busiki’s home form remains formidable. They have a 100% win record at Kisiki College, extending from last season where they beat Budiope, Bulamogi, and Bugweri. In contrast, Butembe’s away form has been poor – collecting just a single point from their last three away matches across two seasons.

Players to Watch: Busiki’s talisman Euku Simon and Butembe’s midfield dynamo Enos Kusola.

Bukono vs Bunhole Bunhanumba – Ivukulula Sub-County Playground

Bukono, last year’s runners-up, continue to impress this season with four points from two matches – a 2-0 win away against Budiope and a goalless home draw with Bugweri.

They’ll once again enjoy home advantage, where they last defeated Bunhole Bunhanumba 1-0 in the 2024 edition. Bunhole, meanwhile, are still seeking consistency after a slow start.

 Bugabula vs Luuka – Kamuli Municipal Stadium

Bugabula returns home after an impressive 2-0 away win over Bukooli Bugiri, while Luuka will arrive confident following a 3-0 victory against the same opponent at Busalamu Primary School.

This matchup will pit two in-form sides against each other, both having shown goal-scoring prowess early on.

 Key Players: Edgar Magombe (Bugabula) and Farouk Kalogo (Luuka), expected to run the show in midfield.

 Buzaya vs Bulamogi – Lwanyama Primary School Playground

Neither of these sides have lifted the Masaza Cup before, but Buzaya look a solid unit at home. Last season, they won all their home games and this year started with a home draw against Bunha.

Bulamogi, on the other hand, has a worrying away record, losing all their road games last season, including a 6-0 thrashing. This fixture offers Buzaya a golden chance to secure three points.

 Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo – Iganga Saza Ground (LIVE on Baba TV)

Kigulu, with two points from two games, will look to maintain their unbeaten home record. They’ve historically been hard to beat at the Saza Ground, drawing twice and winning once in the last edition.

Bukooli Namayingo responded well after an opening 3-0 defeat to Busiki, defeating Butembe 2-1 at home last weekend. However, their away form remains weak, with no away victories registered in the last two editions.

 Bugweri vs Budiope – Busesa Mixed Primary School Ground

This fixture is more than just a group stage clash – it’s a battle for redemption. Bugweri and Bukono are level at 4 points, while Budiope sits just behind with 3.

These teams last met in August 2024 and drew 1-1 at the same venue. However, Budiope stormed into the knockout stages at Bugweri’s expense, adding emotional fuel to this weekend’s tie. A win for either side could be pivotal in group standings.

Standings Ahead of Match Day 3

NENDHA GROUP

1. Busiki 4pts

2. Bukooli Namayingo 3 pts

3. Kigulu 2pts

4. Butembe 1 pt

MAWEMBE GROUP

1. Bukono 4 pts

2. Bugweri 4 pts

3. Budiope 3 pts

4. Bunhole bunhanumba 0pts

KAGULU GROUP

1. Bunha 2pts

2. Bulamogi 1pt

3. Buzaata 1pt

BUKOWE GROUP

1. Luuka 3pts

2. Bugabula 3pts

3. Bukooli Bugiri 0pt

GLORIOUS WELCOME: Niger ‘savour every moment’ as they land in Uganda to partake in Africa Nations Championship

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The stage for the highly anticipated Championship of Africa Nations (CHAN) was officially set on Tuesday afternoon as the Niger national team became the first squad to touch down on Ugandan soil, receiving a truly memorable reception at Entebbe International Airport. Clad in their famed greens and orange tracksuits, the West Africans were treated to a glorious welcome that blended traditional hospitality with unique Ugandan flair.

Upon emerging from the arrivals terminal, the Nigerien delegation was immediately immersed in the vibrant sounds and movements of various traditional dances. The rhythmic beats and energetic performances captivated the visiting players and officials, creating an immediate sense of warmth and excitement.

So enthralled were they by the cultural spectacle that the players moved at a “snail’s pace” from the airport building to their team bus, clearly wanting to savour every moment of the cultural dances performed by the Crane performers.

Adding to the visual feast was the iconic giant Silverback statue, strategically placed to greet all arrivals. This impressive sculpture, alongside individuals dressed in lifelike gorilla costumes, visibly impressed the Niger team and delegation.

Players were quick to reach for their phones, eager to capture images of the unique spectacle, clearly warming up to and embracing the distinctive Ugandan entertainment laid out for them.

From the airport, the team was whisked away to their accommodation, the luxurious Protea Skyz in Naguru, where they will settle in and commence their preparations for their CHAN campaign. Niger finds themselves in Group C, a challenging pool alongside hosts Uganda, football giants South Africa, Algeria, and Guinea.

While the warm welcome undoubtedly boosted their spirits, the Nigerien squad faces a formidable challenge on the pitch. They are widely considered the lowest-rated side in Group C, underscoring the uphill battle they anticipate against their four strong opponents.

Their tournament journey will kick off with a crucial match against Guinea on Monday at 5 pm, a fixture they will approach with determination fueled by the memorable reception they’ve received.

The generous and enthusiastic welcome extended to the Niger national team sets a high bar for hospitality at CHAN, promising a tournament that will be remembered for its cultural exchange as much as its sporting spectacle.

REINVENT MARRIAGE: Elderly couple celebrating 61 years of marriage blames struggling couples for ‘replacing intimate relations and open communication’ with TikTok, thereby creating a void that “gives the devil space to break” marriages

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In an era grappling with escalating moral degeneration and unprecedented rates of marriage dissolution, a powerful call has emerged for governments, institutions, and communities to fundamentally “reinvent and refocus” on the institution of marriage.

This urgent plea aims to fortify family and parenting units, ultimately fostering the growth of individuals imbued with integrity, substance, and unwavering commitment.

This significant challenge was laid forth by Reverend Father Fred Jenga, President of Holy Cross Family Ministries, while delivering the Apostolic Blessings to Tarsis and Margaret Nabigedde, a couple who recently celebrated a remarkable 61 years of Holy Matrimony at Namisambya Cell, Northern Division Kamuli.

The Apostolic Blessings, issued by His Holiness Pope Francis on the occasion of the Holy Year 2023, cordially imparted requests for heavenly graces and a fresh outpouring of divine favor.

“I recommend you to the maternal protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary that by witness of generous and faithful hearts the flame of hope may always shine brightly in our world,” the Blessings poignantly read, underscoring the spiritual bedrock of enduring unions.

Father Jenga’s observations painted a stark picture of the contemporary landscape. He noted the alarming rise in moral degeneration and marriage breakups, which are perilously becoming an “acceptable norm,” even in developed countries where trends like contractual marriages and an overemphasis on individual rights are gaining traction.

“We need to refocus and reinvent the marriage and family institutions so that we rediscover our norms, values and practices that bound the families together and enforced responsibility and parenting so as to stop the moral degeneration and escalating marriage breakups,” Father Jenga voiced, emphasizing a return to foundational principles.

The Digital Deluge: A Threat to Intimacy

In a powerful testament to their enduring bond, Tarsis and Margaret Nabigedde offered profound insights into the longevity of their 61-year marriage, directly implicating modern technology in the erosion of contemporary unions. They candidly blamed the pervasive influence of computers, TikTok, and social media for replacing intimate relations and open communication, thereby creating a void that “gives the devil space to break it.”

Margaret Byogezi, with wisdom gleaned from decades of shared life, elaborated: “The devil manifesting as Tiktok, laptops and social media has ruined marriages and stalled families as couples and parents get obsessed and preoccupied with them leaving no time to have intimate relations and bond with the family.”

She offered practical counsel, cautioning couples against the pitfalls of rumors and third-party interference. Instead, she advocated for relationships built on mutual understanding, transparency, and forgiveness.

Citing her husband as an example, she recalled how he, a builder, would promptly send messages or explain his delays upon arrival. Remarkably, she also highlighted his willingness to defy traditional stereotypes by engaging in housework, even excelling as “a very good cook – a job traditionally known for women.”

Building on Substance, Not Spectacle

Tarsis Nabigedde, reflecting on the fragility of modern marriages, pointed out that many fail because they are built on “false hopes, material gains and lavish ceremonies to impress the public not stabilize the marriage.”

In stark contrast, he shared the humble beginnings of their own enduring union: “We got married and wedded in poverty, raised our children with hope and built our trust together each passing day and today our children have paid us hundredfold with pride, happiness and integrity. Learn to manage differences as a couple and always give your children hope, courage and praise. Marriage is a wonderful learning commitment that compels us to take care of one another.”

Their son, John Kairu, offered a compelling testimony to the fruits of their parents’ commitment. He described Tarsis and Margaret as an “embodiment of parenting values, strict disciplinarians, invested in education and religious upbringing.” This resolute approach, he affirmed, resulted in children who are “God-fearing, workaholics, high integrity and good moral and spiritual values which have made us win in competitive world of work.”

The inspiring anniversary celebration was graced by distinguished guests, including Members of the Busoga Kyabazinga Kingdom, media personalities, and respected elders, all bearing witness to a living example of marital endurance and family strength.

The call from Holy Cross Family Ministries, amplified by the Nabigeddes’ extraordinary journey, serves as a poignant reminder: the future of society hinges not merely on economic growth or technological advancement, but fundamentally on the strength of its family units, nurtured by a renewed commitment to the timeless values of marriage, integrity, and shared purpose. It is a challenge that demands collective action and a profound re-evaluation of what truly binds us.

STRATEGIC MOVE: NUP rises in Kamuli district as NRM Primaries leave voters disillusioned

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As the dust settles on the highly contentious National Resistance Movement (NRM) party primaries, a clear sense of frustration and disillusionment has permeated the voter base in Kamuli district.

Voters, feeling short-changed and taken for granted by the ruling party, have reportedly been left in a political void. However, the National Unity Platform (NUP) has swiftly moved to capitalize on this disaffection, with its aspirants jumping onto the campaign trail to re-ignite the election mood.

Leading this charge in Kamuli Municipality is Silver Segonga, popularly trending among voters as “Kyaiffe Kubwaiffe”. Segonga has wasted no time in kicking off his campaign, assuring voters that the time has come to abandon the perceived failings of the NRM and seek refuge under the NUP’s “umbrella.”

“Bring on your frustrations from the yellow bus and get better shelter under the umbrella for we share your troubles, expectations and future,” Segonga passionately rallied. “When things ripen and turn yellow the next is rotting, the bus has started having mechanical problems and breakdowns.”

Segonga described his nascent campaign as a “tour of duty” aimed at introducing himself to the electorate, bringing former NRM supporters into the NUP fold, and providing guidance for progressive leadership.

He revealed that his full manifesto would be launched soon, but stressed the importance of connecting directly with the people first. “We didn’t want to interfere with the NRM’s election process as it made their mistakes and got detached from the people,” he explained, alluding to the timing of his entry into the political fray.

Further reinforcing the NUP’s strategic move is Chris Wabwire, a former NRM District Councilor for Buzaaya County in Kamuli District, who has now crossed over to the NUP. Wabwire emphasized the opposition party’s commitment to integrity, discipline, and a readiness to serve the populace.

“We want community-rooted, credible people for the transformative party it stands for,” Wabwire asserted, outlining NUP’s internal vetting process. He clarified that flagbearers would be selected based on 40% internal evaluation and 60% grassroots performance. “We are good to go against the regime for change,” he confidently added.

The widespread sentiment of betrayal among voters was vividly articulated by Nalongo Betti, alias Mama Katale, a vocal matooke vendor at Kamuli Central Market. She expressed profound disillusionment with the NRM, citing persistent internal infighting that has come at the expense of service delivery and a perceived attitude of taking voters for granted.

“Our NRM Party needs a break for embarrassing us with fake elections,” Mama Katale voiced her frustration. “How can we vote and they announce different flagbearers? Now we have reason to shift to serious opposition to wake them up.”

Similar grievances were echoed by members of the Kamuli Park community, who decried the deplorable state of the park. They claimed the ruling party has its priorities “upside down,” alleging that its prolonged stay in power has led to inefficiency and a takeover by “mafias.”

As NUP aspirants like Silver Segonga actively engage a populace weary of political squabbles and unfulfilled promises, the stage is set for a re-energized electoral contest in Kamuli Municipality, with the opposition hoping to convert voter frustration into a decisive shift in allegiance.

CHAN 2024: Uganda Cranes squad named; coach Morley Byekwaso sets ambitious targets ahead of tournament opener

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Uganda’s Group Fixtures – CHAN 2024 at Namboole:

4th August vs Algeria – 8:00 PM

8th August vs Guinea

11th August vs Niger

18th August vs South Africa

Uganda Cranes head coach Morley Byekwaso has unveiled a 25-man squad for the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) today at FUFA house in Mengo, with midfield maestro Allan Okello appointed as team captain. The gaffer also laid out a bold ambition — to guide Uganda beyond the group stage and push deep into the tournament for the first time ever.

The announcement was made during a squad unveiling ceremony ahead of Uganda’s group stage matches, all set to be played at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole. Okello will be deputised by goalkeeper Joel Mutakubwa and defender Rodgers Ochaki Torach.

“Allow me announce my three captains that will have the capability to lead others,” said Byekwaso. “The first captain is Allan Okello, the second is Joel Mutakubwa, and the third is Rodgers Ochaki Torach. Our target is to qualify from the group. It’s not an easy task, but with extra effort and focus, we believe we can overcome our tough opponents.”

Okello, now tasked with leading the team both on and off the pitch, expressed readiness and urged fans to rally behind the Cranes. “I just want to tell everyone out there that we are quite ready,” Okello said. “We’ve been training well. Everyone is working hard. We are ready to make history and achieve our team’s goal.”

The Cranes skipper also made a passionate appeal to fans to fill Namboole when they open their campaign against Algeria. “I call upon all fans to come and support us on 4th August against Algeria. Your energy motivates us and helps us win games.”

Byekwaso concluded by reiterating that the squad was selected based on talent, discipline, and ambition. “We have a dream of reaching far in this tournament. Me and my technical team believe this group of players can represent the nation and push us towards that dream.”

With the tournament fast approaching, all eyes are now on the Cranes to see if Byekwaso’s vision and Okello’s leadership can deliver Uganda’s best-ever CHAN performance.

Full Squad Breakdown

 Goalkeepers:

1. Dennis Kigundu (Vipers SC)

2. Joel Mutakubwa (Bul FC)

3. Chrisoua Kusiima (Kitara FC)

 Defenders:

2. Arnold Odongo (SC Villa)

3. Nicholas Meere (Bul FC)

4. Gideon Odongo (NEC FC)

5. Herbert Achai (KCCA FC)

13. Rodgers Ochaki Torach (Vipers SC)

15. Lazaro Muhindo (KCCA FC)

16. Hillary Mukundane (Vipers SC)

22. Kizito Gavin (KCCA FC)

 Midfielders:

6. Joseph Marvin Youngman (Vipers SC)

8. Elvis Ngonde (SC Villa)

10. Patrick Jonah Kakande (SC Villa)

21. Allan Okello (Vipers SC)

23. Joel Sserunjogi (KCCA FC)

24. Enock Sebagala (Vipers SC)

25. Abdul Karim Watambala (Vipers SC)

 Forwards:

7. Jude Semugabi (Kitara FC)

9. Ivan Ahimbisibwe (KCCA FC)

11. Arafat Kiza Usama (KCCA FC)

12. Yunus Junior Sentamu (Vipers SC)

14. Reagan Mpande (SC Villa)

17. Emmanuel Anyama (KCCA FC)

20. Shafick Nana Kwikiriza (KCCA FC)

MTN BUSOGA MASAZA CUP: Wins for Budiope, Luuka & Bukooli Namayingo as tournament heats up with 21 goals in opening two rounds

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Saturday 26th July
Bukooli Namayingo 2-1 Butembe
Bukono 0-0 Bugweri
Kigulu 1-1 Busiki

Sunday 27th July
Luuka 3-0 Bukooli Bugiri
Bulamogi 1-1 bunha
Budiope 1-0 Bunhole bunhanumba

The 2025 MTN Busoga Masaza Cup has kicked off in style, producing 21 goals after just two match days, sparking early excitement and fierce competition among the participating counties.

The weekend fixtures, played on Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th July, delivered a blend of drama, talent, and tactical battles across the region’s various playgrounds. From dominant wins to hard-fought draws, fans were left with plenty to cheer for.

Saturday Results

Bugweri 0-0 Bukono
A goalless draw at Bugweri’s home ground kept both teams unbeaten and locked on four points each in the Mawembe Group.

Kigulu 1-1 Busiki
Busiki took the lead through Euku Simon, before Mukungu Jamil equalised for Kigulu from the penalty spot. Euku’s second goal of the tournament sees him top the scorers’ chart alongside Luuka’s Umaru.

Bukooli Namayingo 2-1 Butembe
Levis Baraza Okello and Hassan Sanya found the back of the net for Bukooli Namayingo to secure a win from one goal down as Enos Kusola scored the for Butembe.

Sunday Results

Budiope 1-0 Bunhole Bunanhumba
Kivayo Wilson was the match winner as Budiope earned their first three points of the season at Irundu Township Church of Uganda Primary School.

Luuka 3-0 Bukooli Bugiri
Luuka’s star man Baluzilye Umaru struck twice while Kalogo Fariouk added a long-range third to wrap up a dominant victory. Bukooli Bugiri ended the first round with no points from three matches.

Bulamogi 1-1 Bunha
Mawa Anwari put Bulamogi ahead before Karim Mutebe equalised for Bunha, who now sit on two points after two draws.

Group Standings (After Matchday 2)

Kagulu Group

  1. Bunha – 2pts
  2. Buzaya – 1pt
  3. Bulamogi – 1pt
  4. Bukowe Group
  5. Luuka – 3pts
  6. Bugabula – 3pts
  7. Bukooli Bugiri – 0pts
  8. Mawembe Group
  9. Bugweri – 4pts
  10. Bukono – 4pts
  11. Budiope – 3pts
  12. Bunhole Bunanhumba – 0pts
  13. Nendha Group
  14. Busiki – 4pts
  15. Bukooli Namayingo – 3pts
  16. Kigulu – 2pts
  17. Butembe – 1pt
  18. Top Scorers After Matchday 2
  19. 2 Goals Each

Euku Simon (Busiki)

Baluzilye Umaru (Luuka)

1 Goal Each

Abel Muwola (Bukono)

Emmanuel Nabola (Bukono)

Kasadha Mathias (Bugweri)

Kakaire Shaban (Bugweri)

Kawanguzi Abdallah (Busiki)

Lunkabire Katibu (Busiki)

Mukungu Jamil (Kigulu)

Edgar Magombe (Bugabula)

Kalogo Fariouk (Luuka)

Karim Mutebe (Bunha)

Mawa Anwari (Bulamogi)

Kivayo Wilson (Budiope)

Levis Baraza Okello (Bukooli Namayingo)

Hassan Sanya (Bukooli Namayingo)

Enos Kusola (Butembe)

Kigomba Rashid (Bunhole Bunanhumba)

Own Goal

Sosi (Bukooli Bugiri – own goal against Bugabula)

Upcoming Fixtures – First Round Finale

Saturday, 2nd August

Busiki vs Butembe

Bukono vs Bunhole Bunanhumba

Bugabula vs Luuka

Sunday, 3rd August

Buzaya vs Bulamogi

Kigulu vs Bukooli Namayingo

Bugweri vs Budiope