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CELEBRATING A KINGDOM: Airtel Uganda Unveils Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 Kit, Spotlighting Sports for a Cause

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CELEBRATING A KINGDOM: Airtel Uganda Unveils Kabaka Birthday Run 2025 Kit, Spotlighting Sports for a Cause

By Musa Kikuuno 

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, Airtel Uganda, in partnership with the Buganda Kingdom, officially unveiled the much-anticipated Kabaka Birthday Run kit at Bulange-Mengo, signaling the countdown to the 12th edition of this iconic event.

Scheduled for April 6, 2025, the Kabaka Birthday Run has become a cornerstone event in Uganda’s sports calendar since its inception in 2013. More than just a race, it’s a celebration of King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s birthday, marked by athleticism, camaraderie, and a shared goal for a healthier Uganda.

The Kabaka Birthday Run, which started in 2013, has grown in stature over the years, attracting thousands of participants from across the country. What makes the event stand out is not just the competitive spirit but its deeper purpose—raising awareness and funds to combat HIV/AIDS in Uganda. Proceeds from the race are directed towards efforts to eliminate the epidemic by 2030, aligning with the Kingdom’s broader vision for a healthier, HIV-free future.

Airtel Uganda has been a steadfast sponsor of the Kabaka Birthday Run for over a decade, and their commitment was on full display at the kit launch. Airtel Uganda’s Human Resource Manager, Flavia Lwanga, shared her excitement for this year’s race: “Airtel is privileged to be part of the Kabaka Birthday Run. This event is not just about competition; it’s about health, unity, and the power of sport to drive meaningful social change.”

The theme for the 2025 edition, “Men for Good Health to Save the Girl Child,” places a spotlight on the role of men in addressing HIV/AIDS. This year’s run encourages participation from all members of society, with the 10K competitive race and 5K fun run ensuring that people of all ages and fitness levels can take part. Whether aiming for a personal best or running for a cause, the Kabaka Birthday Run brings together people from all walks of life.

Participants can prepare for the race by purchasing the official Kabaka Birthday Run kit for UGX 20,000. The kit, which includes a race t-shirt, cap, and other essential items, is available at selected Airtel outlets, including the Airtel Shop New Taxi Park, Shoprite – Ben Kiwanuka, and Thobani Centre. Alternatively, runners can purchase the kit via Airtel Money, further simplifying the process for those eager to take part.

Beyond the race itself, the Kabaka Birthday Run has become a symbol of hope and resilience. It underscores the power of sport to not only inspire individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles but also to drive significant social change. The event is a living testament to the impact that organized sports can have on raising awareness and mobilizing action for important causes like HIV/AIDS prevention.

As Uganda continues to make strides in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the Kabaka Birthday Run remains a crucial part of the national effort. With support from Airtel Uganda and the Buganda Kingdom, the event continues to grow and inspire positive change across the country.

As the countdown to April 6, 2025, begins, anticipation is building among participants and sports lovers alike. The Kabaka Birthday Run promises to be a day filled with athleticism, unity, and the collective spirit of a nation determined to create a healthier future. Let’s lace up our running shoes, join the movement, and run for a cause that impacts us all.

FADE UP: Why NRM man didn’t wait for hell and rushed to lit himself on fire

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FADE UP: Why NRM man didn’t wait for hell and rushed to lit himself on fire

A video of a man dressed in yellow burning in flames surfaced on the internet in the early morning of Wednesday, 26th February, 2025.

In the video, police officers are seen frantically doing their best to extinguish the fire to save the burning souls. The man is seen rolling in pain.

He claims his property was vandalised by supporters of the National Unity Platform (NUP), leaving his father homeless due to their political affiliation. His efforts seeking help from the National Resistance Movement (NRM) and government have borne no fruit.

SEE VIDEO HERE https://twitter.com/BusogaTimesUG/status/1894662712031875262

As a solution, the NRM supporter chose to alight himself in protest.

Eyewitnesses say the man arrived alone and, without uttering a word, doused himself in petrol before setting himself ablaze a few meters from the gate. His motive remains unknown.

Police officers stationed at Parliament responded swiftly, using fire extinguishers to put out the flames before rushing him to the hospital for medical attention.

PRESIDENT MUSEVENI: Why I defend Ugandans outside the money economy

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PRESIDENT MUSEVENI: Why I defend Ugandans outside the money economy

President Yoweri Museveni has reaffirmed his commitment to uplifting Ugandans outside the money economy emphasizing that his priority is helping those outside the money economy rather than focusing on the well-off.

He made the statement while visiting Harriet Ahimbisibwe, a beneficiary of the Parish Development Model (PDM) in Kyarukobwa village, Kyaruhanga ward, Kagongo division, Ibanda municipality.

The visit was part of President Museveni’s performance assessment zonal tour on wealth creation and Parish Development Model (PDM) in Ankole subregion which started today.

In response to critics questioning his visits to ordinary Ugandans engaged in small-scale farming, the President firmly defended his approach.

“I saw someone in the newspaper asking why I am visiting people with pigs and chickens instead of the well-established. I will respond to them through my social media and remind them that Jesus Christ himself said he came for the poor, not those already doing well,” President Museveni said.

He emphasized that since coming to power, the National Resistance Movement (NRM) government has always prioritized moving Ugandans from subsistence farming into the money economy.

“In the 1960s, only 10% of the population was engaged in the money economy while 90% were asleep, but today, 68% have woken up and joined the money economy,” he noted.

“Our focus is not on the rich but on those still trapped in poverty. Just like Jesus left the 99 sheep to look for the one that was lost, we are concentrating on helping those who have not yet joined the money economy.”

He praised Mrs. Ahimbisibwe for making good use of the PDM funds, noting that she now rears 21 pigs, has acquired a plot of land, and rented more land for maize farming.

“When I asked her about her education, she said she is a Primary Seven dropout but her mindset is as sharp as someone who completed Senior Six. That is the spirit we want,”he remarked.

The President also supported her with  an additional shs10m to boost her farming and promised to provide the farm with transport means.

Reflecting on Uganda’s economic journey, President Museveni highlighted the progress made since independence, noting that in some areas like Bunyaruguru only 11% of households were in the money economy back then.

By 2013, he cited that 32% of the households had joined the money economy, but 68% were still struggling, a gap he aimed to close through initiatives like Operation Wealth Creation and the PDM.

“Before we came into government, 1,222 babies out of 10,000 would die due to poor health, and life expectancy was just 40 years,” he said.

“Poverty knows no religion or political party whether you are Catholic, Protestant, or Muslim, we all need food security and money to build a better life.”

The President also urged local leaders, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), and other officials to ensure proper implementation of the PDM, warning against corruption and misuse of funds.

“This money is not for the government; it is your money. Leaders must stop underestimating the power of the PDM. Those stealing the funds are betraying their own people,” he stressed.

He concluded by announcing plans to develop key infrastructure in the area, including the Kagongo road and upgrading the Ibanda-Mbarara road, as part of broader efforts to support economic growth.

Welcoming the President to her home in Kyarukobwa village, Kyaruhanga ward, Kagongo division, Mrs. Ahimbisibwe shared her journey since she benefited from the PDM. She revealed that in 2023, she applied for and received a loan of Shs 1 million through her PDM group.

“With the Shs 880,000 I got, I bought two female pigs, each at Shs 350,000, and used the remaining money to buy feeds and gumboots,” she said.

Despite initial setbacks with two pigs she had before, Mrs. Ahimbisibwe’s fortunes changed when the new pigs reproduced, one gave birth to nine piglets and the other to ten.

“I sold some of the pigs and earned Shs 1.2 million, the rest is history. So far, I have sold 22 pigs,” she added.

The growing income from pig farming allowed her to purchase a plot of land and rent additional farmland to expand her activities.

She also uses pig manure as fertilizer for her banana plantation, which has boosted her crop yield.

“Before this, I only depended on my banana plantation, but the income was very little. Now, with pig farming, I earn more, and my bananas grow better because of the manure,” Mrs. Ahimbisibwe explained.

Her story captivated President Museveni, who emphasized that the PDM is designed to help those still struggling economically, rather than focusing on the already well-off.

The visit was also attended by Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, the Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Bright Rwamirama, the State Minister for Animal Industry, Hon. Alice Kaboyo, the State Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister for Luwero Triangle and Rwenzori Region, Hon. Evelyn Anite, the State Minister of Finance for Investment and Privatization, Members of Parliament, Religious leaders, among other officials.

MILITARY CLOTHING: the NUP red overall and beret, a political battlefield

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MILITARY CLOTHING: the NUP red overall and beret, a political battlefield

By Daglous Bakinyumya

The ongoing controversy surrounding the red overall and beret worn by members of the National Unity Platform (NUP) has raised critical questions about political freedoms, military authority, and selective enforcement of laws in Uganda. The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has deemed the attire a military uniform, leading to arrests and alleged abductions of individuals donning it.

However, contradictions emerge when other figures, such as journalist Andrew Mwenda, businessman Frank Gashumba, singer  Alien Skin, minister Lillian Aber and  many others have been seen wearing similar outfits without facing legal repercussions. This selective enforcement suggests a deeper political agenda rather than a genuine concern for military identity protection.

Double Standards; Where Do We Draw the Line?

The government’s position on the NUP attire appears inconsistent. If the red overall and beret constitute a military uniform, why are individuals aligned with the ruling government allowed to wear similar outfits without consequence?

The lack of clarity and consistency in enforcing this rule creates a perception that it is not about protecting military identity but rather suppressing opposition voices. This selective approach fuels tensions and raises questions about whether Uganda’s governance is rooted in fairness and the rule of law or is merely an exercise of power politics.

What Is the Real Issue?

Dressing is a form of expression. The Constitution of Uganda guarantees freedom of expression and association, yet the crackdown on NUP supporters over their attire suggests a systematic effort to stifle opposition. Clothing, in itself, does not pose a threat to national security—unless those in power fear the unity and symbolism it represents.

Daglous Bakinyumya is a Political TV Producer and TV Host

The government must recognize that political pluralism is essential for democracy. Suppressing opposition through intimidation, arrests, and abductions over clothing only deepens political divisions and erodes public trust in state institutions. The UPDF should focus on its primary mandate—defending the nation rather than engaging in partisan intimidation.

Way Forward: Defining Military Attire Clearly

To put this matter to rest, the UPDF should officially gazette what constitutes military attire, specifying the exact colors, symbols, and designs that fall under its jurisdiction. By providing clear legal definitions, the military can avoid being used as a tool for political suppression. This would also prevent unnecessary conflicts between the security forces and civilians who wear red overalls and berets as a form of political expression.

Moreover, it is imperative for the government to cease using hidden intimidation tactics against political parties. A thriving democracy allows for multiple political voices to coexist without fear of persecution. If the ruling party believes in its legitimacy, it should compete in the political arena based on policies and governance, not suppression and coercion.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding the NUP red overall and beret is a reflection of the broader political struggles in Uganda more so ahead  2026. Selective enforcement of laws and the use of state machinery to intimidate opposition members only serve to weaken the country’s democratic foundations.

The UPDF must define its military attire in clear legal terms to prevent further exploitation of this issue for political gains. True democracy thrives in an environment where all political players are treated fairly, without fear of suppression based on their choice of clothing. Uganda must rise above intimidation politics and embrace a governance system that respects the rights of all its citizens, regardless of their political affiliation.

Bakinyumya Political TV Producer and TV Host – @BDouglasPaap

RAUCOUS POLITICS: Uganda’s governance under siege

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RAUCOUS POLITICS: Uganda’s governance under siege

By Daglous Bakinyumya

Uganda’s political landscape has always been a complex, but recent events paint an even darker picture of governance overshadowed by a rising tide of what can only be described as raucous politics —a chaotic blend of power struggles, institutional manipulation, and a blatant disregard for democratic principles.

The hunger strike by opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye, the abduction of a National Unity Platform (NUP) leader, the dramatic twists in the Kawempe North by-election, the farcical nature of the latest cabinet, and the Chief of Defence Forces’ (CDF) controversial tweets all point to a country teetering on the edge of institutional collapse.

A Nation in Cry: Governance or Political Gamesmanship?

Ugandans have long struggled under a governance system where politics takes precedence over service delivery and accountability. However, the latest sequence of events raises a critical question: Is Uganda still being governed, or has politics become the only institution that matters?

Besigye’s hunger strike is a bold yet painful reminder of the discontent boiling beneath Uganda’s political surface. His act of defiance is not merely personal; it echoes the cries of many Ugandans suffering under economic hardship and political suppression. Meanwhile, the continued abduction of opposition figures exposes a dangerous precedent—where the state, rather than serving its people, sees them as threats to be eliminated. If political opponents can vanish without accountability, what does that say about the rule of law?

The drama surrounding the Kawempe North by-election is yet another indicator of the crumbling democratic process. Elections should be the bedrock of representative governance, yet they are increasingly marred by manipulation, intimidation, and violence. How can Ugandans trust the electoral process when it is treated as a battleground rather than a democratic exercise?

The Comic Cabinet and CDF’s Tweets: A Leadership in Crisis

The unveiling of Uganda’s latest cabinet has been met with widespread disbelief, as unqualified individuals are rewarded with positions of national importance. Governance should not be reduced to a circus where competence is an afterthought. When mediocrity takes the reins, national progress stalls, and citizens bear the brunt of poor leadership.

Adding to the governance dilemma, the CDF’s recent tweets have stirred controversy, bringing the military into an already volatile political discourse. In a functional democracy, security forces must remain apolitical and professional. However, when military leadership begins to engage in political rhetoric, it raises fears of undue influence in civilian affairs, further blurring the line between governance and authoritarianism.

The Cost to the Public: Who Pays the Price?

The Ugandan public stands to lose the most from these power struggles. Raucous politics is not just a threat to democracy—it is a direct attack on the livelihoods, rights, and freedoms of the people. The increasing friction between the judiciary, executive, and parliament only creates room for excuses, delaying meaningful reforms and service delivery. Instead of governing with the people’s interests at heart, the state appears more focused on consolidating power and suppressing dissent.

Ugandans must ask: How long can we endure a system where institutions meant to serve us are weaponized against us? The tug-of-war between governance and politics is not just an elite problem; it is a national crisis with far-reaching consequences. If left unchecked, it could dismantle the very fabric of Ugandan democracy, leaving the people at the mercy of unchecked power.

The consequences are dire. Public services continue to deteriorate as resources are funneled into political battles rather than addressing key issues like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Corruption thrives under such circumstances, allowing a select few to amass wealth while ordinary citizens bear the economic burden. The divide between the ruling elite and the struggling masses grows wider, setting the stage for greater unrest and disillusionment with the political system.

A Call for Action

The way forward is clear: Uganda must reclaim its governance from the grip of raucous politics. Institutions must function independently, opposition voices must be respected, and elections must serve as the true voice of the people. The judiciary, executive, and parliament must work for national stability rather than political supremacy.

Political maturity and genuine leadership are needed now more than ever. Ugandans must demand accountability at all levels, using civic engagement, media advocacy, and legal channels to push for reforms. Civil society organizations, religious leaders, and intellectuals must unite in urging transparency, fairness, and justice. Uganda’s youth, who represent the nation’s future, must not be passive spectators but active participants in shaping a better governance system.

Ugandans cannot afford to be silent spectators. The cost of silence is too high. If governance remains in the shadow of chaotic politics, the future will be one of continued oppression, economic stagnation, and social unrest. The time to demand accountability is now. Will Uganda rise to the challenge, or will we watch as democracy is suffocated under the weight of power-hungry politics?

Mr. Daglous Bakinyumya is a Senior Political TV Producer and TV Host

BUSOGA TIMES EXCLUSIVE: Historic Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup Set to Launch in may 2025 Alongside Annual Masaza Cup

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BUSOGA TIMES EXCLUSIVE: Historic Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup Set to Launch in may 2025 Alongside Annual Masaza Cup

By Musa Kikuuno.

In a groundbreaking move for sports in Busoga, the first-ever Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup will take place in May 2025, alongside the traditional Busoga Masaza Cup.

This historic event, which aims to promote inclusivity for people affected by dwarfism, was revealed by Joel Kawanguzi, the Programs Officer at the Foundation of Persons Affected by Dwarfism in Uganda (FPAD), during an exclusive interview with Busoga Times.

Kawanguzi shared key details about a meeting he had with Owek. Amin Bossa Nkono, the Minister for Sports in Busoga Kingdom, on February 11, 2025.

During their discussion, Minister Nkono conveyed exciting plans for the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup, including a major change in the schedule.

According to Kawanguzi, the Minister confirmed that this year’s Masaza Cup would start earlier than usual, in May, instead of the traditional August.

“The Minister was very enthusiastic about the initiative, especially in terms of how it ties into the broader goal of lifting disabled people’s talents through sports,” Kawanguzi explained.

“He also proposed that the Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup be held alongside the regular Masaza Cup. The idea is to have both tournaments share the same venues for their opening and closing games, but at different times. It’s an effort to streamline resources and reduce costs, which will be beneficial for everyone involved.”

The Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup will mark an important milestone, as it is the first tournament of its kind in the region, specifically designed for people affected by dwarfism.

The event will bring together athletes from across Busoga to compete, showcase their abilities, and promote unity through sports. However, as Kawanguzi emphasized, all plans are still pending the endorsement of the Kyabazinga of Busoga.

Once this endorsement is granted, Minister Nkono and his team will proceed with further preparations, including finalizing the budget and other logistical details for the tournaments.

Kawanguzi also mentioned that local leaders are already expressing their support. Namayingo District Chairman Sanya Ronald has pledged to provide sets of jerseys for the dwarfs team from Bukhooli Namayingo, as well as ensure transportation for the team on match days.

Similarly, Bugiri District’s Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Myra, has promised to assist in mobilizing support and providing jerseys for the Bukhooli Bugiri team.

Kawanguzi highlighted that the goal of this initiative is to ensure that adaptive sports are accessible to all, regardless of physical stature.

“The idea is to make sports inclusive and provide equal opportunities for everyone to participate,” he said.

Both the Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup and the regular Masaza Cup will fall under the Ministry of Sports in Busoga Kingdom.

Separate committees will handle each tournament, but they will work in tandem to ensure a smooth and successful event.

With the backing of local leaders and the Ministry of Sports, the Dwarfs Busoga Masaza Cup is poised to be a historic event, not only for the kingdom but also for people with dwarfism, who will now have a platform to showcase their athleticism and abilities.

DESERVING WINNERS: Bukooli’s Tiffu, Kigulu’s Odoto defend titles in historic grand finale of MTN Busoga Cycling 2024 Championship

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DESERVING WINNERS: Bukooli’s Tiffu, Kigulu’s Odoto defend titles in historic grand finale of MTN Busoga Cycling 2024 Championship

By Musa Kikuuno

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024, in its second edition, culminated in a thrilling and historic grand finale of 175km on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Held under the bright sun, the championship saw fierce competition among top riders across two major categories: Tippa and Mountain Sports Bike.

In an event that celebrated not only athleticism but also the spirit of community, Luganda Tiffu and Odoto John emerged victorious, making their names etched in history.

Defending Champions Shine

Luganda Tiffu, riding for Bukooli Chiefdom, took home the coveted title in the Tippa category, clinching a new motorcycle (CT 125 HD) along with a cash prize of 2 million shillings. Tiffu’s triumph marks his second consecutive victory in this prestigious race, making him the first rider to successfully defend his title.

“I’m overjoyed to have defended my title. The competition was fierce, but the support from my team and fans kept me going,” said a humbled Luganda Tiffu after the race.

Not far behind, Farmer Shafik from Butembe and Mugoda Dominic from Bunha secured second and third places respectively, each taking home significant cash prizes of 1 million and 500,000 shillings.

Odoto John’s Double Victory

Meanwhile, in the Mountain Sports Bike category, the remarkable Odoto John from Kigulu made history by winning for the second consecutive time. Having previously triumphed with Butembe Chiefdom in 2022, Odoto John made waves as the first rider to win the championship with two different chiefdoms, a monumental achievement in the championship’s history.

“It feels incredible to be the first to win two titles with two different chiefdoms. The race was challenging, but the encouragement from both my team and the fans helped me push through,” Odoto shared, visibly elated.

Odoto’s victory earned him a CT 125 HD motorcycle and 2 million shillings in cash, while his fellow riders, Magemeso Mensuramu from Luuka and Byansi Rogers from Bugabula, secured second and third place, earning 1 million and 500,000 shillings, respectively.

A Strong Finish and Recognition

In addition to the standout performances, a total of 27 riders successfully completed the race, each receiving a token of 50,000 shillings as a gesture of appreciation for their effort and perseverance.

Minister’s Remarks: Support for Sports and Call to End Teenage Pregnancy

The event saw prominent figures expressing their gratitude to MTN Uganda for their support in promoting sports in Busoga. The Minister of Sports for Busoga Kingdom, Owek. Amin Bossa Nkono, took the opportunity to thank MTN Uganda for their sponsorship, noting that the championship had brought pride to the region.

“On behalf of the Busoga Kingdom, I extend our deepest gratitude to MTN Uganda for sponsoring this wonderful championship. Busoga is eager to see more sports events of this magnitude in the future. Thanks to MTN, sports in Busoga has been significantly boosted, and our people have shown immense passion for it,” said Owek Amin Bossa Nkono.

He went on to say that the championship was not just about cycling but a clear example of the growing sports culture within the kingdom. “Sports bring us together as a community. Busoga Kingdom is proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we look forward to continuing this partnership with MTN.”

MTN Uganda’s Commitment to Social Issues

John Paul Okwi, a representative from MTN Uganda, also addressed the gathering. He thanked the people of Busoga for their enthusiasm and urged them to channel the same energy from the championship into addressing the issue of teenage pregnancy.

“Today, we have seen incredible passion and energy from everyone here. I call upon all of you to use this energy to fight teenage pregnancy. At MTN Uganda, we are committed to supporting initiatives aimed at ending teenage pregnancies, and we will continue to stand behind this cause,” said Okwi.

Katikiro’s Call for Action

The Katikiro of Busoga Kingdom, Owek. Joseph Muvawala Nsekere, echoed the call to action, emphasizing the importance of ending teenage pregnancies. He made a powerful appeal to the men of Busoga to take a leading role in this effort.

“We must all join hands in putting an end to teenage pregnancies. I particularly urge the men in our society to take responsibility and lead by example. This is a battle that requires all of us,” said Owek. Muvawala Nsekere.

He also expressed his gratitude towards MTN Uganda for their unwavering support of the Busoga Kingdom and for standing with the people of Busoga. “MTN Uganda has been a true partner, and we are grateful for the support they have shown in uplifting our community through initiatives like this championship.”

List of Winners and Prizes:

Tippa Category:

1. Luganda Tiffu – Bukooli

Prize: New Motorcycle (CT 125 HD) + 2 Million Shillings (Cash)

2. Farmer Shafik – Butembe

Prize: 1 Million Shillings (Cash)

3. Mugoda Dominic – Bunha

Prize: 500,000 Shillings (Cash)

4. Kigenyi Hussein – Kigulu

Prize: 300,000 Shillings (Cash)

5. Kyawa Magidu – Luuka

Prize: 300,000 Shillings (Cash)

Mountain Sports Bike Category:

1. Odoto John – Kigulu

Prize: New Motorcycle (CT 125 HD) + 2 Million Shillings (Cash)

2. Magemeso Mensuramu – Luuka

Prize: 1 Million Shillings (Cash)

3. Byansi Rogers – Bugabula

Prize: 500,000 Shillings (Cash)

4. Kiwanuka Musilimu – Luuka

Prize: 300,000 Shillings (Cash)

5. Kakaire Meni – Bunha

Prize: 300,000 Shillings (Cash)

Additional Finishers: 27 other riders received a token of 50,000 Shillings each for completing the race.

As the championship came to a close, the excitement and sense of unity in Busoga were palpable, with a collective call for continued growth in sports and a shared commitment to tackling critical social issues like teenage pregnancy. The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 will surely be remembered as a turning point for sports in the region, with the community eagerly anticipating more championships in the years to come.

ROAD TO VICTORY: Battle for glory set as MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 comes to deserving climax

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ROAD TO VICTORY: Battle for glory set as MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 comes to deserving climax

By Musa Kikuuno

The highly anticipated 2nd Edition of the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship is finally here! Set to take place this weekend, the grand finale promises to be a thrilling spectacle as cyclists from all corners prepare to compete in what is expected to be a fierce contest of endurance, skill, and determination. The race will kick off on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 8:00 AM, from the iconic Busoga Kingdom Headquarters, marking the beginning of an exciting 175 km challenge.

This year, the route will see competitors navigate through some of Busoga’s most picturesque and challenging terrains. Starting from the heart of the kingdom, cyclists will ride through several key towns and landmarks including Bugembe, Kakira, Magamaga, and Musita, before making their way to Iganga Town. From there, riders will return to the finish line at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters after a grueling race that promises to test their mettle and physical limits.

Unlike the 2022 edition, which featured a longer 188 km race, the 2024 race has been shortened to 175 km, but the stakes remain as high as ever. With a total of 44 riders competing – divided into two categories, the Tippa-Gaali Ensoga and the Mountain Sport Bikes – it is bound to be an exciting showdown. Each category will feature 22 riders, and all eyes will be on them as they make their way through the scenic but challenging route.

As the race progresses, the tension will build toward the moment of truth – the finish line. The top five finishers in each category will walk away with incredible prizes. The grand prize for the winners is a brand-new motorcycle, a testament to the championship’s commitment to recognizing the true champions of the sport. Second-place winners will receive a cash prize of 2 million Ugandan shillings, while third-place finishers will pocket 1 million shillings. The fourth-place winners will take home 500,000 shillings, with the fifth-place finishers getting 300,000 shillings.

But that’s not all! The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship truly embraces the spirit of sportsmanship and rewards every participant for their efforts. For those finishing outside the top five, the race organizers will ensure they don’t go home empty-handed. Every rider who crosses the finish line will be awarded 50,000 Ugandan shillings as a token of appreciation for their hard work and determination.

The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, and it promises to be an unforgettable day for cycling enthusiasts, the athletes, and the entire community. As Busoga gears up to witness some of the finest cyclists in the country, the MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 is shaping up to be a true celebration of talent, perseverance, and sportsmanship.

UNEB reports 98% UCE pass rate in first cohort of Competency-based curriculum

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UNEB reports 98% UCE pass rate in first cohort of Competency-based curriculum

The Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB) has officially released the results for the 2024 Uganda Certificate of Education (UCE), showing an impressive 98.05% pass rate.

A total of 350,146 candidates, out of 359,417 registered students, qualified for the UCE certificate under the new competency-based curriculum, signalling a significant milestone in the country’s education reforms.

The results reveal a balanced gender distribution, with 49.3% of male candidates and 50.7% of female candidates sitting for the exams. Additionally, 38.1% of the candidates were from the Universal Secondary Education (USE) programme, and nearly all, 99.4%, attended the exams.

A key shift in this year’s assessment is the abandonment of the old division-based ranking system. Under the new curriculum, students are graded based on competency levels, with candidates qualifying for the UCE Certificate if they achieve at least a Grade D in any of the subjects they sat for.

In a notable achievement, UNEB reported a sharp decline in exam malpractice. Only 64 cases involving 984 candidates were flagged this year, a dramatic reduction from nearly 3,000 suspected cases in the previous year.

UNEB attributed the decrease to the nature of the exam papers, which are designed to reduce opportunities for cheating. However, the board noted that the majority of malpractice cases were concentrated in science practicals, particularly Physics, with 93.1% of malpractice cases occurring in science subjects.

“Many candidates were found to have simply copied experimental results from teachers, which did not align with their actual work,” UNEB Executive Director Dan Odongo explained.

Despite the progress, Odongo highlighted challenges faced by schools, particularly in rural areas. “Many schools, especially private ones, are not equipped with adequate science labs or qualified teachers,” he noted.

“Some schools were also hesitant to fully embrace the new curriculum, clinging to the old system with the hope that the government would revert the changes.”

Odongo explained that these issues affected students’ performance in science subjects, but overall, the transition to a competency-based system has been successful. He emphasized the need for improved facilities and teacher training to fully support the curriculum’s goals, especially in practical science education.

Looking ahead, the term for Senior Five students will begin on March 3, 2025, with the selection process set for February 20 and 21, 2025.

SSEGIRINYA REPLACEMENT: NUP picks Nalukoola for Kawempe North by-election

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SSEGIRINYA REPLACEMENT: NUP picks Nalukoola for Kawempe North by-election

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has announced that Elias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola will be the party’s official flag bearer for Kawempe North by-election.

“Our official flag bearer for Kawempe North by-election is Elias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola, who has been declared by our Election Management Committee this Tuesday morning,” NUP announced in a brief statement on their X account.

Nalukoola beat off competition from nine other competitors who had been vetted by the party. The ten also held a public debate to showcase their leadership potential.

The Kawempe North parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of Muhamad Ssegirinya, also a member of NUP.

The Electoral Commission released a roadmap that would see the seat filled through a by-election.

According to the roadmap, 13th March 2025 is polling day, on which voters in Kawempe North will go to vote for the candidate of their choice to become the next Member of Parliament for their constituency.

Nomination of candidates at the office of the Returning Officer will be on 26th- 27th February 2025. The campaign period will start on 28th Feb 2025 and end 11th March 2025.

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