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POLITICS OF DECEPTIONS: Elections based on lies are not good elections; it will kill your country – Museveni   

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POLITICS OF DECEPTIONS: Elections based on lies are not good elections; it will kill your country – Museveni   

If you have elections based on lies then you are killing your country, President Yoweri Museveni stated at the ground breaking ceremony for the construction of US$ 129 million state-of-the-art Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium in Lira City.

The President castigated political actors spreading lies tying the upcoming Presidential and general elections to the project.

“No Akii-Bua Olympic Stadium, no votes for NRM. So please we are tired of lies. Elections based on lies are not good elections, they should be based on the truth. If you have elections based on lies then you are killing your country,” President Museveni warned.

Egyptian firm SAMCO National Construction Company and Khater Sports have been hired to construct the stadium which is projected to take a record period of 20 months to complete.

The President explained that the government had to prioritize the implementation of the competing programmes on a small resource envelope.

He said the government did not deliberately abandon sports or the construction of stadiums but had to first deal with the basic necessities in the country like peace, infrastructure, education and health, among others.

“Therefore, the delay of the construction of Akii-Bua Stadium was not because we did not care, it was because we had to survive first; peace, food, education, health and infrastructure, among others,” he said.

“When some people try to say,Oh,this government is useless, they have forgotten sports – I am a sportsman myself, but I couldn’t start with sports when there was no peace or food in the country. It is not that we didn’t know about sports but one by one makes a bundle,” President Museveni explained.

He also cautioned the wanainchi against some political actors who claim to be able to do everything at once and always to treat them as liars.

KNOWLEDGE ACQUISITION: Educating our children will turn Busoga into a paradise—Kyabazinga affirms in a message at New Life Schools pre-school graduation

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KNOWLEDGE ACQUISITION: Educating our children will turn Busoga into a paradise—Kyabazinga affirms in a message at New Life Schools pre-school graduation

If parents in Busoga educate their children, the region will transition into a paradise, the Kyabazinga, His Majesty William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope IV, recently said in a message delivered by his brother, Prince Arnold Nadiope.

Prince Nadiope reading the Kyabazinga’s message at a preschool (nursery) graduation ceremony at New Life Schools in Buwaidha, Buyende district, encouraged people in the kingdom to elevate education by working together to see that no child is left behind and ensure that every learner gets the tools to study and become victorious in life.

“To the parents of these children, and your families, thank you for trusting New Life Schools and the important work you have done to raise and educate these children. Today is a celebration of your decision to care for, provide for, and educate these children,” the Kyabazinga said in his delegated speech.

In a message directed to the learners, the Kyabazinga said, “As we celebrate this victory, we should remember that this is just the beginning of a long journey of studying. This journey has many new things, challenges, and chances for personal growth and development.”

Adding: “To our learners, as you go to the next stages of your lives, every day, strive to learn and to acquire knowledge and wisdom. Never stop desiring to grow; this world is full of many things, and you are just starting to experience some of the good things in life.”

New Life Schools was launched by the Kyabazinga in 2023 at a pompous event that attracted various stakeholders to provide education at a nursery (preschool) level. The graduation on 25th January 2025 was the second, with 42 learners graduating to join primary one. The school has since added the primary section with primary one and two classes.

Eng. Gerald Isabirye, one of the school directors, asked parents to put in more effort because educating a child requires money. “We should work hard and inject money into our children’s education. You should note that this money rises as the children go to higher classes. That is the life we live in. We should pray to God that He provides us with the energy to work hard and we are able to also provide for our children’s education.

Eng. Isabirye also announced that the school has heeded the parents demand for a school uniform. He introduced the school uniform to the parents who attended the graduation.

Owek. Ivan Kirya requested Prince Nadiope to deliver the appreciation of school management and the people of Budiope to the Kyabazinga for his love and care.

He gifted each learner who graduated with UGX20,000. He also offered to sponsor a sports uniform for every learner who purchases the new school uniform.

Kwikiriza Anna, the top class teacher, said they have imparted the learners with social skills and academic excellence. She encouraged parents to participate in their children’s education beyond providing fees and books. 

“Parents should participate in their children’s education by showing them love, food, providing scholastic materials, checking their books, and cleaning them when coming to school,” Kwikiriza said.

The Headmistress, Naguti Eseza, encouraged parents to bring more children to New Life Schools because of the quality education provided. “All our teachers are trained. All that they do, they do it based on the experience they acquired from the different training colleges they attended,” she said.

A BEAUTIFUL GAME: An East African derby, a date with Nigeria and a trade with the Eagles of Tunisia await Uganda Cranes at 2025 AFCON in Morocco  

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A BEAUTIFUL GAME: An East African derby, a date with Nigeria and a trade with the Eagles of Tunisia await Uganda Cranes at 2025 AFCON in Morocco  

By Musa Kikuuno Busoga Times Sports Writer II WhtasApp 0756322265                                                                                  

As the countdown to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco continues, all eyes are on Group C, where the highly anticipated CECAFA derby between Uganda and Tanzania promises to be a thrilling spectacle. With the tournament set to run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, football fans are eagerly awaiting the clash of two East African football giants.

This will be Uganda’s 8th appearance at the prestigious continental tournament, with their previous best finish being as runners-up in 1978. For Tanzania, it will be their 4th appearance, having reached the group stages in 1980, 2019, and 2023.

The two teams share a fierce rivalry, and their encounter in Group C is expected to be one of the most talked-about fixtures of the competition. Uganda will be aiming to break their 47-year trophy drought, while Tanzania will seek to make a statement as they compete against top African sides.

Uganda’s Strong Team Ready for the Challenge

Uganda’s national team, known as the Cranes, will be led by a blend of experienced players and emerging stars. With a solid mix of homegrown talent and players plying their trade in top European leagues, the Cranes are primed for a successful run.

Among their standout players is Simon “Happygod” Msuva, who has earned 94 caps and scored 23 goals for Tanzania since 2012, second to Mrisho Ngassa, with 100 caps and 25 goals. Uganda will also be banking on the goal-scoring abilities of Mbwana Samata, Tanzania’s scorer with 22 goals in 83 appearances since 2011.

Uganda’s players will be staying at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton hotel in Morocco, which will provide the perfect base as they prepare for the fierce competition ahead. Their ambitious journey to the trophy will face tough challenges, with Nigeria and Tunisia rounding out Group C alongside Uganda and Tanzania.

Nigeria, the three-time AFCON champions, and Tunisia, the 2004 champions, will certainly present formidable opposition. But Uganda is no stranger to big challenges, and this tournament could be their moment to shine on the African football stage.

Group C: A Hotbed of African Football Talent

The CECAFA derby between Uganda and Tanzania will surely capture the imagination of football fans worldwide. With a rich history in the tournament, both teams will be keen to prove their mettle.

Nigeria, which boasts three AFCON titles (1980, 1994, and 2013), is a perennial favorite and a team to watch, while Tunisia’s steady presence in the competition and their 2004 title victory make them equally dangerous.

Group C is shaping up to be a fascinating battle, with every team bringing its own unique strengths to the table. As Uganda takes on these giants, the match against Tanzania will likely be the one to watch, with both teams determined to claim the bragging rights of East Africa.

As the tournament progresses, Uganda’s fans will hope that their team can build on the rich footballing history of the country and make a deep run into the latter stages of the competition. Will the Cranes soar to glory in Morocco? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2025 AFCON will be a tournament to remember.

EDUCATING A NATION: Seven important factors leading to poor performance in primary schools; and seven important solutions

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EDUCATING A NATION: Seven important factors leading to poor performance in primary schools; and seven important solutions

By Waiswa Michael Baluye

Not many days ago, the Minister of Education and Sports, Janet Kataha Museveni, also the First Lady, released the Primary Seven Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) as prepared by Uganda National Examinations Board (UNEB).

According to UNEB, the country registered a drop in performance as fewer learners got distinctions. Also captured was the fact that many pupils who join Primary One never complete primary section by writing PLE – many drop off midday before completing primary level.

In this article, I present seven challenges that schools, learners and parents face. I also present seven solutions that can be considered to improve the education sector in Uganda.

Increase in School-going Population

As the population of children increases, the demand for teachers and resources also rises. The current teacher-to-student ratio of 1:165 is unsustainable. Hiring more teachers and improving training can help manage this imbalance.

Teacher Shortages

With only nine teachers for 1500 pupils, there’s a clear shortage of staff, which affects the quality of education. Increasing the recruitment of teachers is essential to ensure smaller class sizes and more individualized attention.

Lack of Parental Supervision

In rural areas, many parents don’t supervise their children due to socio-economic challenges or lack of education. Community programs that educate parents on the importance of involvement in their children’s education could help bridge this gap.

Poor Feeding

Inadequate nutrition can severely affect a child’s ability to concentrate and learn. A government-led school feeding program can help improve the health and learning capacity of students.

Inadequate Resources

When parents cannot afford materials and logistics for their children, it hinders their academic performance. Providing free textbooks and learning materials or subsidizing the cost of school supplies can ease this burden.

Teacher Motivation

Low pay and lack of motivation can lead to absenteeism, late arrivals, and disinterest in teaching. Increasing teacher salaries and offering incentives for performance would encourage more dedicated and punctual educators.

SOLUTIONS

Recruit More Teachers

This will help reduce the teacher-student ratio and provide more individualized attention to students, improving learning outcomes.

Increase Infrastructure

Building more classrooms and avoiding overcrowding or lessons under trees will create a more conducive learning environment.

Enhance Supervision

A stronger system of supervision from the education department will help hold schools and teachers accountable, ensuring quality education.

School Feeding Programs

The government taking over the responsibility for feeding pupils can improve both their health and academic performance.

Increase Teacher Salaries

Competitive wages would not only motivate teachers but also attract more qualified professionals into the sector.

Competent School Management

Ensuring that school management committees are effective and involve stakeholders in decision-making can improve school governance and performance.

Parental Involvement

Parents need to take an active role in their children’s education, such as helping with homework and monitoring their progress. Educating parents on how to support their children will contribute to better outcomes.

In summary, improving the performance of primary schools requires a holistic approach involving increased resources, better teacher support, infrastructure improvement, and stronger community and parental involvement.

Waiswa Michael Baluye is the ONC Coordinator of Buyende district.

PEDDLE OF THRILLS:  MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024: Bugabula and Bukono Chiefdoms deliver exciting action  

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PEDDLE OF THRILLS:  MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024: Bugabula and Bukono Chiefdoms deliver exciting action  

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer ll Whatsapp 0756322265

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 continued its thrilling journey on Sunday, January 26, with the second edition of the event seeing fierce competition across the Bugabula and Bukono Chiefdoms. Cyclists in both the Tippa and Mountain Sports Bike categories showcased their skills and determination, with the top performers qualifying for the grand finale.

In Bugabula Chiefdom, Ssebowa Joseph emerged victorious in the Tippa category, followed closely by Mugula Yasin in second place, while Muleke Hassan and Mulondo Ayub finished third and fourth, respectively. Over in the Mountain Sports Bike category, Bamutaze Wycliff took the top spot, with Byansi Rogers securing second.

Munole Dauda and Kyangwa Dan rounded off the top four positions. The top two from each category have now earned their spots in the much-anticipated grand finale, adding to the excitement of what is shaping up to be a highly competitive championship.

Meanwhile, in Bukono Chiefdom, Kuluseni Latif stole the spotlight in the Tippa category, clinching the first position, followed by Rambo Yusuf in second. Waisana Robert, Wandera Charles, and Bandaaze John finished third, fourth, and fifth, respectively.

In the Mountain Sports Bike category, Waiswa Isiko claimed first place, while Munyangala Furasiko secured second. Nyarwanda Geofrey, Gabeto Isaac, and Mugalya Muresi completed the top five positions. Like in Bugabula, the top two cyclists in each category from Bukono have now secured a place in the grand finale.

The excitement builds as the championship heads into its final stages. The next round of races is set for the coming week.

On Friday, January 31, the races will head to the Bunha and Busiki Chiefdoms, followed by Bugweri and Kigulu Chiefdoms on Saturday, February 1.

The final race of the week will take place on Sunday, February 2, in Butembe Chiefdom. Races will begin promptly at 8 AM each day.

The MTN Busoga Cycling Championship 2024 is fast becoming a major event in the region, with cyclists of all ages and skill levels coming together to compete for glory.

Local communities continue to show strong support for their riders, fueling the excitement surrounding the championship.

The grand finale, scheduled for February 15, 2025, is sure to be an unforgettable event as the best of Busoga’s cyclists vie for the top prize.

YOWERI MUSEVENI: Affordable electricity for manufacturers will boost industrial productivity and competitiveness

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YOWERI MUSEVENI: Affordable electricity for manufacturers will boost industrial productivity and competitiveness

President Yoweri Museveni presided over the commissioning of a new Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) plant at Tembo Steels in Kasolo Village, Bulamagi Sub-County, Iganga District on Friday, 25th January 2025.

The new facility marks a major milestone in Uganda’s industrialization journey, with Tembo Steels reaffirming its position as a key player in the country’s steel industry.

Established in 2004, Tembo Steels has grown into a major manufacturing hub, producing steel, oxygen cylinders, and nitrogen.

The company sources its raw materials locally, significantly contributing to Uganda’s economy and creating over one million jobs for Ugandans.

During his remarks, President Museveni commended the Chairman of Tembo Industries for the transformative impact the company has had on Uganda’s economy.

He emphasized the importance of locally integrated industries, stating that such initiatives save the country from the “hemorrhage of resources.”

He further noted Uganda’s rich iron ore reserves, particularly in Kabale, as a vital resource for the steel industry.

“The government is committed to ensuring affordable electricity for manufacturers, targeting a rate of 5 cents per unit. This will boost industrial productivity and competitiveness,” President Museveni said.

Lukia Nakadama, the Third Deputy Prime Minister, expressed gratitude to President Museveni for prioritizing development in the Busoga sub-region.

She highlighted the new plant as a beacon of hope for economic growth in the area.

Kalla Manish, the General Manager of Tembo Steels, hailed the launch of the second plant as a significant achievement.

“This milestone represents our unwavering commitment to growing Uganda’s economy. With the addition of this plant, we anticipate a substantial boost to the country’s industrial output,” he said.

The event was attended by a number of high-profile figures, including government ministers, members of parliament, religious leaders, investors, and local officials.

HOMELESS FOOTBALL: Uncertainty looms over SC Villa and BUL FC’s home grounds ahead of UPL second round

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HOMELESS FOOTBALL: Uncertainty looms over SC Villa and BUL FC’s home grounds ahead of UPL second round

By Musa Kikuuno, Busoga Times Sports Writer ll WhatsApp  0756322265

As the Uganda Premier League (UPL) prepares for the highly anticipated kickoff of the second round on February 11, 2025, the home ground situations of two teams — SC Villa, the defending champions, and BUL FC, last season’s second runners up — remain unresolved, leaving fans in suspense.

BUL FC’s Home Ground Dilemma

BUL FC, who previously hosted their first-round games at Lugazi Stadium Najjembe— home to league debutants Lugazi FC — find themselves in a predicament after their agreement with Lugazi FC, expired at the close of 2024.

Despite utilizing the forest-surrounded stadium for seven games in the first round, BUL FC managed just one win, four draws, and two losses, scoring five goals and conceding eight.

Their solitary win came against the stadium’s primary occupants, Lugazi FC. These performances yielded a modest seven points from their “borrowed” home ground.

In previous seasons, BUL FC rotated between Kakindu Stadium in Jinja, FUFA Technical Center in Njeru, and Kyabazinga Stadium in Bugembe.

As the second runners-up of last season, the club now faces the critical decision of confirming a venue that aligns with their aspirations of improving their performance this season.

SC Villa Faces Renovation Hurdles

Defending champions SC Villa, on the other hand, were forced to switch their last first-round game to Luzira Prisons Grounds, where they edged URA FC 1-0 on January 4, 2025.

Mutesa II Stadium Wankulukuku is undergoing renovation.

This temporary shift was necessitated by ongoing renovations at Mutesa II Stadium Wankulukuku, where they have hosted their league games this season. 

During the first round, SC Villa hosted seven games at Wankulukuku, recording four wins and three draws, amassing an impressive 18 points without a single loss at home.

This made them the second-best performing home team in the league first round, trailing only NEC FC, who secured 22 points from seven home games.

However, with the CHAN tournament scheduled for August 2025, renovations at Wankulukuku have yet to be completed, casting uncertainty over whether SC Villa will return to their fortress or continue to seek alternative venues.

Second Round Fixtures Set Amid Venue Uncertainty

The second round of the UPL kicks off on February 11, 2025, with SC Villa traveling to Wakiso to face Wakiso Giants, while BUL FC will visit Express FC on February 12, 2025.

Other key fixtures in the opening week of the second round include Lugazi FC hosting Police FC, Maroons entertaining Bright Stars, and Mbarara City traveling to face Mbale Heroes under the stewardship of Baker Mbowa.

On February 13, 2025, UPDF will host Wasswa Bbosa’s Kitara FC, while NEC FC and their tactical maestro Hussein Mbalangu will face off against KCCA FC, led by Abdallah Mubiru, at the MTN Omondi Stadium in Lugogo.

As fans eagerly await the confirmation of SC Villa and BUL FC’s home grounds, the stakes remain high for both clubs. For Villa, defending their title hinges on consistency, while BUL FC will need stability to reignite their campaign. The clock is ticking, and the football fraternity is watching.

NRM LIBERATION DAY: Celebrations should encourage Ugandans to unite and work for the nation’s prosperity

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NRM LIBERATION DAY: Celebrations should encourage Ugandans to unite and work for the nation’s prosperity

By Waiswa Michael Baluye

Celebrating NRM Liberation Day is an opportunity to reflect on the journey Uganda has taken since the National Resistance Movement (NRM) came to power in 1986.

As it can be observed in the history of Uganda, especially before the NRM took over, was marked by political instability, economic decline, and neglect of social services.

The early years of independence were fraught with poor governance and failed agreements that led to violent regimes and economic hardships.

Under the NRM government, significant strides have been made in improving Uganda’s economy, education, health care, and security.

Policies like Universal Primary Education (UPE) have made education accessible to many Ugandan children, and improvements in health care, such as the construction of health centers in every parish, have greatly improved access to medical services in rural areas.

The country has seen more infrastructure development and an overall improvement in living standards.

It is the NRM government that played pivotal role in the re-establishment of the East African Community (EAC) and other international bilateral trade that has improved on our industrial sector.

This has improved on the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, as it can rightly be noted, despite these gains, challenges such as corruption still persist, and unity remains crucial for further development.

Celebrating NRM Liberation Day should not only honor the progress made but also encourage Ugandans to unite across political lines, address the remaining challenges, and continue to work for the nation’s prosperity.

Waiswa Michael Baluye is the ONC Coordinator for Buyende district.

REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Museveni launches construction works for upgrading Jinja airfield

Sam Bamutaze Mwanjje
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REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Museveni launches construction works for upgrading Jinja airfield

President Yoweri Museveni Friday, 24th January 2025, officially launched the construction works for upgrading the Jinja Airfield, a transformative project aimed at bolstering Uganda’s infrastructure, enhancing tourism and improving regional connectivity.

The project will see the development of the airfield’s runway, taxiway, and apron into international standards. The upgrade, spearheaded by a joint venture between Gofar Investment and MJ Engineers and Contractors, commenced in 2024 and is set to be completed within 15 months.

The President emphasized the strategic importance of the project, highlighting Jinja’s potential as a transportation hub and a gateway for tourists.

“Constructing and expanding the airfield is logical. It will enable tourists to reach their destinations on time and ease transportation for both people and goods,” he said.

He noted the significant strides Uganda has made since 1986, transforming from a struggling economy with limited infrastructure to a dynamic nation on the path to industrialization.

He outlined the government’s broader vision of rehabilitating and expanding airfields, railway stations, and even introducing water transport to reduce road congestion and accidents.

Uganda is also building pipelines to Kenya and Tanzania to eliminate the need for transporting petroleum products by road, which contributes to accidents.

The President stressed the importance of air travel for high-value tourists who prefer swift journeys. He revealed plans to establish an international airport in Kidepo National Park to enhance access to Uganda’s pristine wildlife destinations.

He reaffirmed his support for Jinja’s airfield project, calling it a key step toward positioning Jinja as a critical link in the country’s transportation network.

The Rt. Hon. Rebecca Kadaga, First Deputy Prime Minister, appealed to the President for an additional 10 acres of land to further expand the airfield and accommodate the growing demands of an international airport.

She noted that the people of Jinja have long dreamed of such an airport, and this project brings them closer to that vision.

Fred Byamukama, State Minister for Works and Transport, emphasized the project’s potential to enhance tourism.

He noted that tourists have faced challenges traveling from Kampala to Jinja by road and that this upgrade will significantly boost the tourism sector.

The government has committed UGX 23 billion through the Ministry of Works and Transport to fund the airfield’s development.

Byamukama assured Ugandans that the ministry is committed to ensuring the project’s timely and successful completion.

The launch ceremony was attended by Ministers, Members of Parliament, Aviation Officers, Local and Religious leaders.

MINERAL VALUE-ADDITION: Museveni makes commitments while commissioning Abyssinia Steel Factory in Jinja during Busoga PDM tour  

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MINERAL VALUE-ADDITION: Museveni makes commitments while commissioning Abyssinia Steel Factory in Jinja during Busoga PDM tour  

President Yoweri Museveni has committed to support local mining and manufacturing investors, emphasizing the importance of value addition and industrial growth.

The President who was commissioning Abyssinia Steel Factory in Jinja on Friday, 24th January 2025, emphasized the strategic significance of harnessing Uganda’s abundant natural resources to create jobs and boost economic growth.

Museveni, who has been on a 4-day wealth creation and PDM performance assessment tour in Busoga sub-region, highlighted the exceptional quality of Uganda’s iron ore, positioning the country as a potential global leader in the steel industry if more emphasis is placed on value addition.

He said: “When you export raw materials, you are also exporting jobs and opportunities for our people. That’s why I stood firm and stopped the export of unprocessed iron ore.”

The President expressed satisfaction with the increasing number of investors in Uganda’s industrial sector, including those in steel and oil refinery industries, who are adding value to the country’s resources.

Ban on export of unprocessed minerals

Ruth Nankabirwa, Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, highlighted the recent President’s directive to ban the exportation of unprocessed minerals.

The minister emphasized the growing global focus on critical minerals, which are now central to discussions around sustainable development.

She pledged to build consensus on identifying and safeguarding Uganda’s critical minerals. “We shall be expanding further on what these critical minerals are in Uganda so that we can guard them jealously,” she stated.

Nankabirwa also called out companies holding mineral exploration licenses without meaningful activity, urging them to take action or risk having their licenses revoked.

Transformative chapter for steel industry

The CEO of Abyssinia Group of Industries, Jateen Patel described the launch of their new integrated steel plant in Uganda as the beginning of a transformative chapter for the country’s steel industry.

Abyssinia Group began its journey in Uganda in 2010, initially focusing on mining in Kabale and exporting iron ore to Kenya. By 2022, the company made a bold commitment to invest directly in Uganda.

“We acquired a dominant iron ore processing facility in Jinja, and in January 2024, construction of their integrated steel plant commenced,” he said, adding “Remarkably, by October 2024 , just ten months later , the plant was operational.”

He added that the facility has the capacity to produce 225,000 tonnes of billets annually, noting that the milestone was a testament to the conducive business environment and visionary leadership in Uganda.

Currently, Patel said that Abyssinia Group employs 250 Ugandans directly at the Jinja plant and provides indirect employment to over 1,200 people in the region.

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